A restaurant table is only as steady as its base. Too small for the top and the table tips when a guest leans on the edge; too large and chair legs and feet run into it all night. This guide shows how base sizes are described, which spread suits each top size, and how long tops are carried. Every size below comes from the size charts on our table bases.
How base sizes are described
Base size refers to the spread, the footprint on the floor. Round and disc bases are listed by diameter (a 22" round), cross and 4-prong bases by width (22" x 22"), and 2-prong or “T” bases by the length of the foot. Each size on our product pages lists a max top size, such as 24" x 30" for tops up to 36 x 48. Stay at or under that limit.
Top size to base spread
| Top size | Base options (max top size listed) |
|---|---|
| 24" square or round | CC252 Bistro Series 17" 3-prong (24" round); 2900 Series 18 x 18 (24 x 24); Blade Series 20 x 20 (24 x 24) |
| 30" square or round | 100 Series 20" (30 x 30); B1C5 Bistro Series 15" diameter (30" round); 910 Series 17" round (30 x 30); Flat Series Square 17" x 17" (30 x 30); SS Series 22" x 22" (30 x 30); E-07 Square Series 18" square (30 x 30) |
| 36" x 36" | Flat Series Square 22" x 22"; SS Series 30" x 30"; B Series 24" x 24" 4-prong; Sharon 22" |
| 42" x 42" or 30" x 48" | 910 Series 22" round; 100 Series 24" (30 x 48 only); 1000 Series 26" x 26" 4-prong; E-07 Square Series 23" square |
| 36" x 48" | SS Series 24" x 30" |
| 48" round | B2C5 Bistro Series 19" diameter; B8C5 Bistro Series 24" x 24"; Starline Series 36 x 36 4-prong |
| 54" round | 910 Series 28" round; 100 Series 30"; B1C5 Bistro Series 24" diameter; SS Series 33" x 33"; 1000 Series 32" x 32" 4-prong; Starline Series 38 x 38 4-prong |
| 60" round | SS Series 40" x 40"; Trumpet Series 30"; Cross Base 40" x 40" (4" column) |
| 30" x 60" | Flat Series Square 15" x 31" (2 columns) |
| 36" x 54" | E-07 Square Series 18 x 30 2-column base |
| Up to 36" x 96" | A pair of 2-prong bases per top: SS Series 5" x 22", B Series 24", 1000 Series 22" or Starline Series 2 x 26 |
| Up to 42" x 120" | Starline Series 2 x 36 2-prong, 2 column |
Limits vary by model, so always confirm the max top size on the specific base. Heavy tops change the math: stone, quartz and solid butcher block want the larger spread, or a double-pedestal base, even when a smaller one is listed for that size.
Brass and black brass bases
For a statement base, the Emilia Brass Base and Katelyn Black Brass Base run from an 18" round (tops up to 30 x 30) to a 28" round with a 4" column (tops up to 48 x 48 or 54" round). The Bella Brass Base covers tops up to 48 x 48 or 54" round on its 26" round, and the Carla Black Brass Base adds 2-prong sizes for long tops up to 44 x 96.
Dining, counter and bar height
Most of our bases are offered in more than one height. As a working guide:
- Dining height: roughly a 28–29" base for a 29–30" finished table, paired with 18" seat height chairs.
- Counter height: roughly 34–35" for a 36" finished table, paired with 24–26" counter stools.
- Bar height: roughly 40–41" for a 42" finished table, paired with 29–30" bar stools.
Remember the top adds its own thickness: a 1-1/4" quartz top on a 28.5" base gives a 29.75" table. Bar-height tables also put more leverage on the base, so when a top is close to a base’s listed limit, step up a size for high-tops. A wider spread helps on patios and in busy bars where guests lean on the table. Our bar vs. counter stool height guide covers the seating side.
Long tops and two-base setups
Rectangular tops longer than a single column can carry use either a 2-column base or a pair of 2-prong bases, placed toward each end of the top with the feet kept clear of seating positions. The SS Series, B Series and 1000 Series each offer a 2-prong size for tops up to 36 x 96 (two required per top), the Blade Series 26" 2-prong also handles 36 x 96, and the Starline Series 2 x 36 2-prong, 2-column option carries tops up to 42 x 120. For communal tables beyond those sizes, ask your rep about a custom base.
Outdoor bases
For patios, rooftops and pool decks, choose a base rated for outdoor use, such as the Flat Series Square and Flat Series Round, or the indoor/outdoor versions of the SS Series and KE Series. Wind moves tables long before it moves chairs, so give outdoor tops a heavier or wider base, or a bolt-down base such as the B900.
Assembly
Tables ship with tops and bases separate and hardware provided, and the customer attaches them. Specify levelling glides for uneven floors and check them at installation. Many bases are quick ship and usually in stock; see quick ship.
Frequently asked questions
What size base do I need for a 30" x 30" top?
A base listed for tops up to 30 x 30, such as a 17" round, a 17" x 17" or 18" square, or a 22" x 22" cross, depending on the model.
What size base for a 30" x 48" top?
A base listed for tops up to 30 x 48, such as the 910 Series 22" round, the 100 Series 24", the 1000 Series 26" x 26" 4-prong or the E-07 Square Series 23" square.
How do I support a long table top?
Use a 2-column base or a pair of 2-prong bases. Several of our bases list 2-prong sizes for tops up to 36 x 96, and the Starline Series goes to 42 x 120.
Do table bases come assembled?
Tops and bases ship separately with hardware provided, and are attached on site.
Related guides
Table seating chart · Commercial restaurant tables · Table top materials compared · ADA seating
Ready to spec your project?
Send us your top sizes and heights. We will match a base to each one, send pricing and samples, and connect you with your local Designform rep.
Request a Quote / Samples
