What dining table material is best?

Solid hardwoods like Parota, Acacia, and Walnut are the best choices for durability and longevity. They can be refinished and handle daily wear better than softwoods or glass.

Is solid wood better than veneer?

For long-term value and durability, yes. Solid wood can be repaired and lasts for generations, while veneer is a temporary solution that cannot be easily fixed.

Should I choose live edge or straight edge?

Choose live edge if you want a unique, organic statement piece that highlights nature. Choose straight edge for a cleaner, more traditional or modern minimalist look.

How to Choose a Dining Table

Choosing a dining table isn’t just about style. It’s about how you live, how you gather, and how the space needs to function day to day.

At Urbis Concepts, we design solid wood tables to be lived with for decades, not replaced every few years. This guide walks through the key decisions that matter most.

1. Start With How You Use the Space

Ask yourself:

Is this table for daily meals or hosting?
Do you need flexibility or permanence?
Is the room open or constrained?

Daily-use homes benefit from durable hardwoods and forgiving finishes. Entertaining-focused homes often prioritize size and visual impact.

2. Choose the Right Material

Solid wood outperforms veneer in longevity, repairability, and character. Live edge tables showcase the natural shape of the tree, while straight edge designs offer a cleaner, more architectural look.

If you want a deeper comparison, see our Solid Wood vs Veneer guide.

3. Get the Size Right

Table size affects comfort more than aesthetics. Too large overwhelms a room. Too small limits use.

Refer to our Dining Table Size Guide before committing.

4. Match the Table to the Room

Condos and apartments often benefit from round or narrower profiles
Open dining rooms can support longer statement pieces
Families should prioritize scratch resistance and easy maintenance

5. Think Long-Term

A solid wood dining table should age well. Natural movement, subtle markings, and patina are features, not flaws.

Written & Verified By

The Urbis Workshop Team

Our guides are written by real woodworkers, not AI. We draw from years of experience sourcing sustainable Parota slabs in Mexico and finishing them in our Toronto workshop. We believe in transparency, craftsmanship, and furniture that lasts generations.