The Top Tips for Buying a Dining Table in Denver - Alpine Outlets

The Top Tips for Buying a Dining Table in Denver

The dining table - it's not just a piece of furniture, it's where we gather for family meals, celebrate special occasions, and sometimes, it even doubles as the makeshift homework station or home office. And you know what? Choosing the right dining table is a bit like finding the perfect life partner - you need it to be sturdy, reliable, and of course, aesthetically pleasing.

So, if you find yourself pondering the big question: "How do I buy the perfect dining table?" then you've come to the right place. It's not just about buying a dining table, it's about finding a centerpiece for your home that fits your lifestyle, and blends seamlessly with your home décor. Just like every great adventure, buying a dining table in Denver requires some planning, a dash of creativity, and a sprinkle of practical thinking.

In this article, we've laid out the top tips to consider when buying a dining table in Denver, aiming to make your decision-making process smoother and less overwhelming. From understanding the vital role of space and style to appreciating the importance of design, we'll guide you every step of the way.

Tip 1 - Understand the Importance of Dining Table Shapes in Space Utilization

Versatile Industrial Dining TableMadison - Versatile Industrial Dining Table

Take a moment and think about it - a dining table isn't just a flat, functional piece of wood (or glass, or metal) that you pile your food on. No, a dining table is a statement piece. It's the anchor around which the rest of your dining room revolves. And what's the first thing you notice about your table? That's right, its shape. The shape of your dining table can significantly influence how you utilize your space and how comfortably you can move around in it. 

Square Tables: Compact and Convenient

The square table – the unsung hero of small dining rooms. A square table might just be your new best friend. It fits snugly into small spaces, maximizing your room's functionality while maintaining a sense of symmetry. Plus, with everyone facing each other, it adds a cozy, intimate vibe to your meals. Did we mention it’s also perfect for that game night with friends? Board games and pizza - that's definitely an evening well spent!

Rectangular Tables: Ideal for Larger Dining Rooms

If your dining room is larger, or you’re looking at those long, family-style dinners with half the neighborhood, then a rectangular table could be the best fit. With the ability to accommodate more people and space to lay out a feast worthy of a holiday celebration, rectangular tables serve as an ideal centerpiece for larger dining rooms. Picture this - laughter ringing through the room, a clink of glasses, and a beautiful, spread-out meal. That's the charm of rectangular tables, right there!

Round Tables: Perfect for Conversations

Round tables have a unique magic to them - they evoke memories of King Arthur and his round table (minus the sword fights, hopefully!). Round tables create an environment conducive to easy conversation, as everyone can see and engage with each other. Ideal for a Denver home where lively discussions are a part of meal times, round tables can be a great way to enhance communication and add a bit of medieval mystique to your dining room. And let's not forget, without corners, it's much harder for you to bump into sharp edges – a little win, but a win nonetheless!

Oval Tables: Elegance and Space Efficiency

Last but certainly not least, let's talk about the elegance of oval tables. Marrying the best of square and round tables, oval tables fit longer spaces while avoiding harsh corners. If your dining room is narrow or you want to maintain a streamlined look, oval tables offer a great solution. Plus, with their soft curves and lack of corners, they're perfect for homes with young kids or clumsy adults (we've all been there!). All in all, oval tables bring a touch of classic charm to any Denver dining room, ensuring that your dinner parties are always a class apart.

Tip 2 - Choose the Right Material for Your Dining Table

Curvy Edge Elegance Dining Table CollectionAvery - Curvy Edge Elegance Dining Table Collection

Materials matter. Just as the shape of your dining table can affect space utilization and room ambiance, the material your dining table is made from can impact its functionality, durability, and aesthetic appeal. So, let's take a virtual tour of the different materials you can choose from for your new dining table.

The Timeless Appeal of Solid Wood

Wood has been the go-to material for furniture since the dawn of time, and with good reason. Solid wood tables radiate a timeless charm that never goes out of style. They are durable, robust, and each piece tells a unique story through its grain patterns. And oh, the varieties! From oak to maple, mahogany to walnut, each type of wood brings a different flavor to your dining space.

  • Oak: Oak tables are renowned for their strength and durability, with a dense grain that resists splitting and warping. Its distinctive grain pattern and warm color can make your dining room feel cozy and inviting.
  • Maple: Known for its light color and subtly detailed grain, maple is incredibly versatile. It can seamlessly blend into a range of decor styles, from traditional to contemporary. Plus, it's one of the hardest woods out there, making it a great choice for a dining table that can withstand the rigors of daily life.
  • Mahogany: If you’re going for a rich, classic look, mahogany is the way to go. It's dark, red-brown wood with a straight grain that gives an air of sophistication and luxury.
  • Walnut: Walnut wood is known for its dark, luxurious look that can give any room a sense of elegance. Its rich colors and intricate grain patterns make it a favorite among those who value natural beauty. Plus, it's hardy and resilient.

The Modern Elegance of Glass Tables

Let's have a moment of appreciation for glass dining tables. These sleek, chic beauties are the epitome of modern elegance. They give an illusion of space, making even the smallest of Denver apartments feel like a spacious loft. And don't even get me started on how they can magnify the effect of your lighting and reflect it around the room. It's almost like having a disco ball, but more sophisticated. Yet, for all their charm, glass tables are quite practical - they're easy to clean and don't stain. Just remember, they can show smudges and fingerprints quite easily, so maybe keep those wet-wipes handy.

The Industrial Chic of Metal Tables

If you're the kind of person who likes a bit of an edgy, industrial feel in your home decor, then a metal table might be the table of your dreams. Imagine this: a wrought iron table, perhaps with a reclaimed wood top, right there in your dining room. It's like having a piece of Denver's thriving art district in your home. Besides their stylistic appeal, metal tables are also highly durable and require little maintenance. Whether it's steel, wrought iron, or aluminum, a metal table can be a stunning and practical addition to your dining space.

The Practicality and Affordability of Plastic Tables

Now, don't roll your eyes at the mention of plastic tables. I know, they may not have the same aesthetic appeal as a rich mahogany or a sleek glass table. But hear me out - plastic tables are the underdogs of the furniture world. They are extremely practical and affordable, and some designs are downright funky. Ideal for outdoor spaces, they are resistant to weather conditions, lightweight, and easy to clean. If you've got young kids who treat the dining table like their canvas, a plastic table might be your savior. After all, who can argue with durability and affordability? And hey, you might just find a design that tickles your fancy.

Stone Tables: When Luxury Meets Durability

If we were to put on a fancy accent and talk about dining tables, stone tables would be the leading topic of conversation. When you bring home a stone table, you're not just buying a piece of furniture, you're investing in a slice of the earth's history, a tangible piece of luxury that screams 'durability.'

  • Granite: Each granite table is a one-of-a-kind piece, boasting its unique pattern. Not to mention, granite is known for its durability and heat resistance
  • Marble: Marble is the undeniable superstar of luxury. Marble is sturdy, lasting for generations if cared for properly.
  • Quartzite: Quartzite offers the luxury of marble and the toughness of granite. It's resistant to heat and scratches, and it doesn't stain easily.

Tip 3 - Measure Your Room to Ensure a Perfect Fit for Your Dining Table

Classic Wooden Dining TableSawyer - Classic Wooden Dining Table

We've all been there: we buy the perfect piece of furniture, only to find that it doesn't fit quite as perfectly in our room as we had hoped. So, let's avoid the 'square peg in a round hole' situation when it comes to buying a dining table in Denver, or anywhere else.

Roominess – it's more than just a pleasant-to-hear term, it's a vital factor when buying your dining table. Visualizing your dream table in your dining room isn’t enough; we need cold, hard numbers. First, measure your dining room. Get to know every nook, every cranny, and especially the center where your table will take its place.

Once you have your room measurements, now it's time to consider the dining table and the space it will occupy. But hold on a second, we're not just talking about the table itself; we're talking about chairs and movement as well. You see, buying a dining table isn’t just about the table; it’s about the whole dining experience.

For comfortable seating, you need about 24 inches of space per chair. And for easy movement? Add another 36 inches from the table edge to the wall or the next piece of furniture. This ensures everyone can get in and out of their seats without turning into contortionists or knocking over your precious home décor.

So, before you venture out or go online to buy that dining table, make sure to keep these measurements in mind. This way, you’ll find a table that doesn’t just look great in your room, but one that fits perfectly, like a well-crafted puzzle piece.

Tip 4 - Know Where to Buy Quality Furniture in Denver

Modern Simplicity Dining TableEvan - Modern Simplicity Dining Table

You've identified your perfect table shape, you've decided on the material, and you've got your measurements all set. The only thing left to do now is to navigate the actual buying process. But where should you start? Let's turn that question mark into an exclamation point as we explore the best ways to buy quality furniture in Denver.

Tips for Buying Furniture Locally

Buying locally is not just good for the Denver economy; it's great for you as a buyer too. Local furniture stores, unlike big chain retailers, often offer unique pieces that can give your dining room that distinct vibe.

When buying locally, use the same savviness you'd use for any other purchase. Do your research, compare prices, and don't be afraid to negotiate. Furniture is often marked up significantly, giving you some wiggle room for haggling. And don't forget to ask about delivery and assembly services. Some stores may offer free or discounted rates that could save you both time and money.

Another essential local buying tip? Patience. Local stores might not have everything in stock, so be prepared for a potential wait if your chosen piece needs to be ordered. But hey, good things come to those who wait, right?

But hey! No need to look elsewhere. If you're hunting for the perfect dining table in Denver, one local store you might want to consider is here in Alpine Outlets. We have a fantastic selection of tables and other furniture pieces that could just turn your dining room into the favorite room in your house.

Benefits of Purchasing Furniture In-Store vs. Online

In this digital age, buying furniture online can seem like the most convenient option. You can click through hundreds of options while lounging in your pajamas, after all. However, purchasing a dining table is a tactile experience. You can't gauge the sturdiness of a table or the smoothness of its finish through a screen.

Shopping in-store allows you to see and feel the furniture, get a sense of its actual size and scale, and scrutinize the quality of materials and craftsmanship. And of course, there's the immediate gratification of taking your new table home the same day (if it's in stock), versus waiting weeks for delivery.

Plus, in-store salespeople can offer a wealth of information about your chosen piece, from care instructions to details about the brand and manufacturer. It's a personal touch that you won't get from a product description online.

Tip 5 - Navigating Your Purchase: Timing, Styles, and Types

Marble Masterpiece Dining TableBelle - Marble Masterpiece Dining Table

Buying a dining table isn't something you do on a whim. It requires thought, planning, and a bit of savvy shopping. In this section, we're going to navigate you through the subtle art of timing your furniture purchase, guide you in selecting a furniture style that resonates with your personal aesthetic, and help you explore the benefits and drawbacks of buying new, used, or refurbished items.

Timing Your Purchase: When is the Best Time to Buy Furniture?

Timing is everything when it comes to making major purchases, and furniture is no exception. Retail cycles can affect pricing significantly, and being aware of this can save you some serious cash. Typically, new furniture styles hit the showrooms in February and August, making January and July great times to snag deals on last season's models. Another pro-tip? Keep an eye out for holiday sales. Retailers often offer significant discounts during Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday. So, a little patience and strategic timing could land you that dream dining table at a dreamier price.

Choosing Between Traditional and Contemporary Styles

Styles come and go, but your dining table is a long-term investment. So when choosing a style, think about what will stand the test of time. Traditional furniture styles, such as colonial, Victorian, or rustic, offer classic charm and a sense of nostalgia. These pieces are often crafted from dark, rich woods like mahogany and walnut, adding a touch of sophistication to your dining room.

On the other hand, contemporary furniture leans towards the minimalist, with clean lines and neutral color schemes. Materials like glass, metal, and light-colored woods are common in modern design. If you're all about keeping up with the Joneses, this might be your go-to style. Remember, though, your dining table should reflect your personal taste. Don't be afraid to mix and match styles for a unique, eclectic look.

Types of Furniture to Consider: New, Used, or Refurbished?

Finally, consider the type of furniture you want to buy. New furniture comes with a certain peace of mind — it's clean, undamaged, and often under warranty. However, it also comes with a higher price tag. Used or refurbished furniture, meanwhile, offers the chance to get quality pieces at a lower cost. Just be sure to thoroughly inspect used items for any signs of damage or wear.

Whichever route you choose, remember that the perfect dining table isn't just about the table itself. It's about the meals, conversations, and memories you'll create around it.

The Bottom Line

Classic Cherry Round Dining TableAlessandro - Classic Cherry Round Dining Table

As we round off our insightful journey into the world of dining tables, it's essential to reiterate one fundamental truth - your dining table is not just a piece of furniture; it's a pivotal part of your home. It's the silent witness to your hurried breakfasts, family dinners, and late-night conversations. It's a canvas for your holiday feasts, a platform for your kid's homework, and perhaps, your makeshift work-from-home desk.

Investing in a dining table is not about purchasing a piece of wood, metal, or stone. It's about investing in the memories, conversations, and experiences that will unfurl around it. So, when you're contemplating the shape, material, or size of your future dining table, remember that you're not just buying furniture; you're creating a home. Remember, your dining table awaits, ready to be part of your home's story. Choose wisely and enjoy every meal, conversation, and moment it brings.

Whether you're looking for a classic oak table to anchor your traditional dining room or a modern glass piece to complement your minimalist design, we've got you covered. We carry an array of high-quality dining tables to suit diverse styles and spaces. Don't hesitate to visit or contact Alpine Outlets for choosing the perfect dining table for your Denver home.

Back to blog