Dining Chairs + Benches

It’s no secret that kitchen and dining chairs are some of the most frequently used seats in the home — whether for meals, homework, or even office work. It’s important to choose well-designed pieces, such as contemporary kitchen chairs or a mid-century modern dining chair set, that are equally ergonomic and stylish. Consider these different types of seating.

Modern bar stools pull up to a kitchen counter or bar top overhang. Select stools depending on the height of your counter or bar. Standard counter height is approximately 34”-36,” while standard bar height is roughly 40”-42.” Choose stools that range from 23”-27” for a counter and those that range from 28”-33” for a bar top. This type of chair may feature a streamlined, backless design, while others are equipped with a seat back, footrest, and even armrests.

Kitchen bench seating is a space-savvy choice for a family since it can accommodate more people than individual chairs can seat around a table. Although this type is often backless, you can opt for a loveseat bench if you’re looking for a style with a back. A modern dining bench (or a built-in dining bench) is also referred to as a banquette. It’s a statement-making design element that looks equally chic built into a windowed breakfast nook or rendered in a high-backed version along the wall of a formal dining room.

Lastly, modern kitchen chairs boast endless versatility. They’re rendered in a plethora of materials, including molded plastic, powder-coated steel, and solid wood; some also feature plush upholstered seat cushions. Remember, it’s best to choose a chair that allows for 10”-13” of space between the seat and the underside of the table.

How to Pick Dining Seating

Select chairs from among a variety of styles and materials. Upholstered dining chairs may be covered in velvet, bouclé, leather, or suede, among other fabrics. Choose a material that complements your dining table and interior design style. Velvet and bouclé are sumptuous, providing unique visual contrast to glass- or marble-top tables. Alternatively, fabrics like leather, suede, and cotton twill pair well with wood dining furniture.

Wood dining chairs — available in walnut, ash, oak, and more — deliver durability and an easy-to-clean finish. Some chairs combine a wood frame with an upholstered cushion, a cane seat, or even wicker, offering a tactile finish.

Metal dining chairs are ultra-sleek and showcase an industrial-inspired aesthetic. Often rendered in powder-coated steel, this type of chair plays well with a range of dining table styles, from glass-top pieces to wood tables.

When choosing pieces for your home think about creating a unique visual landscape. Mix a long dining bench with upholstered seats for a versatile seating arrangement; combine a pair of armchairs with molded plastic designer dining chairs; or opt for steel seats mixed with ghost chairs. The options are nearly endless.