Every one of us has experienced a moment when moving into a new home or upgrading the kitchen where we find ourselves contemplating the type of luxury dining table we are going to buy for the space. While homeowners are drawn to opulent tables made from oak, some have questioned whether committing to a single table is a wise investment, and whether it will complement changes in style and taste. These are valid concerns, but we are here to tell you that investing in an oak dining table does not have to be a complex decision.
Our design experts have explored the benefits and considerations, focusing on quality, craftsmanship, style, colour and texture. Whether this is your first oak dining table, or you are welcoming a new addition to your current oak furniture, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Oak furniture has been around for a very long time and has had a stellar reputation for being robust and incredibly durable. Carpenters constructed oak furniture for manor houses hundreds of years ago and they are still featured in luxury homes today. Sometimes these items become family heirlooms and are passed from generation to generation.
If you’re looking for a lasting investment, then oak is going to feature in your choices. However, buying a new oak dining table can also be simple and doesn’t have to be a laborious or complicated decision.
If you are looking to future-proof your home, then naturally you are going to choose durable furniture. For instance, oak furniture is built to last and withstand conditions like heat, water, dents and scratches. This does not give you a pass to treat your table roughly or ignore basic maintenance. Instead, you can enjoy the peace of mind of knowing that your oak table will stand up well with heavy use over time.
A quick glide of your dusting cloth every week is generally all a solid oak table needs. Yes, solid oak dining tables are low-maintenance and rarely, if ever, require refurbishment unless damaged. Homeowners, now more than ever, typically favour materials that do not require hours of cleaning or maintenance. With oak, a varnish once or twice a year aids in keeping a well-looked-after dining table in shape.
Varnish assists by adding a protective layer that protects against dents, nicks or scratches, so application once or twice a year is generally sufficient. Interestingly, interior designers sometimes recommend using a different material for your tabletop. For instance, marble is a durable material on its own and is low maintenance, as is tempered glass. Using either material as a tabletop is a clever way to extend the lifetime of your table even further. Pro tip: opt for a tabletop fixture that isn’t permanently affixed if you anticipate a change of your design tastes.
As solid wood tables are seen as an investment, it is good to know that an oak table can be restored where necessary. While maintenance is encouraged, it is satisfying to know that if there is extreme damage your table can be repaired to its former glory. Over time, the dents and scratches can become unsightly; however, by engaging a skilled craftsman, your table can be restored and even completely redesigned.
There is a misconception that classic furniture only works in more traditional homes and design styles. In reality, oak tables transcend design trends and can work in a variety of contemporary and minimalist interiors. This type of classic wood has, and will continue to remain relevant despite prevailing styles and tastes.
The grain, texture and colour of oak all add sophistication and warmth, none of which goes out of fashion for heartwarming family gatherings, and oak tables age gracefully, slowly revealing additional layers of texture that solidify their classic status.
In the modern era, we are spoilt for choice and have a plethora of styles and designs available to us, especially in London. Classic vintage and antique pieces hold a special place, rustic and charming work too, while sleek and chic are the word of the day. There is also the option of creating a bespoke design that speaks to your individuality, crafted in a particular style, but with your own personal touches for a definitively unique item. Here are three oak colour palettes we think could work in any home:
It brightens spaces, adding a touch of warmth.
Contributes to the overall sophistication and it works well with many designs and colours.
Considered more luxurious and able to improve any space.
One of the key advantages of solid oak dining tables is their customisability, allowing you to tailor them to their surroundings. From selecting the type of oak to conceptualising the design, the versatility of this hardy wood knows almost no bounds. Our design team has shared some instances where clients have added personalised designs to the edges and legs of the table or their oak dining chairs, something we are always happy to facilitate.
There are a number of different types of oak, with the most popular being white oak. Here are a few types with some of their key characteristics:
Description: A sturdy choice which is why carpenters prefer European oak. It is a wood that works with several styles including modern and traditional.
Characteristics: This robust wood has intricate grains and is often in a lighter brown hue that exudes style and charm.
Description: By far the most popular oak and preferred by craftsmen. White oak tables are so much more than dining, the grains tell a story of the past, while the neutral hue is a blank canvas.
Characteristics: This wood is durable and moisture-resistant.
Description: As the name suggests, this oak is in a reddish tone with an open grain. It works well for bold furniture that acts as statement pieces.
Characteristics: The key characteristic is the ripple effect on the grain which gives it its allure. Additionally, red oak has an innate strength that works well for daily use.
Description: This wood combines tradition and innovation that leaves a table with unwavering grace. And the neutral tone makes it versatile enough for you to combine it with anything you choose. We have found that a French oak dinner table is ideal for hosting large dinners.
Characteristics: The key characteristic is the ripple effect on the grain which gives it its allure. Additionally, red oak has an innate strength that works well for daily use. It has smooth grain patterns and is resistant to warping and shrinking.
Description: Did you know that white and red oak are variations of American oak? This is so versatile wood that it works well when crafted for function and aesthetics.
Characteristics: American oak is adaptable to many styles and aesthetics.
Description: For anyone looking for drama and intrigue black oak is the gift that keeps on giving. It is known for its sophistication due to its dark hue and it is exactly this that creates the drama - we simply love it.
Characteristics: It is opulent and black oak tables create a rich focal point in most settings. It also features distinct grain patterns.
Description: Reclaimed wooden tables are made from repurposed wood from older structures or furniture. This connects history with the modern world, making something unique. We like reclaimed oak because you can blend different oaks to create a masterpiece.
Characteristics: It is eco-conscious.
Accurate measurements of both the intended space and of your intended purchase is a crucial starting point when contemplating a room layout.
This does not have to be a difficult task though, in fact, there are some universal rules that apply to any room or furniture.
Before you place the table, first create a mock-up of the space. Use cardboard or paper and draw a plan of the room. Once you have a visual aid, grab your measuring tape to check whether the layout will work.
Remember to record the measurements. Now measure out the dimensions of the table and use masking tape to create an outline on the floor to get a real sense of how much floorspace the table might occupy.
These are the average dimensions based on a rectangular table:
The rule of thumb is to find a table size based on your intended use. A big entertainer? A large dining table will it be best.
Looking for something more intimate? A two-seater or four-seater may work well. Perhaps you want versatility. Consider a dining table with a built-in extension feature.
Next, you can look at the ideal placement within the room. Here are some recommendations:
A black oak table in the centre of your kitchen or dining area creates a visual focal point for a purpose-specific room.
This placement draws the focus away from the table and prioritises keeping as much room open as possible, and is normally recommended for smaller dining rooms.
This is more practical, and creates a more homely feel. This might be recommended for large families or for a home without a separate dining room.
Finding a new dining table is not a difficult task. You go to a showroom and pick the one you like, that’s it. However, FCI London does not believe in the ordinary, the plain, the basic and the boring. We pride ourselves on creating unique furniture for our clients to enhance their already sophisticated homes.
Our longstanding relationships with the best craftsmen and designer brands from all over Europe are at your disposal, and we offer first-class delivery and installation of any product you purchase through us, ensuring that your experience is stress free and convenient..
Visit our 30,000 sq. ft.showroom, the largest luxury showroom in London, to discover, explore and experience a wide range of contemporary and traditional coffee tables, along with professional advice from a team of experienced and award-winning interior designers.
Utilise our complementary services like 3D Rendering, project planning, and enjoy our signature personalised service. We aim to make your design journey as seamless as possible, saving you time and effort wherever possible.
Book your appointment today!
Our professional team is available to help you with every step of your decor project. Book a personalised visit and let's get the ball rolling on your new dining room design.
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