Hi there cuties! This week here on the Kuotes we're diving into one of my favorite design topics: Dining furniture pairings! It may seem like no-brainer—dining tables require dining chairs—but you'd be surprised at how many customers and clients I speak to who get a stuck on how to pair tables and chairs together in a way that's size-compatible, stylish, and comfortable.
My design team and I have broken down the dining furniture pairing process to three simple pillars—size, style, and comfort. Read on to learn how to confidently pair your perfect dining table and chairs (and check out some of our bestselling dining furniture pieces across several popular style categories)!"There are so many ways to mix and match dining furniture; a more traditional look might call for a matching table and chair pairing, whereas a more boho-chic or laidback coastal look might look best with a combination of adjacent styles and a mix of materials."
Size Factors
Of course, as with most furniture selections, size needs to be top of mind first and foremost. I would recommend measuring your space for your dining table first, and then selecting chairs to fit after. Make sure you measure for your table's footprint in the room, as well as for how many chairs it can comfortably fit around it, and make sure to account for factors like table leg placement and the different sizes offered with expandable tables. Next, when it comes time to pair dining chairs with your table, there will be an additional list of size factors to consider in order to make sure your chairs fit comfortably around the table and also look proportional:- Arm height: Is there a thick apron or table top that might get in the way of tucking the chair?
- Seat height: Consider leg space according to scale of table
Updated Traditional Dining Furniture Pairings
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Style Similarities
After you have your sizing parameters sorted out, you get to the fun part of dining furniture parings: Styling! Ask yourself if you want all the same dining chairs or do you want to mix it up and add a head of table chair or a dining armchair with some side chairs? Do you want your chairs to match very closely with the table, or stand in contrast to it?
If you're not sure where to start, consider the following styling factors to help guide your chair choices:- Finish compatibility: If you want juxtaposition and contrast, ask yourself if the finishes (the color and overall material look of the chair's frame and the table's overall exterior) of the table and chairs contrasting enough? And on the flip side, if you want your pairing to look cohesive, ask if the finishes have a similar undertone?
- Fabric: If you're choosing a dining chair with upholstery, consider that it is often best to upgrade to a performance fabric to ensure it's easy to clean any stains; you'll also want to look at the fabric color and texture and make sure you're happy with how it looks paired with the table.
Bistro Dining Furniture Pairings
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How Does It Feel?
Finally, and I would argue most importantly, you have to consider the comfort factor! You're likely to be using your dining table and dining chairs day-in and day-out, for everything from quiet weeknight dinners to holiday celebrations and special occasions. The chairs, and how they pair up and interact with the table, need to be comfortable for daily us.There are many factors that contribute to comfort, and everyone has their own ideas about what that means. For an example: An upholstered seat and back will likely provide more comfort than an all wood chair, but all-wood might provide more structure and support. You can also strike a balance and add a tie-on cushion to a wood chair for additional plushness and comfort."However you define 'comfort' at your dining table, make sure you prioritize that when selecting your dining furniture pairings."
Coastal Dining Furniture Pairings
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Kathy Kuo Home Interior Design Services
Need design help? In addition to being a source for beautiful high quality furnishings and decor, Kathy Kuo Home has a team of professional interior designers that are ready to assist with all of your interior design needs. Our services provide multiple layout and design options that fit your style and budget for any room. You will work with a team of designers and project managers to help you truly Love Where You Live.
Call (888) 908-3486 or email designs@kathykuohome.com today to get started!
