After the living room, the dining room is the place where we sit together with our friends and family to enjoy some quality time over meals. It is the get-together place of the house. Therefore, its layout and interior should be properly planned and done. From back-wall decor to cutlery and rug design to wall paint, everything contributes towards setting the dining space. However, the focal point of any dining room is the central Dining Table.
The dining table is the most important design element of the dining room. There are different types of dining tables designed according to different interior requirements. But, glass and wood dining tables are the two main contenders in this regard. We will scrutinize the properties along with the pros and cons to see which one is better. So let’s dive in.
Factors to Consider While Choose A Dining Table
Before delving deep into the comparison of glass and wood dining tables, let’s first clear our concepts on how to choose the right dining table. There are a number of factors that determine the utility value of a dining table. Some important things that you should keep in mind while choosing a dining table are as follows.
The style of the dining table plays an important role in setting the interior aesthetics of the dining room. You can select from a range of styles and designs depending on your personal preferences. Whether you pick raw wooden aesthetics or a contemporary glass table, make sure to choose the design that complements the overall interior. Lighter colors exude sophistication while funky colors add vibrance to the space. Try to incorporate your personal style to match the interior with your personal vibe.
The table size is an important consideration when choosing the dining table. There are no hard and fast rules about the ideal size of a table. It totally depends on the given space specifications. An excessively huge table might clutter the area, while an unreasonably small dining table can take away the charm of the dining space.
The best approach is to measure the width and length of the room. Then take six feet off of each side to get an idea of the suitable table dimensions.
Dining tables come in a variety of shapes. Each shape features unique aesthetics and offers different functions. Although square and rectangular tables are the most popular dining table designs, the ideal shape for your dining space still depends on the space requirements.
A round table is ideal for small dining rooms while rectangular tables work well if you frequently host family dinners. You can also go for a custom dining table to add a flair of your unique personality to the interior space.
The longevity of a dining table is significantly influenced by its material. The right dining table material is the one that satisfies your unique requirements.
Dining tables made of wood are a timeless classic that provides a rustic feel as well as unmatched durability and strength. While glass tables are the ideal choice for achieving a more modern look. Similarly, marble tables are also available for those who aspire to achieve a solid yet contemporary look.
Dining tables are highly versatile. You can choose a simple table or go for a multi-functional table with built-in seating or a barbeque grill. Some dining tables also come in foldable designs. So choose the table according to your usage requirements and make sure to explore all the options to invest in the right design element.
Glass Dining Table Pros and Cons
Let’s discuss the pros and cons of the most notable contemporary dining table design.
Pros
Glass top adds a sense of elegance to the space. If you are looking for style, refinement, and opulence, a glass tabletop is the right choice. It has a refined feel that adds a formal feel and style to the interior space.
The clear glass top doesn’t restrict the flow of light. The transparency of glass dining tables creates an open space and lets the light flow through the room. This creates an illusion of a wider and brighter space.
Glass top tables have the ability to flare up the visual appeal of any interior space. Dining tables with glass tops do the same for the dining room. They add a unique sense of class and elevated style to the dining room.
A glass dining table requires low maintenance. The nonporous table top doesn’t get stained in case of a spill. You only need a towel and a light glass cleaner to wipe the glass top clean.
Glass top dining tables are available in a variety of styles and design options. You can choose clear, tinted, frosted, and even crackled glass tops for your dining table. Similarly, the glass table top complements any table base. From wooden to steel and stone to aluminum bases, you can choose any base style with a glass top.
Glass is a damage-proof material. It doesn’t rust, corrode, or get damaged due to environmental factors. So it is extremely durable. It can offer a service life of decades under proper maintenance.
Glass is an eco-friendly material. It is sustainable and recyclable. Moreover, it doesn’t require frequent replacements so the waste ratio is minimal.
Owing to its transparency, glass has the ability to brighten up any space in which it is used. It minimizes the clutter and offers an open space vibe.
Cons
Glass dining tables feature tempered glass that comes at a comparatively high price.
If the glass top edges are not properly smoothed, the glass table top may pose a safety threat, especially to kids and pets.
Due to the transparency of glass, it requires regular cleaning. Dust particles, spots, and even finger smudges are quite visible on the clear glass top. So it’s important to clean the table top regularly to cherish its polished feel.
In case of a crack or breakage, the glass top cannot be repaired. It can only be replaced with a new glass top.
Pros and Cons of Wood Dining Tables
Wooden tables are a classic furniture element. Let’s have a look at the pros and cons of wooden dining tables.
Pros
Wooden tables are highly durable. They are so sturdy and solid that they can even be passed down to the next generations for use.
Wood possesses a natural warm feel. The raw aesthetics of natural wood adds a cozy feel to the interior space.
Unlike glass tables, the size of the wooden tables can be adjusted according to the space requirements even after the table is made. On the other hand, it is quite difficult to alter the glass table once it is made.
In case of damage, they are simple to fix and repair. The table scrapes can easily be fixed with table polish. Even a broken wooden table can be restored to its original elegance with some simple fixes.
For those seeking a traditional or timeless design, wooden dining tables are perfect. The majority of hardwood tables have that timeless appearance that goes practically with every interior theme. However, it especially goes well with the traditional interior theme.
Cons
Wooden tables are typically heavy in weight which makes it hard to move them.
Wooden dining tables have a more traditional look and feel. They may not look uber-stylish in a contemporary setup. Make sure to analyze your interior aesthetics and use the right design if you intend on getting a wooden dining table.
Wood is prone to damage. Excessive exposure to water or moisture may cause mild and mildew growth. So if you live in a region with humid conditions, you might need to pay extra for wooden table repair and maintenance.
The wooden top is prone to scrapes and scratches. It is therefore important to add a protective coating to the wooden table top.
Can you make a DIY Glass Dining Table?
It is possible to make a DIY glass dining table. For that, you need a cut-to-size glass table top. The table base can be made with any material of your choice. Once the base is ready, you only need to add table bumpers to fix the glass top above the base to complete the DIY venture.
Final Thoughts!
Both glass and wood dining tables have their pros and cons. The decision entirely depends on your style preferences and space aesthetics. However, glass dining tables surely are a foolproof way of elevating any dining room interior in the most effortless manner. So whether you have a minimalistic interior or an over-the-top one, opt for the glass dining tables as they blend perfectly into any interior space.