We are a family of 6 (four kid ages 10yrs to 5mo) and our dining area is the most difficult part of our house… we need a new table that seats 6 and I’d love the option to seat 8 if possible. But what shape table can I get for this space that makes the most sense?

In this photo to the right is the kitchen, and you have to walk past the table to get there. Where I’m standing taking the photo is the back sliding glass door and to the left of where I’m standing is the basement stairs. So a dining table cannot extend too far out because it would block entrance to the kitchen, the back door and the basement stairs… the walls of this nook make me think a round table would be best, but can we fit a round table that seats 6-8 here?

Any links to tables or pictures of ideas would be so helpful!

We have a small space and a small family, most of the time would not need more than 4 top table. Would like to be able to expand to 6-8 about once every couple of months and then to 10-12 about twice a year. I saw the Transformer Table at Costco which seems like exactly what we need but saw reviews that the quality isn't that great.

The major thing for us is in needs to start small (4 seater in a square or circle format)--everything I've seen starts as a 6 seater rectangular shape. Would also be open to finding a table that goes from 4 to 8 and just accepting that we'll have to pull out a folding table.

1. LOCATION: USA, Washington DC region

2. BUDGET: $2-4k (would love less expensive but shrug not expecting miracles)

3. SIZE: 4 seater, expands to 10 or more with leaves

4. STYLE: Open to anything as long as it extends! Prefer more minimal and modern but not scared away by other styles.

5. I've looked at the Transformer Table and have been scared off by some negative reviews. I've seen extendable tables that start at 6 seater and go up but I'm really looking for something that at it's smallest is a 4 seater square or circle to maximize our everyday layout.

6. Online or real store, no preference