How do we choose the right table size for our everyday use?

Start with how many people eat regularly (2, 4, 6+) and whether the table will double as a workspace; singles or couples often suit an 80-120 cm round or drop-leaf table, while families of six typically need a 1.8-2.2 m solid or veneered wood table to sit comfortably and withstand daily use. We recommend leaving at least 90 cm from the table edge to walls or large furniture so chairs can be pulled out easily.

Which table-top and chair materials work best for busy South African homes?

For family tables we suggest solid timber tops for warmth and repairability, veneer or laminate tops where budget and easy cleaning are priorities, and metal or engineered-wood frames for durability in everyday use; choose semi-upholstered seats for comfort or solid wood/metal seats for high-traffic households. These material choices reflect practical trade-offs between longevity, maintenance and cost in the South African market.

What price ranges should we expect when shopping in South Africa?

Expect entry-level simple sets from around R1 500, mid-range solid-wood or mixed-material sets roughly between R4 000 and R12 000, with higher prices for designer or artisan solid-wood pieces; prices vary by brand and finish. We advise comparing a solid-wood top with a high-quality laminate when price matters because repair and refinishing options differ.

What quick checks should we run at home before ordering a set?

Measure the dining area and doorways, test chair seat height against a temporary surface to match the standard dining height (~75 cm), check finishes for scratch resistance, and confirm delivery dimensions for stairs or lifts. These checks help avoid returns and ensure the set fits your daily routines.

How should we care for a dining set to keep it lasting longer?

Wipe spills promptly, use trivets for hot pots, tighten screws every few months, and choose sets with reasonable warranty terms or accessible replacement parts when available. These simple habits extend the life of tops, frames and upholstery in real-life South African homes.

Dining table and chairs: how we choose the right set

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Dining table and chairs: how we choose the right set | Bash

Dining table and chairs that work for real life

We choose furniture for how people actually live: families that eat together, small households that need flexible space, and shared flats that demand durability. A dining table and chairs are more than matched pieces - they set how you use a room, how guests gather, and how easy daily cleaning and care will be. Below we focus on practical decisions you can make in one sitting, with examples and price ranges that reflect the South African market.

Start with the day-to-day use

How many people eat regularly? (2, 4, 6+)
Do you need extra seating for guests or fold-away options for small counters?
Will the table double as a workspace or homework spot?

For a busy family, a 1.8-2.2 m solid or veneered wood table suits six people and handles spills and plates. Singles or couples often prefer a compact 80-120 cm round or drop-leaf table that keeps counter space open. Expect general price bands in South Africa to start around R1 500 for simple sets, R4 000-R12 000 for mid-range solid-wood or mixed-material sets, and higher for designer or solid-wood artisan pieces (estimates vary by brand and finish).

Pick the right materials for chairs and table tops

Solid timber tops: warm, repairable, and long-lasting - good for family tables.
Veneer or laminate tops: budget-friendly, easier to clean, less risk of warping in humid months.
Glass tops: sleek and easy to wipe, best where breakage risk is low.
Metal or engineered-wood frames: tough for daily use and useful for outdoor-adjacent dining areas.

Chairs matter as much as the table. Choose chairs with supportive backs and seat depths that match the table height (standard dining height is ~75 cm). If you prefer softer seating for long conversations, semi-upholstered or cushioned seats work well; for a high-traffic household, solid wood or metal seats are easier to maintain.

Size and layout checks for your room

Measure before you buy: leave at least 90 cm from the table edge to walls or large furniture so chairs can pull out comfortably. For kitchen-diner combos, consider a bench on one side to save space and add flexibility. If you’re unsure which direction to take, browse our Dining Room collection for examples and layouts that fit common South African homes: Dining Room.

Style and longevity - making choices that age well

We recommend neutral finishes and simple silhouettes that work with changing décor. A mid-toned timber table, paired with mixed chairs (two upholstered end chairs and benches or simple side chairs), gives visual interest and the option to replace single seats instead of a whole set. If you favour a coordinated look, match materials and frame finishes across the set.

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Practical buying checklist

Before you place an order, run this quick checklist at home: measure your dining area, test chair seat height against a temporary surface, check finishes for scratch resistance, and confirm delivery dimensions (stairs, lifts, doorways). Where price matters, compare a solid-wood top versus a high-quality laminate - both can last, but repair and refinishing options differ.

How we think about care and warranties

Join protective habits that keep furniture looking new: wipe spills quickly, use trivets for hot pots, and tighten screws every few months. Where available, choose sets with reasonable warranty terms or accessible replacement parts. For more on matching kitchen and dining appliances and layout decisions, our Appliances hub can help: Appliances.

Examples that suit South African rhythms

Small apartment: 90 cm round table, two lounge-style chairs, and one bench - compact and social.
Growing family: extendable table (1.4 m closed, 2.2 m extended) with wipe-clean chairs - flexible for homework and gatherings.
Outdoor-adjacent dining: metal-frame table with treated timber top and stackable chairs for occasional outside use.

To see choices that match these scenarios and check current stock and prices, explore our Tables and Dining Room categories: Tables and Dining Room. If you already know you want mixed seating, our Chairs collection has options that pair well across styles: Chairs.

Budgeting and practical estimates

Estimate your spend based on materials and size: compact sets often begin around R1 500-R3 500; reliable mid-range timber or mixed-material sets typically sit between R4 000-R12 000; custom or premium designer sets can be R15 000 and above. Delivery and assembly costs vary - check product pages for exact fees and lead times.

If you’re comparing finishes, bring a small material swatch or photo when shopping to judge colour and grain against your counters and floors. Small differences in finish look very different in morning and evening light.

Next steps with Bash

We make the next step simple: pick a size that fits your room, choose materials that match your lifestyle, and decide whether you want full sets or a mix-and-match approach. Browse our Dining Room category to compare real sets and check availability: Dining Room. When you're ready, add delivery and assembly at checkout or select click-and-collect where available.

Sources

South African building standards and guidance
Consumer Goods and Service advice - Consumer Education Trust
Houzz - practical layouts and material comparisons

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Dining table and chairs: how we choose the right set for your home

Measure first

Why Choose Bash?

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Nationwide Support

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Choose materials by use

Mix for flexibility

Dining table and chairs that work for real life

Start with the day-to-day use

Pick the right materials for chairs and table tops

Size and layout checks for your room

Style and longevity - making choices that age well

Practical buying checklist

How we think about care and warranties

Examples that suit South African rhythms

Budgeting and practical estimates

Next steps with Bash

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