Dimensions for Built-In Kitchen Booths

Adding a booth to the kitchen is an ideal way to increase the space available for eating and entertaining. These table styles are frequently found in French country or rustic style homes, but if designed properly will work for just about any style. The size and specific dimensions will vary greatly depending on the size of the space and how many people it is intended to seat. To aid in determining the best size for built-in tables, a few guidelines are essential. Does this Spark an idea?

Benches

Bench length is going to be where the most size diversity exists. A bench that is between 42 and 52 inches long will comfortably seat two adults. Arranging a booth-style table with one 48-inch bench on both sides will work for a family with two adults and three children. Benches should ideally be approximately 18 inches high and at least 17 1/2 inches deep, but no more than 20 inches. A corner or built-in booth will require similar measurements, but wont require as much space to move seats in and out.

Tables

The average height of a table, regardless of style, is approximately 30 inches. This measurement is adjustable depending on individual needs, but is standard to most commercially produced furniture. The length or circumference, depending on if the table is square or round, will vary greatly. If kitchen, nook or dining room space is limited, an expandable table top with a removable leaf is an ideal addition. These pieces are perfect for entertaining, as they are added and removed as needed. This extra space will require an added bench or spare chairs.

Place Settings

A place setting is the measurement that determines how many people the table will sit. An individual place setting should give at least 24 inches of width, but 30 inches is preferable. This additional space will make room for comfortable seating and allow for movement as needed without feeling cramped. For example, a table intended to seat four people, two on each side, will require a width of at least 60 inches. The length will work on a similar idea but varies depending on the intended seating arrangement. A table intended to seat people along one side should be at least 21 inches long, or 42 inches long for seating along both sides.

Spacing and Additions

To keep a built-in booth table comfortable and functioning properly, there should be a minimum of 4 feet of clearance on all open sides. This will allow for easy movement throughout the room, and will permit chairs to be pushed out completely if used. The website breakfastnookset.com recommends that the shape of the table mirror the shape of the room. Though traditional bench tables are rectangular, a round or oval table is sometimes more appropriate for the space and usually require less room -- usually just 3 feet of space should be allowed on either side. This is a suitable alternative when space is minimal. Add hinged tops or drawers to the benches, as their thick style makes them ideal for storage of arts and crafts supplies, extra napkins or other goods. This is an especially good addition to a home with young children. Keep the seats comfortable, with seat cushions made with a stain-resistant, machine-washable fabric.