VASAGLE 2-Bar Stool Rustic Brown Narrow Kitchen Table

Technically, we may spend more of our lives in the bedroom than anywhere else in our houses. But when it comes to spaces that really feel like home, the kitchen is at the top of the list. It’s where we get our first sip of coffee in the morning and recap the day over dinner conversation. That makes the dining table an important focal point — even if it isn’t that big. Whether you’re trying to find the right eating spot for a small kitchenette or supplementing your larger kitchen with a breakfast nook, a narrow table can be just the thing.

It’s not hard to find smaller tables, but it can be tough to find the one that’s just right for your space. That’s why taking correct measurements is key. With a typical dining room, you want to allow for plenty of space between the edges of the table and the wall — at least 36-40 inches, ideally, which allows room to walk around chairs that are in use. That rule really doesn’t apply here, since narrow tables work best when they’re placed against a wall. Still, you’ll want to allow enough room to get comfortably into and out of your chair.

The most important thing to consider is how you plan to use the table. Do you want to have a quick nosh here in the morning, or will it be the primary eating space in a small apartment? Maybe this table can remain mostly decorative and transform into a small bar for parties. Longer meals are going to call for tables that allow sitting down and relaxing. Bar-height tables with stools make a big visual impact and can be more versatile. It’s all about the space you need to fill.

When it comes to materials, there’s no one choice that’s the best. Wood tables look great, especially in a smaller breakfast nook, but they can be harder to keep clean. Metal or glass-topped tables will wipe clean in a jiffy after meals, but cheaper ones can be wobbly and less durable. Marble is an option too, if you can afford it. But while it might match your kitchen island perfectly, bear in mind that marble tables will be tough to move if you ever have to rearrange your furniture.

As with anything that goes into a smaller space, you’ll want a lot of function in whatever form your table takes. Some tables come with storage racks under the main surface, which can be helpful if it needs to serve double-duty as a bar. Just make sure to match that table with the chairs and your surroundings at large.

Although it’s less common with narrow tables that can serve a number of purposes, many come as a set with chairs. Make sure that while you’re measuring your kitchen space, you include room for them. If you can’t even pull out a chair to sit down, that breakfast nook can go from “cozy” to “cramped” very quickly.

While you’re at it, think carefully about whether you want chairs at all. Is the table mainly for show or do you plan to eat there at least once a week? Will it serve as a prep table or a bar? These are all questions to answer before you spend extra money on barstools that will only take up extra room.