Dining Room Furniture Names | A Guide to Essential Pieces

Have you decided to give your dining room a new look? Well, there are many things you should know and one of them is the names and types of furniture found in a dining room. We can help you with that.

Whether it's a regular family lunch or a lavish party, the right pieces make all the difference. So, let us discuss the important furnishings that will help you to convert your dining area into a zone of great comfort and beauty.

What are the most popular names for dining room furniture?

The most popular dining room furniture names include dining tables, dining chairs, sideboards, buffets, china cabinets, servers, bar carts, and hutches. These pieces form the core of most dining room setups, providing essential functions for dining, storage, and display.

Key Takeaways:

• Essential dining room furniture includes dining tables, chairs, sideboards, and buffets.

• Additional pieces like china cabinets, servers, and bar carts enhance functionality and style.

• Table shapes (rectangular, round, square, oval) serve different purposes and suit various room layouts.

• Chair types include side chairs, armchairs, upholstered chairs, benches, and stools.

• Storage furniture terminology often overlaps but focuses on sideboards, buffets, and credenzas.

Essential Dining Room Furniture Pieces

Dining Table

No other piece is more important in a dining space than this one, as it is the centerpiece of the area. The dining tables should be proportional to the size and shape of the room. 

In less spacious settings, a round table is an excellent space-saving accommodation for the users. In more extended rooms where seating arrangements are necessary for a large group of people, a rectangular table is a better option.

Just a reminder, dining tables are different from coffee tables, and they both serve different purposes.

Dining Chairs

The right dining chairs combine comfort and style. You should get chairs that are genuinely designed for the height and style of your table. 

Wearers can choose to wear different styles adventurously or have a complete set for comfort. Make sure you also pay attention to the materials - upholstered seats are great for long indoor dinners, whereas wooden ones can never go out of fashion.

Sideboard or Buffet

Storage is key in a well-functioning dining room. A sideboard or buffet provides the perfect solution. It can store dinnerware, linens, and serving pieces. The top surface doubles as a serving area for family-style meals or a display space for decorative items.

These pieces work together to create a functional and inviting dining space. When choosing, consider how they'll interact with each other and your room's overall design. A cohesive look doesn't mean everything has to match perfectly - aim for harmony in style, color, or material.

Remember, the best dining room reflects your personal style and meets your needs. Whether hosting grand dinner parties or enjoying quiet family meals, the right furniture will make your dining room a place where memories are made. 

Don't be afraid to mix high-end pieces with budget-friendly finds for a unique, personalized space that tells your story.

Additional Dining Room Furniture

China Cabinet

Do you ever stop to think about the best place to display your grandmother’s priceless china? The answer is simple – in a china cabinet. This functional yet beautiful unit is both a display and houses your best dining set and other ornamental pieces.

If you are proud of your collection, go for a glass-fronted cabinet, but if you prefer a minimalist approach, you can get a solid-fronted country-style cabinet.

Most china cabinets are equipped with movable shelves allowing rear racking for delicate tea cups or even bulky serving dishes.

Server

Imagine a server as the unsung hero of your dining room. It can be placed in an area smaller than a sideboard, making it very useful in space-crunched formal dining rooms.

It can be used to set food out before the actual meal or to temporarily hide the alcohol to keep the dinner elegant. Aim for designs that provide drawers to put away spoons and napkins and a lowermost shelf for additional serving food.

More so, if the dining room server is not required, it can serve as a beautiful console table in the foyer entrance of the house.

Bar Cart

Who said the living room has all the fun? A bar cart offers a hint of sophistication in the dining space. Take it out for dinner parties to ensure the drinks are served without interruptions, or use it creatively to display your treasured glasses and bottles.

For enhanced storage space, you can choose a multi-tiered cart and one with spaces to carry wine bottles for ulterior purposes.

When it is not used for drinks, it can be used as a sweet trolley or a potted plant on wheels.

Console Table

This is where a console table proves to be most versatile. Place it against a wall to provide a clean surface for display or extra serving purposes during large functions and events. 

Dine in a cramped sitting area; an elongated console can directly replace a bulky sideboard unit. Choose designs with drawers or a shelf at the bottom, which helps to create extra storage.

Bonus tip: Place a large mirror above your console to create the illusion of more space and bounce light around the room.

Hutch

A hutch is an all-in-one storage piece that leverages the best characteristics of a china cabinet and a buffet. The bottom cabinet section allows for spacious storage of larger bulks, while the upper deck makes it easy to display impressive pieces.

Most of the available hutches come with lights, too, to display the collectibles. If you are limited in floor space, a corner hutch will help you utilize those corner spaces that are often left idle.

Furthermore, to achieve a more contemporary look, you could paint the hutch bright, creating a focal point for your room.

Always remember that these extra elements are not only tools for enhancing the space. There are also ways to decorate the dining area how one wants. 

For example, choose different fashions for different furniture pieces for a casual feel or use the same style for all the pieces for a formal dining setup.

Try uses for objects that may be considered strange or out of place. That bar cart, for example, could quickly transform into a lovely plant shelf, while the console table could easily be a movable office.

The focus is on finding items that suit your living habits and turning your dining area into where you have no qualms about spending hours.

Dining Table Styles and Types

Rectangular Tables

This is a classic choice for many homes. Rectangular tables are versatile and accommodating. They're perfect for long, narrow rooms and can seat a crowd when needed. 

If you frequently host large gatherings but don't want a huge table all the time, look for one with leaves. 

Pro tip: Allow at least 36 inches of clearance on all sides for comfortable movement.

Round Tables

Do you want to encourage conversation? Go for a round table without any doubt. They're ideal for smaller spaces and create an intimate atmosphere. 

Round tables work great in square rooms or open floor plans. Plus, there's no awkward "head of the table" to worry about – everyone's equally part of the action.

Square Tables

Square tables offer a modern, symmetrical look that's hard to beat. They're great for square rooms or eat-in kitchens. For flexibility, look for a square table that extends into a rectangle – you'll have the best of both worlds. 

Remember that a large square table can make reaching for dishes tricky, so consider a lazy Susan for easy sharing.

Oval Tables

You can think of oval tables as the best of both worlds – the linear efficiency of a rectangle with the softness of a round table. 

They work well in narrow rooms but still offer a generous seating area. Oval tables with pedestal bases are perfect for squeezing extra chairs when needed.

Extendable Tables

The chameleons of the dining world, extendable tables, adapt to your needs. Whether it's a drop-leaf for small spaces or a table with insertable leaves, these tables grow and shrink to fit the occasion. 

They're perfect for homes where the dining area serves multiple purposes or for those who alternate between intimate dinners and large gatherings.

Remember, the right table shape can make or break your dining experience. Consider your room's shape, your typical guest count, and how you use the space day to day. Don't be afraid to test different shapes—sometimes, the unexpected choice turns out to be the perfect fit.

Dining Chair Varieties

Side Chairs

These are the workhorses of the dining room set, and side chairs are your go-to seating option. They're armless, making them easy to tuck under the table, and great for maximizing seating capacity. 

Dining chairs complement your table. Whether it is sleek modern designs or classic wooden chairs. For added comfort, consider cushioned seats that can be quickly recovered when ready for a change.

Armchairs

Do you want to add a touch of luxury? Armchairs at the head of the table create a sense of importance. 

They're perfect for long, leisurely meals, providing extra support and comfort. Mix and match with side chairs for an eclectic look, or use armchairs all around for a more formal setting. Just remember to account for the extra space they require.

Upholstered Chairs

Upholstered dining chairs combine elegance and comfort in their design. They bring cushions to the dining area and help encourage guests to have another dessert. 

Pick the fabrics that suit the interior, and do not hesitate to use patterns for a more decorative touch. For cramped families, consider looking for cleaning-efficient tailored fabric or washable slipcovers.

Benches

Break away from tradition with a dining bench. They're perfect for casual settings and for accommodating extra guests—especially kids. 

For a balanced look, use a bench on one side of a rectangular table paired with chairs on the other. Bonus: Many benches offer hidden storage, perfect for stashing extra linens or rarely-used serveware.

Stools

Bar stools can also modernize a dining set and are not only suitable for breakfast bars. They are great for high tables and create a more relaxed feel. 

Search for adjustable height stools for added versatility or backless stools to easily hide them away. If you will be spending more time sitting on them, opt for stools with footrests and cushioned seats.

But do keep in mind that the chairs do not need to be identical. You may also opt for a ‘deliberate mismatch’ look, where different styles are used, or a cohesive theme is observed. 

The most important thing is to find the type of chairs that will complement the dining space and be comfortable enough for your guests to stay for dessert!

Storage Furniture Terminology

Are you confused about the difference between a sideboard, buffet, and credenza? You're not alone. These terms often overlap, but here's a quick guide:

Sideboard: Typically longer and lower, sideboards offer ample storage with a mix of drawers and cabinets. They're perfect for storing dinnerware and linens while providing a surface for serving or display.

Buffet: Similar to sideboards but often taller, buffets are designed with serving in mind. They usually have a narrower profile, making them ideal for smaller dining rooms.

Credenza: Originally a Renaissance piece, modern credenzas are sleek storage solutions. They often feature sliding doors and work well in dining rooms, offices, or living areas.

Remember, these terms are often used interchangeably. Focus on finding a piece that fits your space and meets your storage needs, regardless of its name.

Accent Pieces

If you want to uplift your dining room, you shouldn’t ignore the power of accent pieces.

A well-chosen area rug can define the space and add warmth underfoot.

Statement lighting fixtures, such as chandeliers or pendant lights, create ambiance and serve as focal points. Wall decor, from mirrors to artwork, adds personality and completes the room's aesthetic.

These elements work together to transform your dining area from functional to fabulous.

If you own a brown sofa, I recently discussed what color accent chair goes with brown leather sofa. Check out the article if you want to learn about the perfect combination for your leather sofa.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What are the major differences between a sideboard and a buffet? 

Sideboards are typically taller with shorter legs, while buffets are lower with longer legs. Both offer storage, but sideboards often have more compartments. Choose based on your space and storage needs.

2. How do I pick the right size dining table? 

Consider your room size and seating needs. Allow 24 inches per person and 36 inches of clearance around the table. For versatility, opt for an extendable table to accommodate extra guests.

3. Are armchairs or side chairs better for dining? 

It depends on your preference and space. Armchairs offer more comfort but take up more room. Side chairs are space-efficient and easier to tuck in. Mix both for a balanced look.

Conclusion

I’m sure this post helped you learn the names of the dining room furniture, and now you are ready to create your perfect space. 

The best dining rooms balance function and style. Essential pieces must be mixed with carefully chosen accents that reflect your personality. Whether hosting grand dinners or enjoying quiet family meals, the right furniture sets the stage for memorable moments.

For premier farmhouse furniture, custom-designed furniture, interior decorating, and home accessories, contact Little Mountain Furniture today at 803-201-1173. We are #1 in the Midlands, Irmo, Chapin, and Columbia for all your furniture needs.