What is a refectory dining table?
A refectory table is a highly elongated table used originally for dining in monasteries during Medieval times. In the Late Middle Ages, the table gradually became a banqueting or feasting table in castles and other noble residences.
What is the narrowest A dining table can be?
James + James explains that without room for a drink or with the diners placing their drinks slightly inside the other person’s space, a table setting can be as narrow as 12 inches for a total table width of 24 inches.
Why is it called a refectory table?
Refectory tables were originally used for dining in monasteries in Europe in the Middle Ages. Then it progressed and would become the banqueting table in castles, abbeys or other large residences. Indeed, the word refectory means dining room in a monastery, boarding school or academic institution.
How do you tell how old a table is?
Look carefully at the bottom, sides, and back of the drawer; if the wood shows nicks or cuts, it was probably cut with a plane, a spokeshave, or a drawknife. Straight saw marks also indicate an old piece. If the wood shows circular or arc-shaped marks, it was cut by a circular saw, not in use until about 1860.
Is 32 too narrow for dining table?
Thus, each person’s comfort is an essential factor in deciding the perfect dining table size. Thirty-six-inches is the most narrow that you can usually find a traditional dining table. This allows for 18-inches of space for each opposite-facing guest and permits some room in the middle for serving dishes or platters.
How much does it cost to refinish a dining table?
Cost to Refinish a Table. A basic table will range between $200 and $600 to refinish. The process is typically the same regardless of condition, and price changes only based on size. For any wooden table, the process involves stripping the old finish and applying a new final coat.