Dining Chairs: How to Choose the Right Chair for Your Table & Style

Why Dining Chair Selection Matters

Dining chairs are used more than almost any other piece of furniture in the home — and they’re one of the most visible. The right chair completes your dining table, defines the comfort of every meal, and sets the tone for the entire room.

1. Getting the Height Right

Comfort starts with proportion. The standard rule: allow 25–30cm between the seat height and the tabletop.

• Standard dining table height: 75–78cm
• Ideal seat height: 45–48cm
• Armchair clearance: Ensure armrests fit under the table apron before purchasing

2. Upholstered vs. Non-Upholstered

• Upholstered chairs: More comfortable for long meals — ideal for dining rooms used for entertaining. Available in linen, velvet, bouclé, and leather
• Wooden chairs: Durable, easy to clean, and timeless — ideal for family dining rooms and everyday use
• Mixed material: Upholstered seat with wooden or metal legs — the most popular combination for balancing comfort and style

3. Upholstery Material Guide

• Linen: Natural, breathable, and beautifully textured — the Scandinavian staple
• Velvet: Luxurious and dramatic — adds richness to formal dining rooms
• Leather: Durable and easy to wipe clean — ideal for families with children
• Bouclé: Textured and contemporary — adds visual interest without pattern

4. Mixing Chair Styles

Mixing dining chairs is one of the most effective ways to create a curated, collected look:

• Use the same chair in two different colors for a subtle contrast
• Mix upholstered chairs at the ends with wooden chairs along the sides
• Combine a bench on one side with chairs on the other for a relaxed, informal feel

5. How Many Chairs Do You Need?

As a rule, allow 60cm of table length per chair. For a 200cm table, plan for 6 chairs — 3 per side. Always consider buying one or two extra for occasional entertaining.