How to Add Height to a Dining Table (Best Ways to Make Dining Tables Taller)

Is your dining table looking a little short? It’s not your imagination. Dining tables have gotten a lot taller over the years, and we’ve got some tips to help you make yours look as tall as it feels.

Key takeaways

• Table levelers are a simple and effective way to add height to a dining table. These adjustable devices can be attached to the table legs to raise or lower the table’s height and ensure that the table is level on uneven surfaces.
• Removing the table apron can create the illusion of a taller table, as it eliminates the visual obstruction and allows for more space underneath the table. However, it’s important to consider the table’s structural integrity and stability before removing the apron.
• Shortening the chairs in relation to the dining table may make the table appear taller. However, this process requires more involved modifications to the chair legs, seat height, and overall design.
• Chair cushions or seat pads are an easy and affordable way to increase the height of dining chairs. These come in various thicknesses and styles, and can be easily attached or tied to the chair seat.
• Chair leg extenders are a specially designed attachment that can be added to the bottom of chair legs to increase their height. These are typically made of metal or plastic and come in various heights, allowing you to choose the desired height increase for your chairs.

Ways to add height to a dining table

Extension risers

These are specially designed attachments that can be added to the bottom of the table legs to increase the height of the table. They usually come in various heights and are easy to install.

Table toppers

These are additional tabletops that can be placed on top of the existing dining table to increase its height. They can be made of wood, glass, or other materials and can be customized to fit the dimensions of your table.

Dining table top extension

This involves adding an extension piece to the existing tabletop, which can be attached securely to increase the height of the table. It can be made of the same material as the original tabletop to maintain consistency in appearance.

Dining table leg extender

This is an attachment that can be added to the bottom of the table legs to increase their height. They are typically made of metal or wood and can be adjusted to the desired height.

Shims

Shims are small pieces of material, such as wood or plastic, that can be inserted under the table legs to raise the height of the table. They can be stacked to achieve the desired height and are a cost-effective option.

Replace the table legs

If your dining table has removable legs, you can consider replacing them with longer legs to increase the height of the table. This may require some DIY skills or professional assistance.

Add a flooring platform

Creating a raised platform under the table by adding a wooden or metal frame and covering it with flooring material can effectively increase the height of the table. This can also provide an opportunity to add some design elements to the dining area.

Caster wheels

Adding caster wheels to the bottom of the table legs can increase the overall height of the table while providing mobility. This can be a convenient option if you need to move the table around frequently.

Bun feet

Bun feet are decorative feet that can be attached to the bottom of the table legs to increase the height and add a stylish element to the table. They are available in various styles and materials to match your table’s aesthetics.

Table: Pro and cons comparison of dining table height modification options

Why you should raise your dining table

• Comfortable seating: The height of a dining table affects the comfort of seating. If your table is too low, it can result in uncomfortable seating positions, causing strain on your back, neck, and shoulders. Raising the table to a more suitable height can improve the ergonomics of your dining area and make mealtime more enjoyable.
• Customization for individuals with specific needs: Some individuals may have specific physical needs that require a dining table at a higher height. For example, elderly individuals or those with mobility issues may find it easier to sit and stand from a taller table. Raising the table can accommodate their needs and enhance their dining experience.
• Design aesthetics: Changing the height of your dining table can be a design choice to enhance the overall aesthetics of your dining area. A taller table can create a more dramatic or formal look, while a lower table can create a more casual or relaxed ambiance. Raising the table can help you achieve the desired aesthetic for your dining space.
• Accommodating taller chairs or stools: If you have taller chairs or stools that you want to use with your dining table, raising the table height can ensure that the seating is at the appropriate level for comfortable use. This can be particularly relevant if you have a counter-height or bar-height table that requires taller seating.
• Multifunctional use: If you use your dining table for other purposes, such as a workspace, a higher table can provide a more comfortable and ergonomic height for those activities. Raising the table can make it more versatile and functional for different uses.
• Match with other furniture: If you have other furniture pieces in your dining area that are taller, such as a buffet table or a hutch, raising the dining table to a similar height can create a more cohesive and visually appealing look in your space.

What to consider when deciding to raise dining table

• Height requirements: Consider the desired height for your dining table. Measure the space where the table will be placed, and determine the appropriate height based on your intended use, seating options, and the overall design aesthetics of your dining area. Keep in mind any specific requirements, such as accommodating taller chairs or stools, or creating a comfortable dining experience for all members of your household.
• Lap comfort: The distance between a person’s lap and the tabletop should typically be around 10 to 12 inches for optimal comfort and ergonomics. This distance allows for proper leg clearance and comfortable seating posture, preventing strain on the back, shoulders, and neck during meal times. When raising your dining table, it’s crucial to ensure that the new height still maintains this ergonomic distance for comfortable dining experiences for you and your guests. Paying attention to the ergonomics of the raised dining table can contribute to a more enjoyable dining experience and promote better posture and comfort during meals.
• Stability and safety: Raising a dining table can potentially affect its stability and safety. Make sure that the modification you are considering does not compromise the stability or integrity of the table. Consider the materials, construction, and design of the table, as well as the method of raising the height, to ensure that it remains safe and sturdy for everyday use.
• Compatibility with chairs or stools: If you plan to use chairs or stools with your dining table, ensure that the new height of the table is compatible with the seating options you intend to use. The height of the table should allow for comfortable seating and a proper sitting posture without causing strain or discomfort.
• Practicality and functionality: Consider the practicality and functionality of the raised dining table. Will it still serve its intended purpose, such as accommodating the number of people you plan to seat, providing ample space for dining, and allowing for easy access and movement around the table? Consider how the modification will impact the overall functionality and convenience of your dining area.
• Design aesthetics: Think about how the raised dining table will fit in with the overall design aesthetics of your dining area and home. Consider the style, color, and material of the table, as well as how the new height will impact the visual balance and proportion of the space. Ensure that the raised table complements the overall design theme and enhances the aesthetic appeal of your dining area.
• Budget and feasibility: Consider the budget and feasibility of raising your dining table. The method of raising the table may involve additional costs, such as purchasing extension risers, table toppers, or leg extenders, or hiring a professional to make modifications. Evaluate the costs associated with the modification, and ensure that it is financially feasible and aligns with your budget.
• Long-term considerations: Think about the long-term implications of raising your dining table. Will the modification meet your needs for the foreseeable future, or is it a temporary solution? Consider if the raised table will be functional and aesthetically appealing in the long run, and if it will still suit your needs and preferences as your lifestyle or household changes over time.
• Safety regulations and building codes: If you are planning to make structural modifications to your dining table, such as replacing the legs or adding a flooring platform, it’s important to ensure that the changes comply with local safety regulations and building codes. Check with local authorities or consult with a professional to ensure that your modifications are safe and compliant with applicable regulations.

How high off the ground should a dining table be?

A standard dining table height typically ranges from 28 to 30 inches (71 to 76 cm) from the floor to the tabletop. This height allows for comfortable seating with standard dining chairs or stools that have a seat height of approximately 18 inches (46 cm).

It’s important to consider the height of the chairs or stools you plan to use in conjunction with the table height to ensure that the overall seating arrangement is comfortable and ergonomic.

As stated above, when seated, the table should allow for proper leg clearance and a comfortable distance between the person’s lap and the tabletop, which is typically around 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm) for optimal comfort.

However, it’s worth noting that there are variations in table heights depending on the style, design, and intended use of the dining table.

For example, counter-height dining tables are higher, typically ranging from 34 to 36 inches (86 to 91 cm) from the floor to the tabletop, and are designed to be used with counter-height chairs or stools.

Bar-height tables are even taller, ranging from 40 to 42 inches (102 to 107 cm), and are meant to be used with bar-height stools.

Is there such a thing as tables being too high? 

There is such a thing as tables being too high. When it comes to dining tables, if the table height is too high for the chairs or stools being used, it can lead to discomfort and poor ergonomics.

It can also create an awkward dining experience where users have to strain their arms, shoulders, and backs to reach the tabletop or use utensils, which can result in discomfort and fatigue during meals.

If the table height is too high, it may also lead to improper leg clearance, making it uncomfortable for people to sit at the table with their legs tucked in, leading to an awkward seating posture.

Also, a table that is too high can create an unbalanced look and feel in the overall dining area, affecting the aesthetic appeal of the space.

What are some tips for choosing the right height boost for my dining table?

• Measure your existing table height: Start by measuring the current height of your dining table. This will serve as a reference point to determine the desired height boost. Measure from the floor to the tabletop, and make a note of the measurement.
• Consider the type of chairs or stools: Think about the type of chairs or stools you plan to use with the raised table. Measure the height of the seats from the floor to the seating surface. Ideally, the raised height of the table should allow for comfortable seating with the chairs or stools, ensuring proper leg clearance and a comfortable distance between the person’s lap and the tabletop.
• Determine the desired raised height: Based on your measurements and preferences, determine the desired height boost for your dining table. Consider factors such as the height of the people who will be using the table, the type of seating options you plan to use, and the overall aesthetic and functionality of the table.
• Choose the right height boost option: There are various options for raising the height of a dining table, such as extension risers, table toppers, leg extenders, shims, flooring platforms, caster wheels, or bun feet. Research and select the option that best fits your specific needs and budget.
• Consider stability and safety: When raising the height of your dining table, it’s important to consider stability and safety. Ensure that the chosen height boost option provides adequate stability and support to prevent wobbling or tipping of the table. It’s also essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional assistance, if needed, to ensure safe and secure installation.
• Test and adjust: Once you’ve installed the height boost, test the table for stability and comfort. Sit at the table and check if the height is comfortable for dining, with proper leg clearance and a comfortable distance between the lap and the tabletop. If needed, make adjustments to the height or the seating options to ensure optimal comfort and functionality.
• Consider aesthetics: Lastly, consider the aesthetics of the raised dining table. Ensure that the height boost option you choose complements the style and design of your existing dining table, as well as the overall decor of your dining area, to create a cohesive and visually pleasing look.

What are the possible risks of raising a dining table?

• Stability and safety concerns: Altering the height of a dining table can impact its stability and safety. If the table is not properly supported or balanced after being raised, it may become unstable or wobbly, posing a risk of tipping over or causing accidents. It’s important to choose a reliable and sturdy height boost option, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, and ensure proper installation to minimize stability and safety concerns.
• Incompatibility with chairs or seating options: Raising the height of a dining table may affect the compatibility with existing chairs or seating options. If the table height is significantly increased, the existing chairs or stools may become too short or uncomfortable for use, resulting in poor ergonomics and discomfort during dining. It may require purchasing new chairs or stools that are appropriate for the raised height of the table, which can add additional cost and effort.
• Changes in aesthetics and proportions: Altering the height of a dining table can also impact its aesthetics and proportion in the overall dining area. A significantly raised table may look disproportionate or out of place in relation to other furniture or elements in the dining space. It’s important to consider the visual appeal and design harmony of the raised table with the rest of the dining area to ensure a cohesive and pleasing look.
• Structural integrity and warranty concerns: Raising a dining table using height boost options such as risers, extenders, or shims may alter its original structural integrity or void any existing warranties. Modifying the table’s original design or construction may impact its durability, longevity, or warranty coverage. It’s important to carefully assess any potential risks to the table’s structural integrity or warranty coverage when raising its height.
• Personal comfort and preference: Finally, it’s important to consider personal comfort and preference when raising a dining table. While some people may find a raised table height more comfortable, others may prefer the original height or have specific requirements or limitations due to health, mobility, or other factors. It’s essential to carefully assess your own comfort and preference, as well as those of other users, before making any decisions on raising the dining table height.

How do I install bun feet on my dining table?

1. Gather materials: You will need bun feet (wooden or metal), screws, a screwdriver or drill, measuring tape, pencil, and a level.
2. Measure and mark placement: Decide where you want to install the bun feet on your dining table. Use a measuring tape and pencil to mark the desired placement. It’s important to ensure that the bun feet are evenly spaced and aligned for a balanced and stable result.
3. Prepare the table legs: Ifontable’sour dining table has existing legs, you may need to prepare them for the bun feet installation. This may involve removing any existing caps, glides, or other hardware from the table legs, and ensuring that the legs are clean and smooth.
4. Install the bun feet: Place the bun feet on the marked spots on the table legs, aligning them with the pencil marks. Use a level to ensure that the bun feet are straight and level. Once they are properly aligned, use a screwdriver or drill to screw the bun feet into the table legs. Be careful not to overtighten the screws, as it can potentially damage the table legs or the bun feet.
5. Test for stability: After all the bun feet are securely attached, test the stability of the dining table by gently rocking it from side to side and checking for any wobbling or instability. If needed, adjust the placement or tightness of the bun feet to ensure a stable and level table.
6. Finishing touches: If desired, you can add any additional finishing touches to the bun feet, such as staining or painting to match the table or room decor. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any recommended finishing or sealing treatments for the bun feet material.
7. Maintenance: Regularly check and tighten the bun feet screws as needed to ensure continued stability and safety of the dining table.

Are there any levelers that I can use to add height to my dining table?

There are table levelers or table leg levelers that can be used to add height to a dining table.

These are adjustable devices that can be attached to the bottom of the table legs to raise or lower the table’s height and also to ensure that the table is level on uneven surfaces.

Table levelers are commonly used in furniture manufacturing, and they come in various designs and styles to suit different types of tables and floors.

Here are some tips for using table levelers to add height to a dining table:

1. Choose the right type of table levelers: Table levelers come in different types, such as screw-in levelers, self-adhesive levelers, or snap-on levelers. Choose the type that is most suitable for your dining table’s construction and material.
2. Measure and mark placement: Decide on the desired height increase for your dining table and use a measuring tape and pencil to mark the placement of the table levelers on the table legs. Ensure that the placement is even and level for a balanced result.
3. Install the table levelers: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the table levelers on the table legs. This may involve screwing them in, adhering them with adhesive, or snapping them on, depending on the type of levelers you are using.
4. Adjust for levelness: Once the table levelers are installed, use a level to check for the table’s levelness. Adjust the levelers as needed to ensure that the table is level on all sides, especially if your floor is uneven.
5. Test for stability: After the table levelers are installed and adjusted, test the stability of the dining table by gently rocking it from side to side and checking for any wobbling or instability. If needed, further adjust the levelers to ensure a stable and level table.
6. Regular maintenance: Regularly check and adjust the table levelers as needed to ensure continued stability and safety of the dining table, especially if the table is frequently moved or placed on uneven surfaces.

Can removing the table apron make the table feel taller?

Removing the table apron can create the illusion of a taller table, as it eliminates the visual obstruction and allows for more space underneath the table.

The table apron, also known as a table skirt, is the horizontal support structure that connects the table legs and supports the table surface. It is usually located just below the table surface and can vary in height depending on the design of the table.

By removing the table apron, the area between the table legs becomes more open and visible, which can create the perception of increased height.

This can be particularly effective in making a dining table appear taller, as it can create a more open and airy feel in the dining area.

However, it’s important to consider the structural integrity and stability of the table before removing the apron.

The apron serves as an important component of the table’s stability and can provide support to the table legs and prevent wobbling or sagging.

Removing the apron may result in a less stable table, especially if the apron was a significant structural element of the table’s design.

Will shortening the chairs make the dining table feel taller?

Shortening the chairs in relation to the dining table may create the illusion of a taller table.

When chairs are shorter, it can result in a greater distance between the seat height and the table surface, making the table appear taller in comparison.

However, note that shortening chairs is a more involved process that may require modifications to the chair legs, seat height, and overall design.

How can I make my dining room chairs higher?

• Chair cushions or seat pads: Adding thick cushions or seat pads to the chairs can increase their height and provide additional comfort for seated diners. Chair cushions or seat pads come in various thicknesses and styles, and can be easily attached or tied to the chair seat.
• Chair leg extenders: Chair leg extenders are specially designed attachments that can be added to the bottom of chair legs to increase their height. These extenders are typically made of metal or plastic and come in various heights, allowing you to choose the desired height increase for your chairs.
• DIY modifications: If you’re handy with tools and have some woodworking skills, you may consider modifying the chair legs yourself to make them higher. This could involve cutting and replacing the chair legs with longer ones or adding additional material to the bottom of the chair legs to increase their height. However, this option requires careful consideration of the chair design, stability, and aesthetics, and should only be attempted by those with appropriate skills and experience.
• Custom-made chairs: If you’re unable to find suitable chair leg extenders or cushions, or if you prefer a more permanent solution, you may consider custom-made chairs that are designed to be taller. This would involve commissioning a furniture maker or carpenter to create chairs with taller legs or overall height to suit your specific needs.

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