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Even if you have limited space, you may still want to incorporate a dining table into your apartment layout. (Sure, eating at a coffee table is great, but it’s not for everyone!) Many apartments and smaller homes aren’t spacious enough to accommodate a dining table for more than four people, but the good news is that even if you’re severely short on square footage, You don’t have to sacrifice style. We’ve rounded up 15 of the best small dining tables for 2 to 4 people, suitable for every budget and aesthetic. Shop our favorite products below.
Featured image is from Teal Thomsen’s interview with Diana Ryu.
How to find the best dining table for a small space
Whether you’re shopping for a dining table in person or online, you’ll want to have the measurements ready. Knowing the maximum (and minimum) size of a table that your space can accommodate will help you narrow down your choices effectively. There’s no point in getting obsessed with a table, it will overwhelm your home and distract from the lovely arrangement you’ve created.
Reflect on your eating habits and lifestyle
When weighing whether to buy a table for two or four, consider your lifestyle. Just because you can fit a larger table into your space doesn’t mean it’s the most practical option. Factors you need to consider include:
- Whether you live alone or with a partner, family or roommates
- Whether you like to entertain often or prefer to dine at home alone (or just with one other person)
- If you have any other goals for the existing available space (perhaps you envision using it as a mixed dining table and bar area, in which case you’ll need to accommodate multiple pieces of furniture).
Having a clear idea of how you plan to use your dining space will get you started in the right direction when you start shopping.
Choose your shape
The question of a square or rectangular table versus a round table was next raised. This is really a personal preference, but you’ll want to evaluate the other furniture in your space when making your decision. For example, maybe you plan to create a dining nook in your living room. If you already have a lot of sharp, angular objects in your space, consider choosing a round dining table to visually break them up. This is an especially smart approach in small spaces – you don’t want things to look too bulky.
Make sure everything in the room looks cohesive as well. If the space around you has a lot of curved furniture, you may find that most square or rectangular tables appear too traditional in style.
Dining tables under $250
Round white marble and black metal bistro side table
Affordable and classic in appearance, this marble bistro table is a must-have for anyone who appreciates the Parisian aesthetic or wants to bring a café vibe into their own home. Keep in mind that since this piece is made of real marble, it may develop a patina over time, but some would argue that this quality only adds to its charm.
- Seat 2
- Much cheaper than similar designs
- Each table is slightly different from the natural marble, resulting in a unique look
Hammis round drop leaf dining table
A drop-leaf dining table is a smart choice for those who may dine alone or with others every day, but want to entertain a few friends when the opportunity arises. This space-saving product can be opened to accommodate a group of four, but works well as a two-top when not fully extended.
- Seats 2-4
- Space-saving and adaptable
- When the leaves don’t grow, you can push them into the corners
Sonette 31.5 inch pedestal table square dining table
If your aesthetic leans toward sleek and modern, a simple white option like this table is a no-brainer. It’s reminiscent of mid-century classics, but at a very affordable price. Depending on the chairs you choose, you could also design a table like this one that’s eclectic, traditional and transcendent – with white serving as the perfect blank canvas.
- Seat 4
- Stylish and simple
- Complements a range of interior styles
Nettie mid-century modern rectangular dining table
This is another medieval-inspired option that won’t break the bank either. Warm up your home with a beautiful walnut tone (wooden tones are back!). Don’t think that all wood furniture has to feel overweight—this piece has clean lines and won’t look too heavy for your small space.
- Seat 4
- medieval style
- Providing warmth and clean lines
Gibun Round Glass Top Metal Base Dining Table
When you purchase this glass and brass table, go all out for a gorgeous look. It is an eye-catching piece while taking up minimal visual space due to the glass components. If you no longer use it as a dining table, it will also look stylish in the entryway of a larger home.
- Seat 4
- Modern and simple
- Easily restyle
Dining tables under $400
Astrid mid-century round retractable dining table
Available in brown, natural, and black, the table accommodates a variety of spaces and features mid-century modern-style tapered legs. It comes with a leaf extension that can be adjusted in size from 40 inches to 52 inches, making it perfect for impromptu dinner parties.
- Seat 4
- Comes with leaves
- Various colors available
Three-legged dining table (30 inches)
This bistro table is a contemporary classic, perfect for anyone who wants to carve out a minimal dining nook in their living room or kitchen. If you desire a cohesive atmosphere, walnut veneer complements other West Elm products.
- Seat 3
- Modern styling
- Matches with other West Elm furniture
myers dining table
Who says you can’t choose a dining table that’s a little funky? This one is full of character thanks to its curved legs, but that’s not the case also Considering the color is still nice and neutral, it’s pretty loud. Essentially, it’s the best of both worlds!
- Seat 3
- Eye-catching styling
- Subtle, neutral finish
irving bistro table
If you want to be bold, give your dining nook a pop of color with these vibrant bistro tables. If you’re feeling a little more conservative, it’s also available in blue and white. The industrial style look will blend perfectly into your modern home.
- Seat 2
- There are three colors to choose from
- modern and industrial
Alexa-Mae round solid wood dining table
If you’re a traditionalist who can’t resist the idea of creating a cozy, Nancy Meyers-inspired home, a table like this is for you. No matter which color you choose (you can choose from eight shades), it’s attractive and a timeless product.
- Seat 4
- Available in 8 colorways
- timeless style
Wiener oak coffee table
This taller table will make you feel like you’re sitting at your favorite restaurant or cafe without ever leaving home. This is a top choice for those who like to sit in a higher place to dine and can work from home.
- Seat 2
- Restaurant style high ceiling
- Doubles as a great desk
Small dining table worth the splurge
Russo Round Fluted Wood Base Dining Table
Fluted details are having a moment these days, and this dining table makes it easy to capitalize on that trend. Choose a natural black or wood finish to add a high-end feel to your home.
- Seat 4
- Trendy design
- Made from natural materials
Quillen Marquetry Bistro Table
This bistro table features an ornate herringbone design that pays homage to Art Deco design. Brass accents make it look even more luxurious – invest in some brass dinnerware to complement the look and make the table setting more interesting.
- Seat 2
- art deco style design
- Luxurious brass accessories
Willie Charcoal Brown Base 32-Inch Bistro Table by Leanne Ford
If you prefer a more organic look, consider this textured bistro table, which is also available in larger table sizes. This plaster-like material is perfect for modern and transitional style spaces and is lighter in weight than traditional concrete.
- Seat 2
- The impact of texture
- Can also be used as a dining table
Babylon 30″ Round Torento Gray Marble Bistro Table
While it’s certainly a splurge, this marble bistro table will be the highlight of your home that you’ll treasure for decades to come. Whether you choose a gray, black or green finish, you can expect compliments from all sides whenever you host. In larger homes, this piece would also shine as a decorative table between two chairs in the living room.
- Seat 2
- Can double as an accent table
- Available in three marble finishes
The bistro table itself
This table is a great way to give your home a natural, laid-back look. Reclaimed wood will complement rustic homes as well as organic modern spaces, while the sculptural shape makes the table look sleek and chic.
- Seat 4
- Natural and organic look
- contemporary sculptural shapes
