I think the table looks good as it is pictured. It looks like it is proportionate to the space and def can seat 8 with no problem.

From the pics, it seems that if you had it fully extended all the time--it would take up too much space--but hard to say as it is not pictured fully extended.

How many chairs do you have?

As far as the glass top--I don't know. For the few times that you need the table extended and thus won't have the glass top, you could use a table cloth. If the top is not particularly soft you would probably be fine just using it bare unless your company is very hard on things.

For me personally, I would keep it at the 7.5.

I like the table a lot--where did you get it?

I think it looks good as is. We have an 8' table for everyday use also. We just use one end of it most of the time.

What a lovely space. I'd love to see more pictures. I agree that the larger table looks great here. A smaller one might be overwhelmed by the space. Good job!

I think that when you get "something" in the center and stuff on the table it won't look too big.
As for the glass.....please don't!t here is always the issue of getting stuff under it and doing more damage to the finish that a little spiller water colors or crayon marks would do.
I would leave it fully extended. If you only rarely put the leaves in, over a few years, the table and the leaves won't match in color.
If you are worried about the kids "crafting" on that table get a folding protector for one end to put down when they are doing messy things.
The table that my kids and grand kids ( and me!!) did craft stuff on is now in my family room....the finish could use a spruce up....but it's really not bad....considering all the painting and cutting that has happened on that table.

I think it looks great, but would love to see a photo of it full extended too. Your room is beautiful, the windows, wall colors (what is it, if you can tell us?) and those FLOORS!!!

I agree with lindac about the glass. Things get under there. It will also hid the beautiful wood top, which is making everything look so rich and warm.

Would also like to know where you got the table, I'm looking for something beefy but elegant, to replace my Queen Anne.

Thanks so much for the quick responses. I am so not talented in the way of decorating and this renovation is way over my head with the decisions that need to be made. But what a great resource this forum is!

To answer some questions...

I so hate to admit this, but the table is from Pottery Barn, the Montego collection. I really wanted to have a solid wood table custom made, but the cost was more than I wanted to spend right now and I got a great discount on the Montego.

The paint is a color match for "Stone" from Restoration Hardware.

The floors are mahogany and were another source of angst. We chose the cabinets first and love dark wood. I had planned on lighter wood floors, but saw these and fell in love. So I made the cardinal sin of dark floors and dark cabinets with 8' ceilings! lol. I need a lot of light accent rugs.

...as for the glass top...

I agree. As a wood snob, I would not put on a glass top. The nicks and scratches on a solid wood table only add to an aged patina. However, I feel this table is all finish and fluff. I don't see it aging gracefully.

I agree that a folding table protector would be a better choice than a glass top. It will protect the table better than glass and be easier to remove to put in the leaf.

luvn2, thanks for the info on paint and table. I just went over to PB and you're not kidding, I looked at the 'care instructions' for the table and they have them covered every way -- no paper towels, "do not use water" on table! Whoah, are they kidding? Who doesn't wipe their table top off with a dishcloth? They also have a vinyl table pad for $199, no doubt you know that.

You could always just use it and have the slab top replaced with a solid wood one at some point. That's probably what I'd do, but I'm a little carefree with my furniture. I figure it's made to be used. Call me irresponsible, but glass on a table just reminds me of a plastic cover on the sofa. On the other hand, my niece has a glass top on her table. I am always trying to get her to remove it, but her DH insists it's needed. It really bugged me when they started turning it into a display case by putting photographs under the glass!! But the interesting thing is that she is one of the best most kind people I know, I love to be around her and it's a joy to be at her house sitting at that table despite the glass top. That puts things in perspective.

Here is a link that might be useful: Montego table

As linda says BEWARE the glass top. It ruined the finish on 2 of DD's bedroom pieces. It sticks to the wood. By the time you realize it the wood finish is ruined. Get a padded table cover or whatever and use it when crafting but please don't put glass...humidity will get in there and you will be really sorry. c

We had a table with a hand painted design and had a glass top cut to fit it. We put the little plastic feet things under the glass and it didn't damage the wood. BUT, crumbs would somehow get under the edges of the glass and you can't get them out without picking up the glass. And when we needed to put the leaf in, it was a real pain to find a spot to store the glass. I would just get some cheap vinyl tablecloths from Wally to put on the table when the kids want to craft. Two of them layered would fully protect the table. They have a felt-like backing on them. Also, get some waterproof placemats. Our new table is similar to yours, only we got it at Havertys. I love the look of a runner on it. Light colored runners show up the best. We got our table last fall and so far, so good on protecting the finish.

That table is PERFECT! For someone who claims not to have a strong suit in decorating you sure found the right talbe. That is no easy feat either.

Love it!
Amy