Buying guide
What size legs does a dining table need?
Width, overhang and position, worked out from the size of your top.
Leg width
Leave 5–10 cm of overhang on each long side. That gives the top a clean line and keeps the legs clear of knees.
| Depth of the top | Leg width |
|---|---|
| 80 cm | 60–70 cm |
| 90 cm | 70–80 cm |
| 100 cm | 80–90 cm |
How far in from the ends
Set each leg 20–40 cm in from the end of the top. Closer to the end and a chair at the end hits the leg; much further in and the overhang starts to feel unsupported. On a 200 cm top, about 30 cm in from each end works well.
Seats by length
Allow about 60 cm of table edge per person.
| Length of the top | Seats |
|---|---|
| 140–160 cm | 4 |
| 180–200 cm | 6 |
| 220–240 cm | 8 |
A pair of legs or a centre base
Frame legs (X, square, trapezoid) suit long rectangular tops and carry heavy slabs well. A centre base keeps the ends free for chairs and suits round, square and shorter tops.
Height
Dining tables stand 74–76 cm with the top on. How to work out the leg height.