Collection: Shop Dining Chairs

How to Choose the Right Dining Chairs

Dining chairs are one of the most used pieces of furniture in your home — and one of the most visible. Getting the right combination of comfort, scale, and style makes a significant difference to how your dining room looks and feels.

1. Match the Chair Height to Your Table

This is non-negotiable. Standard dining tables are 75cm tall — your chair seat height should be 45–48cm to allow comfortable clearance. Always check the seat height, not just the overall chair height.

2. Allow Enough Space Per Chair

Allow at least 45–50cm of table length per chair for comfortable elbow room. On a 180cm table, that means a maximum of 6 chairs — 3 per side — with a little breathing room.

3. Choose Your Material

• Upholstered seats — the most comfortable for long meals; choose a performance or easy-clean fabric for everyday use
• Solid wood — durable, timeless, and easy to clean; add a seat pad for extended comfort
• Metal frames — lightweight and contemporary; mix well with wooden or marble table tops
• Rattan or woven — relaxed and natural; beautiful in coastal or earthy dining rooms
• Velvet — luxurious and dramatic; best in lower-traffic dining rooms

4. Mix and Match Confidently

You don't need a matching set. Some of the most beautiful dining rooms mix chair styles — for example, upholstered carver chairs at the heads of the table with simpler side chairs along the length. Keep a consistent colour or material to hold the look together.

5. Consider Armchairs vs Side Chairs

• Side chairs (no arms) — tuck under the table neatly and maximise seating
• Carver chairs (with arms) — more comfortable and imposing; traditionally used at the heads of the table; take up more space

6. Think About Stackability and Storage

If you entertain occasionally and need extra chairs, consider stackable options that can be stored away easily when not in use.