Thanks for your comments to date. The table is used daily as a breakfast bar, as a writing unit, it's often where my mixer sits, and it is where my nieces do their homework. To be honest I couldn't justify changing the top so soon into its installation, never mind the expense. I am inclined to agree that the wood looks better than putting glass on top of it, to an extent you are really hiding something installed as a working feature. The ideal solution would, of course, be to keep it clean. It has been suggested to me that a light regular monthly sanding with the like of steel wood or a very fine grade of a sanding block in addition to adding a good quality oil might be sufficient to keep marks at bay. Not been a DIYer I'd appreciate you thoughts on this. There is also the possibility of putting on some sort of protective coat, something like varnish but then again that takes away from the natural wood effect. suewalton54 I don't understand what you mean by 'sticking out like a sore thumb,' is it just the design as such you are talking about? Anyway as always many thanks for your comments Kevin

What sort of permit would you need? If it's not an actual building, and, depending on the structure and materials, surely it could be classed as a temporary structure and / or come under permitted development? Here's the link on the planning porta lPermitted development - planning portal We've built a large carport for three cars with a roof, an attached summer house and a seperate 'spa' with a roof, all under permitted development at home

Not all the time, depends on the style / wood material / and colour used on the chair. But you may think like this way: People look at the table and less to the chairs, because the tables are larger have more character. Also imagine yourself sitting on the table: what will you look at: the table or the chairs? The table of course. The table can be poorly made: but the general decoration may change all: The lamp standing on top of it, the candles, the porcelain or ceramic plate and surely yummy food on it. Don`t overthink about the chair/table combination. Most people do mix different style of chairs around the table: people today want to have a chair reflecting their character. Asymetry is good. In near future we will see tables; halfly made of glass and the next half made of hardwood. And it will be awesome. Chairs are frequently replaced, because they can break apart, but tables remain longer. Focus on the table

Not sure if this helps but this is most likely what it’s made from: https://www.danetti.com/blog/material-spotlight-hpl/ High pressure laminate or similar to Formica.