Your Guide to Building the Ultimate Game Table: From Concept to Creation
Designing your dream game table is one of the most exciting projects you can take on. Every table I build is designed around how you play, who you play with, and the space it will live in. Whether you are looking to upgrade from your dining table setup or want a centerpiece made specifically for gaming, this guide will walk you through the key steps to creating your ultimate game table.
Step 1: Size and Shape of Your Table
Choosing the right size and shape is one of the most important parts of planning your custom game table. The goal is to find the perfect balance between comfort, gameplay, and the layout of your space.
Tabletop Size Recommendations
Use these measurements as a general starting point for your design:
2–4 players: 45–72 in long × 36–45 in wide
4–6 players: 60–84 in long × 40–45 in wide
6–8 players: 84–93 in long × 42–45 in wide
Custom sizes are always available to fit your specific space, group size, or preferred game layout.
Tip: A table that’s too small can quickly feel crowded, while an oversized one can make conversation and gameplay feel distant. I can help you find proportions that fit your space and the way you play.
As a general guideline, plan for 22–24 inches of space per player around the table. If you tend to play longer strategy games or use accessories like player trays or card holders, consider allowing a bit more room so everyone stays comfortable throughout the game.
Table Shape Options
Each shape offers its own personality and gameplay flow:
Rectangular: The most versatile and popular choice for 4–8 players. Works well in dining rooms or larger spaces.
Square: Ideal for four player games and compact spaces. Creates a sense of equality between all players.
Hexagon: A truly unique shape that enhances player interaction and makes each seat feel equally involved in the action.
Custom Shape: I can design unique forms or asymmetrical layouts to fit your space or match a specific play style.
Play Area Depth
Most game tables feature a 2.25–3.5 inch recessed play area, often called a game vault. This design creates a contained surface for cards, dice, and miniatures while keeping everything protected and organized between sessions.
Vault depth can be fully customized to match your play style. Some players prefer a shallower vault for easier access to components and quicker setup, while others enjoy a deeper vault for extended campaigns or the convenience of leaving games set up between plays.
When planning your build, think about how you like to play and store your games. I can help you find the ideal depth for your needs, keeping in mind that deeper vaults reduce legroom slightly but offer more flexibility for ongoing games.
Armrest Options
The armrest defines the comfort and functionality of your table. Each width brings its own advantages:
Standard 6 in Wide:
My most popular choice. The wider armrest gives plenty of room to lean, store game components, or hold accessories. I can integrate recessed trays, cup holders, power ports, or deep storage bins for ultimate organization. The trade off is a slightly smaller play area, but most clients find the added comfort and organization options worth it.
Sleek 3 in Wide:
A streamlined version designed to maximize game space while maintaining a clean, modern profile. Both the sleek and standard styles can include the magnetic game rail system, giving you the flexibility to attach accessories such as cup holders, dice trays, or player desks
Player Station 6 in Wide:
The choice for dedicated gamers. Each player station folds out to create a 12 in deep personal gaming desk, complete with space for components, notes, and drinks. Add on options include integrated drawers, LED lighting, USB power, or custom layouts designed around your favorite games.
Widths and configurations depend on the overall table size, and I can adjust each station to match your needs.
Clearance and Spacing
Allow at least 36–42 inches of clearance around the table for chairs and comfortable movement. This ensures your space feels open and accessible, even during longer gaming sessions.
If you’re unsure which size, shape, or armrest setup best fits your space, I can help you plan proportions that suit both your home and how you play.
For a full breakdown of available standard sizes, accessories, and pricing, visit my Game Table Pricing Guide to explore the possibilities and start planning your own build.
Step 2: Leg Design and Table Base Options
The base of your table does more than hold it up, it defines how the table feels and functions. The right leg style balances comfort, stability, and the overall look of your game table. Each design brings a unique presence to the room and can be customized to match your preferred aesthetic.
Trestle Base
A trestle base is one of the most versatile and popular options for larger game tables. It provides excellent strength and stability while keeping legroom open along the sides. This design works especially well for rectangular tables and creates a bold visual foundation that feels balanced and substantial.
Trestle bases can be customized in countless ways, from sculpted or curved components to textured details or engraved accents, making it easy to match your table’s overall style and personality.
They are ideal for anyone who wants an open, inviting design with a touch of style and character. The open layout also makes it easy to slide chairs or benches in from either side without worrying about bumping into corner legs.
Best for: Large rectangular tables, family style seating, and players who value open leg space.
Pedestal Base
A pedestal base offers a refined and balanced design that centers support under the table, giving ample legroom on all sides. This style is perfect for round, square, or hexagon shaped tables where players are seated evenly around the surface, creating a comfortable and connected layout.
Pedestal bases bring a sense of cohesiveness and symmetry to any space. They can be crafted in countless ways, from classic turned columns with traditional detailing to clean, modern geometric forms that make a bold statement. The designs are endless and can be tailored to you and your specific space.
Beyond aesthetics, pedestal bases are highly functional. The centered support keeps the floor area open for chairs and allows for easy movement, even in tighter spaces. For added convenience, I can incorporate concealed wiring channels for under-table lighting or power access, keeping cables hidden and the design clean.
Best for: Round or hex tables, elegant dining conversions, and rooms where open floor space and comfort are a priority.
Four Post Base
The classic four post base offers a timeless and dependable design that complements nearly any interior style. Its straightforward structure provides excellent stability while maintaining a familiar, traditional look that fits seamlessly in both modern and classic spaces.
Each leg can be shaped to match your preferred aesthetic, straight and modern for a clean profile, tapered for a traditional feel, engraved for a classic look or add a texture or design for an elegant, handcrafted touch. This flexibility makes the four post base one of the most adaptable options for custom builds.
While this design provides a comfortable and recognizable setup, spacing between chairs should be considered to ensure players have plenty of legroom. For convenience, the legs are removable in most applications, allowing for easier transport and installation in your home.
Best for: Rectangular or square tables, traditional designs, and clients looking for a clean, simple, and versatile appearance.
Dual Pedestal Base
For extra long tables or heavier builds, a dual pedestal setup combines the strength of a trestle with the elegance of a pedestal. This layout provides excellent stability while keeping the center of the table clear for player movement and under-table storage.
Dual pedestals can also be designed with crossbeams, decorative stretchers, or metal accents for a custom aesthetic.
Best for: Larger group tables, modern farmhouse designs, and tables that need to support heavy hardwood tops or accessories.
Cabinet Base
A cabinet base combines the stability of a full frame with the utility of integrated storage and structure, creating a solid, built-in appearance that feels substantial and refined. Cabinets on the base can be made with or without doors if you are wanting a sleeker or more open appearance.
Cabinet bases are perfect for clients who want to maximize function while maintaining a clean exterior. The enclosed design can house games, accessories, or even built-in wiring and power management for LED lighting or charging ports.
This base style also adds weight and stability, which is ideal for larger tabletops or setups with accessories like player stations, dining toppers, or magnetic rail systems. The sides of the cabinet can be left solid for a sleek, monolithic look or designed with subtle panels and accents to complement your home’s style.
Best for: Dedicated gaming spaces, clients wanting integrated storage or power, and those who prefer a bold, furniture style presence.
Custom Bases
For clients looking for something truly unique, I can design a one of a kind base tailored to your space and play style. Whether you want sculpted hardwood legs, mixed material designs with metal, or concealed channels for cable management and LED lighting, I can create a base that matches your vision. The sky is the limit when it comes to designs and this is where you can really make your table stand out from anything else available. 100% custom to you and your unique style.
Finishing Touches
Each base can be finished to either match or contrast the tabletop, creating a seamless or two tone look based on your preference. Every leg and base style is crafted from solid hardwood for durability and assembled with precision joinery to ensure lasting strength. Most styles can also be disassembled, making setup and transport to their final space simple and convenient.
To see pricing for my game tables and accessories please visit my Game Table Pricing Guide. If you are ready to begin your game table journey, reach out through my contact form and let’s bring your dream table to life.
Step 3: Wood selection
The materials you choose define both the look and longevity of your game table. I work exclusively with solid hardwoods because they offer unmatched strength, natural beauty, and a warmth that can’t be replicated by veneers or manufactured alternatives. Every board is hand selected by me for grain, color, and consistency to ensure your table looks cohesive and performs beautifully for years to come.
Common Hardwood Choices
Walnut
Rich brown tones with flowing grain patterns make Walnut a favorite for those wanting a sophisticated, timeless look. It pairs well with almost any interior and only becomes more beautiful as it ages.
Maple
Light and clean in color, Maple offers a bright, modern appearance that complements minimal and Scandinavian-inspired interiors. It’s dense and durable, making it perfect for everyday use.
Cherry
Known for its warm reddish hue that deepens with age, Cherry brings a classic, inviting presence to any space. It’s perfect for clients who love furniture that develops character over time.
White oak
Strong, bright, and full of texture, White Oak has a distinctive grain that gives every table a bold yet natural charm. It works well in farmhouse, rustic, or transitional designs.
Custom Species
For those looking to add something extra special to their table, I can source exotic or specialty hardwoods for accents or feature elements such as Padauk, Purpleheart, Figured Maple, wenge and many more. Each of these species brings its own distinct color, texture, and story, adding a unique character that truly sets your table apart.
Sustainability
All wood used in my builds is sourced from responsibly managed forests both domestically and internationally. Choosing solid hardwood ensures your table will last for generations rather than years, making it a more environmentally conscious choice than mass produced alternatives.
To see how different wood species and finishes influence cost and appearance, visit my Game Table Pricing Guide for examples and inspiration
Mixed Wood Options
For those who love contrast and character, mixed wood designs are a great way to make your table stand out. Combining different wood species adds depth, warmth, and visual interest, creating a piece that feels both intentional and artistic.
I can craft your table using multiple hardwoods, such as pairing a Walnut base with a Maple armrest or inlaying a contrasting wood into the armrest for a subtle yet striking effect. This approach draws the eye to different parts of the table, revealing new details as you get closer and allowing each component to tell its own story. It also highlights areas like leg joinery, armrests, or the edge of the game vault, giving your table a layered and refined appearance.
Mixed wood designs are perfect for clients who want something beyond the ordinary, a table that feels personal, handcrafted, and truly one of a kind. If you have specific wood pairings in mind, I can help guide you through combinations that enhance both the beauty and structure of your custom table.
Step 4: Features and Accessories
The right features can completely transform your game table from a simple surface into a personalized gaming hub. Every detail can be tailored to how you play, store, and organize your games, creating a setup that’s both functional and uniquely yours.
These features let you customize your table to match your play style, organization preferences, and the overall experience you want to create at the table.
Whether you prefer a clean, minimalist design or a feature rich build for dedicated gaming sessions, here are some of the most popular options to consider when planning a custom table.
Magnetic Game Rail System
A signature accessory available for my tables is the magnetic game rail, this feature lets you easily attach a variety of modular accessories such as cup holders, dice trays, player desks, and component trays. The rail provides complete flexibility, allowing you to rearrange and customize your setup for every game night while keeping the tabletop clear and organized.
New accessories are added regularly, and every design is fully compatible across my entire line of tables. You can expand your collection at any time, knowing each piece will fit seamlessly.
If you have a specific accessory in mind that you don’t see listed, reach out when ordering and I can design and build custom accessories to match your exact needs.
Dining Top Covers
Transform your game table into a fully functional dining table with removable toppers. Each topper is precision cut to match your table’s shape and finish, allowing you to switch from game time to dinner time in seconds while keeping your ongoing game safely stored below.
Toppers are available in both over arm and inset styles. Each cover is easy to remove and features a spill resistant gasket that helps protect your gaming surface from accidental spills, giving you peace of mind during every meal or gathering.
For added convenience, I also offer an optional topper block that keeps your toppers neatly stored and out of the way when not in use.
Integrated Power and Lighting
Power and lighting options add both convenience and atmosphere to your setup. Tables can include USB ports, power outlets, or wireless charging stations to keep your devices powered throughout gameplay.
Optional LED lighting enhances visibility and sets the perfect mood for your gaming sessions. With full RGB capability, you can customize colors and lighting sequences to match the tone of your game or create the right ambiance for every quest.
Component Trays and Organizers
Keep every piece organized with integrated component trays built into the armrest or storage bins with fitted covers for expanded storage. These additions provide an extra layer of convenience and are perfect for players who don’t need the full functionality of the magnetic game rail but still want to keep their games neat, tidy, and pieces within easy reach.
Custom Engravings
Custom engravings are a beautiful and personal way to make your game table truly one of a kind. Whether it’s a simple name or logo that’s engraved and filled with epoxy, a detailed crest, or a laser engraved scene featuring mythical creatures or your favorite game inspired designs, engraving adds a layer of personality and storytelling to your build.
Each engraving is carefully planned and precision cut directly into the wood surface, creating depth and texture that becomes part of the table’s character. You can choose subtle corner details, bold centerpiece artwork, or even engraved patterns that extend across the entire tabletop or armrest.
Beyond imagery, I can also incorporate textures, borders, or engraved inlays that complement your chosen wood species and overall design. Every detail is customized to reflect your vision, ensuring your table isn’t just a piece of furniture, but a personal statement crafted for you and no one else.
If you have an idea or a design you’d like to explore, share it during the design phase and I’ll help bring it to life.
Neoprene Play Mat
A soft, removable neoprene gaming mat provides a comfortable and functional playing surface that makes picking up cards, rolling dice, and organizing components effortless.
Mats are available in a variety of colors and terrain styles, allowing you to match the look and feel of your setup to the type of game you’re playing. They can be easily lifted out for cleaning or swapped for different designs depending on your mood or theme.
Each of my tables includes one complimentary mat fitted perfectly to your game vault. Additional mats can be purchased at any time to expand your collection or customize your gaming experience.
Custom Features and One of a Kind Ideas
Every table I build is unique, and if you have a feature in mind that you have not seen offered elsewhere, I am always open to designing something new. From TV’s to built in dice towers, card drawers, or streaming camera mounts, I can help turn your ideas into functional, lasting additions that make your table truly your own.
My shop is built on custom work, and I take pride in creating pieces that reflect your imagination and how you play. Whether you have a clear vision or just the start of an idea, I will work with you to refine the design, select the right materials, and bring it to life with passion and craftmanship.
No idea is too ambitious or unconventional. If you can dream it, I will do everything I can to make it a reality.
Ready to start designing your dream game table? Reach out today through my contact form, and let’s begin planning a one of a kind build that’s made just for you.
Looking forward to hearing from you!
See you on the next one
Cheers
Harley
Chief sawdust maker at Stone Mountain Projects