Why is it called a refectory table?

A refectory table is called that because of its original purpose. When first made, these pieces of furniture served as dining tables in the dining rooms of monasteries. “Refectory” is another word for a dining room in a monastery, school or other institution. You'll find a collection of refectory tables on 1stDibs.

What is the height of a dining table?

The height of a dining table varies from piece to piece. However, standard dining tables are usually 28 to 30 inches tall. Counter-height tables are taller at 34 to 36 inches, and bar-height tables are the highest at 40 to 42 inches high. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of dining tables from some of the world's top sellers.

What is the best dining table?

Dining tables come in a huge variety of styles and are often chosen according to individual preference. The best dining tables are ones that are sturdy, well-made and able to withstand wear and tear. You should also consider your space limitations as well as budget. Find a versatile collection of antique and vintage dining tables on 1stDibs today.

What is the narrowest A dining table can be?

The narrowest a dining table can be is 36 inches. This leaves 18 inches of space for each of the guests on the opposite side of the table, as well as room in the center for serving dishes or platters. Find a collection of antique and vintage dining tables on 1stDibs today.

Is a dining table necessary?

No, a dining table isn't always necessary. People who eat only a few meals at home may not need a dining table, and some people prefer to eat at kitchen counters using counter-height stools. Or, they may choose to sit on the floor in front of a coffee table or to take their meals at a desk or on a TV tray or end table. On 1stDibs, shop a diverse assortment of dining tables.

How wide should a dining table be?

How wide a dining table should be largely depends on its shape. Most rectangular and oval dining tables are 36 to 40 inches wide. Round table widths or diameters vary and will determine how many people can sit comfortably at one time. Generally, a round table 36 to 44 inches in width is ideal for up to four people, while ones that are 44 to 54 inches in diameter can accommodate four to six. Tables between 54 and 59 inches in width are suitable for six to eight people. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of dining tables.

How high should a dining table be?

How high a dining table should be varies. If you already have your dining chairs, look for a table that is 10 to 12 inches taller than the seat height to provide ample legroom. The standard height for dining tables is around 30 inches. However, you can opt for taller pieces, such as 34- to 36-inch counter-height tables or 40- to 42-inch bar-height tables. Shop a large selection of dining tables on 1stDibs.

How thick should a dining table be?

How thick a dining table should be varies. Many tables feature tops that are between 0.75 and 1 inch in thickness. However, some tables may have tops that are up to 2 inches thick. Typically, tables with thicker tops will have a more rustic appearance. Shop a large selection of dining tables on 1stDibs.

What is an MCM dining table?

An MCM dining table is a table that reflects the mid-century modern style. Typically these tables are functional and have clean minimalist lines. MCM furniture is made with a variety of materials and colors, but wood is the most common. Find a selection of mid-century modern tables and furniture on 1stDibs.

What is a dining table with leaf?

A dining table with leaf is a dining table that has its middle part as solid and remains in place, but the two sides of the table drop down on a hinge, so they hang at the side. This is where the name 'drop leaf' comes from. Many homeowners have decided to go with leaf tables as they offer a lot of flexibility to their homes. On 1stDibs, you can find a variety of dining table options as well as a range of vintage and antique drop-leaf tables.

Are ceramic dining tables good?

Yes, ceramic dining tables are really good as they are very strong and durable. Made from sturdy materials, ceramic dining tables are resistant to spills, cuts, scratches and extreme heat. You can select from varying styles of ceramic dining tables, including Antique, Vintage, 21st Century, Mid Century on 1st Dibs.

Are extendable dining tables worth it?

Whether extendable dining tables are worth it is a matter of personal opinion. The selling point of an extendable dining table is that it allows you to increase the length of your table when you're hosting guests for meals and conserve space on days when you're not. If you frequently entertain and the size of your dining room makes having a large table impractical, an extendable table may be an ideal solution. On 1stDibs, find a collection of extendable dining tables.

What is the best width for a dining table?

The best width for a dining table may vary upon your needs. Typically, the width of a dining table may range from approximately 36 to 40 inches, and you want to make sure you allow for approximately three feet of walking space around the table in your dining room so that guests can move freely. Shop a wide range of vintage and antique dining tables on 1stDibs today.

What is a draw leaf dining table?

A draw-leaf dining table means that the table’s leaves are stored under the main tabletop. The top of the table is lifted slightly on its frame and the leaves pulled out on each end. Relatedly, a drop-leaf table is a table with a fixed center section, but on either side of that, there are hinged leaves that can be raised or lowered according to your specific needs. The purpose of a drop-leaf table is to save space when the table is not in use. Drop-leaf tables can also be used as nightstands, side tables, coffee tables, and desks. Find a collection of antique and vintage draw-leaf dining tables on 1stDibs today.

Should a buffet be longer than a dining table?

No, a buffet usually shouldn't be longer than a dining table . Most experts recommend that you choose a buffet that is the same length or slightly shorter than your dining table. Keeping the two pieces in proportion with each other creates balance within a space.Find vintage and antique dining tables on 1stDibs.

Why are Japanese dining tables low?

The chabudai, or the short Japanese dining table makes the most of limited space by serving many functions in a Japanese home. They often feature collapsible legs so they can be stored. Diners sit on pillows on the floor, rather than chairs, again freeing up more space by not having bulky chairs. Shop a collection of Japanese furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

What is a butterfly leaf in a dining table?

Dining room tables with butterfly leaves look like they have wings when they’re being opened, which is why they’re called butterflies. A butterfly leaf affords you more space at your dining table for additional house guests. Owing to geared slides, butterfly leaf tables should open easily.

What is the best wood for a dining table?

The best wood for a dining table is a matter of preference. Oakwood is widely used due to its durability and open grain structure. It can withstand surface scratches and can be easily sanded and refinished. Find a range of antique and vintage dining tables on 1stDibs.

How tall is the typical dining table?

Dining room tables are typically 30 inches high.

Is a round dining table practical?

Yes, a round dining table is practical. Typically, shapes of dining tables that don't have corners save the most space. Working with a tighter space may mean that a round or oval dining room table, a design that references the festive meals of the medieval era, may be a better fit. Round dining room tables, particularly those that originated in the Art Deco period, still endure as a popular contemporary substitute for traditional rectangular dining tables. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of dining tables from some of the world's top sellers.

Refectory Dining Tables

French Oak Trestle

17th Century Oak Table

20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables

Materials

Teak

Antique 19th Century Large Refectory Dining Table – 8'10", Quality

$2,863Sale Price|30% Off

Antique 19th Century Large Refectory Dining Table – 8'10", Quality

Located in Wisbech, England

Antique 19th Century Large Refectory Dining Table – 8'10" – Quality This substantial late 19th-century antique refectory dining table is made in pine and is full of age, charm and ch...

Category

Antique Late 19th Century European Dining Room Tables

Materials

Wood, Pine

William Lethaby Oak Refectory Dining Table, English Aesthetic Movement

$32,500

$2,995

$4,200

Large Antique Renaissance Carved Walnut Refectory Dining Table by Kittinger 1915

By Kittinger

Located in Portland, OR

A fine antique American carved walnut refectory dining table, by Kittinger NY, circa 1915.

Category

Vintage 1910s American Renaissance Revival Dining Room Tables

Materials

Walnut

Late 19th Century Oak Refectory Dining Table

$1,639

Late 19th Century Oak Refectory Dining Table

Located in Godshill, Isle of Wight

Late 19th Century Oak Refectory Dining Table This is a Superb piece it is a good strong Table in the refectory style, the table top has been well used and has a mature look .

Category

Antique Early 1900s Country Farm Tables

Materials

Oak

Danish Mid-Century Modern Moller Solid Rosewood Refectory Dining Table Mint!

$9,000

$3,346

$5,122 / item

$2,385Sale Price|30% Off

Antique Late 19th Century Oak Arts & Crafts Refectory kitchen Dining Table

Located in Wisbech, England

Antique Late 19th Century Oak Arts & Crafts Refectory Dining Table – Fine Quality This late 19th-century oak refectory dining table exudes attractive age, colour, and patina.

Category

Antique Late 19th Century European Regency Dining Room Tables

Materials

Wood, Oak

Recent Sales

Antique Spanish Refectory/Dining Table

Unavailable

Antique Spanish Refectory/Dining Table

Located in Atlanta, GA

Antique white oak refectory/dining table with turned legs. Beautiful craftsmanship.

Materials

Oak

Vintage Large Ercol Refectory Dining Table Model 419, 1960s

Unavailable

Unavailable

Unavailable

H 30 in W 33 in D 96 in

Refectory Extendable Dining Table Set

By Jacobean

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Refectory extendable english baroque dining table with hand carved chairs.

Category

Early 20th Century English Baroque Dining Room Tables

Materials

Hardwood, Hide, Leather, Oak

Oak Dining Table Kitchen Farmhouse Refectory Tables

Unavailable

H 31 in W 84 in D 43 in

Oak Dining Table Kitchen Farmhouse Refectory Tables

Located in Potters Bar, Herts

Stunning English oak farmhouse refectory table. Perfect for that rustic farmhouse set up.

Heals Refectory Tables

Unavailable

H 30.32 in W 72.05 in D 48.43 in

Heals Refectory Tables

By Heal's

Located in Llandudno, Conwy

An light oak heals style refectory table, the rectangular top on chamfered legs is joined by an under stretcher, English, 1930s. Price is per table.

Category

Early 20th Century British Art Deco Dining Room Tables

Materials

Oak

Heals Refectory Table

Unavailable

H 30.32 in W 72.05 in D 48.43 in

Heals Refectory Table

By Heal's

Located in Llandudno, Conwy

An oak heals style refectory table, the rectangular top on chamfered legs joined by an under stretcher, English 1930s.

Category

Early 20th Century British Art Deco Dining Room Tables

Materials

Oak

Oak Refectory Table

Unavailable

H 31 in W 108 in D 26.5 in

Oak Refectory Table

Located in Stamford, CT

An oak refectory table, the top with two planks joined by cleated ends on baluster shaped supports joined by two stretchers, the stretchers joined in the center by another baluster s...

Category

Antique 18th Century and Earlier English Dining Room Tables

Materials

Oak

Kitchen Dining Set Refectory Table Windsor Chairs

Unavailable

H 18 in W 18 in D 18 in

Kitchen Dining Set Refectory Table Windsor Chairs

Located in Potters Bar, Herts

If you are looking for the ultimate farmhouse dining set then here it is the refectory table has the gorgeous barley twist legs, very chunky and solid, built to last for generations!

Materials

Elm

Remarkable Early Refectory Table

Unavailable

H 29.75 in W 81.25 in D 30.5 in

Remarkable Early Refectory Table

Located in London, GB

With well burnished thick single plank top Solid richly patinated oak with exceptional honey color.

Materials

Chestnut, Walnut

Gothic Revival Elm Refectory Table

Unavailable

H 29.25 in W 97 in D 28 in

Gothic Revival Elm Refectory Table

Located in London, GB

The monumentally thick elm top with excellent aged patina and bevelled edge, raised on two Gothic carved trestles above sledge end-stretchers on bun feet, with a large central stretc...

Category

Antique 1850s European Gothic Revival Dining Room Tables

Materials

Elm, Oak

English Farmhouse Oak Refectory Table Trestle Tables

Unavailable

H 30 in W 84 in D 36 in

English Farmhouse Oak Refectory Table Trestle Tables

Located in Potters Bar, Herts

Gorgeous English farmhouse oak refectory table. Solid and chunky piece, very thick solid oak top and legs. Great look, perfect for that cosy farmhouse look. We have various suitab...

Materials

Oak

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"Vigne Fleurie" Signed Limited Edition Art Print by Christiane Lemieux - 30"x40"

$2,052 / item

H 40 in W 30 in D 0.03 in

"Vigne Fleurie" Signed Limited Edition Art Print by Christiane Lemieux - 30"x40"

Located in New York, NY

"Vigne Fleurie" is an exquisite limited edition fine art print that offers a modernist interpretation of a flowering vine set against a lush green colorfield. Each print is a view of...

Category

2010s American Modern Contemporary Art

Materials

Paper

Hana Walnut Trestle Dining Table

$6,500 / item

$9,800

H 29.75 in W 108 in D 33 in

Country French Provincial Oak Farmhouse Dining Table 9 Ft

Located in Rio Vista, CA

A handsome late 19th century French country farmhouse dining table constructed in solid oak measuring 9 feet long. The 2" thick top features plank construction showcasing the woodgra...

Category

Antique 19th Century French French Provincial Dining Room Tables

Materials

Iron

Get Updated with New Arrivals

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Refectory Dining Tables For Sale on 1stDibs

There is a range of refectory dining tables for sale on 1stDibs. Frequently made of wood, oak and walnut, all refectory dining tables available were constructed with great care. We have 1365 antique and vintage refectory dining tables in-stock, while there are 25 modern editions to choose from as well. Refectory dining tables have been produced for many years, with earlier versions available from the 18th Century and newer variations made as recently as the 21st Century. Refectory dining tables made by Baroque designers — as well as those associated with Victorian — are very popular at 1stDibs. Many refectory dining tables are appealing in their simplicity, but Robert (Mouseman) Thompson, Robert Thompson and Heal's produced popular refectory dining tables that are worth a look.

How Much are Refectory Dining Tables?

Refectory dining tables can differ in price owing to various characteristics — the average selling price at 1stDibs is $5,490, while the lowest priced sells for $391 and the highest can go for as much as $120,000.

Finding the Right Tables for You

The right vintage, new or antique tables can help make any space in your home stand out.

Over the years, the variety of tables available to us, as well as our specific needs for said tables, has broadened. Today, with all manner of these must-have furnishings differing in shape, material and style, any dining room table can shine just as brightly as the guests who gather around it.

Remember, when shopping for a dining table, it must fit your dining area, and you need to account for space around the table too — think outside the box, as an oval dining table may work for tighter spaces. Alternatively, if you’ve got the room, a Regency-style dining table can elevate any formal occasion at mealtime.

Innovative furniture makers and designers have also redefined what a table can be. Whether it’s an unconventional Ping-Pong table, a brass side table to display your treasured collectibles or a Louis Vuitton steamer trunk to add an air of nostalgia to your loft, your table can say a lot about you.

The visionary work of French designer Xavier Lavergne, for example, includes tables that draw on the forms of celestial bodies as often as they do aquatic creatures or fossils. Elsewhere, Italian architect Gae Aulenti, who looked to Roman architecture in crafting her stately Jumbo coffee table, created clever glass-topped mobile coffee tables that move on bicycle tires or sculpted wood wheels for Fontana Arte.

Coffee and cocktail tables can serve as a room’s centerpiece with attention-grabbing details and colors. Glass varieties will keep your hardwood flooring and dazzling area rugs on display, while a marble or stone coffee table in a modern interior can showcase your prized art books and decorative objects. A unique vintage desk or writing table can bring sophistication and even a bit of spice to your work life.

No matter your desired form or function, a quality table for your living space is a sound investment. On 1stDibs, browse a collection of vintage, new and antique bedside tables, mid-century end tables and more .

Questions About Refectory Dining Tables

Why is it called a refectory table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
A refectory table is called that because of its original purpose. When first made, these pieces of furniture served as dining tables in the dining rooms of monasteries. “Refectory” is another word for a dining room in a monastery, school or other institution. You'll find a collection of refectory tables on 1stDibs.
What is the height of a dining table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 12, 2024
The height of a dining table varies from piece to piece. However, standard dining tables are usually 28 to 30 inches tall. Counter-height tables are taller at 34 to 36 inches, and bar-height tables are the highest at 40 to 42 inches high. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of dining tables from some of the world's top sellers.
What is the best dining table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
Dining tables come in a huge variety of styles and are often chosen according to individual preference. The best dining tables are ones that are sturdy, well-made and able to withstand wear and tear. You should also consider your space limitations as well as budget. Find a versatile collection of antique and vintage dining tables on 1stDibs today.
What is the narrowest A dining table can be?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
The narrowest a dining table can be is 36 inches. This leaves 18 inches of space for each of the guests on the opposite side of the table, as well as room in the center for serving dishes or platters. Find a collection of antique and vintage dining tables on 1stDibs today.
Is a dining table necessary?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
No, a dining table isn't always necessary. People who eat only a few meals at home may not need a dining table, and some people prefer to eat at kitchen counters using counter-height stools. Or, they may choose to sit on the floor in front of a coffee table or to take their meals at a desk or on a TV tray or end table. On 1stDibs, shop a diverse assortment of dining tables.
How wide should a dining table be?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024
How wide a dining table should be largely depends on its shape. Most rectangular and oval dining tables are 36 to 40 inches wide. Round table widths or diameters vary and will determine how many people can sit comfortably at one time. Generally, a round table 36 to 44 inches in width is ideal for up to four people, while ones that are 44 to 54 inches in diameter can accommodate four to six. Tables between 54 and 59 inches in width are suitable for six to eight people. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of dining tables.
How high should a dining table be?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 21, 2024
How high a dining table should be varies. If you already have your dining chairs, look for a table that is 10 to 12 inches taller than the seat height to provide ample legroom. The standard height for dining tables is around 30 inches. However, you can opt for taller pieces, such as 34- to 36-inch counter-height tables or 40- to 42-inch bar-height tables. Shop a large selection of dining tables on 1stDibs.
How thick should a dining table be?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 13, 2024
How thick a dining table should be varies. Many tables feature tops that are between 0.75 and 1 inch in thickness. However, some tables may have tops that are up to 2 inches thick. Typically, tables with thicker tops will have a more rustic appearance. Shop a large selection of dining tables on 1stDibs.
What is an MCM dining table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
An MCM dining table is a table that reflects the mid-century modern style. Typically these tables are functional and have clean minimalist lines. MCM furniture is made with a variety of materials and colors, but wood is the most common. Find a selection of mid-century modern tables and furniture on 1stDibs.
What is a dining table with leaf?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 5, 2021
A dining table with leaf is a dining table that has its middle part as solid and remains in place, but the two sides of the table drop down on a hinge, so they hang at the side. This is where the name 'drop leaf' comes from. Many homeowners have decided to go with leaf tables as they offer a lot of flexibility to their homes. On 1stDibs, you can find a variety of dining table options as well as a range of vintage and antique drop-leaf tables.
Are ceramic dining tables good?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 24, 2021
Yes, ceramic dining tables are really good as they are very strong and durable. Made from sturdy materials, ceramic dining tables are resistant to spills, cuts, scratches and extreme heat. You can select from varying styles of ceramic dining tables, including Antique, Vintage, 21st Century, Mid Century on 1st Dibs.
Are extendable dining tables worth it?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 20, 2024
Whether extendable dining tables are worth it is a matter of personal opinion. The selling point of an extendable dining table is that it allows you to increase the length of your table when you're hosting guests for meals and conserve space on days when you're not. If you frequently entertain and the size of your dining room makes having a large table impractical, an extendable table may be an ideal solution. On 1stDibs, find a collection of extendable dining tables.
What is the best width for a dining table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021
The best width for a dining table may vary upon your needs. Typically, the width of a dining table may range from approximately 36 to 40 inches, and you want to make sure you allow for approximately three feet of walking space around the table in your dining room so that guests can move freely. Shop a wide range of vintage and antique dining tables on 1stDibs today.
What is a draw leaf dining table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
A draw-leaf dining table means that the table’s leaves are stored under the main tabletop. The top of the table is lifted slightly on its frame and the leaves pulled out on each end. Relatedly, a drop-leaf table is a table with a fixed center section, but on either side of that, there are hinged leaves that can be raised or lowered according to your specific needs. The purpose of a drop-leaf table is to save space when the table is not in use. Drop-leaf tables can also be used as nightstands, side tables, coffee tables, and desks. Find a collection of antique and vintage draw-leaf dining tables on 1stDibs today.
Should a buffet be longer than a dining table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
No, a buffet usually shouldn't be longer than a dining table. Most experts recommend that you choose a buffet that is the same length or slightly shorter than your dining table. Keeping the two pieces in proportion with each other creates balance within a space.

Find vintage and antique dining tables on 1stDibs.
Why are Japanese dining tables low?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
The chabudai, or the short Japanese dining table makes the most of limited space by serving many functions in a Japanese home. They often feature collapsible legs so they can be stored. Diners sit on pillows on the floor, rather than chairs, again freeing up more space by not having bulky chairs. Shop a collection of Japanese furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
What is a butterfly leaf in a dining table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021
Dining room tables with butterfly leaves look like they have wings when they’re being opened, which is why they’re called butterflies. A butterfly leaf affords you more space at your dining table for additional house guests. Owing to geared slides, butterfly leaf tables should open easily.
What is the best wood for a dining table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 5, 2021
The best wood for a dining table is a matter of preference. Oakwood is widely used due to its durability and open grain structure. It can withstand surface scratches and can be easily sanded and refinished. Find a range of antique and vintage dining tables on 1stDibs.
How tall is the typical dining table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Dining room tables are typically 30 inches high.
Is a round dining table practical?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
Yes, a round dining table is practical. Typically, shapes of dining tables that don't have corners save the most space. Working with a tighter space may mean that a round or oval dining room table, a design that references the festive meals of the medieval era, may be a better fit. Round dining room tables, particularly those that originated in the Art Deco period, still endure as a popular contemporary substitute for traditional rectangular dining tables. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of dining tables from some of the world's top sellers.

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