Art Van Dining Room Table Sets

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Art Van Dining Room Table Sets: A Comprehensive Overview

Art Van Furniture, a retailer known for its extensive selection of home furnishings, offered a wide variety of dining room table sets to suit diverse tastes and spatial requirements before its restructuring. These sets, previously a core component of their furniture offerings, encompassed various styles, materials, and functionalities, catering to both casual and formal dining environments. Understanding the range and typical characteristics of Art Van dining room table sets provides valuable insight for those seeking pre-owned options or looking for similar styles from other retailers.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of dining room table sets previously offered at Art Van, focusing on the key features, materials, styles, and considerations relevant to potential buyers or those seeking to understand the brand’s past offerings. While Art Van Furniture as it was once known has undergone changes, the furniture it previously sold continues to circulate in the secondary market, making this information important for those seeking these pieces.

Variety of Styles and Designs

Art Van historically offered dining room table sets in a multitude of styles, ranging from traditional and formal to modern and contemporary. Traditional sets often featured ornate details, rich wood finishes (such as cherry, mahogany, or oak), and heavier construction. These sets usually included a rectangular or oval table, complemented by chairs with upholstered seats and backs, often with intricate carvings or embellishments.

Contemporary and modern sets, on the other hand, leaned towards minimalist designs, clean lines, and simpler forms. Materials often included glass, metal, and lighter-toned woods such as maple or birch. Chairs in these sets might feature sleek, armless designs, plastic or metal frames, or minimalist upholstery in neutral colors. Mid-century modern designs were also prevalent, characterized by tapered legs, geometric shapes, and a blend of natural wood and man-made materials.

Transitional styles bridged the gap between traditional and modern, incorporating elements of both. These sets might feature a classic table shape with a simplified design and a more neutral color palette. Chairs could have a more contemporary silhouette while still retaining some traditional detailing, such as nailhead trim or subtly curved backs.

Casual dining sets were another significant category, often designed for everyday use and smaller spaces. These sets might include smaller round or square tables, often with pedestal bases. Chairs might be made of wood, metal, or a combination of materials, and upholstery was typically more durable and easy to clean.

Material Composition and Quality

The materials used in Art Van dining room table sets varied widely depending on the style and price point. Solid wood was a common choice for higher-end sets, offering durability and a classic aesthetic. The specific type of wood influenced the appearance and price, with hardwoods like oak, maple, and cherry being more expensive than softwoods like pine.

Veneer was also frequently used, especially in more affordable sets. Veneer involves applying a thin layer of real wood over a core of less expensive material, such as particleboard or MDF (medium-density fiberboard). This allowed for a more luxurious look without the cost of solid wood. The quality of the veneer and the underlying core material were important factors in determining the overall durability of the piece.

Metal was commonly used for table bases and chair frames, particularly in modern and contemporary designs. Steel, iron, and aluminum were all used, often with powder-coated or painted finishes. Glass tabletops were also a popular choice for modern sets, offering a sleek and airy look.

Upholstery materials included a range of fabrics, such as cotton, linen, polyester, and microfiber. Leather and faux leather were also used in higher-end sets. The quality of the upholstery fabric and the cushioning material (such as foam or batting) affected the comfort and durability of the chairs.

The construction methods used in Art Van's dining room sets were also important to consider. Dovetail joints, mortise-and-tenon joints, and other strong joinery techniques indicated a higher level of craftsmanship and durability. The quality of the hardware, such as hinges and drawer slides, also contributed to the overall longevity of the set.

Considerations for Size and Functionality

When selecting a dining room table set, the size of the room and the number of people who typically dine at the table are crucial considerations. Overcrowding a small space with a large dining set can make the room feel cramped and uncomfortable. Conversely, a small table in a large room can look out of place.

Art Van offered dining room sets in various sizes, ranging from small bistro sets for two people to large tables that could accommodate eight or more. Extension tables were also a popular option, allowing for flexibility in seating capacity. These tables typically included leaves that could be added or removed to expand or contract the table's surface area.

The shape of the table was another important consideration. Rectangular tables are best suited for longer, narrower rooms, while round or oval tables work well in square or smaller spaces. Square tables can be a good choice for intimate gatherings, while pedestal tables provide more legroom for diners.

The height of the table and chairs should also be considered. Standard dining tables are typically around 30 inches high, while counter-height tables are around 36 inches high and bar-height tables are around 42 inches high. The chairs should be appropriately sized to the table height, allowing for comfortable dining.

Beyond size and shape, functionality was another important aspect of Art Van's dining room table sets. Some tables included built-in storage, such as drawers or shelves, which could be useful for storing linens, silverware, or other dining essentials. Some chairs offered features like swivel bases or reclining backs for added comfort.

The style of the dining set should also complement the overall aesthetic of the home. Consider the existing furniture, décor, and color scheme when choosing a dining set. A cohesive design will create a more harmonious and inviting dining space.

In conclusion, Art Van offered a diverse range of dining room table sets designed to meet various needs and preferences. Understanding the different styles, materials, sizes, and functionalities available allows potential buyers to make informed decisions when searching for pre-owned Art Van sets or similar options from other retailers. Considering these factors ensures that the chosen dining set will be a functional and stylish addition to the home.