If the kitchen is the hub of the home then, arguably, the kitchen table is the axis around which family life spins. A place to prep food, eat, work, create, entertain and talk long into the night; the table sees it all. From a compact bistro style to a twelve-seater trestle design, it’s fair to say that a good table completes a kitchen.
King among kitchen tables is the Arundel refectory table. Solidly unfussy, its pure and simple lines combine form and function to create a timeless piece that can be passed down from generation to generation. With solid A-frame legs, visible dowel lock joins, optional extending leaves, the deep and chunky (45mm) tabletop, and a textured finish in solid oak, it fits seamlessly into both contemporary and traditional kitchens.
When it came to designing the Arundel, oak was always going to be the first choice of material. Our timber comes principally from the Appalachian Mountains, where trees are planted at a faster rate than they’re felled (currently at a replacement rate of 2.5 times) and the oak is prized for its durability, tactility and beauty. Oak also has a long history in British furniture making. And, the Arundel’s Natural Oak finish, which is wire-brushed to highlight the grain, adds a mellow warmth to the kitchen space.
On a practical level, the design team were aware that kitchen tables see a lot of action and need protecting to prolong their lifetimes, but they were also keen not to lose the raw quality of the oak. Luckily, our IsoGuard® sealant protects timber without detracting from its natural beauty. Unlike a traditional varnish or veneer, which leaves a layer sitting on top of the wood, IsoGuard® works on a penetrative level, soaking into the wood and binding to the raw cellulose that it finds, coating it in a fine protective film, so leaving the wood surface looking and feeling naturally beautiful.
Historically, the un-hierarchical nature of the refectory table meant it was used in the dining halls of medieval monasteries where it fostered a mood of togetherness and belonging amongst the monks and their guests. And that sense of conviviality is continued today, where the informality of the tables suits busy family life and fits well into large or extended kitchens or acts as the central point in a kitchen layout where an island might otherwise sit.
Bench seating is the classic choice for a refectory table, and the Arundel solid oak bench is available as a two-, three- or four-seater, with the option of a comfy, non-slip cushion for those who prefer a softer touch. Equally, kitchen chairs work well with the Arundel, and you could consider the Wardley dining chair as a complementary piece or try combining the best of both worlds with benches running the length of the table and Wardley carver chairs at either end.
Whatever iteration your kitchen table takes, it’s ultimately the spot where family life plays out, guests are hosted, and memories made. The table is a special piece of furniture that earns its place in our homes and hearts.
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