Base type is the first decision
Pedestal bases seat more people because nobody straddles a leg. Trestle bases are more traditional and add visual weight. Four-leg bases are the most versatile but limit seating. Pick the base type first, then size.
The real math on table size
Plan 24 inches of table width per diner. A 72-inch table comfortably seats six, a 96-inch table seats eight, a 120-inch extension seats ten. These numbers assume normal-scale chairs; upholstered dining chairs eat more space and the capacity drops by one seat.
Extensions: leaves vs. butterfly vs. drop-leaf
Leaves are the cleanest mechanism but require storage. Butterfly extensions are built-in but add visual bulk. Drop-leaf tables are the most flexible but wobble more. For formal dining rooms, specify fixed or leaf extension; drop-leaf is for casual breakfast nooks.
Finish durability
Hand-rubbed oil finishes look the best but require maintenance. Lacquer is durable but doesn't age gracefully. Catalyzed conversion varnish is the practical middle ground — holds up under daily use and still looks intentional.