Styling A Dunewood Whitewashed Dining Table

A dunewood whitewashed dining table is a beautiful centerpiece for any dining room or kitchen. Characterized by its weathered grayish finish and often accompanied by a rustic or farmhouse style base, these tables bridge the gap between modern and antique. With some thoughtful styling, a dunewood whitewashed dining table can be the focal point of your space whether in a coastal cottage or industrial loft.

From choosing the right size and shape to accessorizing with decor and tablescapes, we'll cover key considerations to help you create an inviting dining experience.

Choosing the Right Size and Shape

When selecting a dunewood whitewashed dining table, one of the first decisions is size and proportions. Consider the room you want to place it in and how many people need to comfortably sit around it. Standard dining table sizes range from 36 inches for a small square to 96 inches for a large rectangular option. Extendable tables are a great choice if you host larger gatherings on occasion but need a compact footprint most days.

The shape of the table is both an aesthetic and practical decision. Round tables promote conversation while rectangular tables may better suit large rooms and bench seating. Square dunewood whitewashed dining tables offer both cozy and spacious arranging depending on their size. For small spaces, oval or pedestal tables can save room since there are no legs around the exterior sides. Ultimately shape should harmonize with your space and decor.

Avoid a Size That Overpowers

When uncertain if a dining table may overpower your room, measure available floor space accounting for ample walkways and traffic flow around it. As a rule of thumb, plan for at least 36 inches for chairs to slide in and out from the edges and behind. Using furniture templates prior to purchase can indicate how a layout would function in your home.

Allow Room for Decor and Serving

Don't fill up all available surface area with place settings if regularly hosting dinner parties or families. Allocate space for serving dishes, platters, decor, and perhaps even games for an extended dining experience after the meal concludes.

Materials and Durability Factors

Part of what defines a dunewood dining table is its weathered grayish finish achieved through whitewashing and light distressing. Typically crafted from solid wood like oak or mango, the natural grains peek through achieving a timeworn style. Less commonly seen are whitewashed metal and concrete tables in modern spaces.

Since these finishes bear an aged patina, certain considerations come into play for longevity and care. While character marks add to the charm, deep gouges or fading detract from the intended aged style. Using table linens, placemats or coasters helps safeguard even factory-distressed surfaces when serving food and drinks. We'll cover more care tips later on.

Seek Quality Materials and Craftsmanship

Opt for durable hardwoods like acacia, mango and oak with finishes listed as child- and pet-friendly when possible. Avoid very knotty or soft woods more prone to dents and scratches in dining table use. High-quality craftsmanship with reinforced apron rails, corner blocks and table legs indicates good structural integrity as well.

Consider a Glass Top for Extra Protection

While a glass top impacts the look of a rustic whitewashed dining table, it adds a protective buffer layer. Tempered glass tops sized to overlay the table surface help guard finer natural wood finishes. Just check that the combined weight exceeds your needs first.

Design Styles to Complement

An adaptable neutral hue, the light driftwood gray finish of a dunewood whitewashed dining table fits right in with several decor motifs. Most commonly these whitewashed dining tables meld with coastal, farmhouse and French country design. But they also breathe new life into traditional dining rooms and provide an organic touch in modern spaces too.

Coastal and Cottage Settings

A natural complement to beach house and nautical rooms, whitewashed dining tables evoke seaside cottage charm. Surrounding chairs or built-in benches covered in coral, denim blue or striped sunbrella fabrics enhance the breezy style. Accent with accessories featuring sailboats, sea shells or netting for complete coastal ambiance.

Warm and Rustic Farmhouse Rooms

The weathered patina of a dunewood whitewashed dining table beautifully suits farmhouse abodes as well. Play up the reclaimed wood base by pairing with galvanized metal Tolix chairs or neutral crossback designs. Incorporate natural elements like rattan pendant lighting, linen curtains and earthenware for rustic flair.

Light-Filled Urban Lofts

Set against an exposed brick wall or statement light fixture, a whitewashed dining table brings warmth to modern spaces. The worn finish plays well against sleek lines and high-gloss materials. Surround with acrylic, metal or molded plastic chairs and accessorize with concrete planters or geo art.

Placements to Showcase Style

Strategic placement of your new dunewood whitewashed dining table allows you to take full stylistic advantage. Here are prime positioning tips whether defining open concept rooms or traditional walled-off spaces:

• Angle alongside large windows and glass slider doors to reflect abundant natural light. This showcases whitewashed tables beautifully.
• Separate open floor plan living areas by placing behind the back half of a sectional (leaving walkways accessible).
• Float in front of a decorated wall or interesting architectural feature as a statement piece.
• Repurpose as a kitchen island with counter height barstools for casual everyday meals.

Avoid situating any dining table, including whitewashed styles, too remotely from kitchen work zones. While aesthetically pleasing to see from across big living areas, functionality for serving food suffers.

Mind Traffic Flow Around Piece

Measure room dimensions and use furniture templates before bringing a large dining table home. This indicates adequate space is available for chairs on all sides plus serving. Pathways of 36 inches give ample clearance without cramping diners once seated. Just watch for tight squeezes from living areas if separating open spaces.

Place Near Electrical Outlets If Using Decorative Lighting

While not a necessity, plugging in lighting elements on or above dining tables builds ambiance. If wanting to incorporate pendant fixtures, sconces or string lights, situate near existing outlets. Extensions cords stretched across floors pose safety hazards. Alternatively install new electrical points or convert lighting to battery-powered.

Whitewashed Table Decor Ideas

Now for the fun part - decking out your dunewood whitewashed dining table in rustic charm or refined coastal style. As a blank canvas, you have lots of accessorizing options to mix, blend or make bold statements.

Rustic Woodland Centerpieces

Embrace farmhouse coziness with natural wood slab runners and toasted pinecone accents. Groupings of unscented pillar candles amid faux florals and curly willow branches heighten the mood. Displaying fruit like pomegranates infuses additional organic texture.

Breezy Coastal Linens

Crisp white tablecloths allow a weathered dining table to shine while protecting the finish underneath. Accent with subtle pickled blue and white patterned napkins. Some handpainted or embroidered linen runners feature shells, starfish and anchors suiting relaxed seaside decor.

Woven Placemat Texture

Natural fiber placemats like jute, rattan and seagrass complement both rustic farmhouse and breezy coastal rooms. These help safeguard whitewashed tabletops from heat damage and liquid rings. Large round rattan chargers layered overtop enhance textural intrigue.

Care and Maintenance Essentials

Part of the charm with distressed whitewashed dining tables is that they are meant to bear marks and imperfections. Still, protecting the finish helps preserve the style you initially fell in love with over years of use.

Since water and heat impact all wood pieces, use table linens, placemats or decorative charger plates when serving. Pillar candles add mood lighting but pose fire hazards near curtains when left unattended. Use a snuffer instead of blowing them out to avoid wax spills. Here are tips to handle minor mishaps or simple upkeep.

Avoid Direct Sunlight Exposure

While moderate natural light showcases whitewashed tables nicely, avoid prolonged direct sunlight which fades finishes. Close sheers or blinds when away to minimize light damage. Similarly, don't place in contact with radiators, hot air vents or fireplaces heating the wood.

Clean Spills Promptly

Immediately wipe down drips or spills with a soft lint-free cloth to prevent deep staining. Dampen first in warm water mixed with a few drops of dish soap, gently rubbing in direction of wood grain. Rinse with clean water before drying entire surface with a towel to prevent water marks.

Re-Apply Protective Topcoats If Needed

Over time the whitewashed finish may wear down in high traffic dining areas, making touch-ups necessary. Very lightly sand affected spots first before brushing on replacement wood stains or paint tints matching the original tone. Allow to fully cure before replacing table linens or place settings.

Costs and Budget Considerations

Like most solid wood furniture, dunewood whitewashed dining tables span a range of price points. Expect to invest roughly $500 to $2,500+ depending on size, quality of materials and construction. Benchwright by Ashley offers well-rated budget-friendly whitewashed dining tables around $500 to $700 for smaller 5 piece sets. These make great starter options. Medium-tier tables like the Somerset Bay Extendable Whitewashed Dining Table cost $1,100 to $1,700. Here you see thicker tabletops and intricate wood joinery indicative of fine craftsmanship. On the high end, a large Restoration Hardware Monastery Whitewashed Oak Dining Table runs around $2,500 to $3,200+. At this tier they may be hand built using kiln dried European oak.

For significant savings, check for sales around holidays and clearance for floor models. Just ensure any nicks or scratches on displays won't frustrate you long term. Delivery and customization fees add to budgets as well. Finally factor investment pieces like table linens and dining chairs into the overall project cost.

Define Must-Haves to Avoid Overspending

Scale Back On Less Important Aspects

Desired Brands and Places to Buy From

Those seeking premium American-crafted and imported dining tables find desirable options through Restoration Hardware, Pottery Barn and Crate & Barrel. Budget-friendly big box stores like Ashley Furniture, Wayfair and Overstock also carry an array of whitewashed dining tables to peruse. Let's overview top picks across high to lower price points.

Restoration Hardware

Featuring handcrafted furniture built to last generations using fine materials, Restoration Hardware commands premium price points. Their Salvaged Wood and Reclaimed Oak dining tables define effortless elegance through mixed materials and neutral tones. Expect to invest $2,000 to $4,000+ for their tables depending on size and details like hand-planed surfaces.

Pottery Barn

Another favored home furnishings brand, Pottery Barn strikes an accessible balance of quality and value. Mid-century modern silhouettes mingling warm wood tones and cerused white finishes catch the eye. Like their Winslow Rectangular Dining Table or Vivian Round Pedestal Table. Budget around $1,000 to $2,500 through regular sales.

Ashley Furniture

Recognized for stylish furniture at affordable price points, Ashley Furniture offers a spectrum of whitewashed and weathered gray dining tables. The metal base Somerset Bay Extendable Table runs under $800 while their solid wood Newland Extendable Table comes in around $480. Expect lighter weight materials but tidy designs perfect for first homes or apartments.

Comparable Styles and Alternatives

While the neutral weathered patina of dunewood whitewashed dining tables suits coastal, farmhouse and industrial spaces beautifully, comparable styles exist. Light gray cerused, antique white and reclaimed wood finishes offer similar light airy aesthetics. Or make a statement with altogether unique table bases like metal and acrylic while still keeping wood tones light.

Cerused White Oak

A cerused finish on oak dining tables resembles a whitewashed style but shows more wood grains. Achieved by applying white pigment into sanded grooves, cerused oak adds coastal flair to rooms with a hint more texture. Round pedestal tops or tapered bases convey refined modern charm.

Reclaimed Barn Wood

For pronounced rustic character, reclaimed barn wood dining tables contain all the nicks, nail holes and textures of authentic aged lumber. Check for beautiful varying natural stains in salvaged oak, pine or hickory. These bring unmatched timeworn appeal to farmhouses through father time alone.

Acrylic and Metal Bases

Those seeking a lighter, more modern silhouette can find whitewashed tabletops paired with Lucite clear acrylic or sleek powder coated metal bases. This supports the wood while conveying an updated streamlined shape perfect for lofts and contemporary dwellings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How durable are whitewashed tabletops?

Factory distressed wood dining tables with whitewashed finishes make them decently scratch resistant for daily use. The weathered patinas are created to age gracefully. But protecting with table linens helps preserve surfaces when serving meals. Durability also depends on wood type and quality of construction.

Do whitewashed dining tables come in other colors?

Most whitewashed dining tables feature light weathered gray driftwood tones or bleached white finishes. But some farmhouse style models offer very light blue and green hues. Custom ordering or re-staining are options to achieve other colors to match your room.

What dining chair styles pair well with whitewashed tables?

To match coastal, farmhouse and French country decor, painted and neutral woven wood chair styles complement beautifully. For modern arrangements, acrylic and metal chair designs make statements. Leaning into the rustic or refined aesthetic you want to convey drives harmonious pairings.

With an adaptable ability to meld into casual to formal settings, it's no wonder dunewood whitewashed dining tables remain sought-after statement pieces. When thoughtfully paired with decor and surroundings that play up light airy patinas, they cultivate easygoing yet elevated dining experiences perfect for making memories.

Through considerations ranging from quality craftsmanship to accessorizing with intention, a dunewood whitewashed dining table becomes an heirloom fixture vs just another furniture purchase. As tastemakers embrace understated finishes and natural imperfections, this versatile table style only increases in staying power for years more to come.