What makes a good quality dining chair?

02 Apr.,2024

 

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Thankfully, you don’t have to do all of the legwork alone in order to find your ideal dining chair. We reached out to Deborah Costa and Kristine Renee of Design Alchemy in Northern California as well as New York City-based designer David Fraizer to glean their best advice for dining chair shopping, plus a few of their favorite spots to source this all-important piece.

Choosing the right dining chairs is no easy feat, whether you’re shopping for a formal or casual eating area, as these are some of the most-used pieces of furniture in the home. Plus, as you likely make some of your most cherished at-home memories around the dining table, the pressure’s on to choose just the right chairs to keep everyone lingering long after the last slice of cake has been served and the last drop of Lambrusco poured, whether you’re cozy indoors or dining alfresco .

Best Overall

CB2 Inesse Boucle Ivory Dining Chair

CB2

$379

This top-rated dining chair from CB2 offers Italian craftsmanship at an accessible price point. The rounded back and bouclé fabric offer plenty of comfort to keep you and your guests comfy late into the night, while the modern design also feels appropriate in other style contexts, such as a Scandinavian or even a modern farmhouse aesthetic. You also have the choice between cream, black, and forest green fabric to fit your color scheme needs. While you’re welcome to shop this product at your nearest CB2 store, the brand offers an augmented reality experience to help you best picture the product in your space to ensure it’s just the right pick for your dining area from the comfort of home.

  • Material: Bouclé and steel
  • Dimensions: 21.5 x 20 x 29 inches
  • Number of Chairs: Individual or set of 4

Best Value

Castlery Kelsey Leather Chair

Castlery

Sold in sets of two, Castlery’s Kelsey Chair stands out as a great value for a luxurious leather look. Caramel-colored leather, white wash-stained wood, and a sophisticated, modern design make this product look hundreds of dollars more expensive than it actually is, and it boasts dozens of five-star customer reviews. Even better, this set of two chairs comes with a free one-year limited warranty with options to extend for an additional fee. Keep in mind that the return policy is only 14 days, so you’ll want to make sure it’s the right fit for your needs ASAP.

  • Material: Wood, leather, rubber wood
  • Dimensions: 19.7 x 21.3 x 32.3 inches
  • Number of Chairs: 2

Best Splurge

RH Emery Barrelback Slope Arm Fabric Dining Armchair

RH 

If you’re looking for a swoon-worthy investment piece, RH has you covered with an ultra-stylish and comfortable postmodern dining chair that’s completely customizable. Select from three base finishes: polished stainless steel, burnished brass, or bronze, and from a whopping 154 different fabrics in a variety of colors to create your dream piece. It is important to consider that professional upholstery cleaning is recommended if there are any stains, and since this chair is made to order, it can’t be returned. You may want to stop into an RH near you to chat with a design consultant and see your design options in person before taking the leap.

  • Material: Stainless steel, foam, hardwood, fabric, or leather
  • Dimensions: 22.5 x 23 x 31.5 inches
  • Number of Chairs: 1

Best With Arms

Jake Arnold for Crate & Barrel Forge Barley Brown Oak Wood Dining Chair

Crate & Barrel

$479

Costa and Renee are big fans of Jake Arnold’s collaboration with Crate & Barrel, as it offers Los Angeles-meets-London style that appeals to a range of aesthetes. They are big fans of this beautiful rush chair that will age beautifully over the years, making it a great investment. It comes in an armchair (shown here), side chair, and counter stool option to meet any of your dining area needs. Plus, this chair is stylish and comfortable enough to serve a dual purpose as living room seating when you need extra space for guests. We also love that the chair features FSC-certified wood from responsibly managed forests for a purchase you can feel extra good about. 

  • Material: Red oak and seagrass
  • Dimensions: 23 x 23.5 x 3 5.75 inches
  • Number of Chairs: 1

Best Cantilevered

Design Within Reach Cesca Chair

Design Within Reach

$973

Marcel Breuer’s Cesca Chair has been a mainstay of restaurants and homes alike for nearly 100 years — the original is part of the MoMA’s permanent collection. This widely popular replication for the modern age, designed by Knoll, comes as a side chair and armchair with a comfortable cantilever design to keep everyone comfortable around your dining table for hours. Though these chairs aren’t cheap, they do come with a free five-year warranty to help you feel confident in your investment. However, you will need to contact Design Within Reach within three days of your order’s delivery if you want to make a return. 

  • Material: Steel, hardwood beechwood, cane
  • Dimensions: 31.5 x 18.5 x 23.5 inches
  • Number of Chairs: 1

Best Unique

Sun at Six Temi Dining Chair

Lulu and Georgia

If you’re looking for something unique yet sophisticated, the Design Alchemy team loves to source from Lulu and Georgia. An added bonus is that many of their products are non-toxic and have low VOC for those interested in greener living. This chair features a minimalist, retro-inspired design with sculpted lines, and it’s available in six different velvet shades. No wonder it’s a best-seller on the site. Bonus: the fabric is stain-resistant, benefiting frequent hosts, large families, and households with pets. Just note that this product takes two to three weeks to ship and you’ll have 60 days to make a return.

  • Material: Steel, foam, fabric
  • Dimensions: 18 x 24 x 36 inches
  • Number of Chairs: 1

Best Windsor

Serena & Lily Tucker Dining Chair

Serena & Lily  

Another favorite dining furniture brand of Design Alchemy, Serena & Lily specializes in traditional, coastal design. The Tucker Dining Chair comes in a classic Windsor design in a unique mix of colors: black, white, navy, light green, and light blue, and it's handcrafted by a historic furniture maker in the Czech Republic. We love this chair because it can fit many styles, from elegant to farmhouse or Scandinavian. The product will ship within seven to 10 days of order receipt and refunds must be made within 30 days. Pro tip: the brand holds frequent online sales, so it’s worth waiting to snag your dream chairs if they feel just out of reach.

  • Material: Solid beech wood
  • Dimensions: 17.5 x 19 x 33.5 inches
  • Number of Chairs: 1

Best Outdoor

Burrow Relay Outdoor Dining Chair Set

Burrow

$419

It’s tough to beat this no-fuss yet design-centric set of outdoor dining chairs that exemplifies form meeting function. Offered in black and white colorways, the gaps in the seat and backrest lend a classic look while serving the practical purpose of draining water naturally so you don’t have to worry about upkeep. It’s also made from ultra-durable metal that stands up to any weather and won’t get blown away. Plus, these chairs can be assembled in mere minutes. Everything at Burrow ships free, and this product in particular will ship in one to three weeks. The brand also has a 30-day return policy. 

  • Material: Powder-coated steel
  • Dimensions: 17.5 x 20.5 x 31.5 inches
  • Number of Chairs: 1

Best Modern

Allmodern Nia Upholstered Side Chair

Allmodern  

$103

This modern dining chair set is one of the least expensive picks on our list, but you wouldn’t know it. Offered in six colorways of faux leather upholstery, this customizable set feels casually comfortable yet sophisticated. You will have to fully assemble these chairs upon arrival, but there is an option to purchase Expert Assembly if you don’t want the hassle. AllModern offers free two-day delivery and has a 30-day return policy, giving you plenty of time to decide if these chairs are the perfect fit for your dining table. 

  • Material: Faux leather, foam, metal, plastic
  • Dimensions: 31 x 18 x 22 inches
  • Number of Chairs: 2

Best Mid-Century Style

West Elm Modern Petal Upholstered Dining Chair

West Elm

$199

$199

This mid-century-inspired pick from West Elm strikes the perfect balance of minimalist design and comfort, plus you have plenty of options for customization. You can choose from a light or dark bronze finish as well as from fabrics ranging from performance coastal linen to distressed velvet. Note, however, that your choice of fabric will have an impact on the shipping time. Also, white glove delivery is advised with your purchase, which means your chairs will be delivered to your dining area with free assembly and all the packaging will be removed and recycled for a fee. You can also add on a three-year purchase protection plan for an additional charge. 

  • Material: Bentwood, iron, plastic, fabric
  • Dimensions: 18.8 x 20.7 x 31.6 inches
  • Number of Chairs: 1

Best Scandinavian Style

Article Svelti Dining Chair

Article

Not only is the wildly popular Svelti Dining Chair the most budget-friendly find on our list, but it’s also suited for both indoor and outdoor use and is offered in nine colorways. Talk about versatility. You can also choose between a chair with or without arms. The wide variety of color options allows you to put a unique spin on Scandinavian style, whether you want to keep it minimalist or go extra vibrant. The brand says that these chairs can be assembled within 15 minutes and are easy to keep clean with just a damp cloth, which is great for families with small children and frequent entertainers. Shipping lead times range between four days and three weeks, depending on your location, and all shoppers will have 30 days to return any items from their delivery date.

  • Material: Plastic, powder-coated metal
  • Dimensions: 34 x 18 x 24.5 inches
  • Number of Chairs: 1

Best Farmhouse

Birch Lane Fortville Side Chair

Birch Lane 

Affordable yet beautiful, this dining chair set from Birch Lane offers just the right blend of rustic meets traditional. This set comes in seven colorways to suit your style preferences, and the gently contoured seats bring an extra dose of comfort. Plus, you can always add cushions if you want them to be even more inviting. The set does require full assembly, but the brand’s Expert Assembly services are available for an additional fee. You can also add on a five-year protection plan for peace of mind. This product qualifies for a speedy three- to five-day delivery and 30-day returns. 

  • Material: Solid and rubber wood
  • Dimensions: 39.17 x 19.88 x 22.95 inches
  • Number of Chairs: 2

Best Traditional

Laurel Foundry Modern Farmhouse Jair King Louis Back Side Chair

Wayfair

$280

Love the French Country look but not the price of antiques? Modeled after the iconic King Louis chair that features a rounded back, fluted legs, and comfortable upholstery, this chair set will elevate your breakfast nook or dining room. The chairs are made with eco-friendly rubberwood and stain-resistant polyester blend fabric to ensure durability for years to come, no matter how highly trafficked your dining table is. Plus, this product comes with eight different fabric options. Partial assembly is required with an option to add on Wayfair’s Expert Assembly services for an additional fee. Shoppers will enjoy speedy shipping and 90-day returns for a seamless buying experience. 

  • Material: Rubberwood, fabric
  • Dimensions: 39.75 x 19.75 x 25.25 inches
  • Number of Chairs: 2

Best Handmade

Suzanne Kasler for Ballard Designs Southport Rattan Dining Chair

Ballard Designs 

This vintage-inspired dining chair by top designer Suzanne Kasler for Ballard Designs is a favorite of Costa’s and Renee’s. The pair loves the casual, classic vibes that are perfect for a sun-drenched breakfast or dining room, and it works well as a set or mixed with other chairs for a well-collected look. This means you can mix in other less expensive options if you’re on a budget while still being able to snag two to four of these beauties. Plus, the chairs are hand-woven for a bit of heirloom flair that you’ll cherish for years to come. When in stock, this item ships within one to seven business days and you’ll have 90 days to make a return. 

  • Material: Rattan, acrylic
  • Dimensions: 41 x 24 x 25 inches
  • Number of Chairs: 1

Best With Slipcover

Pottery Barn Classic Long Slipcovered Dining Chair

Pottery Barn

$499

Slipcovered dining chairs bring an inviting yet elegant vibe to any dining table, and where else better snag this classic design than Pottery Barn? The brand goes all out on this chair, crafting the seats with memory foam for the ultimate comfort while offering a host of fabric and color choices to ensure you score the dining set of your dreams. (Note: the fabric you choose will have an impact on shipping time.) Plus, the slipcovers are easily removable to streamline cleaning. Pottery Barn’s White Glove Delivery service is recommended with your purchase so you don’t have to think about assembly or waste. You’ll have 30 days to return the product, unless you select a quick-ship fabric, in which case, you’ll only have seven.

  • Material: Hardwood, memory foam, fabric
  • Dimensions: 25.5 x 25.5 x 34 inches
  • Number of Chairs: 1

Best Cane

Kathy Kuo Home Tina Modern Beige Performance Upholstered Cane Dining Chair

Kathy Kuo Home 

While you’ll find many wonderful options for cane dining chairs these days, Kathy Kuo Home has a selection of designer options at accessible prices, according to Renee and Costa. This gorgeous dining chair offers plenty of comfort with a fabric cushion and a stylish back that brings a bit of earthy elegance to any dining space. It’s also offered in a black frame if you’re looking for more of a modern feel. The brand recommends opting for its White Glove Delivery service, though that will come at an additional cost depending on how many chairs you order. You’ll have seven days to get a full refund. 

  • Material: Nettle wood, cane, fabric
  • Dimensions: 36 x 19.5 x 24.75 inches
  • Number of Chairs: 1

Best for Small Spaces

Hay Rey Chair

Hay

Inspired by Swiss designer Bruno Rey’s 1971 chair collection, this style has remained iconic as it’s sleek, stackable, and oh-so-stylish. Hay has teamed up with Dietiker to create this ultra-durable product that arrives at your door fully assembled, and it also comes in nine design-forward colorways. This is a great pick for small spaces as these chairs can be stacked four at a time and tucked away when you need extra space or used throughout the home as desk chairs or additional living room seating. Shipping methods are determined by order, and you’ll have to contact the company within three days of delivery if you’d like to make a return. However, every Hay product comes with an included warranty for stress-free shopping. 

  • Material: Beechwood, plywood, aluminum
  • Dimensions: 31.5 x 17.5 x 19.5 inches
  • Number of Chairs: 1

Welcome back, design enthusiasts! Are you ready to elevate your dining experience and add a dash of style to your space? Look no further because today we are diving headfirst into the world of dining chairs.

These often-overlooked heroes of home decor can make or break the ambiance of your dining area. Whether you’re hosting a grand dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, finding the perfect dining chairs is essential.

In this post, we’ll be serving up a delightful feast of tips and tricks to help you navigate the vast sea of options, ensuring that your dining chairs not only offer comfort but also become an eye-catching centerpiece that sparks conversation and leaves your guests in awe.

So grab a seat, and let’s begin to discover the art of buying dining chairs!

Choosing the right dining chairs for your dining room table is no easy decision. If you host dinner parties often, or just eat with your family every night, then comfortable dining chairs are a must for your home. But with so many options to choose from – style, shape, armrests, and more – it’s hard to be sure that you’re making the right purchase.

Whenever possible, try out the chairs in person before making a purchase. Visit furniture showrooms or stores to sit on the chairs and assess their comfort, stability, and overall quality. This firsthand experience will give you a better sense of what you can expect from the chairs in your own dining space.

What to Look for in a Dining Chair

What do you look for in a comfortable dining room chair? When it comes to finding a comfortable dining room chair, there are a few key factors to consider. Here are some features to look for:

Supportive Design: Opt for chairs with proper back support. Look for chairs with curved or contoured backrests that follow the natural curve of your spine. This helps promote good posture and reduces discomfort during longer meals.

Ergonomics: Look for chairs that are designed with ergonomics in mind. This means they should have a seat height that allows your feet to rest flat on the ground and your knees to be at a 90-degree angle. The seat depth should be deep enough to support your thighs without causing pressure behind your knees.

Cushioning: Consider chairs with cushioned seats for added comfort. Look for high-quality foam padding that provides a comfortable seating surface. However, be cautious of chairs with overly soft cushions that may flatten over time, leading to reduced support.

Armrests: Chairs with armrests can provide additional support and comfort. They can help reduce strain on the shoulders and provide a place to rest your arms while dining. However, make sure the armrests don’t limit your ability to comfortably slide the chair under the table.

Stability: Ensure the chair is stable and sturdy. Wobbly chairs can be uncomfortable and even unsafe. Give the chair a gentle shake or test it by sitting on it to ensure it feels solid and stable.

Consider Your Budget

Determine your budget range for dining chairs early on. This will help you narrow down your options and focus on chairs that fall within your price range. Remember to balance cost with quality to ensure you’re making a wise investment.

Dining Chair Sizes

How do you know what size dining chair to get? When it comes to selecting the right size dining chair for your space, there are a few factors to consider that will help you make an informed decision. First and foremost, take into account the dimensions of your dining table.

Ideally, your dining chairs should be proportionate to the table, striking a harmonious balance between the two.

My biggest tip for purchasing dining tables is to measure your dining room and dining table before buying!

Make sure you leave enough arm space and leg space for every intended guest at your dining table. The general rule of thumb is 10 inches of leg space (space between the seat and the dining table), and 2 feet of table width space for each guest at your table.

You should also allow for at least two feet of empty space behind each guest at your dining table while they are sitting.

When not in use, allow for about 6-12 inches of space between the chair and the edge of the table to ensure comfortable seating. This allows guests to move their chairs back without feeling cramped.

How tall should a dining chair be from the dining table? The ideal height for a dining chair in relation to the dining table is an important consideration for both comfort and aesthetics. As a general guideline, aim for a seat height that allows each person to sit comfortably with their feet flat on the ground and their knees at a 90-degree angle. This promotes proper posture and ensures a comfortable dining experience.

The standard seat height for dining chairs is typically around 18 inches (46 cm) from the floor. However, this can vary depending on the table height and personal preference. If your dining table has a standard height of around 30 inches (76 cm), a chair with a seat height of 18 inches (46 cm) would provide the desired 90-degree angle for most people.

Lastly, don’t forget to consider the overall scale of your dining area. If you have a smaller space, opting for slimmer, more streamlined chairs can help create an illusion of openness. Conversely, if you have a larger dining area, you can explore bolder, bulkier designs that make a statement and fill the space effectively.

Dining Chair Materials

Dining chairs, like most pieces of furniture, come in a variety of materials nowadays. As the saying goes: you get what you pay for. There’s nothing wrong with purchasing lower-cost products made from synthetic materials, but don’t be surprised when you need to replace them after a year or two.

The most common dining chair materials are :

  • Wood: Wood is the most common material used to craft furniture. Left in its natural state, wood dining chairs can give a farmhouse or rustic vibe to your space.
  • Rattan: Rattan is a favorite material for dining chairs in coastal or bohemian homes. The palm-based material is lightweight yet durable.
  • Plastic: Plastic is a great option for homes with kids, as the plastic can be easily cleaned. Plastic dining chairs are often lightweight making them easy to pick up and use in other areas of your home.
  • Metal: Metal dining chairs are typically found in industrial-style dining rooms. They could be partially crafted with wood. To make them cozier, you can add a sheepskin throw or buy a seat cushion. Tolix chairs are common metal dining chairs.

Dining Chair Styles

There are a ton of dining chairs available for every home decor style imaginable. Here are a few ideas:

Modern dining chairs: Modern or contemporary dining chairs are characterized by sleek lines, minimalist designs, and a focus on functionality. They often feature clean and smooth finishes with materials like metal, plastic, or molded plywood. These chairs are ideal for those who prefer a clean and minimalist aesthetic.

Coastal dining chairs: Coastal dining chairs are designed to evoke a relaxed and breezy atmosphere reminiscent of coastal living. These chairs often incorporate elements inspired by the beach, ocean, or coastal landscapes. They are made of materials such as rattan, wicker, or lightweight woods like bamboo.

Traditional dining chairs: Traditional dining chairs exude elegance and sophistication. They often feature ornate details, such as carved wood accents, upholstered seats, and high backs. These chairs are perfect for creating a formal and classic dining atmosphere.

Farmhouse dining chairs: Rustic or farmhouse dining chairs exude a warm and welcoming charm. They often feature sturdy wooden frames, ladder-back designs, and distressed finishes. These chairs bring a cozy, rustic feel to your dining area, perfect for creating a casual and inviting ambiance.

Mid-century modern dining chairs: Inspired by the design trends of the mid-20th century, mid-century modern dining chairs are known for their iconic shapes and organic curves. They often feature tapered legs, molded seats, and materials like molded plastic, wood, or upholstered fabrics. These chairs bring a retro charm and a touch of nostalgia to your dining space.

Scandinavian dining chairs: Scandinavian dining chairs embrace simplicity, functionality, and natural materials. They often have clean lines, light-colored wood frames, and upholstered seats in neutral tones. These chairs create a cozy and inviting atmosphere while embodying the Scandinavian design principles of simplicity and comfort.

Bohemian dining chairs: Bohemian dining chairs are characterized by their eclectic and free-spirited style, reflecting the Bohemian or boho aesthetic. Bohemian chairs often feature a mix of materials, textures, and patterns. This includes natural materials like rattan, wicker, or wood combined with colorful textiles, such as woven fabrics, embroidered details, or even patchwork designs. Chairs in vibrant shades of deep blues, vibrant greens, warm oranges, or earthy reds can be found in bohemian dining spaces.

Industrial dining chairs: Industrial dining chairs draw inspiration from factories and warehouses. They often feature metal frames, distressed finishes, and raw materials like wood and metal. These chairs add an edgy and urban touch to your dining space, making a statement with their rugged and utilitarian aesthetic.

Your Future Dining Chair Arrangement

Before buying dining chairs, you must imagine the future dining chair arrangement you’ll have in your dining room. There are three main types of dining chair arrangements:

The most common dining room chair arrangement is comprised of 2 or more matching dining chairs placed around the table. This keeps things simple.

Some upscale dining rooms will feature two statement chairs opposite each other at the head and end of the table. 4 or more side chairs are then placed along the long sides of the dining room table. This dining chair arrangement only works in dining rooms with rectangular-shaped dining tables.

For an eclectic look, you can opt for a group of mismatched dining chairs. This option works best in industrial-style dining rooms and bohemian-style dining rooms. For this arrangement, each chair must be totally different and unique.

Beyond these three arrangements, you can also use non-conventional dining room seating options like benches, which are great for kids, depending on your needs.

Practicality and Maintenance

Consider the practical aspects of your dining chairs. If you have young children or anticipate frequent spills, chairs with easy-to-clean materials or removable/washable seat covers may be a wise choice. Additionally, think about how easy it is to move and clean around the chairs, especially if you require flexibility in your dining area.

I hope these tips will help you pick out the best chairs for your dining room!

What makes a good quality dining chair?

Buying Dining Chairs: What to Look for and Consider

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