Choosing the Right Dining Table for Festive Gatherings
The festive season is about connection. Those long lunches, unexpected laughter, and shared stories that always seem to happen around the dining table. Whether you are hosting a Christmas dinner for ten or a quiet celebration for four, the right table can transform your home into a space where memories are made.
At Reynolds Furniture, we have been helping families across Sussex create spaces that bring people together for over 150 years. Here is how to choose a dining table that works beautifully for your gatherings this Christmas, and for everyday life long after.
How do you find a dining table that fits your space?
Start by looking at the shape of your room. In smaller dining areas or open-plan kitchens, a round dining table creates a natural flow, encouraging conversation and keeping things intimate. Larger rooms tend to suit rectangular tables, which seat more guests and give that classic, formal look for festive meals.
If space is tight but your guest list is not, an extendable dining table is your best friend. Designs such as the Ercol Romana Medium Extending Dining Table allow you to add extra seating at a moment’s notice. Ideal for surprise guests or Boxing Day brunches.
Explore the full range here:
Dining Tables Collection
What materials work best for festive dining?
Your choice of material sets the tone for your celebrations. Solid oak or walnut tables bring warmth and timeless charm, perfect for a traditional Christmas setting. If you prefer something more contemporary, look for ceramic or glass tops that reflect light and make cleaning effortless after a long evening of hosting.
For a modern look, explore the Ercol Bosco Small Extending Dining Table. Its light oak finish works beautifully with both classic and minimalist décor, while its clever extension design adds flexibility for family gatherings.
Browse our full dining table range:
https://www.reynoldsfurniture.co.uk/dining-tables/c24How many people should your table seat?
Before you fall in love with a design, think practically about how you will use it throughout the year. A four-seater table is ideal for couples and smaller families, while a six-to-eight-seater offers flexibility for entertaining. For those who host Christmas every year, go for a large extendable design such as the Ercol Teramo Medium Extending Dining Table. It gives you the best of both worlds.
Do not forget the chairs. Upholstered seats such as the Ercol Lugo Dining Chair bring extra comfort when your guests settle in for pudding and conversation. For a more contemporary touch, mix upholstered and wooden finishes to add contrast and character.
View all dining chairs:
Dining Chairs CollectionHow can you style your dining space for the season?
Once you have chosen your table, elevate it with texture, colour, and light. A soft linen runner or a layer of greenery instantly adds warmth. Scatter a few sprigs of eucalyptus or pine along the centre, and use low candles or fairy lights to create atmosphere without blocking conversation.
Complete the look with storage furniture such as the Ercol Bosco Large Sideboard for extra crockery and cutlery, or the Ercol Teramo Display Cabinet to showcase your glassware and festive décor. Together, these pieces add balance, storage, and sophistication to your dining space.
Explore storage options:
Sideboards
Display Cabinets
Why visit Reynolds before you decide?
Choosing a dining table is not just about measurements and materials. It is about how it feels - the texture of the wood, the comfort of the chairs, and the way your family naturally gathers around it. These are details you can only experience in person.
At Reynolds Furniture, our friendly team can help you compare designs, test seating comfort, and visualise how each piece fits within your home. Whether you are upgrading your dining space before Christmas or planning a fresh look for the new year, we will help you find something that feels just right.
Visit us in Bognor Regis or explore our full collection online:
https://www.reynoldsfurniture.co.uk/Final Thoughts
A well-chosen dining table becomes more than furniture. It is where birthdays are celebrated, games are played, and festive memories are shared for years to come.
This Christmas, invest in a piece that brings everyone together - in style, comfort, and warmth. Each design at Reynolds is made to last, blending craftsmanship with character to make your home feel special all season long.
- 25th November 2025
