The Complete Guide to Commissioning a Custom Dining Table

by on in Custom Furniture Guide

The Complete Guide to Commissioning a Custom Dining Table

The dining table is the most used, most seen, and most important piece of furniture in most Indian homes. It’s where families gather, guests are hosted, homework gets done, and festivals are celebrated. If there’s one piece of furniture worth getting custom-made, it’s this one.

Step 1: Getting the Size Right

Each seated person needs approximately 600mm (24 inches) of table width. For comfortable dining, 650-700mm is better. A dining table should be at least 900mm wide.

Size Guide by Seating

  • 4-seater: 1200mm x 900mm (rectangular) or 1000mm diameter (round)
  • 6-seater: 1800mm x 900mm (rectangular) or 1300mm diameter (round)
  • 8-seater: 2400mm x 1000mm (rectangular) or 1500mm diameter (round)
  • 10-seater: 3000mm x 1100mm (rectangular)
  • 12-seater: 3600mm x 1100mm (rectangular)

Room Clearance

You need at least 900mm between the table edge and the nearest wall for chairs to be pulled out comfortably. 1000-1200mm is better if the space also serves as a walkway.

Step 2: Choosing the Shape

Rectangular: Most versatile. Efficient use of space, accommodates the largest number of seats.

Round: Promotes conversation — everyone can see everyone. No “head of the table” hierarchy. Works brilliantly in square rooms.

Oval: Combines the capacity of rectangular with the softer feel of round. No sharp corners — practical with young children.

Square: Intimate and democratic. Perfect for four people.

Step 3: Selecting the Wood

  • Teak: The safest choice for Mumbai. Outstanding humidity resistance. Budget: ₹1,50,000 – ₹4,00,000 for a 6-seater.
  • Sheesham: Dramatic grain, excellent durability, more affordable. Budget: ₹1,00,000 – ₹2,50,000 for a 6-seater.
  • Walnut: Sophisticated, warm, refined. Budget: ₹2,00,000 – ₹5,00,000 for a 6-seater.
  • Oak: Clean, light, contemporary. Budget: ₹1,75,000 – ₹3,50,000 for a 6-seater.

Step 4: Choosing the Finish

  • PU Lacquer (recommended for Mumbai): Multiple coats create a moisture barrier. Available in matte, satin, or gloss. Nearly invisible — you see and feel the wood, not the coating.
  • Natural Oil: Beautiful, tactile finish. Requires more maintenance.
  • Melamine Polish: Traditional Indian finish. Good protection, enhances grain.

Step 5: Designing the Base

  • Four legs: Classic, stable, maximum legroom.
  • Trestle base: Farmhouse character, sturdy.
  • Pedestal: Maximum legroom, works well for round tables.
  • Metal base: Contemporary contrast with wood tops. Slimmer profiles.

Step 6: Timeline and Process

A custom dining table from FCI India typically takes 4-8 weeks from design approval to delivery.

  1. Initial consultation and measurement (1-2 days)
  2. Design proposal and material selection (3-5 days)
  3. Approval and production start
  4. Manufacturing (3-5 weeks)
  5. Finishing (1-2 weeks)
  6. Delivery and setup (1 day)

Budget Summary

  • 4-seater: ₹80,000 – ₹2,50,000
  • 6-seater: ₹1,00,000 – ₹4,00,000
  • 8-seater: ₹1,50,000 – ₹5,50,000
  • 10-12 seater: ₹2,50,000 – ₹8,00,000

Prices vary based on wood species, finish complexity, base design, and special features.

Book a consultation | Explore our materials | Our full process

Related: Learn more about our custom furniture services or explore our bespoke manufacturing process. Book a consultation at our Fort, Mumbai showroom.