Fountain Link

A whole range of furniture has been designed with the philosophy of flexibility and providing options. One of these is the extending dining table. Libby, a 55 year old university professor, is an owner. “After my divorce, I moved in to a 600 square foot condo unit. I thought the extending dining table would be perfect because it was sure to fit but still expandable, in case I had visitors.” This is the sentiment of many owners of this unique piece of furniture. People want something that allows different options. Remarkably, this is not restricted to people like Libby who are moving into ever shrinking dwelling spaces.

“I prefer to entertain at home,” says Robin, 41. The IT professional adds: “I like cooking for my family and friends. It’s less expensive and more intimate but just as much fun. We can always go out afterwards if we feel like it.” Like Libby, Robin bought an extending dining table. The difference is that she stays in a large 2-storey, 5 bedroom house. “When it’s just me and my family of 3, the smaller table provides more closeness.”

Both of them chose a square oak extending dining table with a panel hidden under that, when pulled out, makes it double in size to become a rectangular table. From seating only 3 or 4, it can go to seating 6 to 8. But for some people, a perceived lack of elegance or sophistication can be an impediment to buying something like this. When the table is just bare, it’s not as flashy as those large glass top tables or long hardwood tables with intricate carvings. The key is in decorating and using creativity, according to Robin. “I’ll put some really nice table cloths and do flower arrangements. I’ll also fold napkins into fancy designs. When my friends come over, they tell me they feel like they’re in an expensive restaurant.”

The extending dining table is also being used as a multipurpose piece of furniture. Rica, a 34 year old bank executive, rents a tiny 350 square foot studio unit. “I only have one table in my place. It’s where I eat, put down my stuff when I come home and also where I work. I’ll type on my laptop or write on some papers. It’s where I do everything.” Her table is a low Japanese-style table, but the expanding mechanism is the same as in Libby’s and Robin’s tables. Though she rarely entertains at home, the flexibility it offered was a deciding factor when she was buying it. “Eventually, when I am able to afford a bigger place, I will take the table with me. I can permanently expand it and have a Japanese style dining area. It really is one of the best purchases I ever made.