Question: Is it better to have a round table or a square table in the dining room?

LS –Portland, OR

Cheryl: It really depends. My personal preference is a square or rectangular dining room table (no sharp corners please) which suggest an anchor or a destination spot. That translates to, ‘let’s stay here for awhile’ which encourages healthy eating habits and fun social gatherings.

A round or oval dining room table on the other hand suggests movement and not too much staying power. However, there are exceptions. For example, a round table would be a better fit in a small square dining room because it balances out an already square room and creates more space. Too much of one shape in a room just doesn’t feel right.

In either case, make the dining room table a beautiful spot to visit. You might add a beautiful bowl of fruit, some candles, flowers and other items that encourage you to hang out for a good while. Eating in our culture has become a fast paced activity and a return to a slower pace, enjoying our food, company and therefore, ensuring proper digestion is always better.

Got a design challenge that you just can’t figure out? Just, ‘Ask Cheryl.’