Dining chairs are often an afterthought, but they can make or break your comfort—especially in a home where meals stretch into conversation, work-from-home sessions, or family game nights. Here's what you really want to pay attention to when shopping for dining chairs.
1. Comfort Is King
We sit longer than we think, so don’t compromise on comfort.
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Curved backs support the spine and feel more natural
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Upholstered seats add softness for long meals
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Armrests add luxury, but may take up more space
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Back height matters—mid-height backs often offer the best blend of support and style
✔ Tip: Sit in it. If you’re browsing online, look for ergonomic shaping and customer reviews that mention comfort over time.
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2. Material: Feel It, Don't Just See It
Materials affect comfort, durability, and maintenance:
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Solid wood: warm, timeless, and sturdy
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Rattan or cord-woven seats: breathable and adds texture
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Upholstered (fabric/leather): plush and refined, but needs to be spill-resistant if you’ve got kids
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Metal or plastic: sleek and modern, but test for sturdiness
✔ Consider your household needs—kids, pets, frequent use—when choosing the finish.
3. Scale and Proportion Matter
You don’t want knees bumping the underside of your table, or arms that don’t tuck in.
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Standard seat height is 45–48 cm
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Leave at least 30 cm between seat height and the underside of your table
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Allow 60–70 cm width per chair to prevent elbow bumping
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Check if chairs tuck in fully under your table—this affects space efficiency
Shown: Clean lines and comfort-forward design — a fresh favourite for everyday dining. → Discover 121 Dining Chairs
4. Mixing Styles? Here’s How to Do It Right
Mixed dining chairs are trending, but it still needs cohesion:
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Stick to a common material or color palette
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Mix 2 types max: e.g., same chair in two finishes, or bench + chairs
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Use matching chairs for the sides and a different style for the heads (the ends of the table)
✔ In smaller homes, uniform chairs usually make the space feel less cluttered.
5. How Many Should You Get?
The number depends on your table size and lifestyle:
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4-seater table: 2 chairs per side
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6-seater: 3 chairs per side or 2 chairs + 1 bench
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Always have at least 60 cm of space per diner
Final Word
Dining chairs do more than seat you—they support your everyday moments. Choose with intention, and you’ll have pieces that are as functional as they are beautiful.
