Tables Have Changed - Downsizing, Tiny Homes, and Lifestyles Are To Blame
The dining table has been a significant piece of furniture, that has held a special place in our homes. It is where families gather to share meals, where friends come together to celebrate, and where memories are made. But I genuinely think about the functionality of the dining table and how it has evolved over the years.
In the early days, dining tables were simple and functional. Probably a good hunk of wood with four legs, nothing more, nothing less. The tables had a pretty basic design. The primary function of the dining table was to provide a place to eat meals, nothing more, nothing less. However, as time went on, the dining table began to take on more of a multi-functional role in the home.
In the 18th century, dining tables started to become more elaborate. They were often made of expensive materials like mahogany and featured intricate carvings and designs. The dining table became a status symbol, a way for the wealthy to show off their wealth and social standing. Tables had carved lions feed for its base along with other elegant detailed carvings.
Fast forward to the present day, and the dining table has undergone a transformation. A table is no longer just a solid piece of mahogany showcased with elegant carvings, and on top of that, it is no longer just a place to eat a meal anymore. The dining table was a focal point in many homes, but now, with the rise of people downsizing or moving into tiny homes, dining tables are often a place where people do homework, work on their laptops, and even do arts and crafts, and they are not usually a huge chunk of wood anymore. A lot of people want lightweight table options that they can move around the home or even easily deliver into the home without having a whole delivery team fumble it through the front door and possibly break something. As many benefits as a solid wood piece of furniture has, its significant weight and size are just something many people don’t appreciate as much anymore.
Contemporary dining tables come in a variety of styles and materials. From sleek glass tables to rustic farmhouse tables, there is a dining table to suit every taste and aesthetic. With the rise of the options on the internet, you can now get something lightweight and personalized to fit your unique style and needs. Tables can be as small as an end table and as light as a laptop. Some have wheels, some have glides, and some only have three legs.
The evolution of the dining table doesn't stop there. With the advancement of technology, dining tables are now being designed with transformational options. From tables that can extend to accommodate extra guests, tables with built-in charging stations, to tables that tuck away completely so they don’t have to stay in the middle of the home and feel like they take up a significant part of the home with its large size.
The history of the dining table is a fascinating journey that reflects the changing dynamics of our homes and lifestyles. From the status symbol that it once was to the now transformational piece of furniture that takes up many roles within the family, It’s no wonder why there are so many different prices for what seems like such a simple table. What do you find the most interesting aspect about dining tables today?