We have so many customers who dream of owning a table that will be large enough to seat the family at Christmas time, or simply a standard 1500mm square dining table, but are unsure if they have enough space.
Even if you measure your room before you start shopping for a dining table and chairs, it can be a bit confusing knowing how much space you should allow between the table and the nearest obstruction. What you want is enough space for your guests to be able to comfortably pull back their chairs and move away from the table, and room to walk behind a person who is already seated (e.g. to serve food).
I won’t bore you with the technicalities of ergonomics, except to say that the diagrams below are from my old university 'bible', Human Dimension & Interior Space (Panero & Zelnik, 1979, page 146).
The first diagram (below) shows the minimum clearance required – measurement A – between the edge of the table and the wall, or a buffet, etc. You need to allow at least 76cm.
The second diagram (below) shows the minimum clearance required – measurement F – between the edge of the table and the wall, or a buffet, etc. if you desire circulation space.
You need to allow at least 122cm.
By doing a few simple calculations before you start shopping you’ll already know what size table will be suitable for your room and, therefore, avoid at least one of the mistakes made by the owners of this dining room!
Image courtesy of Tuckrbox.com.
