A bespoke dining table should solve practical problems and bring something personal to the room. The best result comes from making decisions in the right order: first the dimensions and seating, then the shape, material, edge, finish and base. This guide explains what to consider and what information to send when requesting a made-to-measure table quotation.

1. Start with the Room and Number of Seats

Measure the usable dining area, including sideboards, radiators, door swings and walkways. Try to leave around 90 cm between the table edge and a wall or fixed item, with more space where people need to walk behind seated guests.

Allow approximately 60 cm of table edge per person as a starting point, then add space for wide chairs or armchairs. If you need detailed dimensions for 4, 6, 8 or 10 people, read our UK dining table size guide.

2. Choose the Best Tabletop Shape

Rectangular tables suit long rooms and provide a clear seating layout. They are especially practical for six or more people.

Round tables work well in square rooms, make conversation easy and avoid sharp corners. Check the diameter carefully because very large round tables can be difficult to reach across.

Oval tables combine useful length with softer ends, helping movement through open-plan spaces.

Square tables can work beautifully in balanced square rooms, although they need generous width once more than four seats are required.

3. Select a Tabletop Material

The material defines much of the table’s visual character:

  • Solid oak dining tables offer natural warmth, distinctive grain and a timeless look.
  • Epoxy resin tables combine timber with a clear or coloured feature for a highly individual design.
  • Microcement tables provide a smooth, contemporary and stone-inspired appearance.
  • Walnut brings deeper colour and expressive grain, either as a solid timber design or paired with resin.

Our comparison of oak, walnut, epoxy resin and microcement tables provides more detail on the appearance and design possibilities of each material.

4. Decide on the Edge Profile

A straight edge creates a clean architectural outline and works well in contemporary rooms. A natural or character edge follows more of the timber’s original form and makes the tabletop feel organic and individual.

Think about where people will sit and how the edge will feel during everyday use. A dramatic natural form may look beautiful, but the final seating positions still need a comfortable usable edge.

5. Match the Base to the Seating Plan

The base supports the visual style of the table, but it also controls legroom. Consider where chairs will be positioned, whether seats are needed at the ends and how far the base sits from the tabletop edge.

  • Central bases can provide flexible seating around round and oval tops.
  • U-shaped or trapezium metal legs create a strong modern look and clear end positions.
  • Crossed and sculptural bases make more of a statement but should be checked carefully against chair placement.

If you already own the chairs, send their width, arm height and photographs with your enquiry.

6. Choose the Colour and Protective Finish

Timber tone, resin colour and microcement shade should be considered alongside the room’s flooring, cabinetry and natural light. Save a few photographs showing the colour direction you prefer, but remember that natural wood will always contain genuine grain and tonal variation.

The appropriate care routine depends on the material and finish. Follow the instructions supplied with your table, use mats or coasters where appropriate and avoid placing extremely hot items directly on the surface.

7. Prepare the Information for Your Quotation

A clear initial enquiry helps the design process move quickly. Include:

  • Approximate length, width and preferred tabletop height
  • Required number of seats and chair dimensions, if known
  • Preferred shape, material and edge profile
  • Ideas for the base style and colour
  • Photographs of the room and inspiration images
  • Your delivery postcode and preferred timing

Production timing depends on the specification and current workshop schedule, so confirm the latest lead time before placing an order.

Why Order a Bespoke Table from AM Wood Craft?

AM Wood Craft designs and handcrafts made-to-measure tables in Nottingham. Each design can be planned around your room and preferred style, and our furniture is backed by a lifetime structural warranty. We deliver to customers across the UK.

Send us your table ideas and request a bespoke quotation.

Bespoke Dining Table FAQs

Can you make a dining table to exact dimensions?

Yes. The length, width, shape and base can be planned around your room and seating requirements.

Can I use my existing dining chairs?

Yes. Send us the chair width and arm height so these can be considered when discussing the table dimensions and base.

Can I combine timber with epoxy resin?

Yes. Oak and walnut are popular choices for resin designs, with the resin colour and effect selected as part of the specification.

Where are AM Wood Craft tables made?

Our bespoke tables are handcrafted in our Nottingham workshop for delivery to homes across the UK.