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Counter Height Table Vs Standard

The main difference between a counter height table vs standard is the height. A counter height table is between 34 to 36 inches tall while a standard height table is between 28 to 30 inches tall. But that extra few inches can make a big difference in both style and functionality. Along with a taller table also comes high chairs to match. Which can feel strange if you’re not tall enough to sit comfortably in them or are used to traditional seating. Tall chairs can also pose a problem if there are children or elderly in the house because they can be harder to get in and out of.

Standard height tables are designed for sitting and eating. They’re the traditional table height most people are used to. But counter height tables can be better for entertaining. 34 – 36 Inches is just the right height for placing snacks and drinks.

Counter height tables are better if guests are standing at a party rather than seated.

The higher chair height of a counter height table is more casual while standard height seating is more formal.

There are no hard interior design rules that govern table height. Your design style, space, ceiling height and comfort should be the primary considerations when choosing between a standard height table vs a countertop height table. While a standard table height and matching chairs may be the best choice for most homes, there are plenty of other options.

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What Is A Standard Height Table?

A standard height table is between 28 to 30 inches tall. This includes dining, kitchen, breakfast, formal dining and patio tables. Along with a standard height table comes regular chairs that are about 18 inches from floor to seat.

Standard height tables are designed for sitting and eating. If you want a traditional table for a kitchen or dining room, you’ll probably want standard height.

A standard height table is what you’ll likely find in most homes and restaurants. This is the standard height for a table that’s designed for sitting and eating. They comfortably accommodate children and adults of different heights, as well as wheelchair users.

As a rule of thumb, standard height table chairs should have between 8 and 12 inches of legroom between the seat and the bottom of the table. This is why they use an 18 inch high chair.

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What Is A Counter Height Table?

A counter height table is between 34 to 36 inches tall. It comes with matching counter height chairs, stools, and/or benches that are around 24 inches from floor to seat. Counter height tables are chairs are about 6 inches taller than standard.

Counter height tables are more casual and modern. They’re designed for use while seated or standing and don’t even need traditional chairs to be comfortable. Many people use them with stools instead.

Countertop height tables match the standard height of a kitchen counter which is 34 to 36 inches tall.

If your home has high ceilings or you prefer a more casual look, a counter height table might be the best choice.

Counter height is a better height vs standard for guests to set drinks or plates on if they’re standing rather than seated and eating. Moreover, a counter height table usually takes up a smaller footprint and often uses stools instead of chairs, making it a good choice for smaller spaces.

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What’s The Difference Between Standard & Counter Height Tables?

The main difference between a counter height table vs standard is the height. A counter height table is between 34 to 36 inches tall while a standard height table is between 28 to 30 inches tall. On average, a counter height table is 6 inches taller than a standard height. That height difference also applies to the chairs which are sized to match the table height. And because the chairs are about 6 inches taller than standard, you can use stools instead.

The other big difference between standard and counter height tables is function.

  • A standard height table is designed for traditional sitting and eating.
  • A counter height table can be used either standing or sitting.

Because counter height tables are so high, they’re comfortable to use at a standing room party. This makes them very versatile. You can remove the chairs and use the table as a traditional countertop for resting drinks or food.

Because you can use stools with a counter height table even the chairs become more versatile. Stools are easier to move around a home if you need more casual seating at parties.

In terms of style, standard height tables are more traditional while counter height is casual and more modern.

When it comes to build quality or materials, the height makes no difference. You can get either height table in wood, metal, stone, concrete and/or plastic. The quality of the table depends on the manufacturer and its design, height has no bearing.

However, higher end dining tables tend to be standard height because they’re considered more formal. Most people don’t buy an expensive formal dining table at countertop height.

Advantages Of A Counter Height Table

Standard height tables are designed for sitting and eating. They’re traditional and what people are used to when they think of a dining or kitchen table. But countertop height tables are more modern and multi-functional. They’re great for entertaining when guests are either sitting or standing. The height is perfect for placing drinks or snacks out for a party. This is something you lose with a standard height table that just becomes bulky and in the way.

Not every room calls for a formal dining table.

  • A counter height dining table feels more casual and gives you the option of stools instead of regular chairs.
  • Counter height tables are better proportioned in rooms with high ceilings.
  • Great for creating a second dining area in a home, like a breakfast nook or coffee bar.
  • Can double as a counter for drinks, food or entertaining.
  • Chairs are more informal and can be used in other areas of the room at parties.
  • Great for open floor plan shared areas like kitchen/living rooms.

Counter height tables are more versatile than a standard height which is just for sitting and eating. This is a nice advantage in small homes that benefit from versatile furniture that can be moved around. Traditional dining tables in a small space can end up feeling bulky and in the way.

Stools are a great advantage to counter height tables. They’re easy to spread around a room at parties when the table becomes a serving counter.

Counter Height Tables Are More Versatile

Which table height is best for your home should be based on the usage of your table. Is it a functional table where you sit and eat daily, or will it be pulled out and moved around for special occasions and parties?

Some homes benefit more from a traditional table and chairs that never move. But some spaces work better with more versatile furniture that can be re-positioned at parties.

When you choose a table you also have to consider the chairs. Counter height tables come with taller chairs which are more informal. And you gain the option of using stools. This can be a big plus if you entertain a lot where people are standing or casually sitting rather than traditionally dining.

A very common thing to do with counter height tables is removing the chairs and pushing them against a wall or in a corner. Then using the table as a serving counter. This frees up space in the room and turns the table into a countertop. You don’t get this versatility with a regular height table.

The great thing about counter height tables is that they don’t even need chairs. They’re very comfortable to use while standing which is a huge benefit at standing room parties.

Do Counter Height Tables Come In Different Shapes?

Yes, counter height tables come in round, square, rectangle and oval just like standard height tables do. Each shape is designed to serve a slightly different function.

Round or square counter height tables work best in smaller spaces or nooks. If the tabletop is small enough or it has a pedestal base, you can use it to create a separate dining area in areas like a game room. Counter height stools can be pushed under the table to save on space or scattered around the room.

The great thing about counter height tables is that they can be used even without chairs.

In a dedicated dining space, oval and rectangle are the most popular table shapes. But a large round or square table can also work great if the room is square.

A rectangular or oval counter height table is great for filling long, narrow rooms. Many also come with a leaf which is great if you have large gatherings.

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Why Choose A Standard Height Table Vs Countertop?

Standard height tables are set at the perfect height for sitting and eating. They’re what most people think of when picturing a dining or kitchen table. And they’re what you’ll find at just about every restaurant. If the purpose of your table is dining, standard height is best.

When you sit at a standard height table in a regular chair, most people will have both feet planted on the floor. This is harder to do with a counter height table because the chairs are 6 inches taller. That can be uncomfortable for many people.

Standard height chairs are easier to get in and out of for most people. Especially children. And the extra height of a counter height table and chairs can be more dangerous.

If your home has low hanging light fixtures it’s better to use a standard height table. Most chandeliers are set to match a 30 inch high table. Using a countertop height would look odd.

Standard height tables are better for formal dining rooms and homes where the table won’t be moved much. If you’re buying a table for a nook or eating area in a kitchen and want a permanent table, go with standard height.

Countertop height tables are better for casual spaces, apartments or odd areas like a game room. They also work well in open homes with shared areas like a kitchen/living room.

Summary: Counter Height Table Vs Standard

The main difference between a counter height table vs standard is the height. A counter height table is between 34 to 36 inches tall while a standard height table is between 28 to 30 inches tall. But that extra few inches can make a big difference in both style and functionality. Along with a taller table also comes high chairs to match. Which can feel strange if you’re not tall enough to sit comfortably in them or are used to traditional seating. Tall chairs can also pose a problem if there are children or elderly in the house because they can be harder to get in and out of.

Standard height tables are designed for sitting and eating. They’re the traditional table height most people are used to. But counter height tables can be better for entertaining. 34 – 36 Inches is just the right height for placing snacks and drinks.

Counter height tables are better if guests are standing at a party rather than seated.

The higher chair height of a counter height table is more casual while standard height seating is more formal.

There are no hard interior design rules that govern table height. Your design style, space, ceiling height and comfort should be the primary considerations when choosing between a standard height table vs a countertop height table. While a standard table height and matching chairs may be the best choice for most homes, there are plenty of other options.

If you have any questions or comments e-mail us any time.

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