Contemporary vs. classic: How to choose the right dining table for your hosting space

As many keen hosts know, the dining table is the true heart of all entertaining homes. It’s the place where families come together to talk about their day, celebrate big milestones with loved ones, and make special memories long after the dessert plates have been cleared. 

Whether you’re looking for a dining table to suit those relaxed daily debriefs or a centrepiece worthy of big family gatherings, choosing the right dining table for your hosting space is an important decision. The shape, size, and style of your table can completely transform the atmosphere of your dining experience and set the tone for family dinners for years to come. 

So, if you require a little helping hand to pick out the perfect piece for your home, we’re here to help. In this expert buying guide, we’ll compare contemporary and classic dining table styles, with tips on selecting your dream dinner backdrop. 

Ready to find the perfect dining table for you? Pull up a chair and let’s begin…

What’s the difference between classic and contemporary dining tables?

You may be wondering what we mean by ‘classic vs. contemporary.’ Both are beautiful, but have distinct aesthetics and may suit some homes better than others. Let’s start by defining the key characteristics of each style.

Classic dining table features

• Durable, long-lasting materials, such as solid oak or mahogany.

• Timeless round or rectangular silhouettes.

• Traditional design details, such as ornate, carved legs. 

• Matching chairs that prioritise comfort and practicality. 

Classic dining tables are less about fancy bells and whistles and more about timeless designs crafted from lasting materials for a reliable piece of furniture. 

Contemporary dining table features

• Crafted from luxury materials, like marble or glass

• Unique or asymmetrical shapes

• Modern curved or rounded edges

• Eye-catching design details, like a textured pillar base

• Mismatched chairs, contemporary benches or stools

In contrast to classic designs, contemporary dining tables tend to have “the wow factor.” Look out for modern curves and unique elements for a showstopper centrepiece that’s sure to impress guests. 

How to choose the right dining table for your space

There are many factors to consider when choosing a dining table. To make the process easier, we’ve simplified this into three easy steps:

1. Consider the size and scale of your dining room

As a first port of call, ask yourself where you want your new dining table’s new home to be. Do you have a separate dining room? Or will it be a designated spot in an open-plan kitchen? Once you know the location, you can measure up the space to see how much room you’re working with. That’ll determine how big you can go with your table.  

2. Think about your eating and hosting habits 

Next, think about your day-to-day lifestyle and dining patterns. How many people do you expect to be dining at your table on a regular basis? If it’s just your nearest and dearest, you might only need a compact table for four, like our contemporary Westbourne Forest Green Marble Dining Table. Or, maybe you’re the central social hub for the family? Then perhaps the generous Logan Dining Table with Gun Metal Legs in Large is more appropriate, to ensure everyone has a seat at the table. 

3. Match to your existing decor and style 

Then comes the fun part! Deciding what style you’d like. An easy route is considering your existing dining room or kitchen decor. If you’re working with a Victorian home that’s full of architectural quirks, then a more traditional dining table is going to fit the bill. Or, if your dining room is already super sleek and modern, a unique, contemporary dining table is sure to shine. 

Best dining tables for different homes

Now, let’s pair some of our favourite dining tables with different homes and lifestyles… 

For first-time home owners or renters

Need a dining table starter pack? A traditional round four-seater dining table, like our stunning Westbourne Forest Green Marble Dining Table is perfect for people moving into their first solo flat or “grown-up” homes. Compact, modern round tables are also particularly useful in snug kitchens as they can slot right in. Dine here alone, with a partner, or invite around three friends for an evening of conversations unfolding over a candlelight dinner. 

Get the look: Westbourne Forest Green Marble Dining Table. 

 For the families and mess-makers

If you’re searching for the most family-friendly dining table, durability is key. Look for tables crafted from sturdy materials, and anything that is especially stain-resistant against sticky fingers and accidental spills is always a bonus. 

We’d recommend choosing a classic dining table paired with a sturdy, modern bench, like our Large Reeves Bench. Constructed from solid mango wood, this bench is naturally hardwearing and water-resistant, and has enough room for all the little ones to squish on. Plus, investing in a centrepiece like this is not just great for dinnertime, but also excellent for adapting into a homework or arts and crafts station!

Get the look: Reeves Dining Table - Large and Large Reeves Bench.

For the larger or characterful homes

Are you blessed with a beautiful period property full of characterful quirks and ornate details? Classic is the way forward. In this case, your dining table should slot in seamlessly with the rest of your decor, mirroring key elements, such as colours, shapes, or materials. Our Rowan Dining Table is a fantastic classic piece, constructed from natural wood and finished with a beautiful parquet tabletop and subtle curved legs. This timeless classic is sure to stand the test of time - for years of dinner parties to come. 

Get the look: Rowan Dining Table.

For the stylish tastemakers 

For the proud homeowners who love to stay tapped into trends, a fabulous mid-century modern piece is sure to make a statement. Striking the perfect balance between contemporary and retro-inspired design, a table like our Umi Solid Oak Extendable Dining Table is the ideal choice for stylish homes. With its signature vintage curves and rich bourbon natural oak finish, this wow-factor piece is made for impressing guests. 

Get the look: Umi Solid Oak Extendable Dining Table.

For the host with the most

For hosts who know no limits when it comes to inviting guests over for dinner, an adaptable table with ample seating space is essential. Take our Byron Extending Table Muted Oak, for instance. This clever table can go from large to extra-large, thanks to its discrete butterfly extension, seating up to eight people comfortably. The ultimate entertainment dining table for regular hosts.

Get the look: Byron Extending Table Muted Oak.

All of Atkin and Thyme’s luxury dining tables are built to last, made from premium materials by skilled craftspeople, and designed with modern living in mind. 

So, whether you’re looking to create a contemporary statement in your home or find a vintage-inspired piece that fits in with your existing decor, there’s a dining table to suit every taste and need. If you ask us, every home deserves a beautiful dining table designed for elevating everyday moments.