Dining chairs play an important role in dining room decoration

How to Choose Dining Chair: Type, Style, Material and Height Guide

Dining chairs play a crucial role in enhancing both the style of your home and the dining experience. Choosing the right dining chair not only improves the aesthetic appeal of the dining room but also significantly boosts the comfort and dining experience of family members.

How to choose dining chair? Follow me to find out!

1. Dining Chair Styles

First and foremost, the dining chair style is key to enhancing home atmosphere and refinement. Modern, vintage, Scandinavian, and industrial styles are just a few options to consider. Before making a purchase, think about your preferred home style and ensure that the dining chairs complement your home decoration. This creates a harmonious and cohesive home tone.


If you're unsure of your preferences and don't know how to choose dining chair, you can find inspiration on home decor or social media websites such as Houzz, Pinterest, or Instagram. Here are some common types and styles of dining chairs to help you consider your needs and preferences.

Common dining chair types include:

Dining Room Side Chair: 

These are a common type of chair found in dining areas. They typically do not have armrests, focusing on simplicity and practicality. They can be paired with the dining table or used flexibly as extra seating.

  • Armless : No arms for easier movement and more seating options.
  • Compact : Smaller and lighter, fitting neatly around the table.
  • Versatile : Available in various styles and materials to match any decor.
EUREKA ERGONOMIC Dining Chair: Featuring a simple appearance and a unique lumbar support design.

Dining Chair with Arms:

These provide additional support and comfort, making them suitable for use at the main dining table.

  • Added Comfort : Provides extra support and relaxation.
  • Elegant Style : Enhances the formal look of the dining area.
  • Defined Seating : Offers a clear, personal seating space.
EUREKA ERGONOMIC Dining Chair: A semi-enclosed dining chair with a diamond-patterned leather design.

Bar Chairs:

Designed for high-legged dining tables or bar counters.

  • High Height: Designed for elevated surfaces like bar counters.
  • Footrest: Includes a footrest for added comfort.
  • Adjustable: Often features height adjustments for flexibility.

Vintage Bar Chairs: Featuring a soft, double-layer seat cushion for added comfort.

Dining Room Bench:

Suitable for family dining areas or alongside kitchen islands.

  • Space Efficiency: Accommodates multiple people, maximizing seating in limited space.
  • Versatile Style: Fits a variety of dining room decors with diverse designs and materials.
  • Informal Appeal: Offers a casual and communal dining experience.
Cushioned Bench: Ideal for holiday parties, offering added comfort.
the perfect dining chair

Common dining chair styles include:

Victorian Dining Chair: 

Ornately decorated, often featuring carved or curved embellishments on the backrest and armrests. Upholstered seat and back with intricate patterns.

  • Ornate Detailing: Intricate carvings and decorative elements.
  • Luxurious Upholstery: Rich fabrics like velvet or brocade.
  • Curved Lines: Elegant, flowing shapes and cabriole legs.
Three-dimensional Monstera pattern paired with dark green velvet,modern and stylish.

Vintage Dining Chairs:

These chairs feature a retro style, often characterized by specific design elements and colors.

  • Rich Wood Grain: Warm, detailed wood for a classic look.
  • Luxurious Leather: Sleek leather upholstery for elegance.
  • Timeless Design: Combines traditional craftsmanship with sophisticated materials.
Leather and wood dining chairs, timeless elegance.

Mid-Century Modern Dining Chair: 

Characterized by clean, flowing lines and elegant shapes, these chairs typically use solid wood and leather, emphasizing the combination of functionality and aesthetics.

  • Clean Lines: Simple, sleek design with minimal ornamentation.
  • Natural Materials: Often made from wood, leather, and metal.
  • Functional Aesthetics: Blends practicality with stylish form.
Showcasing the unique charm and aesthetic value of mid-century modern style.

Industrial Dining Chair:

Designed with a combination of metal and wood, emphasizing practicality and functionality.

  • Raw Materials: Usually made of metal with an overall dark tone.
  • Functional Design: Simple, utilitarian shapes with sturdy construction.
  • Minimalist Aesthetic: Clean lines and minimal decoration for a modern look.
Light Industrial Dining Chairs, reflecting the strength and character of the modern urban environment.

Scandinavian Dining Chair:

Known for its minimalist design, strong functionality, and emphasis on natural elements.


  • Minimalist Design : Clean lines and simple shapes.
  • Light Colors : Often features light wood or neutral tones.
  • Functional Comfort : Ergonomic seating with practical, stylish details.
Scandinavian Style Dining Chair, Perfectly Blending Minimalist Design with Natural Elements.

Farmhouse Style Dining Chair: 

Rustic and cozy, typically made from natural wood with simple design, often featuring handcrafted details. Colors are usually natural tones or white.

  • Rustic Charm: Emphasizes natural wood and distressed finishes.
  • Simple Lines: Traditional, sturdy design with clean, uncomplicated lines.
  • Comfortable Seating: Often features a wide seat and supportive backrest.

Create a Charming Country Style in Your Dining Space.

2. Dining Chair Materials


When choosing dining chair materials, factors such as appearance, price, durability, maintenance, and lifestyle should be considered. Selecting the right material not only enhances the dining room's style but also significantly improves the dining experience. Here are some common dining chair materials and their characteristics:

wooden dining chair for dining room

Wooden Dining Chair:


Common types include Oak, Pine, Walnut, Cherry, and others.

  • Advantages: Natural appearance, warm texture, and high aesthetic value. They are sturdy and durable, suitable for various dining room styles.
  • Disadvantages: Typically heavy, higher in price, and require regular maintenance to prevent cracking and deformation.
Polished silver dining chair, exuding a modern feel.

Metal Dining Chair:

Common types include Stainless Steel, Aluminium, and Iron.

  • Advantages: Modern aesthetic with high durability and stability. They are typically lightweight, easy to move, and clean.
  • Disadvantages: May develop scratches or dents over prolonged use, and some metals can rust in humid environments.
Plastic dining chair, available in multiple colors, lightweight and compact.

Plastic Dining Chair:

Common types include Polypropylene (PP), Polycarbonate (PC), and others.

  • Advantages: Affordable, lightweight, available in a variety of colors and styles, suitable for modern and casual dining settings. Easy to clean and water-resistant.
  • Disadvantages: May not be as durable as other materials, prone to scratches and cracking.
Fully Wrapped Saddle Leather Dining Chair

Leather Dining Chair:


Common types include Genuine Leather and Faux Leather.

  • Advantages: High-end appearance, high comfort level, suitable for upscale dining rooms. Easy to clean and durable.
  • Disadvantages: Higher price point, requires regular maintenance to preserve softness and sheen, not suitable for humid environments.
Naturally rustic, easily integrates into various modern home styles.

Fabric Dining Chair:


Common types include Cotton Fabric, Linen Fabric, and Blended Fabric.

  • Advantages: High comfort level, available in a variety of styles and colors, suitable for various dining room styles. Soft fabric makes them suitable for long periods of use.
  • Disadvantages: Easily absorbs stains and odors, requires regular cleaning and maintenance.

3. How to Choose the Right Size Dining Chair?


Choosing the appropriate size dining chair is crucial for ensuring a comfortable dining experience. It not only provides good postural support, preventing discomfort, but also harmonizes with the dining table and surrounding space, enhancing the overall aesthetics and functionality. This, in turn, improves the enjoyment of meals and the quality of family interactions.

Recommended Dining Chair Dimensions

Dimension

Recommended Range

dining chair Seat height

10-12 inches (25-30 cm) lower than the dining table

dining chair Seat width

16-20 inches (41-51 cm)

dining chair Seat depth

16-18 inches (41-46 cm)

Backrest height

12-20 inches (30-51 cm)

Space between chairs

At least 6 inches (15 cm)

By referring to these dimensions, you can ensure that you choose dining chairs that are both comfortable and well-suited to your dining room layout.

These are some tips for buying dining chairs. We hope this guide helps you find the perfect dining chairs for your needs!