While choosing the right size requires careful measurement to ensure a specific set fits your available space, selecting the ideal patio table shape from our range is often a more subjective decision.
The pros and cons between different table shapes are often subtle or less obvious but sometimes they can make a big difference to how the set fits, flows, and functions on a patio.
At Lazy Susan we offer a comprehensive range of oval, square, rectangle and round patio tables in a host of sizes; from 2-seater bistros (such as our Eve above) up to our large 8-seater (like our Amelia below) and 10-seater al-fresco dining sets.
As standard all our round tables are supplied with our April garden chairs but you can create your perfect set by upgrading to our Rose, Emma or Kate chairs or by bundling a host of optional accessories such as garden benches, parasols, cushions, etc with some great discounts.
You can also purchase all our tables and chairs separately, and that way if you require our Mia set (shown below) as a 3-seater set rather than a 2 or 4-seater, you can easily add an extra garden chair to the 2-seater set.
The same applies to all our garden tables and chairs, no matter which shape you opt for. If you’re a little unsure if a circular-shaped table is best for you, then in this article we want to focus specifically on why someone might choose to buy a round patio table.
The advantages of a round garden table and chairs
You might think that all table shapes fit and function in the same way. However, a round table has a set of unique characteristics that you don’t get with an equivalent-sized oval, square or rectangular table.
That said, there are no right and wrong answers, always buy the shape you like best. Round tables just have a few unique characteristics that you might want to consider to make things fit, flow, and function a bit better.
Table size is generally more important than shape because it directly affects functionality, seating capacity, and space efficiency. Shape on the other hand becomes important when considering style, ergonomics, and specific spatial needs.
Size is the primary factor in determining usability but shape can help play its part in many of the more subjective design elements. For example, our round patio tables will often fit and function better on smaller patios or for those looking to create an intimate dining style set up for casual conversation.
Here are some of the primary reasons why you might choose to buy a round table over the other shapes we sell:
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Equal Access
With a round patio table, everyone is positioned at an equal distance from one another, creating a sense of inclusivity. No one is at the "head" of the table, so everyone feels part of the conversation, promoting an informal and relaxed atmosphere. This setup naturally encourages more participation from all guests. -
Space Utilisation
On small patios or balconies, circular-shaped tables allow for more efficient space utilisation and aid traffic flow. They can fit into smaller areas without compromising on seating capacity. With our collection you find a 4-seater round table such as our 88 cm diameter Mia will have less tabletop space than an equivalent 4-seater square table such as our 91 cm Lucy, however, the visual size difference created by the curves is much more dramatic. -
Unobstructed Views
Unlike rectangular tables, where the placement of seats at the far ends might cause awkward moments, a round table allows for unobstructed sightlines across the table. This makes it easier for people to make eye contact, engage with one another, further enhancing the flow of fun and conversation. -
Natural Conversation
The circular shape of the table encourages people to interact in a way that feels more organic. It allows the conversation to flow easily between individuals without the physical barriers (corners or ends) found in a rectangular and square table arrangement. -
Flexible Seating
Round tables have more flexibility when it comes to seating arrangements. You can pull up extra chairs or shift people around more easily, without disrupting the flow of naturally formed conversation. -
Intimate Feel
Round tables create a more intimate setting than long, rectangular or oval. Everyone is closer to one another, making it easier to share personal stories, jokes, and to engage in deeper conversations. The absence of corners helps promote better conversation flow. There is no head-of-the-table. You all face each other, making it more conducive to full discussion and interaction. -
Traditional Shape
Throughout history, a round table has symbolised unity and inclusiveness. They’re associated with harmony and are often used in ceremonial or formal settings. In the legend of King Arthur, they sat at a round table so that none of his barons could claim precedence over the other.
The round table shape is a style we all know and love and ontinues to be one of the best-selling options in our range, especially the 2 and 4-seater sets. All of the above elements combine to make a round patio table the perfect shape for fostering a relaxed setting with comfortable seating and plenty of lively, smooth conversations.
How to measure for a round garden table and chairs
To measure up for one of our round patio table sets, measure the length and width of the area you want to put it. Every patio is different, so factor in items you can’t move such as large planters, BBQs, fire pits, walls, steps, etc and measure from them.
The space required must be 100% free, so the table and chairs can be set up, comfortably and safely walked around, and chairs and be pulled in and out and sat at comortably. If we take our Round Frances Garden Table (pictured above in our white finish with 6 x April garden chairs) it requires the following floor space:
On its own, the Frances Garden Table has a 150 cm diameter tabletop. You need to add a further 75 cm for the 6 x Garden Chairs that we supply with that set. We then advise adding a further 50 to 75 cm for what we call “Working Space”. This is the space you need to provide:
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Room for the chairs to be pulled in and out
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Space for people to comfortably sit back and relax
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Safe space for walking around when people are sitting down
So, for our Frances set, as per the diagram above, we recommend approx a 3 m x 3 m square (or 7.07 m2 of round space to be more precise) for that set to work best.
The working space figure is a guide only. You might think you can reduce this down to 50 cm we wouldn't recommend any less) if the seating is close to a wall or the edge of a patio, for example.
Patios, garden shapes, etc all vary, so measure carefully, measure again, check the dimensions and make sure it will fit and function when in situ.
If you are unsure if the space will still work when the full set is in situ, then take our dimensions and mark it out with some washable pavement chalk or cut to size some old cardboard boxes to help better visualise what will fit and function best in the space you have.
Our final thoughts...
For the Lazy Magazine team, a round patio table is an excellent choice to maximise both comfort and conversation flow in an alfresco dining area.
The circular shape helps to keep everyone at an equal distance, making it easier to maintain eye contact and chat freely. No one is stuck at the "head" of the table, fostering a more inclusive and social atmosphere.
There are no sharp corners too (which is often an advantage in more formal spaces or where you want to push a set up close to a wall), so it’s easier to move around in tighter spaces.
It is the ideal shape for smaller patios, in areas with high foot traffic, or cosy spaces, as you can often fit more people without overcrowding.
Round tables have a soft, inviting shape that blends beautifully with most outdoor settings. If you want to pair it with one of our parasols, all our round tables come with a centre hole.
On the other hand, a round table might not be the ideal choice for you if you regularly host large gatherings. Those on opposite sides can feel far away so a rectangular table might be better if you like hosting alfresco dinner parties.
However, for us, a round patio table is always a fantastic choice for an intimate, stylish, and conversation-friendly setup!
If you have any photos of your round patio table, we’d love to see a few for our Do Some Good charity campaign. You can tag us @LazySusanFurniture on Instagram or Facebook or email them to us at sales@lazysusanfurniture.co.uk.
