Glass dining tables brighten spaces and make rooms feel larger. They blend light with modern style, ideal for Australian homes. This guide helps you pick the right one for your space and budget.
TL;DR
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Glass dining tables come in round and rectangular shapes with extendable designs for flexible entertaining.
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Tempered glass with a minimum thickness of 10mm is a common safety standard in Australia.
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Measure your space for seating needs (4–10+). Then choose a style and finish that harmonises with chairs and decor.
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Extendable and round options maximise small-space flexibility pair with coordinated chairs for a cohesive look.
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Look for easy-clean surfaces, durable frames, safe finishes and reliable delivery/installation options.
Start with the decision framework: How to choose the right glass dining table for your space
The first step is to define space, seating, style, and budget. A clear framework guides every choice.
Definitions and quick prompts: Consider room size, how many people you host and how the table will feel with existing chairs.
Use a simple decision tree: Space first, then shape, extendable versus fixed, finish and finally chairs.
For example, compact rooms benefit from round or square glass dining tables with slim bases, while long spaces suit rectangular, higher-capacity designs. Our Only Dining Chairs collection makes it easy to pair them with chairs that match your aesthetic.
How big should your glass dining table be? Size and seating guidelines
The key takeaway: determine seating needs before selecting dimensions.
Seating guidelines help you choose confidently:
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4 seater: 120–140 cm rectangular 90–120 cm round
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6 seater: 150–180 cm rectangular 120–150 cm round
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8 seater: 180–210 cm rectangular 150–180 cm round
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10+ seater: 210 cm+ rectangular 180 cm+ round
Always allow at least 90 cm of clearance on each side for chairs. Measure the room doorways and traffic paths to avoid crowding.
Tip: Use masking tape to map the footprint before buying.
Shape matters: round vs rectangular vs square glass dining tables
Shape affects space use and seating dynamics. Round tables suit small rooms and promote closer conversation, often with extendable options. Rectangular tables work well in long rooms and align with runs of chairs. Square tops are ideal for compact spaces and casual layouts.
Think about room layout and traffic flow. If your chairs pull out toward a wall, a round top can prevent sharp corners from crowding the space. This choice should align with your existing chairs.
Glass type, thickness, and safety: what to look for
Safety and durability come first. Tempered glass is the standard for dining surfaces.
Thick tops provide extra durability: 8–10 mm is common, 10 mm is preferred for longevity. Laminated glass adds a layer of plastic for extra impact resistance. Finish options include clear, tinted, or ceramic tops paired with glass edge styles.
Pro tip: Choose a frame that’s sturdy and compatible with the top thickness to avoid flex or wobble.
Extendable vs fixed glass dining tables: flexibility for entertaining
Extendable designs adapt to gatherings without sacrificing style. They use leaves or center extensions to add seating.
Benefits: easier hosting for holidays and guests. Trade offs may include higher cost and maintenance of the extension mechanism. In compact homes, extendable rounds or rectangles shine for smart space-saving.
When to pick extendable: Open plan kitchens, frequent hosting or irregular seating needs.
Frame and base materials: metal, timber, or mixed finishes
Frames anchor the glass top. Common options are powder coated metal or timber legs or mixed material bases for contrast.
Finish matters: Chrome or black metal suits modern rooms timber bases soften the glass’s look. Check stability and ensure the base tolerates the glass thickness without stress points.
Finishes and color trends in Australia (2025 context)
Current finishes lean toward white, black, grey and subtle metallics. Gold accents bring warmth, while cool tones keep the look crisp. This season’s trends blend Contemporary, Industrial and Retro with modern glass pieces.
Coordinate the table with wall colors, cabinetry and chairs to keep the space balanced. Our collection offers options that align with these trends.
Coordinating with dining chairs: sets, color, and style pairing
Chairs complete the table’s look. Consider sets that match the table size: 4, 6, or more seats.
Material compatibility matters: upholstered chairs add comfort but legs should avoid scratching glass. Color choices can be monochrome for a seamless feel or contrast to highlight the glass top.
Pair a glass dining table with a chair set for a cohesive look. Look for a chair style that travels well with your room’s tone.
Practical care: cleaning, scratches, heat resistance, and daily use
Clean with non-abrasive cleaners and microfiber cloths. Tempered glass resists heat better than standard glass, but always use trivets for hot dishes.
Regular dusting keeps the surface clear and streak-free. Avoid harsh chemicals that can dull the finish. This keeps your table gleaming for years.
Budgeting and where to shop in Australia
Budget cues help you shop confidently. Glass dining tables vary in price by frame and features.
Expect mid range options to balance quality and price. Availability may change with stock and finishes. Look for delivery and installation options, including assembly at home.
Real-life use case: a practical scenario
In an apartment, a round extendable glass dining table with a timber base fits 4–6 easily. The layout supports daily meals and weekend dinners while cleaning remains quick and simple.
The result is space efficiency with a modern aesthetic that complements light chairs. This example shows how extendable and round options flex with life in a compact home.
Quick compare blocks (at-a-glance)
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Glass vs wood modern look, easy clean vs warmth and texture.
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Glass vs marble durability and maintenance differ in heat resistance.
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Extendable vs fixed flexibility versus price and upkeep.
Conclusion
To pick the best glass dining table, focus on space, shape, thickness, extendability and finish. Tempered glass with the right thickness and a sturdy base is key. Consider extendable options for flexible entertaining. Start exploring Only Dining Chairs’ glass dining tables collection to find in-stock choices and delivery options.
Real life takeaway: A round extendable glass table often delivers the best balance of space, style and function in Australian homes.
Ready to upgrade your dining room? Browse our collection now and pair the table with chairs that complete the look.
FAQ
What types of glass are used for dining tables?
Tempered and laminated glass are commonly tempered as the standard for safety.
How thick should a glass tabletop be?
8–10 mm is typical, 10 mm is preferred for durability.
Are extendable glass tables available in Australia?
Yes many designs include extension features.
Are glass dining tables durable for daily use?
Yes, with tempered glass and a sturdy frame as long as hot items aren’t placed directly on top.
How do I clean and maintain a glass dining table?
Use soft cloths and mild cleaners to avoid abrasives.
Can I get delivery and installation?
Most retailers offer delivery and professional setup.
Are there financing options?
Many retailers offer installments or financing for larger purchases.