No Space? No Problem. These Dining Tables Fit Just Right

Living in a small apartment, figuring out how to fit a comfy couch, TV, dining table—and everything else you need—can feel like solving a puzzle. When I moved in, I was on a mission to find a dining table big enough for my roommate and me to have dinner together (and maybe even squeeze in a friend or two) without overwhelming our already limited space. 

Kathy Kuo, interior designer and founder of Kathy Kuo Home, says, “Measuring (and re-measuring) is always important when shopping for furniture, but when you're working with a smaller space, every inch counts. Don't forget to also measure the height and clearance to make sure your preferred dining chairs will fit.”

Using my small-space trial and error—and a few smart tips from Kuo and other interior design pros—I’ve rounded up dining tables that’ll make the most of limited square footage. Our top picks include round, rectangular, and high-top styles, all compact enough to fit tight spaces, but still roomy enough for dinner plates, drinks, and conversation.

Round Dining Tables

For apartment dwellers looking to make the most of their space, round tables have a light, airy feel that helps maximize smaller areas. That’s why we love the Hernest Rolf Natural Dining Table, the perfect table for two. It strikes just the right balance—the white tabletop is simple, while the fluted base adds a retro, vintage appeal. 

Made from durable, kiln-dried wood, the pedestal is sleek, supportive, and built to last. Just note that it’s on the thicker side, so if you’re trying to squeeze an extra chair in, legroom may be tight. It comes in two finishes–natural rubberwood and dark brown rubberwood—both of which have a warm, cozy feel. The white tabletop, made from sintered stone, is stain-resistant and easy to clean. 

This table comes in two sizes—31 and 39 inches—so you can choose what best fits your space. 

Product Details: Dimensions: 31.5 x 31.5 x 29.5 in. | Material: Rubber wood, engineered wood, sintered stone | Seating Capacity: Two | Shape: Round

The best dining spaces have a cozy, lived-in feel. Whether you’re cultivating a cottagecore aesthetic or a more modern farmhouse vibe, the Laurel Ebbert Round Solid Wood Base Dining Table is a perfect pick for your space. 

It has a rustic charm, with a minimalist design that works well with most table settings. The round tabletop encourages easy conversation, while the pedestal base provides some extra leg room. Choose between the vintage black or ashwood finish—both have a relaxed, farmhouse look. 

At 92 pounds, this table is one of the heavier options on our list, so once it’s in place, you’ll probably want to keep it there. The frame and pedestal are made from solid rubberwood, while the tabletop itself is made with engineered wood but finished to mimic natural wood grain.

Product Details: Dimensions: 47.25 x 47.25 x 31.5 in. | Material: Solid wood, engineered wood | Seating Capacity: Two to four | Shape: Round

I swear by a tulip table, and this one from Rove Concepts checks every box: it’s simple, modern, and unobtrusive. The white lacquer top has a glossy satin finish, while the powder coating helps prevent chipping. Just note that, as with any white piece of furniture, dark stains may be more noticeable—but with the right placemats and a quick wipe-down, you’ll be good to go. 

It comes in two sizes—40 or 48 inches—so you can place it in the center of your room as a statement piece or nestle it in the corner. The pedestal is available in two colors: white for a more uniform look, or black for bold contrast. Its thin design, combined with its round top, gives it a light and airy look. Plus, you and your guests are sure to have extra legroom. 

You’ll need to assemble this pick yourself, though there is an option of white glove delivery. Just note that shipping starts at $150 regardless. 

Product Details: Dimensions: 47.25 x 47.25 x 28.5 in. | Material: Rubber wood, engineered wood, sintered stone | Seating Capacity: Four | Shape: Round

Rectangular Dining Tables

Bring a cozy café vibe right to your dining room with this table from West Elm. When it comes to durability, this one’s built to last. The solid beech wood base is sturdy, while the engineered wood top has a scratch- and stain-resistant finish. Plus, the wood grain helps mask any markings. 

The stainless steel base adds contrast to the wooden design, giving you plenty of flexibility with chair style—you can lean into the walnut wood aesthetic or mix things up with a metal option.  The base also includes levelers, so you can easily adjust it to suit your floor. 

Product Details: Dimensions: 32 x 24 x 29.1 in. | Material: Solid wood, engineered wood | Seating Capacity: Two | Shape: Rectangle

For something simple yet stylish, we love the George Oliver Muhsina Cross Leg Rectangular Dining Table. 

It comes in four colors: pecan, blonde, walnut, and white sand wirebrush. Regardless of which color you choose, the solid pine tabletop is sturdy, and the visible wood grain gives it that clean, Scandinavian vibe. We like its versatility—it feels casual enough for a chill brunch, but with the right place settings and flatware, it can easily work for a more formal dinner. 

The 48-by-32-inch tabletop is small enough to stow in a corner but still spacious enough to comfortably sit four people without feeling cramped. Despite its larger size, it only weighs about 50 pounds, so it isn’t too bulky or cumbersome to move. 

Product Details: Dimensions: 48 x 32 x 20 in.| Material: Solid pine, rubber wood | Seating Capacity: Four | Shape: Rectangle

If you want some hosting flexibility without committing to a massive table full-time, an extendable option like the Transformer Table is a must-have. This pick is practically six tables in one. At its smallest, it can be used as an entryway console table or even a side table next to the couch. When you add the included panels, it expands to seat up to 12 people. 

Crafted from solid wood, it’s treated to protect against heat, scratches, and water. There are six finishes to choose from, including lighter and darker wood options. While it’s certainly a splurge, the modular design grows with you, making it a long-term investment. Plus, it comes with a lifetime warranty.

Our only complaint is the lack of built-in storage. When you’re not using the panels, you’ll need to store them separately. Also, keep in mind that seating isn’t included, but you can buy extendable benches separately or in bundles with the table.

Product Details: Dimensions: 37.5 x 18 x 30 in. (smallest configuration); 37.5 x 30 x 118 in. (largest configuration) | Material: Solid wood | Seating Capacity: One to 12 | Shape: Rectangle

High Tops

To utilize your vertical space, go with a higher option like the Orren Ellis Mahnomen Counter Height Pedestal Dining Table. While this high-top table measures only 24 inches in diameter, it’s surprisingly stable. The base has an anti-slip ring that keeps it steady on the floor, and the tabletop can support up to 120 pounds.

It's simple aesthetic can complement just about any decor style, and you can mix and match finishes—choose from black, faux marble, or white tabletops, paired with either a black or silver base. 

Just keep in mind that, because of its compact surface area, it won’t be able to fit full plate settings and serving platters at once. Still, it’s a great space-saving option for a quick cocktail, solo snack, or cozy date night. It’s ideal for smaller spaces like an outdoor covered patio,  kitchenette, or breakfast nook.

Product Details: Dimensions: 24 x 24 x 40 in. | Material: Steel, manufactured wood | Seating Capacity: Two | Shape: Round

Finding a table that’s both spacious and compact is one thing—adding chairs to the mix could take up even more valuable room. That’s where the Segsmart Pub Table and Chair Set comes in—it has four small stools that stash underneath the tall table when not in use. 

The metal tabletop can also double as a desk or countertop when you’re not seated to eat. It comes in several finishes, including a black or white faux marble, rustic wood, and light or dark wood options.  

Since the bar stools are backless, they might not be comfortable for longer meals, and the height could be challenging for small children. But if saving space is your priority, it’s a great choice.

Product Details: Dimensions: 47.24 x 36.42 x 23.62 in. | Material: MDF, metal, PU leather | Seating Capacity: Four | Shape: Rectangle

What to Know About Dining Tables for Small Spaces Before Shopping

Style

The design of your dining table can help reflect your personal style. For a farmhouse look, go for a more rustic table with natural wood finishes, like the Laurel Ebbert Round Solid Wood Base Dining Table. With its crossed legs and visible grain, it has a cozier cottagecore feel.

Meanwhile, Midcentury Modern fans will appreciate minimalist tables. Think: clean lines, simple shapes, and smooth finishes. 

And don’t forget about the base. Artem Kropovinsky, an interior designer and founder at Arsight, says, “Pedestal bases allow for more leg room, while trestle and four-legged bases offer stability, especially if the surface is heavy."

Material

Material can impact a table's look and durability, so it’s important to choose one that suits your needs. 

For longevity, Kropovinsky recommends solid woods like oak, walnut, or teak. "They age gracefully, growing richer with time,” he says. You can also experiment with tables that utilize multiple materials to not only maximize durability but also create more visual interest. The Hernest Rolf Natural Dining Table, for example, is made with both wood and sintered stone.

Seating Capacity

If you’re working with a small space, the best dining table is one that’s large enough to accommodate guests without taking up unnecessary space. 

Generally, a small dining table accommodating four or fewer people has a tabletop of about 48 to 60 inches. We’ve also included a few two-seaters that are even smaller—perfect for anyone living alone or who keeps hosting to a minimum. While these aren’t ideal for group meals, they work well for a drink or a quick bite. 

A table that seats six or more guests should typically be about 78 inches or longer. If you love hosting but are short on space, go with an extendable option like the Transformer Table Extendable Dining Table. With removable panels, you can adjust it into six different configurations, ranging from 18 to 118 inches in length. 

Shape

While material and size may be first on your priority list, shape can have a surprisingly big impact as well. 

When it comes to saving space, square or rectangular tables are beneficial as they can be pushed against a wall, creating a more open layout. 

That said, round tables are often considered more space-efficient and encourage free-flowing conversation. Since they don’t have defined corners, it’s also easier to squeeze in a few extra chairs when needed.  For an extra space-saving option, consider a round pedestal dining table. The single, central leg offers more leg room while taking up less space.

Who We Are

Jamie Fischer is a writer for Better Homes & Gardens with two years of experience. To choose the best small dining tables for this article, she considered size, shape, material, seating capacity, and functionality.

Additional reporting was done by Paige Bennett, a freelance writer and editor with over six years of experience researching and reviewing home, food, and beauty products for a variety of brands and publications. She interviewed interior designers Kathy Kuo and Artem Kropovinsky for insights on shopping for small dining tables.