WHEN SHOULD DINING CHAIRS MATCH A TABLE?
‘Matching chairs and tables are often a good choice with traditional styles,’ says Killy Scheer, interior designer and founder of Scheer & Co. ‘If the furnishings are ornate or highly detailed, matching can ensure a cohesive look.’ Chaya Krinsky, head designer and co-founder of TOV Furniture agrees, especially if you want to achieve a formal, classic, or period aesthetic.
HOW DO I PAIR NON-MATCHING DINING CHAIRS TO A TABLE?
Dining chairs don’t have to match a table but should combine. Chaya recommends using the style of the dining table as a starting point. ‘If you have a mid-century modern table, then maybe pair it with a set of chairs that play into that style, without completely matching,’ she says.
HOW ABOUT THE DINING CHAIRS THEMSELVES? SHOULD THEY MATCH?
In short, no! There are three main possibilities when it comes to choosing chairs for your dining table: a neat, sophisticated single-style dining chair; a casual-looking, eclectic mishmash of different dining chair styles; one style for the side chairs and another for the seats at the head of the table (although that only applies to rectangular and oval-shaped dining tables).
WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING DINING CHAIRS
‘Scale and composition are highly important. I consider furniture proportions and finishes,’ says Killy. It’s not all about looks! The scale of your dining chairs must also be compatible with the dining table size, as well as the material finish.
The first detail to address is the chair's height, allowing enough legroom space and an ergonomic seating position. This point is crucial when mixing and matching dining chairs to ensure all diners are seated at equal heights. As a general rule, there should be 10 to 12 inches between the underside of the tabletop and the chair seat. Dining chairs should also be able to be tucked under the table when not in use to maximize floor space and ensure the easy flow of the room. For an aesthetically pleasing look, ensure the back of each chair is taller than the tabletop by at least two inches. The width and depth of the chairs are just as important. Dining chairs should slide comfortably under the table with a couple of inches of space between them and without bumping into the table legs or base of a pedestal table. If the dining chairs are too close, diners will feel uncomfortable and cramped.