Choosing the right dining furniture is all about finding pieces that look great, fit your space and work for the way you live. From dining tables and chairs to barstools and buffets, a few simple tips can make getting it right much easier.
QUICK GUIDE
Dining Tables · Dining Chairs · Barstools · Buffets & Sideboards · Measurements · Materials · FAQs
Choosing the Right Dining Table
The dining table is often the heart of the room, so start with your space and how many people you usually need to seat. As a general guide:
1200–1400mm — around 4 people
1500–1800mm — around 4–6 people
1800–2100mm — around 6–8 people
2200–2400mm — around 8–10 people
Try to allow around 900mm behind your chairs where possible, giving you room to pull them out and move comfortably around the table.
Shape makes a difference too. Rectangular tables are wonderfully versatile, round tables work beautifully in smaller spaces, while oval tables give you a softer look. If you love entertaining, an extension table gives you extra room when you need it without taking over the space every day.
Choosing the Right Dining Chairs
Dining chairs need to look good, but comfort and fit are just as important. Allow around 55–60cm of table width per person, and check that your chairs slide comfortably underneath the table.
Most dining chairs have a seat height of around 45–48cm, which works well with standard dining tables around 74–76cm high.
Upholstered chairs add softness and comfort, while timber chairs are practical and easy to live with. And don't be afraid to mix things up — your chairs don't have to perfectly match your table. Different textures, colours or timber tones can give your dining space much more personality.
Choosing Barstools & Bar Leaners
With barstools, getting the height right is the most important thing. Always measure from the floor to the underside of your bench or bar before you buy.
900mm kitchen bench — look for a seat height around 650mm
1050mm bar or leaner — look for a seat height around 750mm
Aim for around 25–30cm between the seat and underside of the bench, and allow roughly 55–60cm width per stool.
For everyday use, a backrest and footrest add extra comfort, while backless stools tuck neatly away and help keep your space feeling open.
Shop Barstools & Bar Leaners →
Choosing a Buffet or Sideboard
A buffet or sideboard is a great way to add storage and style to your dining space. Think about what you need to store for example dinnerware, glassware, table linen or serving pieces and choose a combination of cupboards, drawers and shelving that works for you.
Size matters too. A wider buffet can beautifully anchor a larger dining room, while a slimmer design works well where space is limited. Just make sure there’s enough room for doors and drawers to open comfortably.
And don't feel your buffet has to perfectly match your dining table. Mixing complementary timber tones and finishes can give the room a more relaxed, collected feel.
Getting Your Measurements Right
A quick measure before you buy can save a lot of guesswork. Check your available floor space and remember to allow room for chairs to pull out, people to walk past, and buffet doors and drawers to open.
If you're unsure, mark the furniture dimensions on the floor with masking tape. It's a simple way to see how a piece will actually feel in your space.
Quick Dining Furniture Size Guide
| What to measure | General guide |
|---|---|
| Space behind dining chairs | Around 900mm where possible |
| Table width per person | Around 55–60cm |
| Dining chair seat to table | Around 25–30cm |
| Barstool seat to bench/bar | Around 25–30cm |
| Buffet clearance | Enough room to fully open doors and drawers |
Mixing & Matching Dining Furniture
Your dining furniture doesn't all need to match. In fact, mixing different pieces can give your space more personality and a relaxed, collected feel.
The trick is to create a connection, perhaps a similar timber tone, colour, texture or shape. If your table is the hero, keep the surrounding pieces a little simpler, or use your chairs to introduce something different with fabric, leather or colour.
Aim for pieces that work together, rather than pieces that perfectly match.
Choosing Materials & Finishes
Materials and finishes can completely change the feel of your dining space. Solid timber brings natural warmth and character, while different stains and finishes can take the look from light and contemporary to rich and traditional.
Oak is timeless and versatile, while reclaimed timber has more texture, variation and a relaxed, lived-in feel. For dining chairs and barstools, fabric and leather add softness, comfort and another layer of texture.
Natural timber will have variations in grain, knots and colour.. that's part of its beauty and what makes each piece unique.
When mixing materials, they don't need to match perfectly. Choose finishes that complement each other and suit the way you live.
Dining Furniture FAQs
How much space should I leave around a dining table?
Where possible, allow around 900mm between the table and walls or other furniture so chairs can be pulled out comfortably.
How do I know how many chairs will fit around my dining table?
Allow roughly 55–60cm of table width per person. Wider chairs or chairs with arms may need a little more room.
What height barstool do I need?
For a standard 900mm kitchen bench, a seat height of around 650mm usually works well. For a 1050mm bar or leaner, look for around 750mm.
Does my buffet need to match my dining table?
Not at all. Mixing complementary timber tones, colours and finishes can give your dining space a more relaxed and interesting look.
Is solid timber good for dining furniture?
Yes. Solid timber is durable and full of natural character. Variations in grain, knots and colour are part of what makes each piece unique.