Generally thought to be comprised of a small table and either two or four chairs, dinette sets are made to fit into a small kitchen or breakfast nook. Suitable for a quick lunch or breakfast for two to four people, they are very functional where space is at a premium.
When thinking of dinette sets, your mind may immediately go to the style of dining table popular in the 50's and 60's. These are still out there and going strong. Usually made with metal legs on the chairs and table, the tops today are a vinyl laminate with vinyl chair seats. These sets are generally available in bright colors such as red, yellow, or even black.
Folding Counter Stools
A more unique version of a retro set is a style that looks like a soda shop booth. With a rectangular table sitting in the midst of chairs shaped to fit inside a corner and another bench for the outside seats, this one will add a huge amount of attitude to any dining area.
Besides the retro sets with their bright primary colors, today's small table and chair sets are made of a variety of materials, including stained, painted or natural wood, tables with round or square glass tops, and sets featuring wrought iron and upholstery.
There are many styles of dinette sets as well. One popular style, the drop leaf table, is an old favorite and is quite functional in a small space since the leaves can be put up and down as necessary to make a larger table. Often only having two chairs, this style is perfect for an area along a wall and adds country flair to your kitchen. For more country style with a bit more seating, consider a rectangular table with two chairs on one side, chairs on either end and a bench on the fourth side.
Pedestal tables with chairs on casters are a good choice for areas with flooring that will allow the casters to roll easily. There are sets available that look like they could be folded up and stashed in the closet and ones with lots of metal and glass for a very modern accent to any small dining area.
If you want to move up in the world, dinette sets featuring counter height tables and stools may be just what you're looking for. Performing double service, these tables can be used to add extra counter space in a small kitchen allowing the cook to create a gourmet meal in a tiny work space. Reset for eating, meals can then easily be served in the same area. Everyone will wonder how she does it!
A trip to your local dining room furniture store will surely be an eye opener as you'll see aisle after aisle of functional and stylish dinette sets, suitable for almost any kitchen, breakfast nook or small porch. Big on attitude yet small in stature, they are designed to fit into a small area and yet perform like a champ.
