When you invest in a made-to-measure dining table, you want every detail to be right. The tabletop is the heart of the table, but the base is at least as important. The table legs determine not only the stability, but also the look and how much room you have left for your chairs. So choosing a base for your dining table is about more than looks alone.
The tricky part is that every type of base has its own advantages. One leg gives plenty of legroom, another is extra stable, and yet another suits a round table better than a rectangular one. In this blog we help you on your way. We explain which types of table legs there are, where the differences lie and which base best suits your table, your space and your interior style.

What types of table legs and bases are there?

Broadly speaking, all dining table bases fall into three categories. Once you understand the difference, choosing becomes a lot easier.

The first category is four legs at the corners. This is the classic base you see on most dining tables. It is timeless, sturdy and virtually wobble-free, because the weight is evenly distributed over four points.

The second category is a base at the ends. Here the legs stand at both ends of the table rather than under the corners. This creates a calmer, more modern look, and leaves all the space along the long sides free for chairs.

The third category is a central pedestal. Here the whole table rests on a single base in the middle. It looks spacious and you can place chairs freely all around, because nothing gets in the way at the corners.

The main difference between these three comes down to two things: stability and chair space. Four legs are the most stable, but take up room at the corners. A central pedestal gives the most freedom for chairs, but requires a well-thought-out construction for larger tables. A base at the ends sits nicely in between.

When should you choose a dining table with a central pedestal?

A dining table with a central pedestal is popular, mainly because of the space it creates. Because there are no legs at the corners, you can place your chairs exactly where you want. You can easily pull up an extra chair without anyone getting stuck against a table leg. In a smaller dining room that is a big advantage, because a central pedestal looks light and makes the room appear larger.

There are also points to consider. Under the table there may be slightly less legroom around the foot, especially if you have long legs. And with longer tables a good construction is important, because all the weight rests on a single point in the middle. For most sizes this is easy to solve, but it is something to discuss beforehand.

A central pedestal really comes into its own on a round table. The shape is symmetrical, you distribute the chairs evenly around it, and the whole looks calm and balanced. For round dining tables, a base in the middle is therefore almost always the best choice.

Cross leg, X-leg or U-leg: what is the difference?

These three bases are often mentioned in the same breath, but they give your table a very different look.

An X-leg crosses in the middle and has a bold, industrial character. It suits an interior with steel, wood and robust materials. Because the legs widen towards the ends, they take up some space at the ends of the table, but visually they make an immediate impression.

A cross leg looks somewhat sturdier and more robust, but remains open in shape. This gives you a solid foundation without the table looking heavy. This leg works beautifully under both round and elongated tops and creates a sense of space.

A U-leg is the most minimalist of the three. With one narrow leg on each side, this base takes up little space, and it is precisely that restraint that makes it so suitable for a calm or modern interior. Despite its slim shape, a U-leg remains stable thanks to the crossbar at the bottom.

In short, they differ mainly in atmosphere and visual mass. An X-leg stands out, a cross leg looks solid and a U-leg keeps things clean and calm. How much room you have left for chairs at the ends depends on which one you choose.

Table leg options for rectangular, oval and organic tables

When you buy an elongated table – whether it is rectangular, oval or organically shaped – you can choose to place the legs at the sides of the table or to go for a central pedestal. 

How does the base affect the space around your dining table?

The base largely determines how many people can sit comfortably at the table. With legs at the corners, you need to take into account the space they occupy, especially at the ends. A wide corner leg can get in the way of that one extra chair. A handy solution is to choose a slightly larger tabletop, so you can slide the chairs comfortably past the legs.

A central pedestal or a base at the ends gives you more freedom. Along the long sides there is then no leg in the way at all, making it easier to pull up extra chairs. In a small dining room, that makes the difference between cramped and comfortable.

Also pay attention to the proportion between the table and the room. A table that is too big for the room quickly makes the dining area impractical, however beautiful the base may be. Keep enough space free all around to push the chairs back and walk past. In a spacious room you have complete freedom; in a smaller space a central pedestal or slim legs are often the smartest choice.

Which base suits your interior style?

Besides the practical side, your interior naturally plays a role too. The base is one of the first things that sets the mood of your dining table.

In a modern interior, clean, slim bases work best. Think of a U-leg or a slender central pedestal that radiates calm and simplicity. For an industrial look, bold bases are the right fit, such as a steel X-leg or a sturdy cross leg. They bring character and a rough edge.

If you love a Japandi or Scandinavian feel, choose light, natural materials and a base with calm lines. A slim central pedestal or a refined cross leg under a light oak top fits in beautifully. For a rustic or robust style, solid wooden legs or a sturdy column base are a great choice, because they radiate warmth and solidity.

The great thing about a made-to-measure table is that you decide for yourself how the top and base come together. That way you can match the table perfectly to the rest of your interior.

Which base suits which table shape?

The shape of your tabletop largely determines which base makes sense. The best choices differ slightly for each shape.

With a rectangular dining table you have the most freedom. Four legs, a U-leg and a cross leg are all possible, so here you choose mainly on looks and on chair space along the long side. Do bear in mind that the length of the table is decisive for stability, as discussed above.

With an oval dining table, the soft shape calls for a base that does not clash with it visually. Four separate corner legs often look less logical under an oval top. A central base looks calmer, and a cross or spider leg visually echoes the rounded lines beautifully. So this is not just about what is practical, but also about visual balance.

With a round dining table, a central base is almost always the best choice. You can place the chairs freely around the table, and the symmetry enhances the spacious, balanced feel. Four legs at the corners usually do not work well with a round table.

With an organic table, the shape leads the way. The base should follow the flowing line of the top rather than interrupt it. A central base often works best, or a few subtly placed legs that keep the focus on the top. Heavy corner legs rarely fit here, because they work against the soft shape.

A short tour of the bases

To make it concrete, below is an overview of the types of legs you can combine with your tabletop at Kas20. We stick to the main shapes, so you get a good picture without getting lost in the details.

For tables with four legs at the corners, you can choose solid column legs for a robust, rustic look, or narrow, slightly bevelled legs that look refined. A classic narrow straight leg also remains a timeless option under a rectangular top.

If you want the legs at the ends, there are several options. A two-part crossed base provides stability without looking heavy and suits almost all elongated shapes. A U-leg on each side takes up minimal space and is still sturdy thanks to the crossbar. For a sturdier, more distinctive look there are wide panel legs or wooden corner legs, which combine best with a ceramic or solid oak top.

For a central pedestal under an elongated table, you can choose a wide spider or matrix leg for a playful, spacious effect, or a slender upright central pedestal that looks elegant and gives plenty of legroom. If you are looking for something bolder, you can go for a solid oval central pedestal.

For round dining tables, a base in the middle works best. An open double cross leg takes up little space and keeps the table light, a round cone-shaped central pedestal looks simple and balanced, and a tripod base gives a somewhat more robust, original look.

Configure your table

Whether you choose an elegant or a robust look, the base defines the atmosphere and comfort of your dining table. Think carefully about your wishes and the available space, and choose the leg that suits them best. With our design tool you can easily try out all the bases, see your table virtually in your own dining room straight away and order your dream table online. If you cannot quite decide, we are happy to help you further with personal advice.

Frequently asked questions about table legs and bases

Which is better, a central pedestal or four legs?

That depends on your situation. Four legs are the most stable and timeless, while a central pedestal gives more room for chairs and looks lighter. For a small dining room or a round table, a central pedestal is often more practical; for a large rectangular table, four legs are a safe choice.

Which table legs take up the least space?

A slim central pedestal and a U-leg take up the least space. They leave the corners free, so you can place chairs more easily and the dining room looks larger.

Which table legs are suitable for a large table?

For a large or long table, four legs at the corners or a wide base at the ends are a good choice, because the weight is then well distributed. A central pedestal is also possible, but with long lengths it requires a sturdier construction.

Can a round table have four legs?

It can, but it usually does not look great. With a round table, a central base looks calmer and you can place the chairs freely all around. Four corner legs visually suit a rectangular top better.