The dining table is the heart of the home – but how do you find the perfect one? In this guide, we provide 5 concrete tips on what to consider when purchasing a walnut dining table. From size and shape to finish and maintenance – get expert advice so you can make the best choice for your home and family.
1. Size and Proportions
Start by assessing your space and needs. How many people typically sit at the table on a daily basis, and do you often have guests? A good rule of thumb is to provide at least 60 cm of table space per person. Measure your dining area and ensure there is enough room to pull out chairs and move around the table (ideally at least 90 cm of free space around). Noyer’s dining tables come in various lengths – from an intimate 4-seater table to a long conference/dining table that can accommodate over 10 people. Also, remember the proportions: a large room can support a more robust table with a solid base, whereas a smaller kitchen-dining area may call for a lighter, slimmer design so the space doesn’t feel cramped.
2. Shape: Rectangular, Round or Oval?
The shape affects both appearance and functionality. Rectangular tables are classic and efficiently utilize space, especially along walls. Round tables can create a more intimate and democratic atmosphere – everyone can see each other, and conversation flows easily. Oval tables offer a bit of both: they have soft edges without sharp corners (great for families with children) while still maintaining an elongated look. Consider your interior style: a round walnut table can soften a very strict, linear design, whereas a rectangular walnut table can emphasize Nordic minimalism. For example, Noyer offers model JN01, a “round” walnut dining table that combines the organic with the modern in one form.
3. Design and Details
Look at the design and placement of the legs – they affect both the legroom for chairs and the overall visual impression. If you prefer a “floating” look, a dining table with recessed legs or a central pedestal solution could be ideal (so you don’t bump your knees on corner legs). Some of Noyer’s designs feature finished edges with a subtle bevel, which gives the table a sleek look even though it is robust. Also, consider whether the table should be extendable with additional panels if flexibility is important. Although Noyer primarily focuses on fixed tables for maximum stability, custom solutions can be discussed. Also, check the small details: joinery, the transition between the table top and the legs, and any decorative inlays or patterns in the wood. With walnut, the natural grain play can be decorative enough on its own – many prefer a simple, continuous top to showcase the wood’s natural beauty.
4. Surface Finishing and Maintenance
Walnut wood can be treated in various ways, each providing its own expression and maintenance requirements. An oiled table retains the warm glow of the wood and allows it to breathe, but requires periodic oiling to saturate the surface and protect against stains. A matte lacquer makes the table more resistant and requires minimal maintenance, but can slightly alter the wood’s tone and diminish some of its tactile feel. Soap treatment is less common for walnut (more prevalent for oak), but it gives a silky, natural finish – although it needs regular re-treatment. Consider your lifestyle: if you have small children, a tougher lacquer might be practical. If you love the authentic look of the wood, you might accept the extra care that oiling requires. Noyer is happy to guide you on how to maintain your walnut furniture so that it remains beautiful (see our extensive maintenance blog for tips).
5. Matching with the Rest of Your Décor
Finally: imagine how the table will blend with your other furniture. If you already have many walnut elements, a dining table in the same wood will tie everything together. If the table is the only walnut piece, it can serve as a statement piece in the room – so be sure to repeat the walnut color in smaller details (for example, in cutting boards, picture frames, or a bowl on the table) so it doesn’t “stand alone”. Also consider the chairs: a walnut dining table paired with dining chairs in black leather or dark fabric creates a luxurious, atmospheric vibe, while chairs in lighter tones or wicker can brighten the look and provide contrast. The balance between functionality and aesthetics is key – exactly what Noyer strives for in its designs.
With these considerations, you’ll be well-prepared to make the right choice. But nothing beats seeing and feeling the table in person. Book a viewing at the Noyer showroom or contact us for a no-obligation chat – we’ll help you find the walnut table that perfectly suits your home and needs. When you choose Noyer, you get a dining table for life, handcrafted with passion and precision.
