Skip to main content

This table has a river running through it, and the internet has questions

Now that the dining room is making a comeback, you might be looking for a bold way to make a statement with your design. (After all, the dining room is the perfect space for moody paint colors and splashy wallpaper patterns). But have you ever considered a dining room table with a river running through it — complete with swimming fish?

Probably not, but it’s totally possible! Check out this amazing, unique river table that brings green interior design to a whole new level. It’s taken the internet by storm and people — not surprisingly — have a lot of thoughts.

Recommended Videos

The dining room table with the best water feature

We’ve all seen some pretty elaborate centerpieces, but this one definitely wins for most inventive. This TikTok video — which has 1.4 million likes — features fish being deposited into a water feature in the center of a table while tea is poured in the background.

If you’re looking for a creative way to add a little tranquility to your space, this definitely counts.

@lindsay199806

This dining table is so fancy!#fypシ #decor #decoration #table #design #musthaves

♬ original sound – ?Lindsay

While this certainly looks cool, both TikTokers and Redditors had a lot of questions:

  • What happens if you have pets or kids?
  • What happens when food inevitably lands in the water?
  • What happens when someone jostles the table and water spills everywhere?
  • How can you possibly clean that, especially with fish?
  • Is there even enough water for the fish to survive?

It’s true that there’s not nearly enough water in this river (or pond — it’s unclear whether there’s a filter moving water around) for fish to survive long term, but TikTokers were quick to point out in the comments that the fish were only added for the tea ceremony; they live elsewhere, and this was merely a quick stop for them (not unlike when you transfer your fish to a safe place while you clean out their tank. However, the questions do raise some good points.

Keeping pets and kids out (and water in)

 If you have a cat, I’m sure you immediately spotted the trouble with this table. Redditor GeekyBookWork87 noted, “It’s a cat buffet table!” GozerDGozerian added to the sentiment: “There’d be water all over the floor, and rotting fish halves hidden under the couch and who knows where else throughout the house” but that the cats would “definitely love it.”

And if you’ve got kids or a rowdy group, you can also see the issues even if the water feature holds no fish: water splashing up when someone tells a raucous joke or pasta spilling into the water after a careless attempt to scoop more food onto a plate.

Reddit’s solution, of course? Adding glass on top.

Keeping the table clean and habitable for fish

 In the top comment on Reddit, user Charming_Clothes_994 noted, “Good luck cleaning that out every other day with no filter.”

Redditor spirituallyinsane pointed out, “The stone and moss themselves will also act as a filter once there’s a good biofilm on them,” but added that, personally, they would “just use a sump or canister filter and call it done.”

In response to a comment that the filter could be hidden at one end of the table or underneath it, NoelMuaddib added, “The water could drop into a multi-level sand/lava rock/micro bacterial sponge, using small sub pumps are relay back to the beginning creating the river effect.”

In short? While it’s possible for a table like this to work, there’s a lot that goes into the maintenance. (And while a water feature is one thing, it’s not a great idea to keep fish in there long term. Not only are there issues with cleanliness and having enough water, but the constant clatter of dishes and serving ware being placed on the table wouldn’t be good for them.)

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Get the look without the mess

 Do you love the idea of this table, but not all the work that would go into maintenance and cleaning? Or are you worried about how your pets or kids might react? You could always try an epoxy table, which features wood planks with epoxy resin in between, imitating the look of a river, but without using any actual water.

Resin River Handmade Table

Regardless of how impractical a table with real fish might be for everyday life, we love the creativity that inspired the design. Dining rooms don’t have to be stiff, formal spaces anymore, and finding ways to inject a little personality into this multifunctional room helps turn it into a space where you can eat, work, or just play cards with family and friends.

Contemporary industrial design: The ultimate guide to this sophisticated style
City-inspired factory-scapes with minimal and modern decor
Contemporary industrial loft with black ceiling and large pendant light

Inspired by big-city industrial lofts filled with eclectic art and neutral color palettes, contemporary industrial design has emerged as a luxurious yet grounded home design style. With exposed architecture, weathered materials, and soft color palettes that pay homage to minimalistic decor, the contemporary industrial design blends modern pieces with cozier rustic furnishings. If you are interested in this sophisticated and eclectic style, then you’ve come to the right place.

Below, we’ll show you just how to blend contemporary design with industrial decor to create an expansive and bold look in your space.
What is contemporary industrial design?

Read more
Moto boho style: Mixing edgy and bohemian vibes in your home
Pair edgy and grunge looks with flowy and eclectic bohemian aesthetics to hop on this new trend
Bohemian living room with neutral-colored decor

The year 2025 could be a time of rebellious aesthetics, inspiring the next generation to step out of their comfort zones. Moto boho style was introduced by Pinterest Predicts as a fresh spin on edgy rock 'n' roll vibes paired with free-spirited bohemian aesthetics. While this style is emerging in fashion spheres, we’ll likely see influences of moto boho in home interiors as the year goes on.

Here is everything you need to know about the moto boho style and how to invite this look into your space.
What is moto boho style?

Read more
7 stylish sliding door window treatments to try
Keep your sliding doors functional and beautiful
Beachside balcony door with sliding door window treatments

Sliding glass doors offer beautiful views and bring in natural light, but finding the right sliding door window treatments can be a challenge. You want something stylish yet functional — options that provide privacy, control light, and complement your home's decor. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern look or a cozy, traditional feel, there are plenty of different types of window treatments to consider. Below, we'll explore some of the best options to elevate your sliding doors.

1. Thick draperies for an elegant look

Read more