Design series :

The Dining room

A dining table

The dining room is a space in your house used regularly to dine in. In modern times, usually this isn't a separate room and is part of the communal living space in your home next to the kitchen.

Dining spaces are a basic necessity of our living spaces. The etiquette of dining varies across different cultures reflecting the history of each country.

Sitting on the floor to eat at a table is quite common dining practise in India, Middle east and parts of Asia. Traditions are rooted in respect, health and simplicity.

In Japan you typically sit on the floor on a tatami mat around a low table. In formal settings you would be expected to kneel.

Less formal situations crossed legged or legs tucked to one side.

In the UK our tradition is to sit on a bench or chair at a table. The Victorian era profoundly shaped UK culture and homes.

Leading to the 'cult of domesticity'

Homes were more decorated including having well made sturdy furniture

Designing tables

The dining table is a simple design.

We require a flat surface either rectangular or a round table top.

Then the legs of a table are either a central pedestal or four legs.

The design of legs are the decorative part of the dining table. But always hidden underneath and by the chairs.

The 'U - table' design above show the legs on show at the end of the table.