Are you tired of the traditional matching dining room chairs? Do you want to add a touch of personality and style to your space? Mixing and matching dining chairs can be a fun and creative way to transform your dining room. In this guide, we will show you how to create unique chair combinations that will make a statement and elevate the design of your space.
Match or Mix: The Style Choice
When it comes to dining room furniture, there are three approaches: matching chairs, matching side chairs with different head chairs, or an eclectic mishmash where no two chairs are the same. There are no wrong answers here, it all boils down to your personal style and preferences. Some people prefer the idea of contrast, while others want to create a special seating arrangement for the head of the table. Whatever your motivation, mixing and matching dining chairs can bring a fresh and dynamic look to your space.
The Power of Contrast
In traditional dining sets, the chairs at each end of the table are often styled differently. They usually have arms and are more ornate, reflecting the importance of those positions at the table. While seating charts are less strict nowadays, a little contrast can still create an appealing look. In this guide, we will focus on pairing armchairs and side chairs, but you can adapt these principles for other combinations as well. The key is to find a balance between cohesive design and visual interest.
Real-World Examples
Let's take a look at some real-world examples of mixed chair pairings for inspiration. In Ginny's dining room, classic Eames shell chairs are paired with bentwood chairs. These styles have similarities in their light and understated design, but the contrast between the wood tones and smooth whiteness adds visual interest. The result is a harmonious combination that strikes the perfect balance between modern and traditional.
photo by Bethany Nauert | from: lisa's collected European-vibe dining room
In a more traditional dining room, upholstered head chairs are paired with rustic side chairs. This combination adds a touch of industrial charm and lightens up the space. A table filled with upholstered chairs can sometimes feel heavy or stuffy, but mixing them with lighter side chairs creates a balanced and comfortable environment.
photo by Melissa Oholendt | from: the curblys eclectic modern dining room
For a more eclectic style, consider pairing chairs with contrasting silhouettes and materials. In the Curbly's dining room, a modern chair and a vintage chair come together to create a visually interesting combination. The wood and metal elements provide a pleasing contrast to the upholstered chairs at the head of the table, while a cohesive color palette ties everything together.
photo by Sara Tramp for EHD | from: we gave a deserving single mom a flash makeover
In Emily's Feel Good Flash Makeover, black wood chairs are paired with a cozy upholstered armchair. This combination adds a touch of softness and balance to the overall design. The light blue color helps to harmonize the darker chairs, while the similar heights create a cohesive look.
photo by Tessa Neustadt | from: new spring target collection
Emily created this look to showcase Target's spring collection. The eclectic vibe of this combination brings together different seating options that work harmoniously. If you're not ready to mix three different chairs, you can explore pairings like rattan chairs with slipper chairs for a funky combination, or slipper chairs with a bench for a more family-friendly and traditional feel. The possibilities are endless.
Chair Combinations for Every Style
Now that you've seen some inspiring examples, let's explore chair combinations for different styles. Whether you prefer simplified modern, cool eclectic, modern luxe, or soft neutral, there's a combination that will suit your taste.
Simplified Modern
If you love clean lines and understated looks, this board is perfect for you. The chair combinations featured here offer a mid-century or industrial vibe without being overly fussy. While some choices might be on the pricier side, you can always find similar styles that fit your budget. Consider pairing a George Armchair with an Alba Dining Chair for a sleek and stylish look, or mix a Prouve Standard Chair with a Green Dylan Dining Chair for a pop of color.
Cool Eclectic
For those who prefer the unusual and quirky, these unexpected pairings will add character to your dining room. Mix a Castine-Striped Dining Chair with a Maple Bentwood Dining Chair for a balanced marriage of volume and simplicity. Alternatively, combine a Wire Frame Dining Chair with a Zeke Indoor/Outdoor Dining Chair for an airy, wiry frame. The yellow upholstery adds a vibrant touch to the industrial chair from West Elm.
Modern Luxe
Creating a "luxe" look doesn't always require flashy metals and bling. It's about subtle elegance and interesting silhouettes. The chair combinations in this board feature sumptuous velvet upholstery for that touch of luxury. Consider pairing an Ibis Dining Chair with a Dasilva Upholstered Dining Chair for a sophisticated look, or mix an Azalea Grey Mink Chair with a Cerchio Chair for an artful combination.
Soft Neutral
If you prefer a more classic and livable aesthetic, the soft neutral combinations are perfect for you. These pairings feature quiet flaxes, heather grays, and varied wood tones. Mix a Bacci Chair with a Logan Dining Chair for a mid-century coupling, or combine an Ercol Originals Stacking Chair with a Shaw Walnut Bench for a timeless look. The variety of price points ensures that there's something for every budget.
Final Thoughts
Mixing and matching dining chairs is a fantastic way to add personality and style to your dining room. By pairing different chairs with complementary designs and materials, you can create a unique and visually appealing space. Remember, there are no strict rules when it comes to mixing and matching, so don't be afraid to get creative and have fun with it. Explore different combinations, consider your personal style, and create a dining room that reflects your unique taste.
