At a Glance:
Pros and Cons of Pedestal Tables
7 Stylish Pedestal Table Ideas
How to Choose a Pedestal Table
Looking for a stylish and functional table for a small dining space? Say hello to the pedestal table. It’s effortlessly chic, and its central support gives extra legroom so you can gather more people around the table—even in a small space. There’s a pedestal table for every style, ranging from a small round pedestal dining table for an eat-in kitchen to an extendable oval pedestal dining table for a formal dining room. You can find a contemporary or a coastal pedestal table, depending on the finish you choose. Here, we’ll cover the pros and cons of pedestal tables and offer 7 stylish pedestal table ideas to elevate your dining space.
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Shop Dining TablesWhat Is a Pedestal Table?
A pedestal table is a type of dining table characterized by a single central support, or pedestal, rather than the traditional four legs. With no corner legs to bump into, everyone has more legroom, and it’s easier to gather more chairs around the table when you’re hosting guests. If you want to maximize space in a tight dining area, pedestal tables provide a creative solution. With a four-legged table, you actually lose an entire foot of usable space at the corners.
According to Architectural Digest, pedestal tables are the best for small spaces because “no legs to get in the way of your chairs = more people at the table.” This style of table lies at the intersection of style and functionality.
In terms of practicality, the central pedestal table base also allows for a more stable base, capable of supporting a heavier tabletop. Originally, pedestal tables were used as candle stands placed next to a chair or bed, but over the years, the tabletop expanded in size to include pedestal side table and pedestal end table options and, yes, pedestal dining room tables. You can even get a larger pedestal table by choosing one with double pedestals—one on either end of the table.
From a design perspective, pedestal tables have a timeless appeal that blends well with various interior styles. They are versatile and can complement traditional, modern, and transitional decor. Their clean lines and often elegant, sculptural bases can act as natural focal points in a room, adding a touch of sophistication and style. Whether featuring intricate carvings in a classic wooden pedestal or a sleek, minimalist metal base, a pedestal dining table can enhance the aesthetic of any space.
Pros and Cons of Pedestal Tables
We’ve already covered a few of the benefits of a pedestal table, but let’s dive into all the pros and cons.
Pros of Pedestal Tables
✅ Space Efficiency: Pedestal tables offer more legroom and seating flexibility, making them ideal for smaller dining areas and maximizing space.
✅ Aesthetic Appeal: They have a versatile design that can suit various interior styles, from traditional to modern, often serving as a stylish focal point in the room.
✅ Stability: The central support provides a stable base, capable of supporting heavier tabletops without the risk of tipping.
Cons of Pedestal Table
❌ Cost: Pedestal tables can be more expensive due to the quality of materials and craftsmanship required to create a stable, single-support design.
❌ Limited Size Options: Larger pedestal tables may be less common and more difficult to find, potentially limiting choices for bigger dining areas.
❌ Competing Focal Points: If you have another focal point in your dining room design—like a dramatic chandelier or large display hutch—a pedestal table with an intricate, sculptural base can be a distraction instead of any asset, making your room feel too busy.
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7 Stylish Pedestal Table Ideas
The question is, how can you incorporate a pedestal dining table into your space? Here, we’ll offer tips to help—whether your top concern is achieving a farmhouse look, including extra seating for guests, nailing a modern design, or warming up your space.
Tip #1: Choose a Whitewashed Pedestal Table for a Farmhouse Look
This white pedestal table features a distressed finish that is classically farmhouse. We love the round tabletop and antique-style carved base, which add personality and coziness. One key element of farmhouse living is a communal, homey feel, and the 18” leaf allows you to expand this table to gather more friends and family together. This table would pair beautifully with upholstered chairs in a neutral color to add more texture and warmth to the space. The white color also gives you the freedom to keep it neutral or add in your favorite accent colors.
Tip #2: Treat Your Table like a Sculptural Art Piece
A pedestal base is a natural focal point in any dining room, and when you choose a sculptural base, it capitalizes on the way the eye is already drawn to the central base. This table features a root ball base with a sleek glass tabletop. The glass ensures that you can see the base at every angle, and the natural feel of the base is perfect for an organic modern or eclectic dining room design.
Tip #3: Opt for a Double Pedestal Table to Seat More People
A rectangular pedestal dining table like this one is rarer than a circular or oval pedestal table, and opting for a double pedestal dining table gives you more room to seat guests. We love the curving pedestal bases as well as the walnut veneers on the tabletop. This timeless table is perfect for a traditional or transitional dining room design. With a 20” leaf, it’s a truly versatile table that would pair well with wood or upholstered chairs.
Tip #4: Mix Materials for a Modern Mook
The combination of a marble print glass top and a muted gold metallic base is perfect for a polished modern or contemporary design. If you included other metal and black accents throughout the space, this table would also be ideal for a modern industrial design.
Featured Signature Design by Ashley Pedestal Table Review:
“Love the muted, soft gold metal hardware; pairs well with the tempered marble glass top. Easy to assemble alone, but need two people to place the table top so it's even on all sides. Perfect table for small spaces with two chairs. Could do four chairs if needed.”
Tip #5: You Can’t Go Wrong with a Carved Wood Base
This wood pedestal table is a classic style that stands the test of time. It’s well-crafted and works well with a variety of design styles and color palettes. It’s especially suited for a traditional or transitional dining room or breakfast nook. When you have guests over, you can add the 20” leaf for more table space.
Tip #6: Go for an Extendable Table with a Leaf for Ultimate Flexibility
This dining room table pedestal easily transitions between a circle and an oval, extending from 56” to 76” with the optional 20” leaf. This flexibility is perfect for a pedestal table in a small dining space where you want it to be a circle most of the time but occasionally need room for extra guests. The mix of materials draws your eye to the base, and we love the texture of every element from the Versaille-finish base to the contrasting geometric marquetry veneer pattern on the tabletop.
Tip #7: Warm Up Your Space with Wood
A warm wood tone adds a sense of hominess and charm to your dining space, instantly lighting and brightening things up. This table features a base that extends out a bit with curved details, which make this table an impactful presence in any space. There’s still plenty of legroom, and the medium-tone wood pairs well with a variety of color palettes from warm yellows and reds to cool blues and greens.
How to Choose a Pedestal Table
Choosing a pedestal dining table involves considering several factors to make sure it meets your needs for function and personal style. Here's a quick guide to help you make an informed decision.
Design
Select a table design that aligns with your overall decor style. For traditional spaces, opt for a pedestal with ornate details. For modern or minimalist interiors, choose a sleek, simple pedestal. Also, make sure to consider the design of the tabletop itself, whether it’s plain, beveled, or features inlays.
Shape
What shape works best for your dining room layout?
- A round pedestal table is ideal for small spaces and promotes conversation by allowing everyone to face each other. It works well in both square and rectangular rooms.
- An oval pedestal table combines the space efficiency of a round table with the seating capacity of a rectangular table. It’s good for narrow or rectangular rooms.
- A square pedestal table is best suited for square rooms, offering a contemporary look and balanced symmetry.
- A rectangular pedestal table is a traditional choice for larger dining areas, providing ample seating space.
Size
You can opt for a small pedestal table or a larger double pedestal table, but to determine the right size table, there are a few factors to consider—room dimensions, seating, capacity, and height. Measure your dining area to ensure the table fits comfortably, allowing enough space for chairs and movement. Consider the number of people you typically host. Ensure there’s enough space for each person to sit comfortably. Finally, think about the height of your table compared to your current chairs. Standard dining tables are about 28-30 inches high, so make sure the pedestal table you have your eye on pairs well with your dining chairs.
Color
Choose a color that complements your existing furniture and decor. Neutral colors like white, black, or natural wood tones are versatile. For example, a whitewashed or white pedestal dining table has a cozy cottage or farmhouse feel while a sleek black pedestal table might work better in a contemporary dining space.
Material
There are several materials to choose from, and the decision is more about style than durability. Wood, glass, metal, and marble are all quality options, but it’s important to compare how they transform the look of your room. Wood offers a classic and warm look that works in almost any design style, so you’ll need to pay attention to the shape and silhouette of the table. Glass creates an illusion of space, ideal for small or contemporary spaces. It’s easy to clean but can be prone to scratches and fingerprints. Metal provides a modern, industrial look. It is sturdy and durable but can be heavy. Marble is luxurious and elegant, perfect for high-end interiors, but it requires careful maintenance to avoid stains and scratches, so it may not be the most family-friendly pick.
By applying these tips, you can choose a pedestal dining table that checks all the boxes—function, longevity, and style.
→ Learn more: Small Dining Room Ideas + Decorating Tips
FAQ
Are pedestal tables sturdy?
Yes, pedestal tables are sturdy thanks to the central support. Although they don’t have four traditional chair legs, you don’t have to worry about them wobbling. Instead, you get sturdiness and extra legroom.
How to add height to a pedestal table?
To add height to a pedestal table, you can use table risers, attach adjustable feet, or replace the existing pedestal with a taller one. Customizing or modifying the pedestal itself might also be an option, depending on the material and design.
Why are pedestal tables so expensive?
Pedestal tables can be expensive due to the quality of materials used, the craftsmanship required to create a stable and aesthetically pleasing single-support design, and the often intricate detailing or premium finishes. For example, if a table has stained wood or carved wooden details, it may cost more. At Idler’s, you can find affordable pedestal tables in our outlet and clearance section.
Where to buy a pedestal table near me?
California shoppers can find chic pedestal tables at Idler’s whether your style is more modern, contemporary, or transitional.
Why Trust Idler’s Home?
At Idler’s Home, we believe in providing the highest quality products and service to our community. Over the span of 70 years (and counting), our business has seen successful growth, with over 100 employees and five locations along the central coast of California. Not only do we offer major appliances, quality furniture, and the best mattresses but we also provide hot tubs and swim spas and perform kitchen design services. In addition, our trained professional installers can set up all appliances we sell while our factory-trained technicians service and repair them if they ever break down. Suffice it to say: Idler’s is dedicated to helping you make the vision you have for your home a reality.
Shop Pedestal Tables at Idler’s
Envision the possibilities for your home and shop dining room tables online at Idler’s. Our friendly team is always happy to help you find a pedestal table that suits your dining room — whether you call us, email us, or use our online chat feature. Or better yet, stop by any of our five Central Coast locations to experience the quality of our products yourself. Visit us today!
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