How to choose dining chairs you'll love for years
Whether you love to entertain or prefer intimate dinners with family, the most memorable moments are often shared around the dining table. While the table may set the stage, it’s the harmony between table and chair that truly defines the experience.
Whether you linger long into the evening or gather briefly before retreating to the comfort of the sofa, choosing the right dining chairs brings ease, balance and quiet confidence to your space. We’re here to simplify that decision – so you never have to second-guess your choice again, leaving you free to focus on the only question that really matters: what’s for dinner?
MEASURE YOUR SPACE AND TABLE
Before choosing dining chairs, it’s worth taking a moment to understand your space. Thoughtful proportions are what transform a dining area from simply functional to effortlessly comfortable, ensuring every seat feels as good as it looks and every gathering flows with ease.
- Measure the height of the table to ensure there is about 25cm to 30cm between the seat and the tabletop for comfortable legroom.
- Take width and spacing into consideration; allow at least 15cm between chairs and 60cm of table space per person.
- Ensure that the room is large enough to accommodate the table and chairs. There should be at least 90cm between the table and the walls to allow easy movement.
MATCH THE STYLE OF YOUR CHAIRS
Your dining chairs offer a chance to bring character and intention into your space, shaping a setting that feels layered, thoughtful and uniquely your own.
Start by choosing one element to lead – either the table or the chairs – and build around it. Look at the overall silhouette and scale, then introduce variation through material, colour or texture. For example, a solid wooden table can be softened with upholstered chairs, while a lighter table can be grounded with darker or more sculptural seating. The key is to create a sense of connection. This can be subtle – through a shared tone, finish or design detail – so that even contrasting pieces feel intentional when brought together.
- Tables and chairs don’t have to match exactly; however, they should complement each other.
- Instead of focusing solely on matching furniture, consider contrast. When using contrast, ensure that the materials, colour and style work in harmony.
PRIORITISE COMFORT
Comfort is what turns a beautiful dining space into one you truly want to spend time in. It’s not only about how a chair looks, but how it supports the body during everyday meals and long, lingering gatherings. When choosing your chairs, think about how you naturally sit. A slightly deeper seat allows you to relax back, while a more upright profile keeps you engaged at the table. Consider pairing a supportive backrest with a soft seat if you tend to host for longer periods, or opt for something more compact and structured for shorter, everyday meals.
It’s also worth testing the feel of materials – upholstered chairs bring warmth and ease, while firmer surfaces offer a more upright, refined posture. The right balance will depend on how you use your space, but ultimately, comfort should feel intuitive the moment you sit down. Swivel chairs offer ease of movement. Their ability to rotate reduces the need to pull chairs in and out, helping to preserve floor space and maintain a clean, uncluttered look.
• Seat depth (the distance between the backrest and the seat edge) typically ranges from 50cm to 60cm. These dimensions should allow most people to sit comfortably and feel supported.
• Consider the level of back support that the chair provides, especially for longer meals.
ARMCHAIRS VS ARMLESS CHAIRS
The choice between armchairs and armless chairs shapes not only how your dining space looks, but how it functions day to day. It’s about finding the right balance between presence, practicality and how you intend to use the space.
Start by considering your layout. If your table sits in a more compact room, armless chairs keep the footprint light and flexible, allowing for easier movement and the ability to accommodate extra guests when needed. In more generous spaces, armchairs can introduce a sense of structure and occasion, especially when placed at the heads of the table to frame the setting. A considered approach is to combine both. Use armchairs in key positions for added comfort and visual weight, and pair them with armless chairs along the sides to maintain openness and flow. This creates a layered, intentional look that feels both inviting and practical.
- The choice between armchairs or armless chairs often comes down to personal preference, available space and intended use.
- Armchairs are elegant and convenient. They are ideal for children or older adults who may need extra support. However, they take up more space and are heavier to move around.
- Armless chairs are more functional and flexible, allowing you to fit more people around the table, though they might lack the formal appeal of armchairs.
MATERIAL MATTERS
Material plays a defining role in both the look and feel of your dining space. Beyond aesthetics, it influences how your chairs function day to day: how they age, how they feel to sit in and how they fit into your lifestyle.
Start by considering how you use your dining area. If it’s a high-traffic, everyday space, durable finishes like wood or metal offer ease and resilience, standing up well to daily wear. Wood brings warmth and depth, and can be adapted over time with different stains or finishes to evolve with your interior. Metal, on the other hand, introduces a cleaner, more contemporary edge and works well in more minimal or modern settings.
For a softer, more inviting feel, upholstered chairs add comfort and a layer of texture. They’re particularly well-suited to spaces designed for longer meals or entertaining, where comfort is key. To make them more practical, consider performance fabrics or darker tones that are more forgiving in everyday use.
Choosing the right material is ultimately about balance, bringing together durability, comfort and visual harmony to suit the way you live.
- Wood is a classic choice as it’s durable, versatile and timeless. It can be customised with stains and finishes to suit your style.
- Metal chairs are lightweight, low-maintenance and ideal for modern designs. However, they can feel cold and less comfortable.
- Upholstered chairs offer superior comfort and style, and come in an array of colours, patterns and textures, making it easy to personalise them to suit your style. Keep in mind that they require more maintenance than other materials.
INVEST IN GOOD QUALITY
Investing in quality ensures your dining space feels considered and lasts over time. Well-made chairs offer stability, durability and ease in everyday use. Look for solid construction and thoughtful details – chairs that feel sturdy, move effortlessly and maintain their balance. It’s this quiet reliability that enhances both your space and every meal.
TIMELESS OVER TRENDY
Trends can be tempting, but the pieces you live with every day should feel enduring rather than momentary. Choosing designs with restraint and considered proportions allows your space to evolve naturally, without feeling dated over time. Timeless chairs act as an anchor.
• Timeless pieces often carry a quiet elegance. They do not shout for attention and never go out of style.
• These kinds of pieces give you flexibility. Your chairs will always fit right in. A dining room can easily be refreshed with new accessories, lighting or tableware. This helps build a strong foundation for your space.
An outdoor alternative
Consider outdoor chairs for hard-working dining areas like kitchens and entertainment rooms. Many HAUS designs work beautifully indoors while offering added durability.
Balance form and function
The right dining chairs should feel as good as they look – bringing together proportion, comfort and thoughtful design.
Design for the way you live
Consider how you use your space day to day, and choose chairs that support everything from quick meals to long, relaxed gatherings.
Choose pieces that last
Prioritising quality and timeless design ensures your chairs remain relevant, reliable and beautifully considered for years to come.
How many dining chairs should I have around my table?
As a general guide, allow around 60cm of table space per person to ensure comfortable seating and enough room to dine with ease. The size and shape of your table will ultimately determine how many chairs fit comfortably without overcrowding the space.
Should dining chairs match the table?
Dining chairs don’t need to match the table exactly, but they should feel cohesive. Aim for a balanced look by considering proportions, materials and tones – whether you choose a coordinated set or introduce contrast for a more curated feel.
What is the ideal seat height for dining chairs?
Most dining chairs have a seat height between 45cm and 50 cm, which pairs well with standard table heights. Aim for a gap of around 25cm and 30cm between the seat and tabletop to ensure comfortable legroom and a natural dining posture.
Are upholstered dining chairs practical for everyday use?
Yes, upholstered chairs can work well for everyday living – especially when paired with durable or performance fabrics. Choosing darker tones or textured materials can help conceal wear, making them both comfortable and practical for regular use.