How to Choose the Best Benton 5 Piece Counter Height Dining Set

Bringing a stylish yet functional dining set into your home can completely transform mealtimes. With so many options on the market, deciding on the right one takes careful consideration. If you're seeking a contemporary counter-height set that seats 5, the Benton 5-Piece Counter-Height Dining Set deserves a close look.

This set offers a blend of warmth and modern appeal that suits a wide range of home decors. Keep reading to learn key factors in selecting this collection to best meet your needs.

Assess Your Space and Seating Requirements

Before purchasing any dining set, you'll want to measure your room to ensure the table and chairs will fit comfortably. Be sure to leave ample clearance around the edges for easy access to the seats. You'll also need to confirm that the table size provides enough surface area.

The Benton counter-height rectangular table stretches 60 inches long by 36 inches wide. With a smaller dining area, a round pedestal table occupying less space could work better. For generous rooms, a table extending 72 inches or more may be preferable to accommodate more place settings if hosting larger gatherings.

Determine Dimensions Based on Room Layout

Consider existing furniture placements and traffic flow through doorways when deciding on dimensions. You'll want to pull chairs out and sit down without bumping walls or cabinets behind you. Leave enough room for comfortable circulation from the dining space to kitchen or other adjoining rooms.

Factor in Table Shape and Size

The rectangular Benton table seats 4 on each long side, or just 2 people seated at each end. Round or square table shapes allow more even spacing of the chairs. For seating 6 or more, an extended oval works well. Placemats, tableware, and centerpieces also require surface area, so size up accordingly.

Determine Number of Seats

Besides the table itself, the Benton set includes 4 matching counter-height chairs with plush faux leather upholstery. You can supplement with additional individual chairs if needing more than 5 places. Or consider a full dining bench for one side to optimize seating capacity.

Evaluate Quality of Construction and Materials

While price can indicate value, it should not be the only determining factor in your purchase. Carefully inspect the materials and workmanship going into a dining set to gauge its durability and longevity.

Seek Stability in Table Base and Frame

The Benton collection features a sturdy pedestal base on both the table and matching counter stools. Compared to four individual legs, a pedestal offers solid stability even with frequent use. The base extends into a footer for added support under the table's weight.

Choose Hardwood Solids Over Veneers

Quality wood dining furniture contains hardwood solids in the frame, rather than less durable veneer overlays. Solids have attractive natural wood grain, while veneers can peel and delaminate over time. The Benton set utilizes hardwood solids and veneers for structural integrity.

Select Durable, Easy-Clean Upholstery

The Benton chairs are padded with smooth faux leather resistant to cracking and peeling from everyday wear-and-tear. Compared to fabric upholstery prone to stains, leather wipes clean easily. It also avoids fading issues associated with regular exposure to sunlight streaming through dining room windows.

Decide on Decor-Enhancing Finish and Style

An ideal dining set transcends a purely functional purpose to enhance your living space as a decorative focal point. The aesthetics should align with your interior design vision. This includes the finish coloring and overall style.

Choose a Finish Complementing Existing Decor

A medium oak macchiato finish gives the Benton collection a refined yet casual look. The neutral wood tone and black metal accents adapt well to both rustic and contemporary decors. But if your current furnishings lean more whitewashed or espresso, table sets in those hues could better complement.

Select Transitional Styling for Flexible Appeal

Blending modern shapes with touches of traditional detailing, the transitional Benton embodies versatile styling. The contemporary pedestal base and smooth tabletop contrast barn door-inspired X crosses on the chair backs. This flexibility suits evolving trends and lets you redecorate differently in future without needing to replace the dining furniture.

Compare Pricing and Value Across Retailers

Once you decide the Benton meets your needs for size, quality, and aesthetic, it pays to comparison shop. Pricing can vary widely across internet retailers. Factor in any hidden fees like sales tax and shipping costs into the total price.

Calculate Costs of Delivery and Assembly

While some local stores offer free delivery within certain mile ranges, most charge a separate fee for shipping large furniture items. Some retailers also tack on charges for room of choice delivery and assembly. The Benton set includes step-by-step instructions but requires handy skills to put together.

Read Fine Print on Return Policies

If purchasing the Benton online sight unseen, understanding exchange and return policies provides helpful peace of mind. Many retailers specify a 30-day window for returns due to damage or defects. Expect to pay return shipping on heavy item exchanges or refunds.

Getting the Most Out of Your Purchase

After going through the effort to select the ideal dining set, you'll want to protect your investment. Follow proper care and cleaning methods to keep the Benton furnishings looking their best for years of family meals and entertaining.

Assemble Set According to Instructions

Carefully follow each step while putting together the components. Rushing through assembly or improperly securing joints can lead to wobbling or breakage issues over time. Take particular care when attaching tabletops and chair backs to ensure sturdy results.

Add Protective Pads Under Table Legs

Affixing clear adhesive pads onto the bottom of table and chair legs prevents potential damage to underlying flooring. This allows rearranging the set occasionally to refresh the layout. Pads also keep floors scratch-free and stabilize furniture against shifting.

To safely clean while maintaining the macchiato finish, use mild soap and water. For stubborn spots on tabletop or leather chair upholstery, gently wipe with damp soft cloth and baking soda paste. Take care to avoid harsh chemicals that could strip or discolor surfaces.

Bringing people together for nourishing meals and meaningful conversations is what making a house a home is all about. The right dining set should reflect the beauty of gathering with loved ones. If the versatile styling and smart features of the Benton 5-Piece Counter-Height Dining Set speak to you, trust the guidance above to make your optimal choice.