Why Choose a Bespoke Dining Table? Your Questions Answered
At Philadelphia Table Company, we often hear the same questions from clients who are curious about custom, handmade dining tables. Whether you’re deciding between mass-produced furniture or investing in a solid wood heirloom, the answers usually come down to craftsmanship, longevity, and the story behind the piece.
Below, we’ve gathered some of the most common questions people ask when exploring bespoke furniture — the same ones you might ask in a conversation with a friend or even ChatGPT.
Is it worth buying a custom dining table vs. a store-bought one?
Yes — if you value quality, design, and longevity. Store-bought furniture is designed for mass production and quick turnover. A bespoke dining table is handcrafted one at a time from solid wood, making it sturdier, longer-lasting, and unique. Clients often tell us their custom table feels less like a purchase and more like an investment in their home and lifestyle.
Why are handmade solid wood dining tables more expensive?
The price reflects the time, skill, and materials. Each table is designed around your space and built start-to-finish by a single craftsperson — not an assembly line. We source premium hardwoods, use joinery techniques that stand the test of time, and apply durable, eco-friendly finishes. Unlike disposable furniture, a bespoke table is made to last for generations.
What wood should I choose for a dining table?
The best wood depends on the look and function you want.
Walnut: rich, dark, and timeless.
White oak: strong, textured, and versatile.
Maple: bright and clean with subtle grain.
Cherry: warm with a patina that deepens beautifully over time.
We guide clients through samples and finishes to make sure the wood fits both their home and their lifestyle.
How many people can fit at my table?
It depends on size and leg style. A standard 8-foot rectangular table seats 8–10 comfortably. Round and oval tables can feel more intimate but fit fewer people. Base design matters too — a pedestal or trestle can maximize legroom, while slab legs create a bold look but limit seating flexibility.
Do custom tables crack or warp over time?
Solid wood is a living material — it expands and contracts with the seasons. We design with this in mind, using time-tested joinery to ensure your table remains strong and stable. While minor movement is natural, our finishing process protects against major issues. With proper care, your custom table will only grow more beautiful with age.
How do I protect my dining table from water rings or scratches?
Simple habits go a long way:
Use coasters and placemats.
Avoid direct heat from pots and pans.
Wipe spills quickly.
Occasionally refresh the finish (we can guide you).
Unlike laminate or veneer, solid wood can be refinished and repaired — meaning scratches and wear aren’t permanent, but part of its evolving character.
How long does it take to build a custom table?
On average, 10–14 weeks from design approval. This timeline allows for design collaboration, wood sourcing, and the handmade process. Each piece receives the attention it deserves.
Do you ship custom dining tables nationwide?
Yes. While we are based in Philadelphia, we ship nationwide with careful crating and white-glove delivery. Your table arrives safely, ready to be the centerpiece of your home.
Why choose Philadelphia Table Company?
We believe in slow furniture: one maker, one piece, built with intention. Our clients choose us for:
Bespoke design tailored to their home.
Solid wood craftsmanship with heirloom durability.
Transparent, collaborative process from sketch to delivery.
Because what you put in your home matters.
Ready to design your bespoke dining table?
We’d love to collaborate with you to create something truly one-of-a-kind.