There was a time when many of us had a dining room with an imposing wood table, matching chairs and matching buffet. But today’s aesthetic is less rigid and more relaxed – all that dark “matchy” furniture is overwhelming and looks dated. So how can you create a dining room that is special, fresh and never boring? One great way is to focus on your chairs. Here are some suggestions to make sure your dining room chairs never take a back seat:
Sets Still Work. Matching sets can still be beautiful – today they are lighter, less contrived and use innovative materials. If you opt for a matching set, consider decorating your dining room more casually so that the effect is softened. Or choose a style that is less formal – a round table for example.
Go 4 and 2. Or 2 and 2. Instead of 4 or 6 chairs that are the same, choose a set of 4 complemented by a set of 2; perhaps in a different fabric or more substantial weight to place at either end of the table. The same is true for a set of 4. Try 2 the same across from each other in 2 sets.
Materials. There are so many choices! Wood of course, or a mix of wood and upholstery, but think beyond that. Try metal in a modern home, leather in a traditional home or even wicker in a shabby chic room.
The Miracle of Paint. Paint unifies unmatched chairs. Consider 6 different wood chairs – paint them all a rich blue and you have a set! Or if all your chairs are the same, try painting 4 the same and 2 others the same – say 4 in black and 2 in taupe. It can be a stunning effect! Of course, soft beige or gray is always a perfect choice; neutrals are timeless.
Bright and Beautiful. In an informal home, painting your chairs a vibrant colour can make them a focal point. Another great idea is to paint the legs of your table the same vivid shade, leaving the table top in plain wood.
Upholstery. Upholstered dining room seating is comfortable and adds colour and style to the room. If you have the option to reupholster existing chairs, consider something daring – toile or an animal print or a bold geometric. It can take a matching set from drab to fab!
Bench Seating. Bench seating works well in a laid-back dining area. Don’t think picnic benches – there are lots of luxury choices available! Benches can also work well in combination with chairs.
Wing Back Chairs. For true traditional indulgence, choose wing back chairs for either end of your dining table. Talk about comfort!
All Different! It may sound crazy, and in truth, not every room can pull it off, but consider having every chair around your table quite different – in shape, colour and style. Keeping the rest of the room neutral is necessary for this to work. It also works best if all the chairs are the same height and size.
Style Mix. For an eclectic look, choose a dining table that’s a different style than your chairs. For example, marry a rustic harvest table with black/metal modern chairs. Or match a black, sleek table with ornate French Provincial chairs.
Chair Decorating. To protect and update your upholstered chairs, consider slipcovers. For special occasions, decorate your chairs! Sashes and bows can look lovely wrapped around the seat. Or try a fabric “cummerbund” around a chair back. You can even string beads across the back or place a small wreath on the back of each chair.
Fit. When you are mixing and matching chairs and tables, ensure that the chairs fit properly under the table and that when seated, you’re at the correct height to dine comfortably. Also be sure that the seats of all the chairs are at the same height.
Comfort. No matter how fabulous your dining chairs look, the most important factor is comfort! Make sure there is plenty of support to sit for a long stretch of time.
Bon appétit!
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