Indoor Tables

Features and types

Choosing an indoor table is not just a matter of style: the size of the room, the number of people who usually sit at it, and whether the table needs to transform for special occasions all matter. Our selection covers the three main categories that meet most household needs.

Fixed tables

A fixed table is the most solid choice for those with sufficient space and who want a stable piece of furniture without mechanisms. Fixed tops come in various shapes — rectangular, round, oval — and in materials ranging from solid wood to tempered glass, right through to lacquered surfaces or scratch-resistant HPL. They are ideal for a dedicated dining room, where the table is barely moved. You can explore the dedicated category by visiting the section fixed tables, which brings together models without an extension system.

Extending tables

Extending tables are the most practical solution for those living in medium-sized spaces who want the flexibility to host more people when needed — Sunday lunches, dinners with friends, family celebrations. The extension mechanism (butterfly, folding, with central pull-out extension) is hidden under the top and does not compromise everyday aesthetics. When looking for a model, always check the maximum length with the extensions: the difference between a 160 cm table and a 240 cm table when opened is substantial in terms of space required in the room.

Tabletop materials: what changes in practice

The material of the top affects resistance, maintenance and visual appearance over time.

• Wood (solid or veneered): natural warmth, small scratches can be sanded over time; requires avoiding water pooling.
• Tempered glass: visually light, makes small rooms feel more spacious; needs frequent cleaning for fingerprints.
• Lacquered / lacquered MDF: smooth surface, crisp colours, excellent for contemporary styles; sensitive to impact damage on edges.
• HPL (high-pressure laminate): highly resistant to heat and abrasion, easy to clean; commonly found in contract tables but increasingly present in residential settings.
• Metal / steel: usually used for bases, but sheet metal painted tops exist for an industrial look.

If you are interested in exploring flexibility in composition, in the section table bases and tops you will find modular solutions to build the table to the measurements you need.

How to choose the right indoor table

Measure the room first

The practical rule is this: at least 90 cm of clear space must remain around the table on every side so a person can pass comfortably. If your room is 3×4 m, a table of 140×80 cm is reasonably the maximum to stay comfortable. With larger rooms you have the freedom to choose larger formats.

How many people need to sit?

Calculate around 60 cm of width per seat. A rectangular table of 160 cm comfortably seats 6 people (3 per side); with an extension to 220 cm you can accommodate 8-10. For lunches and dinners with a large family, an extending table is almost always the right choice. Always pair the table with the right indoor chairs : seating height, padding and style must be consistent with your chosen table.

Fixed or extending: the point of view of someone who sells every day

We have noticed, working with our customers, that people often start convinced they want a large fixed table — "I use it all the time anyway" — and then realise that the room feels crowded in everyday use. Our practical advice: if you normally eat with 2-4 people but host 6-8 on special occasions, a medium extending table is almost always the most functional choice. If instead you already have a large family and the table is in daily use at full capacity, it is worth investing in a sturdy fixed one.

Style and pairings

The indoor table is the most visible piece of furniture in the dining room: your eye falls on it every time you enter. For a contemporary style, HPL or lacquered tops with painted metal legs work very well. For a warmer, more traditional setting, wood — even in a whitewashed or natural oak version — remains the standard.

FAQ — Frequently asked questions about indoor tables

What is the difference between a fixed and an extending table?

A fixed table has unchangeable dimensions: it is sturdy, with no mechanisms, and usually more economical for the same material. An extending table has one or more systems to add extensions (central or lateral) and increase seating capacity. The structure is more elaborate but in daily life the table is used at its minimum size, saving space.

How many cm of width are needed per person at the table?

The standard measurement is 60 cm per seat in width, and approximately 40 cm in depth. A table of 180×90 cm comfortably seats 6 people (2 at the short sides, 2 per long side).

Are extending tables less sturdy than fixed ones?

It depends on the quality of the mechanism. Models with a butterfly central extension (integrated under the top) are generally very stable even when open. Folding systems with separate extensions require more care in positioning. The advice is to always check that the legs or base properly support the top even at full extension.

Can I use an indoor table in a veranda or semi-outdoor space?

If the space is covered and not directly exposed to rain and sun, many indoor tables will work well. However, if the veranda is exposed to moisture or significant temperature fluctuations, it is preferable to opt for a model designed for outdoor use: you can find options in the section outdoor tables or among the outdoor extending tables, which use materials resistant to weather.

How to clean and maintain the table top?

• Wood: soft damp cloth, avoid water pooling; oil or wax periodically if it is natural unlacquered wood.
• Glass: neutral cleaner or specific glass product; dry immediately to avoid streaks.
• Lacquered / HPL: damp cloth with neutral cleaner; no abrasive or scratching sponges.
• Painted metal (legs): dry or slightly damp cloth; check for any chipping in the paint to avoid oxidation.

L'Arcolaio offers a continuously updated selection of indoor tables. Browse the product grid above to see availability and prices in real time.