Practical Tips for Furnishing a Functional Dining Room

Est. Reading Time: 10 Mins

The dining room is one of the most important spaces in any home. It is where you share everyday meals, celebrate milestones, and welcome friends and family to the table. Choosing the right dining room furniture can feel overwhelming with so many styles, sizes, and customization options available.

According to Michelle MacLellan, interior designer at La-Z-Boy Hunt Club, “Your dining room should work for everyday life, but also rise to the occasion when you host. A well-chosen dining table and the right seating can transform how a space feels and how people connect in it.”

At La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau & Kingston, we carry a wide selection of dining furniture from Canadel Custom Dining, American Drew, Hammary, and Kincaid, as well as La-Z-Boy’s own dining lines. Whether you are drawn to farmhouse warmth, modern industrial sleekness, or classic heirloom wood construction, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know before buying.

Key Takeaways:

• La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau & Kingston offer customizable and ready-made dining furniture from trusted brands like Canadel, American Drew, Hammary, and Kincaid.
• Canadel Custom Dining stands out for its made-to-order tables, chairs, benches, and storage options.
• Dining room furniture includes tables, chairs, benches, stools, dining sets, buffets, bar carts, and décor pieces.
• Prices vary. Dining tables at La-Z-Boy start at about $1,300 and can climb to $7,000+ depending on size, finish, and customization.
• The best table shape and size depend on your room’s dimensions and how many people you regularly host.
• Local showrooms in Ottawa, Gatineau, and Kingston allow you to see finishes in person and take sit-tests for comfort and scale.
  
  

In this Article...

1. What Should You Consider When Planning Your Dining Room?
2. Which Dining Table is Right for You?
3. What Seating Options Are Best?
4. Should You Buy a Dining Set or Mix & Match?
5. Do You Need Buffets, Sideboards & Bar Carts?
6. How Can Décor & Accessories Enhance Your Space?
7. What Dining Furniture Does Canadel Offer?
8. What Dining Furniture Does La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau & Kingston Offer?

What Should You Consider When Planning Your Dining Room?

Designing or redesigning a dining room is about more than just picking a table and chairs. The right choices strike a balance between space, functionality, style, and budget, ensuring the room feels inviting.

What Furniture Should Go in a Dining Room?

Every dining room begins with a table and seating, but that is only the foundation. Larger spaces may also include a buffet or sideboard for storage, while smaller dining areas might use a bench to maximize seating. Accessories, such as lighting, rugs, and artwork, tie the space together and lend it personality.

Michelle often reminds her clients that “a dining room is not just a table with chairs. The supporting pieces, like a buffet for storage or the right lighting overhead, are what make the room functional and inviting.”

How Much Space Do You Really Need?

Scale is one of the biggest challenges in furnishing a dining space. Too small, and the room feels empty. Too large, and guests struggle to move around. Follow these guidelines to get it right:

• Leave at least 36 to 42 inches (90 to 105 cm) between the edge of the table and any wall or furniture.
• Provide about 24 inches (60 cm) of table width per diner.
• A 48-inch round table seats four, while a 60-inch round can accommodate six to eight.
• Rectangular tables suit long or narrow rooms, but need to be proportionate.

Michelle suggests an easy trick before buying: “Use painter’s tape on the floor to mark out the dimensions of the table you’re considering. That way, you can walk around it and really see how it fits your space.”

How Will You Use the Space?

The way you intend to use the dining room should shape your choices. Families who gather at the table daily need durable finishes and easy-to-clean seating. A dining room reserved for holidays or formal entertaining might lean toward statement pieces in richer woods or more decorative fabrics.

Some homeowners even use their dining room table for work or school projects, which calls for sturdier surfaces and possibly extendable tables. Michelle notes: “Families often want a dining room that can flex with their needs. It might be casual for weeknight dinners, but elegant enough to host friends on the weekend.”

What Dining Style Should You Choose?

Your dining room is one of the best places to showcase your personality. Some of the most popular styles include:

• Farmhouse or rustic: distressed wood, warm tones, simple lines
• Modern or contemporary: glass tops, sleek finishes, bold shapes
• Industrial: dark woods mixed with metals and angular bases
• Traditional: carved details, rich stains, timeless elegance
• Transitional: blends the warmth of tradition with modern simplicity

Michelle encourages her clients to mix and match styles: “Your dining room doesn’t have to be matchy-matchy. Pairing different finishes or chair styles makes the space more dynamic.”

How Much Should You Budget for Dining Room Furniture?

Budgeting for a dining room should consider the entire space, not just the table. Beyond the main centrepiece, you may also need to account for seating, storage furniture, décor, and accessories. 

To learn more about the Cost to Furnish a Dining Room, take a look at this article.

The total cost can vary greatly depending on the brands you choose, the level of customization, and the number of pieces you want in the room. Setting a clear spending range early on helps you narrow your choices and prevents surprises once you start comparing options in the showroom.

When shopping at La-Z-Boy, you’ll need to take into account the higher price range for furniture, which includes dining room furniture. To learn more about the Quality of our Dining Furniture, take a look at this article.

Which Dining Table is Right For You?

Choosing the right dining table is one of the most important decisions you will make when furnishing your dining room. The table is the anchor of the space, setting the tone for both everyday meals and special occasions.

What Size Dining Table Should I Buy?

The size of your dining table should reflect both the dimensions of your dining room and the number of people you want to seat. For smaller families, a compact table that comfortably seats four may be enough, while larger households or frequent entertainers should consider a table that seats six, eight, or even more.

Michelle MacLellan recommends planning for more than your day-to-day use. “You may only have four people in your household, but think about holidays or birthdays. An extendable table that grows with your guest list is often the most practical choice.”

What Shape Dining Table Works Best in My Space?

The shape of your table should coordinate with the layout of your room. Rectangular tables work well in long or narrow dining areas, while a round table creates a sense of intimacy and works beautifully in square rooms. An oval table can soften the look of a rectangular room, and square tables are a smart solution for compact dining areas.

To learn more about What Dining Table Shape and Size is Right for You, take a look at this article.

What Style of Dining Table Should I Choose?

Your dining table helps set the style of the entire room. Wooden tables with natural finishes convey warmth and tradition, while glass or marble tables feel sleek and contemporary. Metal bases or mixed-material designs often give a more industrial or modern feel.

Michelle notes that style is often about lifestyle: “If you have a young family, look for durable finishes that can handle spills and scratches. If you love to entertain, you might prioritize a statement piece that really anchors the room.”

To learn more about Dining Room Table Styles, take a look at this article.

What is the Quality of a Good Dining Table?

Quality is determined by the materials, craftsmanship, and durability of the table. Solid hardwoods such as maple, oak, or walnut are built to last, while engineered woods or veneers can offer a lower-cost option without sacrificing style. 

Pay attention to joinery and stability, as a well-made table should feel sturdy and remain level even after years of use. 

How Much Does a Dining Table Cost?

The cost of a dining table varies widely. As mentioned above, dining tables typically start at $1,300 and can reach $7,000 or more depending on size, material, and customization options. For fully custom Canadel tables, the price reflects the flexibility to choose everything from the tabletop finish to the leg design and base style.

This is taking into account all of the factors mentioned above, as well as the custom options and craftsmanship at Canadel, Hammary and American Drew.

To learn more about How Much a Dining Table Costs, take a look at this article.

What Seating Options Are Best for a Dining Room?

Once you have chosen a dining table, the next step is deciding on the right seating. The chairs, benches, or stools you choose not only affect comfort but also define the overall style of your dining space.

What Type of Dining Chairs Should I Buy?

Dining chairs are the most traditional seating option and remain the most popular. You will need to consider the size, style, and upholstery of your chairs. Upholstered chairs bring softness and comfort to longer meals but may require more care, while solid wood or non-upholstered chairs are easier to clean and maintain.

Michelle explains that “chairs are where comfort really matters. If you like to linger around the table, upholstered chairs can make the dining experience feel more inviting. If you need something more practical, wood or metal chairs can be a better choice.”

Are Dining Benches a Good Option?

A dining bench can be a stylish and space-saving alternative to chairs. Benches are ideal for casual spaces and are especially useful in smaller dining rooms where you want to seat more people without adding bulk. They also work well on one side of a rectangular table, paired with chairs on the other sides.

The trade-off is that benches often lack back support, making them less comfortable for long dinners. They also take up more space when pulled out, so they fit best in rooms with some flexibility.

To learn more about the comparison between Dining Chairs vs. Dining Benches, take a look at this article.

Should I Use Stools in My Dining Room?

Stools are most common with counter-height or bar-height dining tables. They add variety to seating arrangements and work well in open-concept spaces where the dining area blends into the kitchen. When choosing stools, make sure the height matches your table so there is enough clearance for comfort.

Michelle notes that stools can be more versatile than many people think. “Stools aren’t just for bars or counters. They can be an attractive option at a high-top dining table, especially in more modern or industrial spaces.”

To learn more about How to Choose the Right Stool Height, take a look at this article.

How Much Do Dining Chairs and Benches Cost?

The cost of seating depends on materials, customization, and design. At La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau & Kingston:

• Dining chairs often start around a few hundred dollars each, with premium upholstered options costing more.
• Benches typically begin around $500 and increase with size and finish.
• Stools are usually comparable in price to chairs, depending on the style.

Because seating usually requires multiple pieces, it is important to factor in the total cost of the set, not just individual prices. A table may feel like the biggest investment, but chairs and benches can add significantly to your overall budget.

To learn more about How Much a Dining Chair Costs, take a look at this article.

Should You Buy a Dining Set or Mix & Match?

Buying dining furniture often comes down to two approaches: investing in a pre-selected set or curating your own look by combining different tables and seating. Each option has benefits, depending on your lifestyle and design preferences.

What Are the Advantages of Buying a Dining Set?

A dining set offers convenience and consistency. All of the pieces are designed to coordinate, which takes the guesswork out of shopping. This option is often appealing for people who want a room that feels cohesive and ready to use right away. Sets can also provide better value when purchased together rather than as individual pieces.

Michelle explains, “Dining sets are ideal for clients who want a put-together space without the stress of choosing every detail. They ensure harmony in style, scale, and finish.”

What Are the Benefits of Mixing and Matching?

Mixing and matching allows for more personalization and creativity. Instead of a uniform look, you can pair a rustic wooden table with modern upholstered chairs or combine metal stools with a farmhouse bench. This approach can make your dining room feel more unique and less like it came directly from a catalogue.

Michelle encourages clients to experiment: “Mixing materials and chair styles makes a dining room feel collected over time. It adds personality and often tells more of a story about the homeowner.”

Which Option is Right For You?

If you prefer convenience and a guaranteed sense of cohesion, a dining set may be the better choice. If you want a space that feels more custom and expressive, mixing and matching gives you the flexibility to design around your personality and lifestyle.

At La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau & Kingston, you can find both approaches. Canadel Custom Dining allows you to create a unique combination of tables, chairs, and finishes, while ready-made collections from American Drew, Hammary, and Kincaid provide beautiful pre-designed options.

Do You Need Buffets, Sideboards & Bar Carts?

While a dining table and seating are the main elements of any dining room, storage and accent pieces can elevate the space both in function and style. Buffets, sideboards, and bar carts add convenience, organization, and personality to your dining area.

What is the Purpose of a Buffet or Sideboard?

A buffet or sideboard is a low, wide storage piece that provides space for dinnerware, linens, or serving platters. Beyond functionality, it also acts as an additional serving surface during meals or parties. Many homeowners use a buffet as a decorative focal point, styling it with artwork, lamps, or seasonal décor.

Michelle MacLellan explains, “Adding a buffet or sideboard brings balance to the room. It gives you storage for practical items but also creates a surface where you can express your style.”

Are Bar Carts Worth Adding to a Dining Room?

Bar carts have become popular for their mix of style and utility. They are mobile, compact, and perfect for entertaining. A bar cart can hold glassware, liquor, and accessories, making it easy to move drinks and supplies wherever they are needed. 

Even if you do not frequently host, a cart can double as a decorative piece styled with plants, books, or serving trays.

How Much Do Buffets and Bar Carts Cost?

At La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau and Kingston, buffets generally start around $1,000 while bar carts begin closer to $500. The price depends on the materials, size, and any customization options. Investing in one of these pieces can extend the functionality of your dining room and bring a polished, finished look to the space.

How Can Decor & Accessories Enhance Your Space?

Once the main furniture pieces are in place, décor and accessories bring character and warmth to a dining room. They create layers of texture, add visual balance, and make the room feel lived-in.

To learn more about Dining Room Decor Tips, take a look at this article.

Should You Add a Rug to Your Dining Room?

An area rug can define your dining space, especially in open-concept homes. It adds softness underfoot and helps anchor the table and chairs. Choose a rug that extends at least 24 inches beyond the edges of the table so chairs remain on the rug even when pulled out. Look for low-pile, stain-resistant materials that are easy to clean, since spills are inevitable in a dining space.

Michelle MacLellan recommends rugs for most dining rooms: “A rug grounds the furniture and gives the room a more finished look. Just make sure it is durable enough to handle chairs moving back and forth every day.”

To learn more about whether Area Rugs Belong in a Dining Room, take a look at this article.

What Lighting Works Best in a Dining Room?

Lighting sets the mood in a dining space. A chandelier or pendant light centred above the table creates a focal point, while dimmer switches allow you to adjust brightness for different occasions. Additional sources, such as wall sconces, floor lamps, or recessed lighting, can add ambiance and make the room feel more inviting.

How Can Window Coverings Improve a Dining Room?

Curtains, drapes, or blinds do more than provide privacy. They soften the look of a room, control natural light, and add colour or pattern. Choosing fabrics that coordinate with your dining chairs or rug helps tie the entire space together.

What Wall Decor Belongs in a Dining Room?

Dining rooms benefit from artwork, mirrors, or gallery walls that create visual interest. A large mirror can make the space feel larger and brighter, while bold art pieces give the room personality. Family photos or curated prints also work well, making the room feel personal and welcoming.

How Much Do Decor and Accessories Cost?

The cost depends on the scale and quality of the pieces you choose. Rugs may range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, lighting fixtures start around $100 but can climb much higher, and artwork varies widely depending on whether it is mass-produced or custom. 

The important thing is to select items that feel authentic to your home and complement your furniture investment.

What Dining Furniture Does Canadel Offer?

Canadel dining furniture is available at La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau and Kingston, featuring a dedicated Canadel Custom Dining Store in Kanata. 

Known for its high-quality craftsmanship and exceptional customization options, Canadel specializes exclusively in dining room furniture that blends design flexibility with lasting durability. Each piece is handcrafted and manufactured in North America, ensuring both beauty and longevity.

Canadel Dining Selection

Canadel offers a wide range of customizable dining products, collections, and styles. This includes dining tables, chairs, benches, stools, and buffets, each available in multiple configurations, finishes, and sizes to fit your home and lifestyle.

Michelle highlights what makes the brand stand out, “Canadel is one of those rare brands that lets you create a piece that feels entirely personal. You can match it to your space, your family’s needs, and your design taste, right down to the smallest detail.”

Here’s an overview of Canadel’s most popular collections:

• Core Collection: This collection combines timeless craftsmanship with endless configuration possibilities.
• Gourmet Collection: Simple, refined designs inspired by European dining furniture, perfect for elegant and versatile spaces.
• Downtown Collection: An ultra-modern collection with sleek lines, geometric silhouettes, and a bold architectural look.
• Champlain Collection: A rustic, cottage-inspired collection that features distressed finishes and warm, handcrafted details.
• Loft Collection: A modern industrial style that uses darker wood tones, matte textures, and metal accents.
• Modern Collection: Canadel’s newest addition, blending minimalist design and contemporary sophistication.

Canadel Furniture Customization

Canadel’s true strength lies in its customization. With millions of possible combinations, homeowners can design a one-of-a-kind dining set that fits their exact needs. Everything from the tabletop shape and finish colour to leg style, chair fabric, and nailhead trim can be personalized.

Michelle notes that “when a client chooses Canadel, they’re not just buying a table. They’re designing a piece that reflects their family and how they live. That’s what makes it so special.”

To explore the full range of customization options, visit the Canadel Custom Dining Store in Kanata.

Canadel also has a customization tool called the UDesign Tool, which allows anyone to see customizations before purchasing anything. To learn How to Use the Canadel UDesign Tool, take a look at this article.

What Dining Furniture Does La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau and Kingston Offer?

In addition to Canadel Custom Dining, La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau & Kingston carry a selection of dining furniture from other respected manufacturers. Each brand brings its own unique style, allowing you to choose pieces that best match your home and lifestyle.

What Dining Furniture Does Kincaid Make?

Kincaid is well known for its commitment to solid wood furniture crafted from its most natural form. Their dining collection includes tables, chairs, storage pieces, and upholstered seating designed to stand the test of time. With heirloom-quality construction, Kincaid is ideal for homeowners looking for durability and timeless appeal.

What Dining Furniture Does American Drew Make?

American Drew creates versatile, stylish pieces that bridge traditional and contemporary design. Their dining room collections include tables, chairs, stools, and storage options, all designed with an emphasis on both function and fashion. 

Many American Drew pieces feature timeless silhouettes updated with today’s finishes, making them adaptable for a wide range of interiors.

What Dining Furniture Does Hammary Make?

Hammary is best known for its unique accent furniture, but it also offers a variety of dining pieces. Among its most popular offerings is the Hidden Treasures® Collection, which showcases one-of-a-kind designs inspired by furniture styles from around the world. 

For homeowners who want something distinctive, Hammary provides options that bring character and conversation into the dining space.

What Dining Furniture Does La-Z-Boy's Own Brand Include?

Beyond these partner manufacturers, La-Z-Boy’s own dining lines include a curated selection of tables, chairs, barstools, and storage furniture. Many of these pieces are designed to coordinate with La-Z-Boy’s living room collections, helping create a cohesive look across open-concept spaces.

Michelle explains the advantage of having multiple brands under one roof, “When clients shop with us, they’re not locked into a single look or price point. We can guide them toward Kincaid if they want heirloom solid wood, Hammary if they want something unique, or Canadel if they’re looking for customization. It gives people the flexibility to find exactly what works for them.”

What's Next?

Now that you have a comprehensive understanding of what to consider when furnishing your dining room, you are well-equipped to make informed decisions. Whether you choose to shop at Canadel Custom Dining or La-Z-Boy, our sales consultants are ready to help you find the perfect dining furniture arrangement that fits your size, style, quality, and budget needs.

If you’d like to browse our furniture selection in person, visit one of our La-Z Boy Ottawa, Gatineau or Kingston stores today or schedule a visit online before coming in. 

Our sales consultants are always eager to lend a helping hand. Not only are they trained in knowing the large variety of furniture offered at La-Z-Boy, but they are also experts in furniture fitting and design.

You can also take advantage of our complimentary interior design services to see how our living room furniture could fit in your home.

Related Articles

Cost to Reupholster a Chair

Dining Chairs vs Benches: What's the Difference?

What Size Dining Table is Right for My Space?