What’s the best Australian timber for a dining table? A simple buyer’s guide

Choosing the best Australian timber for a dining table isn’t just about what looks good—it’s about finding the right balance between durability, beauty, and everyday practicality. Whether you’re furnishing a family home or creating a show-stopping centrepiece, the right timber makes all the difference.At Jarrimber, we specialise in crafting premium, handcrafted furniture using Australia’s finest native hardwoods. So if you’re wondering which timber to choose for your dining table, this guide will walk you through your top three options: Jarrah, Marri, and Tasmanian Oak.

Why timber selection matters for your dining table

A dining table is more than just a surface to eat at—it’s the heart of your home. It’s where meals are shared, conversations unfold, and memories are made. That’s why choosing the best Australian timber for a dining table isn’t something to rush.

Great timber should tick a few key boxes:

• Strong enough to withstand years of use
  
• A grain and colour that suits your style
  
• A finish that complements your home
  
• Resistance to warping, scratching, or staining
  
• Responsibly sourced and sustainably harvested
  

Let’s take a closer look at how our top three timbers stack up.

Jarrah: Rich, red, and built to last

What is Jarrah?

Native to Western Australia, Jarrah is one of the most iconic hardwoods in Australian furniture-making. Its deep reddish tones and swirling grain patterns give it an unmistakable character. Jarrah is as much a design statement as it is a structural powerhouse.

Why choose Jarrah for your dining table?

Jarrah is exceptionally hardwearing, making it an ideal choice for busy households. If your dining table sees daily use—meals, homework, even the odd work-from-home setup—Jarrah will take it all in stride.

It also ages beautifully. Over time, the timber develops deeper, richer hues, adding even more warmth and charm to your space.

Pair Jarrah with…

Jarrah pairs perfectly with neutral walls and modern or industrial furnishings. Its bold tone makes it the hero of the room, especially when set against minimalist backdrops.

Explore our range of Jarrah furniture to see how it looks in different settings.

Marri: Bold grain meets natural personality

What is Marri?

Marri is a uniquely Western Australian timber known for its striking gum veins and blonde-to-honey hues. It’s a little less uniform than other timbers, but that’s where its beauty lies—no two pieces of Marri are ever the same.

Why choose Marri for your dining table?

If you want your dining table to spark conversation, Marri is a standout choice. It has a raw, organic feel that works especially well in open-plan homes with lots of natural light.

Marri is a medium-density hardwood, which means it’s still highly durable while offering a slightly softer, more relaxed aesthetic compared to darker species. Its vibrant grain and natural imperfections make it a favourite for those wanting a truly one-of-a-kind piece.

Pair Marri with…

Marri works beautifully with earthy tones, timber flooring, and soft textures like linen or wool. It adds personality to coastal, boho, and even Scandinavian-inspired homes.

Browse our Marri timber furniture to see how this character-rich timber transforms into dining elegance.

Tasmanian Oak: Light, bright, and timeless

What is Tasmanian Oak?

Tasmanian Oak is a collective name for several species of eucalypt grown in Tasmania and Victoria. It’s not an oak in the European sense, but it shares the same fine grain and soft golden tones that work well in almost any home.

Why choose Tasmanian Oak for your dining table?

Tasmanian Oak is the most versatile of the three timbers. Its light colouring and subtle grain make it a favourite for contemporary and minimalist spaces.

It’s also easy to stain, meaning you can customise it to suit your palette—from warm honey to cooler ash tones. Despite its lighter appearance, it’s still a strong and stable timber that handles everyday wear with ease.

Pair Tasmanian Oak with…

This timber shines in modern homes with a soft colour scheme, light flooring, and lots of natural light. Think white walls, matte black accents, and greenery.

See our range of Tasmanian Oak timber to discover how adaptable this timber really is.

Comparing the top 3 timbers: Jarrah vs Marri vs Tasmanian Oak

How to choose the best Australian timber for your dining table

Choosing the best Australian timber for a dining table ultimately comes down to your lifestyle and aesthetic. Here are some quick decision tips:

• Want rich colour and timeless appeal? Go for Jarrah.
  
• Prefer something unique and full of character? Marri is your best bet.
  
• Looking for versatility and a light, modern look? You’ll love Tasmanian Oak.
  

If you’re still unsure, browse our collection of handcrafted timber dining tables to see how each timber shines in real designs.

Trust Jarrimber to bring your vision to life

At Jarrimber, we’re passionate about helping Australians create lasting, meaningful spaces. Our furniture is made to order right here in WA, using only the best Australian timbers available.

Each dining table is a celebration of craftsmanship, sustainability, and natural beauty, backed by decades of woodworking expertise.

Ready to start your custom design? Contact us today and let’s craft something beautiful together.

Share This