A Buyers Guide To Dining Chairs

When you think about eating a nice meal, hosting a fine dinner, or even being a guest at a restaurant... What kind of seating do you imagine? When most people think of their interior decor dreams, they might forget about the dining chairs. While they may not be the centerpiece of your living space, they make a more significant difference than you realize.

We all have our own tastes style-wise and dining-wise. What's important to consider is how the two can complement each other. A major part of the dining experience (even if it's just a quick at-home meal) is the seating. It's much harder to enjoy a meal while standing up, but it's also slightly uncomfortable if you're sitting in the wrong chair.

That being said, we want to share some tips on how you can find the right mid-century modern chairs for your dining table. All you need is a sense of design that works with every occasion and your style and comfort. 

Tip #1: It doesn't have to be extravagant.

Dining tables and seating are great for special occasions or hosting events, but if you feel like you might spend more time enjoying snacks rather than fancy meals go simple. There's nothing wrong with sticking to the basics. In fact, maintaining simplicity makes it easier to adapt to the rest of your interior design. 

You don't need intricate details and designs to get a stylish and adaptable seating arrangement! Sometimes, simplicity is more important. If you feel like your dining table is a space for relaxed conversation, family meals, or occasional friendly hosting there's no need to make it feel too formal. There are plenty of plain & reliable mid-century modern dining chairs such as the classic Wishbone Dining ChairDAW Chair or Saarinen Chair that you can use to provide comfort and a versatile look that matches the rest of your home. 

Tip #2: Consider your need for comfort.

While some people believe that a dining table is a place for tradition and elegance, others may feel more important to feel comfortable. When you determine the direction of your dining chair style, it will be helpful to consider what you value more style or comfort? Even if you'd prefer a comfortable set-up, that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style! 

Consider what you may be using the dining table for outside of eating dinner. You might imagine it as a place for your kiddos to get their homework done, or you might only want to use it for important celebrations or events. Once you know what you'll be using your dining set & chairs for, you'll better understand how important comfort is to your experience. 

The best part about determining what it is you value in a dining chair set is the possibility of finding a style that checks every box! For example, you can find stylish chairs and still give them a boost of coziness with a decorative seat pillow. Your mid-century modern dining table should have a purpose, and your dining chairs should be able to support that purpose!

Tip #3: It's okay to mix and match.

You may think of mismatched chairs as unorganized, but we like to see them as eclectic instead! Sure, not every variety of mismatched chairs will look great together. However, you can find common ground to start with, then explore! Perhaps there is a certain style of seating you enjoy, but you aren't sure which material, color, or frame to choose from that's okay! Even different dining chairs can create a cohesive look as long as they portray a similar aesthetic.

Many people don't even realize that some of the most famous/well-known dining establishments will actually use various chair styles. This approach can offer a more cozy, open, and inviting experience without being too noticeable. That being said, if you are interested in this approach start by finding your common ground. This might be a similar style, height, designer, or genre of dining chairs. Once you know what will keep your seating style cohesive, then you can experiment with different styles or colors.

Tip #4: Outdoor dining? Don't sweat it. 

Depending on where you live and the setup of your living space, you may end up spending most of your meals eating outdoors. Many homes will have a more exclusive dining design indoors for important guests or occasions and use their outdoor space for everyday al fresco dining! 

Interior designers will recommend stackable seating for your outdoor dining table so that you can easily store it in case of bad weather. Outdoor seating should be versatile but also consistent. Look for styles that can adapt to all of your favorite outdoor activities (from smores to seafood on the grill). For example, a set of natural or woven designs will look great outside and still allow you to get creative with colorful seat cushions that match the season.

Tip #5: Statement seating may be the style for you.

There are plenty of options when it comes to dining chairs, but don't be afraid to be bold! If you love the look of royal seating, then start looking for throne-style seating such as the Platner Chair for the head of the table. Or, if you want a more modern look, you can pick out iconic statement seats that give your dining table an artsy feel. 

However, statement seating has a different meaning for everyone. Some people may find that classic designs make a bigger statement than cutting-edge styles. If you want your dining chairs to make a statement the style should speak to your tastes! 

The most important thing to remember when picking out your dining chairs is to consider your needs and the current design of your living space. 

Once you have a solid grasp of your interior design preferences, then you can start to explore the possibilities of the perfect set of dining chairs.