A Guide to Building Pedestal Tables

Do you or your client have a passion for pedestal tables? Do you have an existing table that you would like to revamp with a nice pedestal base? This guide will give you inspiration and guidance when beginning your pedestal table project.

Why should I use a pedestal base instead of table legs?

There are several things to consider when creating a pedestal table. If you are unsure whether you would like to create a pedestal table or a standard design with table legs, here are some pros and cons to consider.

Pros Our wood pedestal bases are available in a wide range of stylish designs. They are also offered in several different unfinished wood species which can allow for endless customization opportunities. Some wood types are intended for a painted finish while others are meant to be stained. Pedestal bases are versatile and incredibly functional. They offer ample support and can be a nice space-saving option in a smaller area. They can also be used in pairs to accommodate large tables. When using a pedestal base, there will be no legs on the corner of the tables. These legs can sometimes affect mobility around the table and get in the way of chairs or feet. A round pedestal dining table is often chosen due to the comfort it provides. Most wooden pedestal bases will stand out in a room and can be used as a statement piece. Accent tables in entryways or hallways are often seen with a pedestal table base. The style of the pedestal used may also make it the first thing a guest sees when walking into your dining room.

Cons Pedestal bases may appear to be much more expensive than a set of table legs. The higher prices reflect the additional materials and time spent creating the impressive pedestal. Most pedestals are fairly large to provide plenty of stability and this can be reflected in cost. The price is well worth it when you can create a long-lasting gathering space for your loved ones. Balance and stability can be harder to manage with a center pedestal. If significant pressure is applied to the edges of the table, it may wobble or tip. Ensuring you utilize a pedestal of the correct size will help prevent imbalance. Depending on the shape and design of the pedestal, it may come in contact with the chairs or feet of your guests. Keep this in mind when determining how many settings you would like to have if building a pedestal dining table. This is less of a concern when the pedestal table is an accent piece.

After deciding to move forward with a pedestal design, it is important to plan accordingly before beginning the project.

Where do I want the pedestal table to be used in the home?

Pedestal tables are often seen in dining spaces but there are many applications for these versatile and stylish furnishings.

1. Breakfast nook
– Small square or round pedestal tables are a great option for breakfast nooks.

2. Dining table
– Small or large dining tables can be built with pedestal bases.

3. Side or entryway table
– Having a small pedestal table in your entryway or to the side of another furnishing is a great way to incorporate extra style and functionality to your space. One or two chairs can be used to create a lounging space.

4. Accent table or small meeting table
– Have an awkward corner or open area that could fit a pedestal table? Add a centerpiece and you have a beautiful accent table! You could also use a smaller table with a few chairs as a meeting table in an office setting.

How many pedestal bases do I need?

If you are creating a round or square table, a single pedestal is recommended.

Oval and rectangular tables can utilize single or double pedestal support, depending on the size. You can either use two pedestals or create a trestle design with a stretcher support bar in between.

SINGLE PEDESTAL

DOUBLE PEDESTAL

Keep in mind the size of the table top when choosing a base. Generally, it is recommended to have a base that is between ½ and ⅔ of the size of the table top. Go larger and wider if utilizing heavier wooden tops or granite/marble surfaces.

• Bases for round table tops should have a diameter that is at least ½ the size of the diameter of the top.
• Bases for square and rectangular tops should have base(s) around ⅔ the length of the top.

What size table top should I use?

Material is the first thing you should determine when selecting a table top. Do you want to use wood, marble, granite, concrete or glass? The weight and size of the top is important to consider when selecting a table base.

It is also important when building a pedestal dining table that you figure out how many seats you would like. Take note of these measurements if using standard dining chairs:

• Round tables: Take the diameter (width) of the round table top and multiply it by pi (3.14). Divide that number by 24 (this is the general number of inches required for one person to sit comfortably). The result will be your maximum seating allowance.

• Square tables: Add the length of all sides together and divide that total by 24. Subtract two from the result to accommodate for the corners of the table.
  
• Rectangle tables: Ask yourself if you want to have a setting that would potentially straddle the trestle or pedestal base. This may need to be subtracted from your maximum seating allowance. Take the table length and divide it by 24. If you want to omit the trestle/pedestal areas, account for and subtract the distance of the overhang and the overall width of the trestle/pedestal from the length of the table before dividing.

Also keep in mind that seating allowance will differ if you plan to incorporate a bench seat or two.

Another thing to decide is whether or not you would like the table top to extend. We offer equalizer table extension slides for wooden pedestal tables that can be used in your build.

How do I choose a pedestal style?

There are a wide range of pedestal designs available and Osborne has a wonderful selection to choose from.

Check out some of the most popular styles and a few of our pedestal base options that will help you achieve each look!

	Traditional
	Transitional
	Craftsman/Shaker
	Modern
	Metal

Don’t forget to think about what you would like the finished product to look like!

• Wooden pedestal bases are available in multiple wood types that can either be painted or stained. This means they can be made virtually any color you wish.
• Have all components feature the same finish for an impressive cohesive look.
• You can have the table top and base be complementary pieces while the chairs serve as an accent with a different color or tone.
• Paint or stain the pedestal a differing color to make it the accent of the piece. You can match the chairs with either the pedestal or the table top to complete the look.
• Have the pedestal and chairs match but showcase the table top by having it be a different color or an intriguing material (such as marble or butcher block).

You may also want to check out: How to Install a Pedestal Extender Kit – And Why You Might Want One.