A table for 6 typically needs to be at least 66–78 inches long if rectangular, or about 60 inches in diameter if round, allowing roughly 24 inches of width per seat. Add a bit more length if you regularly need room for serving dishes in the center.

Most extendable tables use a leaf that either slides out from underneath the tabletop or drops in when you pull the two halves apart, adding 12 to 24 inches of length when needed. Some tables come with a separate leaf you store elsewhere and insert only for larger gatherings.

A coffee table generally looks and functions best when it’s about the same height as your sofa’s seat cushions, usually 16 to 18 inches. A table noticeably taller than the sofa seat tends to feel awkward to reach.

A side table typically sits next to a sofa or armchair, close enough to set down a drink or reach a lamp without leaning far. Keeping the tabletop roughly level with, or just below, the sofa arm usually looks and functions best.

Wipe up spills right away and clean regularly with a soft, slightly damp cloth, avoiding excess water that can seep into the wood. For a deeper clean, use a wood-specific cleaner or mild soap and water.

Round tables work well in smaller or square rooms because they lack sharp corners and make conversation easier for smaller groups, while rectangular tables seat more people and suit narrow or long dining spaces better.

Plan for about 24 inches of table width per person. For a more relaxed feel, 28 to 30 inches per person is more comfortable, especially for everyday use rather than tight gatherings.