Furniture Types
Pedestal Table
A pedestal table rests on a single central support rather than multiple legs, creating unobstructed space beneath for legs and chairs. This design, dating to ancient times and refined in Georgian England, offers practical advantages for dining and working: no corner legs to impede seating.
The central column—elaborate turned wood, sculptural metal, or minimalist cylinder—becomes a design feature. Pedestal tables suit round and square tops particularly well, where corner legs would be awkward.
Key Characteristics
- ✓Single central support
- ✓No corner legs
- ✓Easy chair positioning
- ✓Various base styles
- ✓Works well with round tops
- ✓Classic and contemporary styles
Types & Variations
Tulip table (Saarinen style)
Drum pedestal (cylindrical base)
Turned pedestal (traditional wood)
Split pedestal (dual columns)
Trestle pedestal (horizontal support)
Common Materials
WoodMetalMarbleCast resinGlass top
Works Well With These Styles
Placement & Usage Tips
Pedestal tables allow flexible seating—add extra chairs without leg interference. The base must be proportionate to the top for stability; round tops up to 54 inches typically work with single pedestals.
💡 Pro Tip
Test stability before purchasing—rock the top gently. Quality pedestal tables have weighted bases or wide footprints to prevent tipping. Larger tops may need double pedestals for stability.
Related Terms
Dining Table
A table designed for meals, typically larger than other tables and sized to accommodate chairs around its perimeter.
Tulip Table
A pedestal dining table designed by Eero Saarinen in 1956 to eliminate the cluttered look of traditional table legs, featuring a smooth white top on a single sculptural base.