When it comes to choosing a pool table, the possibilities extend far beyond the surface. While many people think of pool tables as a single category, there is in fact a wide spectrum of styles, craftsmanship levels, and design options—each with its own purpose, personality, and level of refinement.
At Blatt Billiards, we’ve spent over a century perfecting the art of handcrafted pool tables. That legacy has allowed us to offer a curated range of collections designed to suit every client’s space, aesthetic vision, and expectations for play.
From fully bespoke heirloom pieces to refined designs that offer value without compromise, our tables fall into three main categories: Custom, Semi‑Custom, and Economy.
Discovering the Diverse World of Pool Tables
At first glance, the term “pool table” may seem straightforward—but it encompasses a rich spectrum of quality, design, and craftsmanship. Let us explore each category in detail.
Standard Pool Tables
Standard pool tables (American pool tables) are the most widely recognized style in the United States. Designed with six pockets and built for popular games like 8-ball and 9-ball, these tables typically feature slate beds for consistent ball roll and long-term durability.
American pool tables come in three primary sizes: 7-foot tables, often seen in bars and compact spaces; 8-foot tables, which are the most popular for home use; and 9-foot regulation tables used in professional tournament settings.
They use larger balls and wider pockets. This makes them ideal for casual play, serious home games, and competitive environments alike.
English Pool Tables
English pool tables are smaller and more precise. Typically ranging from 6 to 7 feet in length, they feature narrower pockets and use smaller balls, making them well-suited for games like English 8-ball or blackball.
These tables are often covered in a nap cloth, which slows down ball speed and encourages a more strategic style of play. Commonly found in UK pubs, they’re a great choice for those with limited space or an interest in traditional British cue sports.
Snooker Tables
Snooker tables are distinct for their substantial size and strategic complexity. Significantly larger than standard pool tables—often measuring 10 or 12 feet—they feature smaller balls and tighter pockets, which require precise positioning and control.
Snooker is a game of finesse, and the table reflects that with extended playing areas and cushions that demand accuracy. These tables are typically used in dedicated snooker clubs or high-end game rooms for serious players who enjoy the cerebral aspect of cue sports.
Carom Billiard Tables
Carom billiard tables, also known as pocketless tables, are used for games like three-cushion billiards. These tables have no pockets; instead, players score by rebounding the cue ball off cushions and object balls in complex patterns.
Precision and control are central to carom games, making these tables a niche choice for skilled players and enthusiasts of European billiards traditions.
Bumper Pool Tables
Bumper pool tables offer a playful and compact alternative to traditional pool tables, often crafted in circular or octagonal shapes with just two pockets and strategically placed bumpers. The gameplay emphasizes precision and creativity, inviting players to navigate unique shot paths in a format that’s fun and engaging.
Blending nostalgic charm with durable craftsmanship, bumper pool tables are an excellent choice for casual game rooms, family spaces, and secondary entertainment areas. Their smaller footprint and approachable style make them a dynamic addition to any luxury home seeking variety and whimsy in recreation.
Specialty Pool Tables
Pool table designs can be broken down into even more specific categories that suit different environments and needs.
Dining Pool Tables
Dining pool tables are multi-functional designs that convert from a pool table into a dining or general-purpose surface. These tables are available as flip-top models, removable-top designs, or fully integrated hybrids, combining versatility with aesthetic appeal.
Expertly crafted for dual functionality, they feature premium materials, concealed hardware, and refined silhouettes that allow them to blend effortlessly into formal dining rooms or open-plan living spaces. Ideal for sophisticated urban homes or multifunctional entertainment areas, these tables offer a luxurious solution where space efficiency meets timeless design.
Outdoor Pool Tables
Outdoor pool tables are engineered with weather-resistant materials such as marine-grade vinyl, rust-proof hardware, and waterproof cloth to withstand sun, rain, and humidity without compromising performance. Built to endure the elements, these tables bring the game outdoors with lasting beauty and durability.
Crafted for patios, rooftop lounges, and luxury outdoor living areas, they offer the same level of playability and elegance found in indoor models—reimagined for open-air environments. Their robust construction and contemporary finishes make them a centerpiece for al fresco entertainment and resort-style relaxation.
Coin-Operated Pool Tables
Coin-operated pool tables, commonly seen in commercial spaces, feature heavy-duty construction and built-in coin mechanisms that require payment per game. Designed specifically for high-traffic environments like pubs, arcades, and hotels, these tables are engineered to withstand frequent use while maintaining consistent playability.
They’re also a popular choice for home game rooms looking to recreate the authentic bar or arcade experience. This is because they offer both functionality and a nostalgic charm that adds character to any space.
Blatt Billiards Pool Table Options
At Blatt Billiards, we divide our offerings into three different kinds of pool table tiers, each tailored to different needs and specifications: Custom, Semi‑Custom, and Economy.
Custom Pool Tables
A Blatt Billiards custom pool table epitomizes heirloom‑quality craftsmanship. These tables are fully bespoke, built in our U.S. workshop, and designed for those who demand the very finest in materials, design detail, and personalization for their high end pool tables.
Each custom pool table offers unlimited possibilities in wood types, finishes, inlays, carvings, and cloth colors, allowing every detail to be tailored to your vision. Engineered with precision craftsmanship, these tables deliver championship‑level play and enduring durability—qualities reflected in our lifetime guarantee.
These luxury pool tables are ideal for high‑end homes, interior‑design‑driven game rooms, collector installations, and spaces where the table serves as both a functional masterpiece and a defining statement piece.
Semi‑Custom Pool Tables
A Blatt Billiards semi‑custom pool table offers a refined blend of time-honored craftsmanship and greater standardization. These tables provide design flexibility and premium materials, but with fewer customizations compared to fully custom tables.
They are crafted within thoughtfully selected design frameworks. These tables range from classic and traditional to modern and rustic styles. Each table offers a refined selection of finish and cloth options.
Built with high construction standards, these tables balance exceptional playability with aesthetic appeal. They are ideal for homeowners seeking premium performance and tailored design at a more accessible investment level, making them perfect for game rooms where both style and function are essential.
Economy Pool Tables
For those seeking the Blatt Billiards name and a quality billiard table without the full bespoke scope, an economy pool table delivers. These tables emphasize value, still built with craftsmanship and care, but with tighter specifications and streamlined options.
Blatt Billiards economy pool tables feature simplified design options drawn from our most popular stylistic categories—modern, traditional, rustic—making it easy to find a look that suits your space.
These tables are engineered for the entry-to-mid-luxury market, offering a performance-oriented build while streamlining the customization process. Ideal for homes focused on recreation, secondary game rooms, or clients who prioritize value without compromising on quality, the economy collection delivers craftsmanship and style at a more accessible level.
Pool Table Sizes and Room Requirements
7-Foot Pool Table
Overall Size: ~7' 2" x 4' 2"
Playing Surface: 78" x 39"
Room Size Needed (with full-length cues): ~13' x 16'
8-Foot Pool Table
Overall Size: ~8' 4" x 4' 8"
Playing Surface: 88" x 44"
Room Size Needed (with full-length cues): ~13' 6" x 17'
9-Foot Pool Table
Overall Size: ~9' 4" x 5'
Playing Surface: 100" x 50"
Room Size Needed (with full-length cues): ~14' x 18'
Pool Table Aesthetic and Design Variations
Every Blatt Billiards table—regardless of collection—reflects a meticulous commitment to artisanal detail. While the level of customization varies, each table is crafted to elevate both form and function. From stately traditional styles to bold contemporary statements, the aesthetic of your table can be as individualized as the space it inhabits.
Classic/Traditional Styles
Our traditional tables pay homage to timeless design. Think rich hardwoods like mahogany, walnut, and oak; hand-carved details; turned or fluted legs; and classic silhouettes inspired by 18th and 19th-century furniture design. These tables often feature ornate apron moldings, leather drop pockets, and finishes that exude warmth and elegance.
Modern/Contemporary Styles
For those drawn to sleek, clean aesthetics, our contemporary tables offer minimalist sophistication. These designs emphasize architectural simplicity with straight lines, low profiles, and subtle accents. Materials may include brushed steel, lacquered finishes, glass, or matte black hardware, creating a dramatic contrast with refined wood tones.
Rustic/Industrial Styles
Blending rugged character with refined craftsmanship, our rustic and industrial styles bring a grounded, textural quality to any game room. Reclaimed barnwood, distressed finishes, forged metal components, and exposed joinery are among the defining features. These tables are equally at home in mountain lodges, farmhouse-inspired spaces, or loft-style interiors.
Customization Options
Blatt Billiards offers one of the widest arrays of customization in the industry, where virtually every aspect of the table can be tailored to the client’s vision. Choose from a spectrum of premium hardwoods, dozens of stain and finish options, cloth colors, and a variety of pocket and leg designs.
Clients may also work with our design team to integrate unique features such as built-in storage, branded inlays, or one-of-a-kind architectural elements. Whether you’re matching a pool table to a specific interior palette or designing a centerpiece for a game room, the right blend of options is available to reflect your style and space.
Choosing the Right Pool Table for You
Selecting the perfect pool table involves more than just choosing a size or style—it’s about finding the right balance between function, form, and lifestyle. Start by considering the space available in your home, ensuring there’s ample room not just for the table itself but for comfortable play around it.
Next, think about your budget and how it aligns with the level of craftsmanship and customization you desire—whether that means a fully bespoke piece, a semi-custom design, or a more streamlined option. Your intended use also plays a key role: are you a casual player looking for occasional fun, or a serious enthusiast seeking tournament-level performance?
Lastly, take into account your design preferences—traditional elegance, modern minimalism, or rustic character—to ensure your table enhances the aesthetic of your space. By evaluating these factors, you'll be able to confidently choose a pool table that reflects both your style and how you love to play.
Your Perfect Match Awaits at Blatt Billiards
With three distinct collections—Custom, Semi‑Custom, and Economy—Blatt Billiards offers unparalleled high end pool table ranges while maintaining our heritage of handcrafted excellence.
Whether your vision is a bespoke luxury billiard masterpiece, a refined recreation centrepiece, or a value‑oriented pool table, we stand ready to craft your ideal billiard solution.
Let us help bring your vision into reality—where craftsmanship, design, and performance unite.
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