An extendable dining table can be a total game-changer for your home. It's a perfect mix of form and function that you can use when you need a few more seats and a space-saver when you don't. However, prior to making a decision to purchase a new extendable table, there are some disadvantages to consider.
Why Consider an Extendable Dining Table?
Let’s start with why extendable dining tables are so popular in the first place. For many homeowners, they are the first choice to get the maximum amount of space in their home, without forgoing style.
- Maximize Space
One of the best things about extendable tables is that they can save space. And when you don't have a lot of people with you, your table stays small, and you have more space to move around. But when it's time for a family get-together, holiday dinner, or a party, you can just make the table longer so everyone can fit without problems.
- Perfect for Entertaining
An extendable table will allow you to have friends over for a casual get-together or a more formal dinner. Short of space? Just pick the leaves and make room for more table, more food, and more fun with a table that suits you, you're always ready to entertain.
- A Stylish Addition to Your Home
Contemporary extendable tables are available in numerous styles to suit different home decor themes. A modern, minimalist style or something more traditional or rustic, there's a table out there that will upgrade your dining room and match your decor.
Although those are some of the great benefits that come with buying one, there are a few things you should know before making the final decision to buy one.
Concern #1: Where Do You Store the Leaves?
- The Problem:
The most common question about extendable tables is where to store the leaves. They can be heavy, and it can be hard to find a good place to store them when you're not using them. But if you don't have a big closet or extra room in your house, the leaves can be a pain to store.
- The Solution:
If storage space is a concern, consider buying an extendable dining table that has built-in storage for the leaves. For example, JOYSOURCE’s Extendable Dining Table with Hidden Storage for 1-9 People comes with hidden storage to neatly tuck away the leaves when you’re not using them. This way, you don’t have to worry about cluttering up your home with extra pieces.
Concern #2: Only Useful When Hosting Large Groups
- The Problem:
Another disadvantage of an extendable table is that you would only use it when you have a huge party. For family dinners every day, you might think that having a big table is just not for you, and the table might take up a lot of space. If your table is too big to work on, you could feel weird or too much.
- The Solution:
If you want the flexibility of an extendable table but don’t want a table that feels too large for everyday use, consider a space-saving extendable console table. For instance, JOYSOURCE’s Space-Saving Extendable Console to Dining Table can be transformed from a compact console table into a full-sized dining table that seats up to 8 people. You can use the table when it's small for your morning coffee, you can work from home on your laptop, or you can have a casual dinner with only your family. The leaves can just be put away until you need them, and then they can be in your house as a perfect-sized table, not just a table you pull out for the party.
Concern #3: Table Legs Can Be in the Way
- The Problem:
Most extendable tables have legs at the corners of the table for support when extended. I agree that this makes sense for the stability of a table, but it can sometimes be a little uncomfortable to sit next to them. It will also be hard to fit a lot of chairs around the table.
- The Solution:
If this is a concern for you, look for a table with a more thoughtful leg placement. For example, JOYSOURCE’s 55"-71" Extendable Dining Table for 4-8 Seats offers optimized leg positioning that ensures there’s enough room for chairs around the entire table, even when it’s extended. This allows for a more comfortable and spacious dining experience, without the risk of anyone being stuck near a table leg.
Make Sure You Choose the Right Table for Your Needs
Although extendable tables are definitely a good option, they do have some potential disadvantages. So, you really take the time to think about the storage you need, the way you use it every day, and how it is going to be comfortable for you to sit at, then you will find a table that will be perfect for your life. Whether you need a small table for everyday dining or a big table for a big crowd, you can find any type of table you need.
JOYSOURCE furniture offers a variety of extendable tables designed to meet all your needs. From hidden storage options to space-saving designs, their collection is all about making your dining experience as convenient and stylish as possible.
Thinking about all the pros and cons, you will be able to make the right decision and get the best extendable dining table for your home and way of life. Don’t hurry, make your mind up, take your time to pick a table you will like for years.