Is there any reason why I can't have a garden table as my dining table?

[stargirl04]

Hi,

I live in a small flat where space is tight and I would like a "space saving" folding dining table.

I've looked extensively on the web and can't find anything that I like or that's suitable.

This table by Habitat, however, is perfect:

www.habitat.co.uk/zeno-oak-garden-table-and-chairs-set/-fcp-product/27715?_$ja=cgid:15526810689|tsid:55674|cid:248716929|lid:74096956812|nw:g|crid:55080905169|rnd:5515083302476113819|dvc:c|adp:1o1&gclid=COLA6r6_n8ACFUoUwwodYXcAQA

It folds to a small size and you can even store the sturdy chairs in it. It's big and roomy when extended (I went to see it in store yesterday) and is what I'm looking for.

Except for the gaps in it, where I suppose small bits of food might fall through, and being a garden table it wouldn't matter outdoors.

Would it be eccentric, bizarre - or not practical - to have such a table in my living room?

Thanks

Not odd at all, often considered this myself. The designs are often much nicer than standard furniture.

Some one I know had a similar (or may even be the same)table in their flat,it didn't look odd at all, it always looked practical as their flat is tiny.TBH I don't mind having it in my place it there is no space as it holds all the chairs too

A tablecloth would sort out your "gaps" problem.

Pil have a massive garden table was their large formal dining table. They have a piece of cheap ply cut to the same size and shape over the top and a cloth on to get over the skit problem.

You can find indoor versions, possibly more cheaply I think. The slatted top and hole for an umbrella kind of give away it is an outdoor table. If you don't mind, then it doesn't matter.

How about this? Or this instead?

Skit? Slat.

Agree with Meow, use a table cloth.

Nothing wrong with buying a garden table.

I had a. Garden table in my very first house, I couldn't afford anything else. I made myself a table cloth and it looked fine.

It's a great idea and if you ever move to somewhere with outdoor space you already have a garden table

Loving these answers. Have to rush off and meet a pal for coffee but will be back to answer soon - especially to the possible alternatives posted by wowfudge. Which is a whole other story in itself....

Just be careful that the height of it is OK for the chairs. I once had to use my garden table as a dining table for a while & said table was lower than a conventional dining table & my dining chairs height meant that it was impossible to get your knees under the table.

Apart from that - no reason why not.

My parents had something like that when they lived in a tiny bungalow, for a while. The only thing that sets that one apart as an outdoor table is the slats.

The chairs aren't terribly comfortable, but unless you need to sit at it for long periods, that shouldn't be an issue.

I think it's a great idea, and I really wouldn't bat an eyelid at the hole in the middle. My only reservation would be that I don't much like sitting at gate leg tables, because my knees always seem to go exactly where they shouldn't.

Here's an example of a drop leaf that, when folded, takes up similar space. Two of the chairs tuck under the ends when it's folded, and you could always replace the others with stacking stools which could also double as side tables.

Oh pants. Here's the link: www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Ercol-Oval-Drop-Leaf-Dining-Table-and-4-Chairs-/271576506642?pt=UK_Home_Garden_DiningRoomFurniture_SM&hash=item3f3b38a112

You'll find indoor versions of that design (drop flaps, folding chairs stored underneath) if you google 'butterfly table'.

The outdoor one looks a lot more solid though. don't see why not.

I would just get some sort of centrepiece (flowers or candlestick) to cover the whole day to day and use a table cloth for more formal meals.
Looks very well made.
Just to add - we have the ikea one in school and it is very good quality but heavy (and would have to store chairs elsewear)

I think the outdoor table looks better quality and more expensive that the one in Argos, couple of seat pads and tablecloth, perfectly suitable for inside.

Yes I think the garden table looks better too.

Totally fine. I had a glass-topped ornamental wrought-iron garden table at the kitchen table for about a decade, and now have a picnic table and bench!(admittedly a temporary measure, but I just know it'll be there for ages)