Convertible tables: Update your space with these versatile pieces

Convertible tables allow you to transform your living space based on what you need at the moment. These versatile beauties enable you to change a space-saving tabletop into a generous dining table in a matter of minutes to easily accommodate guests.

Whether you’re unexpectedly hosting a dinner party for friends or preparing for a family gathering, a convertible table will make life easier. All you need to do is pull out your extra dining chairs so that your guests have a seat. 

In this guide, we’ll provide tips for choosing the best convertible tables for small spaces and multifunctional rooms. We’ve also included our top picks for quality convertible tables to help you find the perfect fit for your home. 

Why use convertible tables?

Multifunctional furniture is popular in modern homes. Houses and apartments are getting smaller, demanding versatility and modern space-saving designs. You’ll find everything from lift-top coffee tables to bookcases that convert into desks, but transforming tables in the dining space are particularly popular.

Whether you have a traditional dining room or prefer to eat in the living room, a convertible table is perfect for small spaces when you have company. Plus, life is more fun when you stop thinking of the dining room table as a fixed piece of furniture and start seeing possibilities. 

Here are some of the many benefits of convertible tables: 

• Extra room for board games and puzzles 
• Extra seating for guests 
• Different size and shape options for interior design styling 
• Opportunity for a smaller table when you’re not hosting

Some convertible tables come with added storage space for even more space-saving functionality.

How to choose the best convertible table

Before you buy, follow these steps to take the guesswork out of choosing a convertible table:

• Measure: Take measurements of your dining room or whatever area you’re using as a dining space. Don’t forget to leave paths to walk, which should generally be around 36 inches wide.
• Search: Look for convertible tables that fit your measurements. Note the size of the dining chairs and the length of the table when fully extended. 
• Check: Use masking tape or painter’s tape to outline the size of your dining table and each dining chair on the floor of your dining space. Then, outline the table’s smaller and larger sizes and seating for both. This approach allows you to see how each configuration will fit your space. 

Once you know the dimensions of a particular table you’re considering, you’ll know whether or not it will fit. If you’re considering multiple tables, take pictures of the outlines for each one so you can compare them side-by-side. 

Unless you plan to always keep your convertible table extended, don’t worry if it makes your space feel a bit crowded. If there’s enough room to walk by and for everyone to be seated, that’s all you need. The area will go back to normal when you put the table back to its smaller size.

Convertible table tips

Finding the right furniture for small spaces and multipurpose rooms can take some time, but it doesn’t need to be complicated. And if you have unexpected guests right now, you still have options that don’t include a checkout line.

Here are a few tips below to make your life easier: 

• Don’t be afraid to improvise: If you can’t get a convertible table right away, feel free to improvise. For example, you and your guests can eat on the sofa or sectional. Or you can pull up whatever you have on hand (i.e., end tables, side tables, or ottomans). Or you can push your dining table together with a console table or TV stand in the dining room.
• Plan for the future: If you plan to upgrade to a bigger space and larger dining table down the road, pick a convertible table that you can use elsewhere in the home. Buy for the future by finding something you’ll enjoy in the entryway, kitchen, or living room. This way, you’ll build a table collection that serves you for years to come.
• Think multifunctional: If you like the idea of versatile furniture, look for multifunctional options that work throughout the home. For example, you might choose adjustable-height dining chairs that work for both counter-height and table-height dining. Or you could opt for a convertible coffee table that expands to three smaller tables.

With a mindful approach, you’ll find furniture that fits your space while making your life more convenient and enjoyable. 

Our favorite convertible tables

Picking the right dining set is easier when you have excellent options. Take a look at some of our favorite convertible tables below to get started. 

1. 5-Piece Drop Leaf Dining Set 

This 5-Piece Drop Leaf Dining Set includes four chairs and a convertible dining table with convenient drop-down leaves. The leaves can fold down to save space or lift up to accommodate two additional guests, increasing the seating from two to four. The folding dining table features a stylish and supportive pedestal base. Each chair boasts a spindle back with wood seats and bold, angled legs. 

The seats and tabletop feature a natural brown finish, offering a lovely contrast to the brilliant white of the legs, seatbacks, and table base. This colorway looks beautiful with French country or modern farmhouse interior design. If you’re short on space, this drop leaf table works well with an accent cabinet instead of something larger, like a console table. 

2. Phelps Rectangular Dining Table 

The Phelps Rectangular Dining Table is an elegant formal dining table with a lavish antique noir finish. It features two 14-inch leaf extensions, one on each side, extending to fit up to 10 guests. In addition, this table boasts a trestle-style base with a curvy, dramatic silhouette, ideal for traditional home decor.

This extendable dining table is extra-long and looks stunning when paired with elegant chairs. The Phelps collection also includes Upholstered Demi Wing Chairs in Grey, Upholstered Arm Chairs in Beige, and a 2-Door Rectangular Server if you’d like a matching set. 

3. Wexford Glass Top Dining Table With Extension Leaves

The Wexford Glass Top Dining Table with Extension Leaves features a tempered glass top with a sturdy metal frame and a polished chrome finish. It adds two feet in length with 12-inch extension leaves on either side, allowing it to seat six guests. The clear glass top incorporates the mechanical parts of the refractory leaves into the modern design, adding visual appeal even with the leaves are retracted.

This glass-top convertible table would pair well with elegant dining chairs such as the Vance White Upholstered Dining Chairs, Upholstered Dining Chairs in Ink Blue and Chrome, or these Antoine Oval Back Side Chairs in Cream and Chrome. Don’t hesitate to mix and match your dining chairs for a design that’s uniquely you. 

4. Slater 2-Drawer Kitchen Island With Drop Leaves 

The Slater 2-Drawer Kitchen Island with Drop Leaves is a versatile piece that can transform your dining space. The kitchen table has two drop leaves on either end that can fold down to save space or lift up to accommodate guests. It also boasts spice racks at either end, with open shelving in the front and drawers to maximize storage space. 

This space-saver even features a stemware rack and wine bottle storage, perfect for small spaces. It can even double as a bar unit. And since this convertible table is countertop height, you’ll want counter-height bar stools and chairs for seating. 

When you’re ready to replace this with a larger dining table, you can continue using its solid wood countertop for food preparation. 

5. Sanford 5-Piece Round Counter Dining Set 

The Sanford 5-Piece Round Counter Dining Set fuses rustic charm and modern design, perfect for transitional, traditional, and farmhouse settings alike. This convertible table changes from square to round with a 4-inch leaf on each side, extending from four seats to six. In addition, it boasts a two-tone finish with warm espresso and cinnamon tones for cozy appeal. 

Thanks to a pull-out drawer and an open shelf, the Sanford Round Counter Dining Set also has storage space underneath. In addition, the chairs feature tall ladder backs with tapered legs and carved saddle-style seats for comfort.

Convertible tables for the win

Everyone could use some extra space, whether you’re living solo in a studio apartment or you have a family in a two-story house. 

Convertible tables are one of the easiest ways to add versatility to your dining space. You can seat additional guests when you need to, but enjoy that extra square footage the rest of the time. 

If you haven’t found the right fit yet, head to the Coaster Furniture kitchen and dining catalog to check out more convertible table options. And when you’re ready to buy, our store locator will help you find a retailer near you.

Where To Buy