Dining tables are an essential to have in any home, especially if you're the type of person who loves to host dinner parties and get-togethers. Like bedroom furniture where the bed is the central point of focus for the room, the dining table is the primary locus that your dining case goods revolve around.

Available in a variety of sizes, shapes, materials and colors, the number one thing to consider before purchasing a dining table is the size of the dining area. Those who live in smaller living quarters such as apartments or lofts will find that gathering tables or bar height tables work better in areas of limited space. The great thing about gathering tables is that you can also place them in kitchen nooks, and they make terrific game tables.

Smaller scaled dining tables are another alternative to think about, especially if there are only two of you in your current living situation. Easy to push aside when extra space is needed and good for sipping on your cup of coffee while reading the morning paper, or even for enjoying an intimate dinner, small-scale dining tables are an ideal cozy alternative. An interesting tidbit to mull over if you happen to get a smaller table with a round table top - you won't run into any sharp corners, which goes to show you how much I truly appreciate mine!

For those who happen to have a larger dining space, the classic rectangular-shaped dining table works best. Consider purchasing a table that comes with table leafs or extensions if you do happen to play host to a lot of dinner parties and events. By the way, a table leaf adds additional length to your dining or gathering table and is usually hidden in the center of the table or at the ends. Generally, one or two leaves are included and most of the time can be stored within a hidden compartment underneath the table.

Whether it's to play a friendly game of cards or to enjoy all your meals in comfort and style, finding the ideal dining table only takes precision, planning and personal preference.