Thank you for the input, lukkiirish. I agree that the larger table will probably overwhelm the room. And I feel I would be limited to how it's oriented because of some built-ins that are going in the room. 12x12 is what's left over for a table and chairs. I do love the style of the table, especially the legs.

What size should I be looking for in order to fit the space?

Thanks again!

Oh gosh, you're welcome! I think depending on the chairs you choose, you'd be safe with something in the middle of the two you've posted, but to be honest, there are folks here who are much better equiped knowledge wise. I'm sure some others will chime in soon. It may be a good idea to post a pic of the chairs you have or are considering too because that would be helpful to know too.

I agree -- I think the first table would overwhelm the room and then with the chairs, it would look like the room was ALL table!

I think it's too big. It's kinda late in the day and I'm not always good at math but I believe the general rule of thumb is that you want at least 3' to pull out a chair -- with a 6' long table in a 12' long room, you'd have exactly 3' on either end and to me, that makes it too snug and overwhelming for the space.

Thank you all for your input. It is very much appreciated! That's what I was thinking as well, this 82" table is not the right one for me.

Sueb20, thank you for the rule of thumb.

I meant to take a picture of the space last night but forgot. Here's a layout sketch. The table I have drawn is 72" x 36" with an outline of an 11x8 rug. There are wide openings on opposite sides of the room; the foyer side and a sitting room side (it's the old dining space). My plan is to orient the ends of the tables as shown so that I can expand the table length when needed, which would be on a rare occasion. Most of the vintage tables I find are 60x39/40. Sounds like this is my target size.

Just remember to factor in the space needed when you have people seated. It adds about two to three feet on either side (IMHO) in order to allow room to walk around a slightly pushed-out chair without bumping the seated person or wall. When I am seated and eating, my chair back extends 17" beyond the edge of the tabletop and I am small as are my antique dining chairs. An antique table would probably be a better size for you than something newer. Have fun shopping! Also, if you have any nearby, hit an auction or two. Might find something really nice at a really good price! Estate sales are good, too.

Duncan phyfe style tables are almost given away on crags list in my area :(

I like the base of this one and the idea that it has a hidden leaf so that you don't have to find storage for it.

http://orlando.craigslist.org/fuo/5796731092.html

And this one is currently at $7.. https://www.ebth.com/items/4191598-duncan-phyfe-painted-dining-table

Sunnysmom, they're not as cheap here (DFW). Sets range from $300 to $2500. I've seen a black painted DPhyfe style locally. It was darling but not the look I want. I shouldn't even be looking at CL until I am ready to move furniture in. I'd have to act fast to get a good deal, and right now there's nowhere to put the table.

Cyn427, thank you for the reminder. I think I have ample space to walk around. I'd expect all seated diners to be within the rug boundary, then there's 2 feet on the longitudinal along the walls (built-ins and windows. The table ends will be open to adjacent spaces. That's where it could be tight if I am trying to seat more than 6 people.

Thanks again all!