Every room tells a story, and the table often sits at its center. From family dinners to work meetings, each type of table has its own charm and purpose. A dining table brings people together, while a study or coffee table adds function and style to daily life.
We’ve gathered a complete list of types of tables with pictures and examples used in homes, offices, and cafés. Whether you’re arranging a new space, learning furniture vocabulary, or just love design, this post helps you recognize and describe tables with confidence and ease.
Table of Contents
Why Choosing the Right Table Matters
Choosing the right table is more than a design choice. It affects comfort, functionality, and daily life. In American homes, tables often become the center of family meals, work, studying, and social gatherings. A well-chosen table improves room flow, complements your interior style, and meets practical needs. Selecting the right table ensures long-term satisfaction, durability, and a welcoming environment for your home.
Comprehensive Guide to Types of Tables with Pictures
Tables are essential furniture pieces in every home and office. They are not only functional but also define the style of a space. Choosing the right type of table depends on placement, purpose, shape, size, and material. Below is a detailed guide to the most common types of tables with helpful tips.
1. Dining Table
Best Placement
Dining tables are placed in the dining room or an open area with ample light. Ensure there is enough space for chairs and movement around the table for comfortable family meals and gatherings.
Table Shape Styles
Rectangular, round, square, and oval tables are common. Rectangular tables fit large families. Round tables encourage conversation. Square tables create symmetry, while oval tables combine elegance and smooth edges.
Size of the Table
Typically four to ten seats. Leave at least three feet of clearance around the table for comfort and ease of movement.
Types by Material
Solid wood for warmth, glass for elegance, and metal for modern interiors.
2. Coffee Table
Best Placement
Living room, in front of sofas or seating areas. Ideal for holding drinks, books, or decorative items.
Table Shape Styles
Rectangular, oval, round, or square. Round and oval are suitable for small spaces.
Size of the Table
16–18 inches high and two-thirds the sofa’s length.
Types by Material
Wood, glass, metal, or marble. Each adds a distinct aesthetic to the room.
3. Console Table
Best Placement
Entryways, hallways, or behind sofas. Useful for lamps, keys, and decor items.
Table Shape Styles
Mostly rectangular. Some include drawers or shelves for storage.
Size of the Table
28–32 inches tall, narrow enough to avoid blocking pathways.
Types by Material
Wood, metal, mirrored finishes. Mirrors reflect light and brighten spaces.
4. End Table
Best Placement
Beside sofas, chairs, or beds. Convenient for lamps, drinks, and personal items.
Table Shape Styles
Round, square, or rectangular. Complements nearby furniture.
Size of the Table
Matches the height of sofa armrests or bed height for easy reach.
Types by Material
Wood, rattan, or glass. Each material provides a unique style.
5. Office Table (Desk)
Best Placement
Home office or study area for work, computers, or study sessions.
Table Shape Styles
Rectangular or L-shaped for corner utilization and workspace expansion.
Size of the Table
Minimum 48 inches wide for computer and writing tasks, leaving enough legroom.
Types by Material
Engineered wood, metal, laminate. Engineered wood is affordable, metal is sturdy, and laminate is easy to maintain.
6. Nesting Table
Best Placement
Living room or lounge areas. Ideal for small spaces where multiple surfaces are occasionally needed.
Table Shape Styles
Round or square sets that fit under each other.
Size of the Table
Compact and stackable. Can expand when needed.
Types by Material
Wood, metal, or glass. Offers flexible functionality and modern style.
7. Pedestal Table
Best Placement
Dining rooms or small kitchens. Great for intimate meals or breakfast areas.
Table Shape Styles
Round or square. Central pedestal allows more legroom.
Size of the Table
Varies from small two-seaters to medium four-seaters.
Types by Material
Wood or marble. Wood provides warmth, marble adds elegance.
8. Drop-Leaf Table
Best Placement
Small dining areas, kitchens, or multipurpose rooms. Perfect for flexible spaces.
Table Shape Styles
Rectangular with hinged sides that fold down.
Size of the Table
Adjustable size. Can expand for meals or fold for space-saving.
Types by Material
Wood or engineered wood. Durable and functional for compact homes.
9. Accent Table
Best Placement
Living room, hallway, or bedroom. Adds style and supports decor items.
Table Shape Styles
Various styles including round, square, or irregular. Decorative focus.
Size of the Table
Small to medium, designed to complement the room’s aesthetics.
Types by Material
Wood, metal, glass, or stone. Focuses on visual appeal.
10. Farmhouse Table
Best Placement
Dining rooms or kitchens with rustic or country decor.
Table Shape Styles
Rectangular or oval. Thick, sturdy legs and a solid top.
Size of the Table
Can seat six to twelve people depending on size.
Types by Material
Solid wood is most common. Offers a classic and warm style.
11. Bistro Table
Best Placement
Balconies, kitchens, or cafes. Ideal for two people or casual meals.
Table Shape Styles
Round or square tops on single pedestal bases.
Size of the Table
Small and compact, usually two-seaters.
Types by Material
Metal, wood, or glass. Lightweight and easy to move.
12. Folding Table
Best Placement
Multipurpose rooms, garages, or events. Used for temporary or extra surfaces.
Table Shape Styles
Rectangular or square. Foldable for easy storage.
Size of the Table
Varies from small utility sizes to large banquet tables.
Types by Material
Plastic, metal, or wood. Focused on portability and practicality.
13. Bar Table (Pub Table)
Best Placement
Home bars, kitchens, or entertainment areas. Suited for high seating.
Table Shape Styles
Round or square, tall height for bar stools.
Size of the Table
Typically 40–42 inches high. Designed for standing or tall chairs.
Types by Material
Wood, metal, or glass. Matches casual and modern interiors.
14. Side Table
Best Placement
Living room or bedroom beside chairs or beds. Smaller than end tables.
Table Shape Styles
Square, round, or rectangular.
Size of the Table
Compact, easy to reach from seating.
Types by Material
Wood, glass, or metal. Functional for lamps, books, or decor.
15. Patio Table
Best Placement
Outdoor spaces such as patios, gardens, or decks.
Table Shape Styles
Round, square, or rectangular. Designed to complement outdoor seating.
Size of the Table
Varies depending on seating capacity, usually four to eight seats.
Types by Material
Metal, plastic, treated wood, or glass. Weather-resistant and durable.
5 Best Types of Dining Tables
Round Dining Table
Round dining tables encourage conversation and connection. They save space and create a cozy atmosphere for family meals. Round tables are suitable for smaller dining areas and encourage closeness among diners.
Rectangular Dining Table
Rectangular tables are traditional and practical. They fit long dining rooms and accommodate more guests comfortably. This style works well for formal and casual meals.
Square Dining Table
Square tables create balance and symmetry in modern homes. They are ideal for compact spaces and allow equal distance for each diner.
Oval Dining Table
Oval tables combine elegance and functionality. They offer softer edges for a welcoming look and provide space for family gatherings without sharp corners.
Extendable Dining Table
Extendable tables are versatile for flexible dining areas. They can expand for guests or shrink for daily use. This option is practical for families who host gatherings.
How to Finalize and Choose the Right Table
When choosing a table, consider functionality, space, and style. Measure your room to ensure comfortable movement and seating. Match the table design with your interior style to create harmony. Choose materials that fit your lifestyle. Test the table for stability, height, and seating capacity. A well-chosen table should be both visually appealing and practical for long-term use.
FAQs about Types of Tables
The main categories of tables include household tables, office/work tables, outdoor/public tables, special-purpose tables, and tables defined by shape or design.
Consider the table’s primary function, available space, user height, and style; match a type of table that fits your daily needs and room layout.
Ten types of tables are Dining Table, Coffee Table, Study Table, Office Table, Dressing Table, Console Table, Bedside Table, Picnic Table, Folding Table, and Round Table.
Tables used in offices include Office Tables, Conference Tables, Computer Tables, Reception Tables, and Workstations, designed for meetings, writing, and daily professional tasks.
You May Also Like
