A guide to choosing oak dining tables and chairs

Gathering around an oak dining table with friends or family is a special experience that creates cherished memories. Sharing a meal is not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about creating a sense of community, fostering deeper connections, and strengthening relationships. It’s a time to catch up, share stories, and create new memories.

This is why it’s important to have a stylish and comfortable oak dining table and chairs that can accommodate your loved ones and enhance the dining experience. Investing in a quality dining set is not just about the style, it’s about creating an atmosphere that fosters warmth, happiness, and togetherness, all of which make for a truly great experience.

In this article, we take a look at the most important factors to consider when choosing a new oak dining table and chairs and feature some of our best-selling dining ranges.

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Choosing Oak Dining Tables & Chairs

When it comes to choosing your new oak dining table and chairs, there are a number of important factors to consider. Oak is a popular material for dining furniture due to its durability and natural beauty, but choosing the right pieces for your home requires careful consideration of a variety of factors. Here are some of the most important factors to keep in mind when selecting a new oak dining table and chairs.

Size and Shape

One of the first considerations when selecting a new oak dining table and chairs is the size and shape of the pieces. You’ll want to choose pieces that fit comfortably in your dining area that can accommodate the number of people you’ll typically be entertaining. Carefully measure your dining area before choosing a dining set to ensure that the table and chairs you choose will fit easily with space for all your guests to be comfortable. Make sure there is space for people to walk around the table, there is nothing worse than being hemmed in and asking three people to move so that you can leave the table!

Additionally, consider the shape of the table; a round or oval table can promote conversation and intimacy, while a rectangular or square table may be better for larger groups. The shape of your room will also help you choose a table shape. A long narrow room will better suit a rectangular table whilst a room with even proportions can easily cope with a round table.

Our website shows the dimensions of every piece so you can check if it will fit before ordering. Alternatively, measure your room and then visit our showroom and we can help you choose a table and seating that is just the right size and shape.

Style & Design

Once you have decided what size of dining furniture you have space for, you can then consider colour and design. Oak is a versatile material that can be crafted into a variety of styles, from traditional to modern. Consider the overall design aesthetic of your home and choose pieces that will complement it.

When choosing your design, consider that a dark heavy table may overpower a room and create the illusion of bulk even if you have space for it whilst a paler oak table will create the illusion of space. The Hardwick Light Oak is an ideal range as it has a slim profile in a lighter colour oak than some ranges.

Take a look through our extensive collection to see which design best fits your personal style.

Some of our most popular ranges are Hardwick Oak, Loxley Oak, Talbot Chunky Oak or for something a little different, try Modern Sheesham. All our oak dining tables have matching furniture for the dining room and lounge. This is ideal if you want to create a natural flow from an open plan dining to a living space.

Functionality and Comfort

The functionality and comfort of the dining table and chairs are also important. Consider factors such as the height of the table, the shape and size of the chairs, and the materials used for the seats. You’ll want to choose pieces that are comfortable and functional for everyday use, as well as for entertaining guests. You may also need the table to double up as a food prep area, baking station or a work from home or homework space.  Choosing a good quality table such as any of our ranges will ensure your table will stand up to your busy family life

Quality of Craftsmanship

The quality of the craftsmanship of your new oak dining table and chairs is another important factor to consider. Look for pieces that are well-constructed and sturdy, with smooth finishes and solid construction. Check the joinery and make sure that the chairs and table are both balanced and comfortable.

All our oak dining furniture is made from the very best oak and is craftsman made using traditional joinery methods. Our furniture is solidly built and arrives at your home as you see it in our showroom. No flat-pack furniture here!

The products below show just a few of the dining table sizes and designs we have available.

Extending Dining Tables

Extending dining tables are a great option for those who want the flexibility of a larger table for entertaining, but don’t want to sacrifice space in their home on a daily basis. These tables feature an extra leaf or two that can be added when needed to create additional seating space, and then easily stored away when not in use.

Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing an extending oak dining table:

Size and Shape

As with a standard oak dining table, size and shape are important considerations when choosing an extending dining table. Consider the size of your dining area, as well as the number of people you typically entertain, when selecting the size of your extending table. Also, consider the shape of the table and how it will fit in your space. Remember that you need to ensure there is sufficient space for the table when it is fully extended as it will be considerably larger when fully extended. Make sure you have enough space for the table when it is at its maximum size.

Extension Mechanism

There are several different types of extension mechanisms available for extending dining tables. The most common types are drop-leaf, easy glide, and extension leaves. Drop-leaf tables feature hinged leaves that fold down when not in use. Consider which type of mechanism will work best for your needs and space limitations. If you visit our showroom, our friendly team will happily demonstrate any mechanism and let you try it out for yourself.

Our extending tables are not limited to rectangular tables, we have square and round tables that all extend to accommodate more guests. Just as an example, the Small Hardwick Extending table is 1250mm when not extended and reaches 1650 when fully extended, creating loads more space.

The video below shows Jonathan, the owner of the business, showing how easy the Loxley table is to extend with its easy slide-out mechanism with the extending leaf stored in the table.

Video showing how to extend a Loxley Oak Dining Table

A selection of our Extending Dining Tables

Choosing Chairs

Each of our dining tables has complimentary chairs that work perfectly with the table design, e.g. a six-seater table will fit six of the matching chairs from the range. A few examples would be the elegant ladder back oak chair with leather seat pad from the Loxley range, the Talbot range with the solid farmhouse style oak chairs, the comfort of the leather Modern Sheesham Chairs and the elegant Mason range with the choice of stylish velvet or leather covered chairs, a touch of retro chic.

You have the option to choose chairs from the same range as your table or go for a contrast such as the Mason Velvet chairs in various colours or the stylish leather chair shown below.

A selection of our Dining Chairs

Bench Seating

If space is at a premium, we have benches that will sit neatly under the table when not in use, these include the Magnus Upholstered benches or the Magnus Oak benches.

Extra Chairs

If you only need 4 chairs for daily use at your table, you may need extras to use when it is extended. We sell all our chairs separately so you can add extra chairs whenever you need them. You will however need to consider where you will keep those extra chairs when not in use. Is there a corner of the dining room spare to leave a chair, maybe a space in the hallway is ideal or you could even place a chair in your lounge for extra seating? Your spare chairs will then be ready for use to seat those extra guests.

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Progressive Furnishings Dining Ranges

Here we describe some of our most popular oak dining tables and chairs.

Hardwick Light Oak

The Hardwick range can be delivered to your home within just 5 – 10 days.

The Hardwick Light Oak range from Progressives Furnishings is a collection of high-quality oak dining tables and chairs that combine traditional craftsmanship with modern design. This range is designed to provide a timeless and elegant look, with a light oak finish that enhances the natural beauty of the wood.

The Hardwick tables are built from solid thick oak timbers with naturally occurring rustic knots giving each piece in the range an individual character. The sophisticated Loxley design is a wonderful addition to any style of home from a traditional property, a renovation project or a modern new build.

Table Sizes

The range includes a large and small extending table with matching chairs. The tables can be purchased separately or as a set with either 4, 6 or 8 chairs.

Seating Options

The Hardwick Oak chair is a classic chunky oak chair with a brown leather seat pad. The chairs are in stock and can be purchased as part of a set or separately, perfect for when you need that extra seating.

The Hardwick Oak tables also look amazing with any of the Magnus fabric chairs or retro Shelby chairs. Our showroom has a full range of chairs on display so you can choose the perfect set for your home.

Other Hardwick Dining Furniture

The Hardwick Light Oak range also includes a set of dining furniture to complete a coordinated look and includes, sideboards, bookshelves, lamp tables, console tables, display cabinets and many other pieces that would look great in a dining room adding style and storage.

Loxley Rustic Oak Dining Tables and Chairs

The Loxley dining Range can be delivered within just 5 to 10 days.

The Loxley Rustic Oak Dining Tables and seating options offer a unique and beautiful addition to any home. Built from solid thick oak timbers with naturally occurring rustic knots, each piece in the range has an individual character that adds warmth and charm to any dining area. Here’s everything you need to know about the Loxley Rustic Oak Dining Tables and seating options.

The Loxley Rustic Oak Dining Tables are built from solid thick oak timbers, ensuring that each piece is sturdy and durable. The naturally occurring rustic knots in the wood add character and individuality to each piece, making it a unique and beautiful addition to any home. The oak wood used in the Loxley Rustic Oak range is carefully selected for its quality, ensuring that each piece will last for many years to come.

Table Sizes

The Loxley Rustic Oak range includes a choice of table sizes, making it a versatile option for any dining area. The range includes the large and small extending dining tables, plus the X-leg large and small table. The X-leg is ideal to add a modern industrial twist to your dining area and looks great when paired with the X-leg oak bench.

Loxley Tables

Seating Options

The Loxley Rustic Oak chair is a classic chunky oak chair with a brown leather seat pad. You can of course complete your Loxley dining set by accompanying it with any of our fabric, leather or oak chairs. The choice Is yours!

Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a family dinner, the Loxley Rustic Oak range is a beautiful and practical option that will last for many years to come.

Magnus Industrial Oak

The Magnus Industrial Oak table selection from Progressive Furnishings is a stunning range that combines the warmth and beauty of oak with the sleekness and modernity of metal. The table top is made from high-quality oak, providing a durable and sturdy surface for all your dining needs. The industrial-style metal legs add an edgy and unique touch to the design, creating a perfect blend of rustic and contemporary elements.

Table Sizes

The comprehensive range includes a Compact Dining table ideal for small spaces or perfect if there are just diners, a medium sized table at 1.5m long and a large table at 1.9m long. There is also an extension leaf for these tables which can be purchased separately if needed.

There are also two extending tables with an X-leg and an easy glide extending mechanism. These two tables have soft curved edges giving them a stylish finish.

Magnus Oak Seating Options

Magnus Oak has an extensive range of chairs upholstered in various colours. You can choose one colour or why not mix and match? Try Blue with Saffron or burnt Orange with Grey.

There is also a choice of oak benches or upholstered benches in Grey. If space is tight, a bench is ideal as it sits neatly under the table when not in use. You could also have chairs on one side and a bench on the other, there are just so many options with Magnus seating.

Our Magnus range of seating is featured below.

With its spacious surface and sturdy construction, the Magnus Industrial Oak table is the ideal centrepiece for any dining room and is sure to be a conversation starter at your next dinner party.

Painted Dining Ranges

We also offer a variety of on-trend painted options that are sure to elevate the look of any room. The Ivan Stone and Ivan White options offer a fresh and clean aesthetic, with their neutral tones creating a calming atmosphere.

The Greystone Whitewashed Oak and Greystone Grey Painted options offer a more rustic and textured look, perfect for a cosy and inviting space. All of these painted furniture options from Progressive Furnishings are made with high-quality materials and attention to detail, ensuring both durability and style. If you are looking to update your dining room these on-trend painted options are sure to add a stylish touch to any home.

Below is a small selection of our painted dining furniture.

Ivan Stone and Ivan White

The Ivan Oak ranges are painted in calming neutral colours including stone which is a soft grey or an off-white. This is complemented by a solid oak chunky table top on each dining table.

Stone includes a round extending table, a rectangular extending table and a fixed top table. The white option has the fixed top table and the extending rectangular table.

Seating options

The Ivan dining chair is a farmhouse style chair painted to match the grey and white with a deep grey fabric seat pad.

Greystone Whitewashed Oak and Greystone Grey Painted

The Greystone Whitewashed Oak and Greystone Grey Painted range offer a unique and on-trend look that is perfect for those who want a modern and edgy dining area. The Greystone Whitewashed Oak range features a light-grey washed finish that enhances the natural beauty of the oak wood, while the Greystone Grey Painted range offers a bold and sophisticated look with a silver grey painted finish. Both ranges offer a variety of table sizes and chair options, making it easy to find the perfect pieces for your home.

Greystone Whitewashed has two tables to choose from. There is a square flip top extending table and a small rectangular extending table. greystone Grey painted has a solid oak top with a painted base and legs and has the same table options as the Whitewashed range.

Seating Options

There is a whitewashed chair and a painted chair to match the tables with a fabric seat pad.

Additional Furniture

All our dining tables and chairs are part of larger ranges that include furniture for all your dining needs. Pieces include sideboards, console tables, bookshelves, display cabinets, lamp tables and so much more. You can easily create the perfect dining room with any of our furniture ranges. Click the link to see All Dining Furniture.

Why buy from Progressive
Your One-Stop-Shop for High-Quality Oak Dining Furniture

When it comes to buying dining furniture, it’s important to find a retailer that offers high-quality products and excellent customer service. That’s where Progressive Furnishings comes in. As a family-run business in Forest Town near Mansfield, Progressive Furnishings has been selling high-quality oak dining furniture for years. Here are some reasons why you should consider shopping at Progressive Furnishings for your dining furniture needs.

High-Quality Products

At Progressive Furnishings, quality is at the forefront of everything. We specialise in selling high-quality oak dining furniture that is built to last. The oak used to craft our furniture is carefully selected for its durability and natural beauty, making each piece unique. With traditional craftsmanship and attention to detail, Progressive Furnishings offers products that will stand the test of time.

Convenient Shopping Experience

With a large showroom and an online store, shopping for oak dining furniture has never been easier. Customers can visit our showroom to see the products, or you can shop online from the comfort of your own home. With a wide range of products available, including extending dining tables and a variety of chairs, you’re sure to find something that fits your style and needs.

Excellent Customer Service

At Progressive Furnishings, the customer is always our top priority. Our family-run business is dedicated to providing excellent customer service and ensuring that our customers are satisfied with their purchases. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff are always available to answer any questions and help customers find the perfect dining furniture for your home.

One-Stop-Shop

Not only does Progressive Furnishings specialise in oak dining furniture, but we also offer furniture for every room in the home, including leather and fabric sofas, as well as beautiful decorative accessories. This means that you can shop for your entire home in one place, making the shopping experience more convenient and enjoyable.

If you’re looking for high-quality oak dining furniture, excellent customer service, and a convenient shopping experience, Progressive Furnishings is the perfect place to start your search. With a wide range of products and a family-run business dedicated to customer satisfaction, you’re sure to find the perfect dining furniture for your home. Visit our large showroom or shop online today!

Delivery

Our friendly team will deliver your new sofa and assemble it in the room of your choice. All you need to do is take a seat and relax!

Opening Hours

We are open Tuesday to Saturday from 9.30 am to 5.30 pm and are closed Sunday and Monday.

If you are visiting us to look at a specific piece of furniture and want to be sure we have it on display, just give us a call before travelling and we can check what we have in stock for you.

Our team look forward to welcoming you to our showroom soon.

See our Contact Page for details on how to find us.

Call us: 01623 620620

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