The chairs at the table will make it very difficult to use the surface as a prep cooking space. I would keep the island as it makes the kitchen a much more cohesive work area.

That thought did cross my mind- My plan was to put a bench on the “kitchen side” of the table- one that I could completely push under the table if needed.

Have you ordered the cabinets yet?

Yes we have

I don’t think the table will be a prep surface, and that’s fine. I think a black table would be best.

Ok thanks!!

I think black would look fine as well. Our old wooden table acts like an island. I have 4 chairs- 2 on the side facing our living room and the other 2 at the opposite ends of the table so that the side that faces the kitchen counters is clear when I work on it. I will say though that I’m short (5’2ft) so the table height works for me, my husband is tall and never uses it.

I love a table in a kitchen. And no, it's not too short for a workspace. It's too short for some work, but not all (says me who has a piece of kitchen counter designed at table height for assorted baking activities and who does all kinds of work on a table height table tennis table which is my new favorite phrase).

I do not think the table needs to be black, but black would certainly be nice.

I have a dining height table in my kitchen to fill the space until I get an island, going on four years now! I rarely use it for prep work. Mostly as a buffet when needed. And while I do have enough counter space for prep, I know I would use a counter height island for prep for most meals. That said, you have a different set up and plenty of prep space on each side of the range. Oh, wait, I answered a question you didn't ask based on the other responses!

My kitchen table is an antique french dining table with an iron base and an oak top. But I have white painted cabinets. So I can see where you might think a wood top might be too much wood. Given the info on your finishes, a black table might work with a rug underneath for contrast and to break up the wood floor. But... think of the contrast between the white counters and the black table top.

Is that the look you want? Black and white feels more contemporary. I know you do have lots of wood in the mix. I guess if the black table has a more natural/traditional feel it would work. I think the style of the table is going to be important. I would google the mix of finishes you are going to have. As far as rugs go, try washable rugs first if you can find ones you like. I will look forward to see how your kitchen comes out. I'm sure it will be fabulous with the finishes you describe.

Thank you all!! I really appreciate the input! Love all the team “table as islands” comments! I obviously agree! 😂

Thanks for hitting all my questions Gigi- you posed a question I didn’t really think about. The white counters with the black table top. Our style is a little modern-farmhouse but more modern than farmhouse & def like some of the mid-century modern quirks/charm. Do you think a rug under a lighter wood table would be enough to break up all the light wood? And would my wood stains have to match perfectly? I’ve always liked the idea of a butcher block counter top. This would give that look. This the table I’ve been eyeing. Love the light wood, unsure about it in black bc it isn’t a true black. Who would have thought this would be so hard!!

I'm not sure of the quality (or cleanability) of pottery barn wood stuff so do confirm it's good for kitchen use and abuse, but that style is just about exactly perfect.

I wouldn't worry about the specific rug until the kitchen is done and the table is in place. A rug can soften any issues that might show up, so you should save it for last in case it has any surprise duties to perform.

Any suggestions on places to find good quality wooden tables? I’ve only searched the obvious online home decor sites. Not really sure where to extend my search! Or even wha type of wood that is good for kitchen durability.

The table you showed would not allow a bench to slide under enough to avoid being a knee-knocker.

Here's an option: black metal legs, wood top of your choice, easy to slide a bench under: Parsons Table. You could go for a walnut butcher-block top. I think a wood that deliberately contrasts with your cabinets could look great.

Not sure you have room for an appropriately sized rug under the table. Looks like you would be tripping over the edge of the rug on the kitchen side. Agree that Room and Board has a number of options to customize tables.

I find bench seating to be uncomfortable, but I’m old and fussy. Who will be stuck, I mean get to sit there? No back to rest on, hard to get up if you’re not the end person, different sized people have different needs regarding reaching the table, kids will eventually do the ”he’s touching me!” routine. Is there another dining table with chairs that have backs for comfort at longer meals (lingering dinner party vs quick lunch)?

I just pull the chairs out of the way if I need the extra space for cookies or canning. I love a table in the kitchen .Mine is not quite in the kitchen, but close. I have put a vinyl tablecloth over it and turned grandkids loose with sugar cookie cut outs, colored frosting and all kind of sprinkles. A glorious time was had by all, including the dog.

ETA: I probably wouldn't get black. I would match the cabinets.

Ahhhhhh...the comeback of the eat in kitchen of my youth. :) I agree you won't use it for prep, especially with the great counter space you have but we must have backed a million cookies at our table when I was a kid. Not to mention homework, art projects and of course, breakfast and dinner together. I can't remember the chairs getting in the way but I think they had low backs. It was the 60s and high backed chairs weren't the style for the kitchen. I like it and don't think a black table would be hard to find. I will caution you that scratches might be more noticable with a black table.