How to choose a parota and epoxy river table
Sizes by number of guests, heights, resin colors, bases and care. Everything worth knowing before you request a quote for a custom table.
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What is parota wood?
Parota, also called guanacaste (Enterolobium cyclocarpum), is a tropical Mexican tree with a very wide trunk. Its wood pairs a reddish heartwood with light sapwood and has a strong grain. Because the trunk is so wide it yields broad slabs, ideal for one-piece live-edge tables.
- Live edge: the natural edge of the trunk is kept.
- Contrast: the shift from dark heartwood to light sapwood makes every slab unique.
- Stability: properly dried and sealed, parota handles everyday dining use.
What is an epoxy river table?
A river table is a table where epoxy resin is poured between two wood slabs to form a “river” down the middle. An epoxy table is, more broadly, any table that combines wood and resin, whether as a river, as crack filler or encapsulating stones.
| Style | Look | Resin | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| River table | Two slabs with a resin river in the middle | More | Statement dining and conference tables |
| Solid parota | One wide live-edge slab | Only in cracks and knots | Those who want more wood |
| River stones | River stones encapsulated in resin | More | Restaurants and rustic spaces |
What size table do I need for my number of guests?
The rule of thumb is 24 inches (60 cm) of length per seated person and a width of 35 to 39 in (90 to 100 cm) to fit plates and a centerpiece. Leave about 36 inches (90 cm) of clearance between the table edge and the wall so chairs can move.
| Guests | Length | Width | Metric |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 47 – 55 in | 31 – 35 in | 120 – 140 × 80 – 90 cm |
| 6 | 63 – 71 in | 35 – 39 in | 160 – 180 × 90 – 100 cm |
| 8 | 79 – 94 in | 37 – 41 in | 200 – 240 × 95 – 105 cm |
| 10 | 102 – 110 in | 39 – 43 in | 260 – 280 × 100 – 110 cm |
| 12 | 118 in or more | 41 – 47 in | 300+ × 105 – 120 cm |
For a coffee table, a good proportion is about two thirds of the sofa length, with 16 to 18 in (40 to 45 cm) between the table and the seat. Not sure of your exact size? Enter an estimate in the quote form and we will refine it together.
How tall should the table be?
- Dining table: 29.5 to 30 in (75 to 76 cm).
- Desk or conference table: 29 to 30 in (74 to 76 cm).
- Coffee table: 16 to 18 in (40 to 45 cm).
- Bar or island: 39 to 43 in (100 to 110 cm) for bar stools.
Which resin color should I choose?
These are the colors we work with most. See real examples in the table gallery.
| Color | Effect | Pairs with |
|---|---|---|
| Clear | Shows the live edge through the river | Any style; best to highlight the wood |
| Black | Elegant and sober, contrasts with light sapwood | Matte black steel bases, modern spaces |
| Ocean blue | Deep-water effect | Beach homes, offices, boardrooms |
| Turquoise | Lagoon effect, very bright | Patios and sunlit spaces |
| Emerald green | Natural, deep tone | Warm interiors with plants |
| Smoke white | Cloud or marble effect | Light, minimalist spaces |
| Amber | Brings out parota’s reddish tones | Warm, rustic style |
| River stones | Stones encapsulated in resin | Restaurants, rustic Mexican style |
Which base style fits?
- X base: visually light, good for long tables.
- Trapezoid base: stable and modern; frees up leg room.
- Greek-key (greca) base: a geometric design that becomes the focal point.
- Steel frame or floating base: the usual choice for coffee tables.
- Your own drawing: we build the base to your design, in matte black or another color.
Can a parota and resin table go outdoors?
Yes, with conditions. We recommend a covered patio and a UV-protective finish. Direct sun and rain dry out the wood and, over time, yellow the resin. Near the ocean, as in Rosarito or Ensenada, and in extreme heat like Mexicali, we recommend the finish based on location.
How is a custom table made?
- Pick the slab at the workshop or from photos and video.
- Set the design: size, shape, resin color, base and finish.
- Resin pour in layers inside a mold; it cures for several days.
- Sanding and finish through progressive grits, to mirror gloss or satin.
- Delivery to your door with on-site base assembly.
How do I care for a parota and epoxy table?
- Clean with a damp cloth and mild soap; dry right away.
- Avoid ammonia, bleach or solvent cleaners.
- Use coasters and trivets for hot pots or mugs.
- Don't leave it in direct sun for long, even through a window.
- Wipe up water, wine or coffee spills as soon as possible.
Common questions when choosing a table
How big is a dining table for 6 people?
63 to 71 inches (160 to 180 cm) long and 35 to 39 inches (90 to 100 cm) wide. Allow about 24 inches (60 cm) per seated person.
How tall is a dining table?
A standard dining table is 29.5 to 30 inches (75 to 76 cm) tall. A coffee table is 16 to 18 in (40 to 45 cm) and a bar-height table 39 to 43 in (100 to 110 cm).
River table or solid parota top: which is better?
It depends on the look you want. A river table puts the resin color center stage; a solid parota top shows more wood and uses less resin, only in cracks and knots.
Which resin color goes best with parota?
Clear and black are the most versatile. Blue and turquoise create a water effect, and amber brings out the reddish tones of the parota heartwood.
How do I clean a parota and epoxy table?
With a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid ammonia, bleach or solvent cleaners, use coasters for hot items and keep it out of direct sun.
Can an epoxy table go outdoors?
Yes, on a covered patio with a UV-protective finish. Direct sun and rain wear the wood and yellow the resin over time.
Where we deliver
Know your size?
Send us the length and width of your space and the resin color you like. We reply on WhatsApp with slab options and a price.