Stylish Oval Tables with Seating for Six in the Kitchen

Oval kitchen tables provide a graceful, elegant look in any dining space. Their shape allows for easy conversation as all guests can see and interact with each other. Oval tables are especially well-suited for rectangular kitchens, softening hard edges and angles. When looking for an oval table to seat six people, there are several key factors to consider in order to find the perfect fit.

Measure Your Kitchen Area Carefully

Start by taking precise measurements of your kitchen's square footage as well as traffic areas and any architectural details. This will help determine the ideal oval table dimensions that will accommodate six chairs while allowing enough room to move around comfortably.

Consider the Table's Dimensions

Oval tables for six typically range from 60 to 72 inches long. A 60-inch table will have a more compact, intimate feel while still seating six. A 66-inch table is a comfortable standard size for six. For a more spacious, grand look, a 72-inch oval table is ideal.

Allow Room for Chairs and Traffic Flow

Be sure to leave a minimum of 36 inches for passing behind chairs. If the table is placed against a wall or corner, allow at least 60 inches on one side so diners can get in and out easily. Measure to make sure there's enough room to pull chairs out and sit comfortably.

Choose the Right Table Shape for Your Style

The pure oval shape has a refined, sophisticated look. For a softer visual, choose an oval table with rounded corners. Squared corners on the oval add a touch of transitional flair.

Consider a Pure Oval Shape

A pure oval dining table has a smooth, continuous edge all around. This creates an elegant, streamlined silhouette suitable for both traditional and contemporary kitchen decors.

Go for Rounded Corners

An oval table with rounded corners softens the edges visually. The curves add a more approachable, relaxed vibe. Rounded oval tables work with casual, rustic or cottage style kitchens.

Squared Corners Bring Transitional Look

Oval tables with squared corners provide a bit of angularity to soften the overall shape. This adaptable look blends well in transitional kitchens mixing traditional and contemporary elements.

Select the Right Table Material for Your Kitchen

Oval dining tables come in a variety of materials, each adding their own aesthetic. Choose a finish that coordinates well with your existing kitchen decor.

Warmth of Wood

A natural wood table brings beauty and warmth to the kitchen. Oak, walnut, ash and maple are popular choices. Wood grain patterns and natural variations make each table unique.

Elegance of Marble or Stone

For a touch of luxury, marble, granite or other stone oval tables are hardwearing and sleek. The veining patterns add visual depth and sophistication. Stone works well in upscale, glamorous kitchen designs.

Transparency of Glass

Glass dining tables keep things lightweight and transparent. A tempered glass oval table complements modern or contemporary kitchen styles. Some glass table tops showcase decorative materials underneath.

Sleek Metals

Metal oval tables with an iron, steel, brass or chrome finish bring an industrial vibe. The metal's patina adds an antique, weathered look over time. Metallic tables pair nicely with minimalist, modern kitchen decors.

Complement Your Kitchen with Creative Base Designs

An oval table's base significantly impacts the overall look and function. From simple pedestal columns to ornate metalwork, the base options are diverse.

Pedestal Base Maximizes Leg Room

A single pedestal base leaves the entire underside of the table open. With no table legs, a pedestal maximizes knee space. This airy, unobstructed look works well in smaller kitchens.

Four Legs Create Classic Look

Four sturdy legs, one at each corner, provide exceptional stability and support. This traditional base style matches with many kitchen aesthetics from farmhouse to contemporary.

X-Shaped Base Adds Flair

Two X-crossed bases connected in the center create visual drama. The architectural criss-cross design makes a sculptural style statement in modern or industrial kitchen spaces.

Artsy Trestle Base

Trestle table bases have large horizontal stretcher beams between two pairs of vertical legs. The open concept provides breezy style and plenty of foot room.

Coordinate Table Finish with Existing Kitchen

Choose an oval table finish that complements your current cabinetry and counters for a cohesive look. Opt for either matching or contrasting tones and textures.

Match Wood Finishes

Select a wooden table in the same stain or paint shade as your kitchen cabinets. Consistent finishes unite the decor. For example, pair an espresso-stained oval table with dark cherry cabinetry.

Pick Up Countertop Hues

Bring over tones from countertops into an oval table for a unified palette. For instance, pair creamy white marble counters with a light gray washed dining table.

Contrasting Textures

Make the oval table a tactile focal point by choosing a top with different texture than countertops. A rough wood tabletop contrasts beautifully with smooth granite counters.

Choose Complementing Chairs for Seating Six

The chairs surrounding an oval table significantly impact its look and function. From tufted armchairs to sleek benches, options abound for seating six.

Standard Dining Chairs

Armless side chairs with clean lines provide an adaptable, versatile seating option for oval tables. Upholstered, leather, wood or plastic chairs all work well.

Space-saving Bench Seating

Bench seating on one side of the table saves room. Three chairs on the opposite side create comfortable seating. The bench softens the table's linear edges.

Casual Stools

Backless counter height stools lend a casual, relaxed vibe. They allow for easy mobility and impromptu guests at an oval table.

Creative Features for Form and Function

Clever accents add form and function to oval tables. Built-in leaves, self-storing extensions and pull-out surfaces increase flexibility.

Extension Leaf

A standard separate leaf inserts into the middle to extend table length. Use for special gatherings with more guests. Store the leaf underneath when not needed.

Self-Storing Leaf

Some tables have an extension leaf cleverly built into the design. When pulled out from inside the apron, it extends table space as required.

Butterfly Leaf

Butterfly leaves are hinged folding extensions stored within each table half. When opened, the two leaves meet in the middle to expand table size.

Arranging Six Chairs Around the Oval

Planning out chair placement brings balance to oval tables. Using six chairs, you can create arrangements to work in different space configurations.

Four Chairs Along Sides

Placing four chairs along the long sides of the oval and one at each curved end creates symmetrical seating for six. This traditional arrangement works well in most kitchens.

Three Chairs Per Side

Another balanced option is three chairs along each side, with the oval's curves accommodating the staggered chairs. Keep about 48 inches between chairs.

Asymmetrical Arrangements

For a more casual or intimate feel, try four chairs along one side and two along the other. This flexible arrangement can suit small or irregular kitchen shapes.

Accessories to Complement the Oval Table

The right decor touches can really enhance an oval dining space. Creative textiles, centerpieces and lighting invite guests to linger longer.

Table Runners

A table runner down the table's center helps define the oval shape while adding color and texture. Try natural jute or colorful Chilewich designs.

Eye-catching Centerpieces

A gorgeous floral arrangement, vase of branches or bowl of fruit forms a focal point in the center. Candles also add warmth and glow to the oval table.

Textured Tablecloth

Layer on more visual interest with a textured tablecloth. Burlap, lace and embroidered cotton runners complement kitchen style.

Oval tables have many options for shape, materials and styling. When artfully arranged with six chairs, they create a welcoming space for lingering over meals. Consider your kitchen's dimensions, existing decor and aesthetic tastes when selecting the ideal oval dining table for six. Then adorn it with accessories that give it personality and purpose.