About Kitchen Tables

The kitchen table is often the center of the home. It is where the family comes together to eat meals and do homework and craft projects. Many people's first lessons and family histories were told at the kitchen table. Does this Spark an idea?

History

The history of the kitchen table is not well-documented. It is said that the Egyptians created the first kitchen tables as platforms to keep food off the floor. Kitchen tables often pop up in the middle ages as a place where servants could take their meals.

The most common information about the history of the kitchen table revolves around not the history of the table itself, but around the history made at the table. Generations of families have made important decisions around the kitchen table.

Function

Kitchen tables are typically where families gather for meals. Kitchen tables are usually reserved for day-to-day, informal gatherings. Children may also use the kitchen table to complete homework and art projects.
These tables are usually a central gathering place within the home because of their location in the kitchen. Most families will have most of their meals at the kitchen table, rather than the dining room table, which is often reserved for formal meals.

Types

Kitchen tables come in a variety of shapes and sizes. From small dinettes, to large farmhouse tables, there is a kitchen table that fits every home. The typical shapes for kitchen tables include round, rectangular and oval.
A typical table can seat from four people to eight people, depending on its size. Wood is by far the most popular material for kitchen tables. However, glass-top tables and even stainless steel tables are popular. Tables with "drop leafs" or removable leafs are also popular because they allow you to add space to the table for large gatherings, while keeping the table small the rest of the time.

Features

Some tables have leafs that allow it to expand when you are expecting company. Drop leafs work through a mechanism that holds the section of the table up when you need extra space. When you no longer need that space, the section drops down.
Removable leafs are added to the table when you need more space. The table is typically pulled apart at the center to allow the leaf to fit inside. The leaf can then be removed when the extra space is no longer needed. Leafs are especially helpful in small kitchens where space is at a premium.

Size

Kitchen tables come in a variety of sizes. It is essential to measure the space in your kitchen before you purchase a table. When measuring, also account for chairs. Tables that include drop leafs allow the table to take up a minimum amount of space when they are not in use. The tables then expand for guests.

Kitchen tables are typically 30 inches high. They range in length from 40 to 92-plus inches. Widths are typically from 36 to 42 inches.