The dining is for more formal. The advantage of a round table is that everyone seated is seen.

You have some challenging transportation problems with this layout. You need approximately 3’ of walk space and chair push back space around tables. Can you post measurements from built in eating area to end of that space. Is that a slider door on the outside wall?

How many kids and ages?

Good point about the round table.

In option 2, where rectangular table is in the kitchen area, I am thinking that the long side of the table will look at the backyard. Most of the time, it would be at 72 inches and on the right side next to the door to the yard.

Yes, it's a sliding door.

I guessed at size of kitchen eating area so verify measurements. A 72x36 table will work but tight to get to slider door. A 60” table in formal dining room will work but I would create a more flexible room with this space. I have some ideas on that. I will post that shortly. The key thing about round tables is get trim but sturdy pedestal that is clear enough for chairs to push in and get chairs that aren’t too wide at front edge. That front chair edge is what limits number of chairs.

The round table in dining is 60”.

Thanks Flo! Yea I realize the biggest problem in the kitchen area is access to the yard. The fact that there is another sliding door on the family room side does help. Eventually the sliding door next to kitchen table won't be used much.

Sorry I don't have the exact measurements as we haven't moved in but I think your drawing is pretty close.

Yea. I think the slider in dining area won’t be used. Fortunately, you have another! I am thinking of using an expandable table in dining room that is able to be lowered to a coffee table and create an inviting reading nook/homework spot in this first room you enter into your new home. The wall you face when you enter is your focal point so I would put a big piece of art there most likely. It’s a nice size room but not huge given the need to maintain walk through space. Bbl

I can see a scenario that we are doing bbq outside and the kitchen table will be of use next to the sliding door. But yea, realistically, during the cold months, it will be shut.

I like you coffee/dining idea. I could go a bit smaller with the table too. 50 sounds ok. Would you fit 6 chairs to 60? We are going with minimalist/mid-century so chairs will most likely be small and no arm rests.

Here is a very rough sketch to give you a visual of walking into the formal dining room and potential furniture pieces to look for. I am thinking of making this a cozy reading nook for everyday but convertible to extra dining space the couple times a year you need it.

Switch the dining and family rooms