Drop Leaf Tables

Expandable Dining Table

This is another type of table that is multifunctional. In fancier, more upscale dining rooms the drop leaf table just isn't the right fit. The drop leaf is really more fitting in a casual setting, while a formal dining room commands more respect. This is solved with the expandable dining table.

Both my parents and my in-laws have one of these. Essentially the table has center sections, called leaves, that can be removed when you don't need to seat so many people. For small gatherings the table is reduced down to its smallest size, but can be expanded if more people are at the party. Tables that can handle multiple leaves allow for the most versitility in their sizing options. It's important that the table be built to handle all the leaves at once. If it starts to bow in the center then the middle braces aren't doing their job. It's not possible to put an endless number of leaves in the middle, the table frame itself must be able to carry the weight.

The leaves are stored in a closet most of the time, and the table is kept in its most ideal size except on rare occasions when larger groups are being served. The right size for you will depend on the size of the room and how much space you need around the table. Large dining rooms that have a commanding presence would likely have the table fully extended all the time, simply because the room demanded it. Small dining areas would not want something so imposing all the time so those tables would have their leaves removed.