Tables and Sizes and Shapes... Oh My!!!

With spring right around the corner, it really is time to start thinking seriously about your outdoor furniture.  If you have decided that you will be dining outside, you need to make sure that the table you purchase is going to be the right size and shape for the space you are placing it in.

It's a great idea to consider the size and shape of the table you like before stepping foot into a retailer and falling in love with something only to find out the size and shape is not a good fit for the space you want to place the table and chairs in.

The good news is that many retailers are making outdoor tables in varied sizes and shapes. Chances are, the table you love will come in the size you want and/or need but making sure of the size and shape prior to your shopping trip can save you a great deal of aggravation.



 Below is diagram of almost every table size you can imagine: 

Using the above diagram, you can gauge the best size table for your needs. 

Other things to consider:

Table to wall ratio, walk around room and elbow room.  Remember these basic guidelines  (notice I did not say rules.)  I am not a fan of rules when it comes to decorating.  However, there are some basic guidelines that are going to help you greatly with your purchase.  


Guidelines

• Each person requires about 24″ of width so they can comfortably eat and avoid bumping elbows.
• Allow 32″ between the table and wall to allow people to get up and sit down easily.
• Allow 38″ if people are also going to be walking back and forth behind the table.
• Allow 42″ if you are going to serve people from behind their chairs. 

There... Wasn't that pretty simple? :)

Chairs

Here are some general statistics for chairs and bar stools:

With a greater sense of urgency, outdoor furniture companies are creating chairs and bar stools in  more sizes than ever in an attempt to accommodate the ever growing market place :)

•  The distance between the top of a work surface and a chair or stool seat is normally 12”. 
• Counter stools also come in seat heights of 25” and 26”.  
• Chair and stool widths vary from 16” to 25” with an average being 20” wide. 
• A minimum of 27” to 30” clearance from a wall and a minimum of 24” additional floor coverage for a rug is required to pull out a side chair. 

Now you have some information that should help you to make a informed decision while you consider all the choices available for your Room Without Walls.

Enjoy the weekend ahead!  We are expecting a huge rain storm most of the weekend.  It does rain in Southern California too :)


Jane