Why a U-Dinette?

[f6bits]

I'm making plans for mods this summer. Don't tell my wife.

We have the U-shaped dinette, which I though was a cool idea. I now realize that it really isn't designed to comfortably fit four, and if it was just the two sides, I could use a *much* longer table that goes all the way to the wall.

I can only theorize that it's shaped in a U because a) you get that little extra bit of storage space against the wall, and b) they can't come up with a cushion arrangement that would fit in this configuration.

So why isn't my dinette just the two sides facing each other?

Second question: Anybody know a good material to replace the table top? I just need a long slab of good looking wood I can round the edges and then finish.

[Randy_K]

Originally Posted by f6bits

Second question: Anybody know a good material to replace the table top? I just need a long slab of good looking wood I can round the edges and then finish.

I would just go to anyplace that makes kitchen counters. Pick you colour and tell them the size. Very inexpensive too.

Randy

[JRTJH]

Another option if you want a wood table top is Lowe's. They have clear pine slabs to use as table tops in the millwork section. Last time I was there, I believe they had a 36" x 48" top.

[apr67]

I think the U shaped dinette is a compromise for those with kids.

When I was looking at RV's it seemed we could seat the 5 of us at a u-shaped dinette. However seating vs eating may be a failure in the u shaped dinette. We opted for a standard dinette in the end, and are going to use a folding chair and perhaps a table extension for our 5th seat.

[f6bits]

Randy_K, thanks for the tip on the laminate countertop. A large slab is $50 at Lowes.

JRJTH, I only saw a 24 (or maybe even 30) wide slab of pine. I think my table is more like 36" wide.

apr67, we have two little ones, and the U is so-so, but it'd sure be nice to have more table space. And if we ever take a friend, we won't all fit.

[nuskovich]

Depends on how handy someone is...

With a circular saw, straight edge, flush trim router, contact cement, formica, and some screws, it can be done to whatever size suits your needs.

[gregrc75]

I have been contemplating doing this exact same thing. If you have an Ikea near you, they sell solid wood desktops. They come in 2 sizes and one is 59"x29.5". I actually made a countertop in my kitchen in the house and cut it to size and coated it with multiple coats of butcher block oil. It has been in use for 2 years now and looks good. You could stain it to match your cabinets in the TT. I was thinking I would go this route if I did modify my dinette from a U to a booth. Here is a link to the table top:



That might not of worked, if not:

http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/60136557/

[f6bits]

Thanks for the Ikea link. Now I need to measure my table.

I know I also need some hardware ideas:
Hooking it to the wall with easy removal for sleeping.
Folding leg for other end.

This will definitely be more stable than what's already there and save us some mild heart attacks when someone bumps a table loaded with cups of milk.