Designing your ideal table by pairing a separate base and top offers the ultimate flexibility to create furniture tailored to your venue’s unique personality. To ensure your selection is as practical as it is stylish, there are several key factors to consider. We’ve compiled this expert guide to help you navigate the process and select the perfect commercial table combination.
Step 1: Define the Purpose and Environment
Every great table choice starts with knowing where and how it will be used. Ask yourself...
1. Where will this table be used?
TIP: Outdoor furniture will require weather-resistant materials like aluminium or high-pressure laminate.
TIP: High‑traffic environments will need durable, easy‑clean surfaces and stable bases to prevent wobbling.
2. What kind of usage will it see?
TIP: Dining tables should combine stability with easy maintenance, ensuring they hold up to frequent use and cleaning. In busy restaurants, solid bases and surfaces that support quick turnover help keep service smooth.
3. Will it need to be moved or stored often?
Step 2: Choose the Right Table Base
Your base determines stability, style, and compatibility with chosen table top and seating. Ask yourself...
1. What height do I need?
| Type | Base Height | Typical Use |
| Coffee | 43-45cm | Casual lounge tables |
| Dining | 71-75cm | Standard dining tables |
| Mid | 88cm | Counter height tables with mid-height stools, ideal for casual elevated dining |
| Poseur (Bar) | 107-108cm | High tables for standing or with bar-height stools |
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TIP: Consider the purpose behind each table, and how different heights will complement one another across the space. The right blend of heights not only supports comfort and function but also defines the character of your venue and the way people move through it.
2. What material suits the environment?
Will it face moisture, heat, or outdoor exposure?
- Make sure you choose a table base that’s manufactured from materials that are suited to your environment.
- For indoor use, most types of bases will work, but you might want to consider something lightweight that’s easy to move such as aluminium.
- If you’re using your tables outside, be sure to opt for a weather-resistant base made from materials such as aluminium, galvanised steel or polypropylene.
3. What style fits the space?
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| Single Pedestal with Square/Rectangular Plate | Double Pedestal with Rectangular Plate | Single Pedestal with Round Plate | Single Pedestal with Cross Base | Ornate |
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| Trestle Legs | Cross Base | Four-Legged Base | Flip-Top |
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TIP: Commercial table bases are available in a wide range of shapes and style. Choose one that complements your environment, layout, and brand aesthetic. Often, round table tops will look better with a round base, and a square top with a square or rectangular base, but it’s entirely up to you! It’s also worth considering chair placement when selecting a base. Some styles - such as those with flat plate bases - make it easier for chairs to fit comfortably under tables without obstruction.
4. Do I need storage or mobility features?
TIP: If space is paramount, or you need to be able to store your tables away when not in use, then you’ll want to choose a base the allows the table to fold.
5. Explore Eclipse Furniture table base options
| Model | Environment | Material | Heights Available, Base Sizes inc. Min/Max Table Top Sizes (cm) + Max Top Weight | Colour Options | |
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Moderno |  |
Steel | Coffee, Dining, Mid-Height, Poseur |  |
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Castano | |
Cast Iron | Dining, Poseur |  |
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Alby |  |
Aluminium | Dining, Poseur | |
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Anzio | |
Aluminium | Dining, Poseur | |
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Durance | |
Aluminium & Polypropylene | Dining, Poseur | |
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Double Cross | |
Steel | Dining | |
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Hula | |
Steel | Dining | |
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Evo | |
Aluminium | Dining, Poseur | |
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Fabio | |
Aluminium | Dining | |
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Hyde | |
Steel (Zinc primer and powder-coated for external use) | Dining | |
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Nevada | |
Aluminium | Dining | |
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Orleans | |
Aluminium | Dining, Poseur | |
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Quarto | |
Steel | Coffee | |
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Arno Folding |  |
Aluminium | Dining, Poseur |  |
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Bison | |
Steel | Dining, Mid-Height, Poseur | |
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6. When reviewing the options, consider the maximum table top size and weight the base can support
You need to ensure that the base you choose supports the size fo the table top you are planning to use.
TIP: A base that is too small risks instability and tipping, while one that is too large will appear disproportionate and reduce legroom and circulation space.
Step 3: Select the Ideal Table Top
The top defines the surface experience and visual impact. Ask yourself...
1. What material works best?
| Material | Benefits | Suitable For |
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High Pressure Laminate (HPL) |
• Scratch‑resistant • Versatile • Wide range of colours/patterns • Hygienic and easy to clean • Durable • Décor range | |
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Melamine-Faced Chipboard (MFC) |
• Lightweight • Budget-friendly • Smooth finish • UV and water-resistant surface • Available in many décor styles | |
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Laminate |
• Cost-effective • Easy to clean • Consistent finish • Durable • Décor range | |
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Recycled Plastic |
• Sustainable • Weather-resistant • Durable • Low maintenance | |
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Solid wood |
• Unique characteristics • Warm • Natural • Durable • Timeless appeal • Can be refinished for longevity | |
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Marble |
• Luxurious • Premium Aesthetic • Heat-resistant • Long lasting • Unique natural patterns • Can be refinished for longevity | |
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Polypropylene |
• Lightweight • Durable • Weather-resistant • Easy to clean • Stackable • Wide variety of colours | |
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2. What shape and size do I need?
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| Small 2-person table | Standard 2-person or small 3-person table | Standard 4-person table |
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| Standard 6-person table | 8+ person table |
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| Small 2-person table | Standard 2-person table | Standard 4-person table |
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| Standard 4-person table | Standard 6-8 person table |
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3. Explore the brands
Extrema Table Tops
Built to withstand extreme conditions, both indoors and outside, Extrema Table Tops are manufactured from durable, weather-proof HPL in a wide variety of finishes and are resistant to UV light, heat, stains, and impacts.
Parisian Table Tops
French bistro-inspired tops that blend timeless elegance with exceptional resilience. With a bonded laminate surface and contoured metal outer rim, as well as resistance to heat, stains, and impacts.
EKO Table Tops
Modern and maintenance-free, EKO Table Tops look like wood, but are manufactured from 100% recycled materials that would have gone to landfill. Suitable for indoors and outside, they’re weather and UV-resistant.
Tuska Table Tops
Crafted from high-quality Robinia wood, Tuska Table Tops are both beautiful and durable. Suitable for outdoor use, the tops feature an attractive slatted design and are available in a variety of shapes and sizes.
Enduratop Table Tops
Weather and rot-proof Enduratop Table Tops offer great value, combining classic good looks with a lightweight yet durable design. They offer excellent resistant to heat, cigarette ash, scratching and staining.
Solidgrain Table Tops
Our comprehensive range of solid wood table tops includes oak, ash, and pine in an array of colours and finishes showcasing their unique characteristics. All beautifully crafted for indoor commercial use, the tops are highly durable and built to last.
Holz Table Tops
Highly durable yet cost-effective, Holz wood-effect table tops are crafted from MFC with 2mm ABS edging. The tops have an easy-clean, wipeable surface and are available in a range of naturally inspired shades.
Omega Table Tops
Achieve a luxury marble look at a fraction of the cost. Featuring a thick, contract-grade marble effect laminate and attractive gold ABS edging, Omega Table Tops are heat-resistant and easy to keep clean.
White Carrara Marble Table Tops
Add the luxury of genuine marble with our White Carrara Marble Table Tops. Beautiful Italian Carrara marble, with a high-end matte finish is expertly crafted into smooth table tops with rounded edges and radius corners on the square version.
4. Explore the table top options
| Model | Environment | Materials | Shapes | Colour/Finish Options | |
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Extrema | |
12mm HPL (High Pressure Laminate) |  |
*Textured Finish |
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Parisian | |
18/25mm Laminate and Metal Outer Ring |  |
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EKO | |
20mm Recycled Plastic | |
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Tuska | |
22mm Robinia Wood | |
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Enduratop | |
18/25mm Laminate | |
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Rustic Solid Oak | |
32mm Solid Oak | |
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Solid Character Oak | |
32mm Solid Oak | |
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Solid Ash | |
25mm Solid Ash | |
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Vintage Solid Wood | |
32mm Solid Pine | |
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Holz | |
25mm MFC (Melamine-Faced Chipboard) | |
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Omega | |
25mm Laminate with Gold ABS Edging | |
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White Carrara Marble | |
20mm Genuine White Carrara Marble |  |
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5. Weight and Compatibility
Choosing the right table isn’t only about the look of the top - it’s about ensuring the base and top work together safely and effectively. The weight of each top, shown in the comparison table below, should always be matched with a base that can support it.
TIP: Always check that the base remains stable under the top’s load.
TIP: Matching weight and base design ensures durability and prevents wobbling.
TIP: Compatibility between top and base makes installation smoother and extends the life.
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| Round | Square | Rectangle | ||||||||||||
| Available Table Sizes (cm) | 60 | 69/70 | 75 | 80 | 90 | 120 |
60x60 |
69x69/ 70x70 |
79x79/ 80x80 |
90x90 | 110x60 |
119x69/ 120x70 |
179x69/ 180x70 |
180x75 |
| Rustic Oak | 6.4 | 11.47 | 15.15 | 27.6 | 9.4 | 12.45 | 20.5 | 20.55 | 32.65 | |||||
| Ash | 7 | 8 | 15 | 22 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 15 | 23 | |||||
| Character Oak | 8 | 12 | 17 | 31 | 10 | 14 | 22 | 23 | 37 | |||||
| Vintage | 6 | 8 | 15 | 28 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 18 | 19 | 33 | ||||
| Holz | 8.78 | 14.51 | 6.45 | 8.78 | 11.82 | 15.05 | ||||||||
| Omega | 5 | 6 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 10 | |||||||
| Parisian | 5 | 6.2 | ||||||||||||
| Enduratop | 5 | 6.2 | 7.8 | 9.5 | 6.6 | 9.2 | 11.5 | 15 | ||||||
| EKO | 8.6 | 10.6 | 13.3 | 23.3 | 8.7 | 11.6 | 14.3 | 11.4 | 18.5 | |||||
| Tuska | 4 | 5 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 12 | 14 | ||||||
| Extrema | 6.8 | 9.2 | 14.09 | 21.56 | 6.8 | 9.2 | 11.9 | 15.8 | 23.2 | |||||
| White Carrara Marble | 18 | 23 | 23 | 30 | ||||||||||
Number in cells shows weight in kg of table tops
6. Fixings and Compatibility
- Aligned fixings matter. Bolt patterns, brackets, and mounting methods all ensure stability and safety.
- All our table bases come complete with fixings for secure and easy assembly.
- When sold with a table top (except solid wood), the top is pre‑drilled to match the base - making setup quick and effortless.
- If purchased separately, tops may require drilling to suit your chosen base.
TIP: Consistent alignment means less downtime, faster installation, and peace of mind for busy hospitality venues.
Extrema EASYFIX System
With our innovative EASYFIX system, Extrema table tops can be quickly and securely fitted onto a wide range of bases, offering a seamless installation experience.
It couldn’t be easier to fix your new Extrema table top to your base:
- Place your pre-assembled table-base onto the table top, making sure that the holes align.
- Insert the 4 bolts into the grooves and slide them to the desired width.
Step 4: Pairing Base & Top Successfully
Now bring it all together to complete your vision. Ask yourself...
1. Which top - and - base duo will you go for?
Here are just a few of our favourite combinations of tops and bases, from classic to contemporary and for indoor and outside…
Indoor Complete Tables
From left to right: Rustic Solid Oak Table Top in Smoked + Moderno Large Round Dining Height Base in Black/Gold, Omega Table Top in White + Castano B2 Dining Height Base, Parisian Table Top in Black + Nevada Dining Height Base
Outdoor Complete Tables
From left to right: Extrema Table Top in Cement + Arno Deluxe Black Double Dining Flip Top Base, EKO Table Top in Black + Evo Dining Height Base, Tuska Table Top + Bison Square Black Dining Table Base
2. Is this setup future-proof? Can I swap tops or adjust heights later?
Tables aren’t just about today’s needs - they should adapt as your venue evolves. Consider whether bases allow you to swap tops for a fresh look or different function, and whether adjustable heights can give you flexibility between dining, lounge, or bar service.
TIP: Choosing adaptable designs helps ensure your investment keeps pace with changing layouts, guest expectations, and service styles.
3. Will this be easy to clean and maintain over time?
- Stain‑resistant finishes work well in cafés, bars, and high‑turnover dining spaces.
- Durable bases resist scuffs and scratches from chairs and foot traffic.
- Low‑maintenance materials like recycled plastic, HPL, or polypropylene suit busy outdoor areas
- Premium finishes such as marble or solid wood add elegance but need regular care.
- Easy‑clean surfaces keep service efficient, while low‑maintenance choices reduce long‑term costs and staff effort.
TIP: Easy‑clean surfaces keep turnover fast and service efficient.
TIP: Choosing low‑maintenance materials reduces long‑term costs and staff effort.
TIP: Premium materials like marble or wood elevate the look but require more upkeep - balance style with practicality.
Download the Table Base and Table Top Guide
Still need some help?
Whether you’re specifying for a single venue or a multi-site rollout, our team is here to help. They can also help with layout planning or volume pricing. Please don’t hesitate to call us on 01452 336 520 or email sales@eclipsefurniture.co.uk.
