Purchasing your first dining table set is a significant milestone in creating a home. Whether you're furnishing your first apartment, moving into a new house, or finally replacing that hand-me-down table you've had since uni, the process can feel daunting. With countless options across every price point, material, and style, how do you know where to begin?
This beginner's guide will walk you through everything you need to consider when buying your first dining set. We'll cover budgeting, sizing, materials, construction quality, and practical considerations that first-time buyers often overlook. By the end, you'll have a clear framework for making a purchase you'll be happy with for years to come.
Step 1: Establish Your Budget
Before you start browsing, determine how much you're willing and able to spend. Dining furniture prices in Australia range from under $300 for basic sets to $10,000+ for premium solid timber pieces. Your budget will narrow down your options and prevent the disappointment of falling in love with furniture you can't afford.
What You Can Expect at Each Price Point
- Under $500: Basic MDF or particleboard tables with simple chairs. Functional but may not last more than a few years with daily use. Best for temporary situations or tight budgets.
- $500 - $1,500: The "sweet spot" for most Australian buyers. Expect engineered wood with veneer tops, some solid timber options, and better construction quality. Should last 5-10 years with proper care.
- $1,500 - $3,000: Solid timber tables from reputable manufacturers, better joinery, and more style options. These pieces should last 10-20+ years.
- $3,000+: Premium solid hardwood, exceptional craftsmanship, and potentially custom or designer pieces. With care, these can become heirloom pieces lasting generations.
Consider buying the table and chairs separately. You might find a quality table within budget and pair it with more affordable chairs—or vice versa. This approach also gives you more flexibility to customize your look.
Step 2: Measure Your Space
One of the most common mistakes first-time buyers make is purchasing a dining set that's too large (or occasionally too small) for their space. Before shopping, measure your dining area carefully.
Key Measurements to Take
- Floor space: Measure the length and width of your designated dining area
- Clearance zones: Plan for at least 90cm clearance around all sides of the table for chairs and movement
- Ceiling height: Important if you're planning pendant lighting
- Doorways and access: Measure how furniture will get into your home
For a detailed guide on measuring, see our article: How to Measure Your Dining Space Correctly.
Step 3: Determine Your Seating Needs
Think about how many people will regularly use the table, and how often you might need extra seating for guests. Each person needs approximately 60cm of table width for comfortable dining.
Standard Table Sizes and Seating
- 4-seater: 120cm × 80cm (rectangular) or 90cm diameter (round)
- 6-seater: 180cm × 90cm (rectangular) or 120cm diameter (round)
- 8-seater: 200cm × 100cm (rectangular) or 150cm diameter (round)
- Live alone or as a couple but occasionally host? Consider an extendable table
- Extends from 4-6 seats to 8-10 when needed
- Ideal for Australian homes where space is limited but hospitality matters
- Check the extension mechanism in-store—some are easier to operate than others
Step 4: Choose Your Material
The material of your dining table affects its appearance, durability, maintenance requirements, and price. Here's what you need to know about the most common options:
Solid Wood
Solid timber tables are made entirely from natural wood. They're durable, can be refinished if damaged, and develop character with age. Common timbers include oak, walnut, acacia, and Australian hardwoods like Tasmanian oak. Solid wood is generally the most expensive option but offers the best longevity.
Engineered Wood with Veneer
These tables have a core of MDF or particleboard covered with a thin layer of real wood veneer. They offer the look of solid wood at a lower price point and are less prone to warping. However, deep scratches can penetrate the veneer and expose the core underneath, making repairs difficult.
MDF with Laminate
The most affordable option, these tables have a printed laminate surface over MDF. They're easy to clean and resistant to stains, but they lack the warmth of real wood and cannot be refinished. Best for budget-conscious buyers or those who expect to upgrade within a few years.
Glass
Glass-topped tables create a light, modern look and can make small spaces feel larger. Tempered glass is standard for safety. The downsides: they show fingerprints, can feel cold, and amplify noise during meals.
Marble and Stone
Stunning but demanding, marble and natural stone tables are heavy, expensive, and require sealing and careful maintenance. They're heat-resistant but can stain from acidic foods. Best for dedicated dining rooms where the table won't see heavy daily use.
Step 5: Evaluate Construction Quality
Learning to recognise quality construction helps you distinguish between furniture that will last and pieces that will fall apart within a few years. Here's what to look for:
For Tables
- Stability: Push on the corners and edges. Quality tables shouldn't wobble or flex.
- Underside construction: Look underneath for support structures like aprons and cross-bracing.
- Leg attachment: Legs should be securely attached with proper hardware or joinery, not just screws into particleboard.
- Edge finishing: Edges should be smooth with no rough spots, splinters, or visible glue.
For Chairs
- Joint strength: Push on the backrest and rock the chair. Joints should feel solid with no movement.
- Weight capacity: Check the rated weight capacity, especially for larger household members.
- Floor protectors: Quality chairs have felt pads or glides to protect your floors.
- Comfort: Sit in the chair for at least a few minutes. Consider seat depth, back support, and cushioning.
Avoid furniture that wobbles in the showroom, has visible gaps at joints, uses staples instead of screws or dowels, or feels exceptionally light for its size. These are indicators of poor construction that will lead to problems.
Step 6: Consider Practical Factors
Maintenance Requirements
Different materials require different levels of care. Solid wood needs occasional oiling or waxing. Glass requires frequent wiping. Marble needs sealing. Be honest about how much maintenance you're willing to do—a high-maintenance table in a low-maintenance household will quickly show neglect.
Your Household
Consider who lives in your home. Young children mean spills, scratches, and safety concerns (rounded corners, stable construction). Pets may scratch legs or chew on accessible parts. Frequent entertainers need durable, easy-clean surfaces.
Assembly Requirements
Some dining sets arrive fully assembled; others require significant assembly at home. Check what's involved and whether you have the tools and skills needed. Some retailers offer paid assembly services, which may be worth the cost for complex pieces.
Delivery and Returns
Understand the delivery process, including costs and lead times. Check the return policy in case the furniture doesn't work in your space. Some retailers have strict no-return policies on furniture, while others offer satisfaction guarantees.
Step 7: Shop Smart
Visit Showrooms
Whenever possible, see furniture in person before buying. Sit in the chairs, feel the table surface, and assess the quality firsthand. Photos can be deceiving, and what looks great online may disappoint in reality—or vice versa.
Read Reviews
Customer reviews provide valuable insights into real-world durability, assembly difficulty, and whether pieces look as good in homes as they do in styled photos. Pay particular attention to reviews from people who've owned the furniture for months or years.
Compare Prices
The same furniture can be priced differently across retailers. Take time to compare, and don't forget to factor in delivery costs when calculating total price.
Consider Timing
Furniture sales are common around public holidays, end of financial year, and major shopping events. If you're flexible on timing, waiting for a sale can save significant money. However, don't compromise on quality just to get a deal.
Making Your Decision
Armed with all this knowledge, you're ready to make an informed decision. Remember that the "perfect" dining set is one that fits your space, suits your lifestyle, meets your quality expectations, and stays within your budget. Trust your instincts—if something feels right when you sit down at a table, that's a good sign.
Your first dining set doesn't have to be your forever dining set. Many people upgrade as their circumstances change. But by making a thoughtful, informed purchase now, you'll enjoy meals around a table you love for years to come.