Bernhardt Furniture Company and Moretti's Design Collection, INC Oval Back Dining Room Chairs

How many dining chairs do I need?

The number of dining room chairs you purchase is largely determined by the size of your table. As a rule of thumb, designate 24 inches of space per person for a comfortable table setting. Any less and you will feel cramped or unable to get in and out of your dining chair easily. With that said, be conscious of where the legs on your table are — if they are inset from the edge of the table, they might make what you assumed was a three-chair width a two-chair width. Is your table expandable? If so, buy the number of dining chairs that will fit the widest setting so you arenʼt bringing in mismatched folding chairs for bigger parties (unless, of course, that is the sort of eclectic look you are going for). You can use the extra chairs around the house or stash them in the garage when not in use. Also be conscious of whether you want dining armchairs at the heads of the table, as the arms may not fully tuck under the table depending on height and size.

How to match dining chairs to the table?

To match dining chairs with your table, consider:

• Style: Ensure chairs complement the tableʼs aesthetic. If sleek and streamlined is your desire, check out modern dining chairs. Love the feel of a retro space? Go for midcentury dining chairs to add a pop of mod to your table. For a more country-inspired eating area, incorporate farmhouse dining chairs.
• Material and Color: Chairs can either match the tableʼs material and color or offer a tasteful contrast.
• Size and Shape: The chairsʼ size should be proportionate to the table, with shapes that accommodate the tableʼs design. A round table pairs well with chairs that have curved lines, while a rectangular table looks best with chairs that have a more angular design.

How tall should dining chairs be?

The standard seat height for dining chairs is approximately 18 inches from the floor, suitable for most dining tables. However, the ideal height also depends on the table height and the chairʼs design features, such as armrests. Dining tables typically measure around 28 to 30 inches in height, so chairs should allow for 10 to 12 inches of legroom beneath the table. This measurement ensures comfortable seating, allowing dinersʼ thighs to fit comfortably under the table without feeling squeezed.

How wide should dining chairs be?

Standard dining chairs typically range from 17 to 20 inches in width. This dimension is crucial to ensure they fit comfortably under your dining table and accommodate diners of different sizes. When selecting the width, also consider the chairʼs design and how many chairs you plan to place along each side of the table, ensuring each chair can be used without crowding.

What Dining Chair materials are best for easy maintenance?

These materials offer ease of maintenance, offering a practical and stylish choice for dining rooms:

• Leather: Can be effortlessly wiped down and tends to resist spills.
• Vinyl: Offers the look of leather with even easier maintenance.
• Wood: Durable and simple to clean, suitable for a wide range of styles.
• Metal: Can handle heavy use with just basic cleaning.