Dining chairs are often underestimated in interior design projects. They’re selected late, adjusted to fit a budget or chosen simply to “match the table.” Yet for interior design professionals, dining chairs play a critical role in how a space functions, feels and ages over time – shaping posture, circulation and the overall perception of quality.
In this dining chair buyer’s guide, we don’t see chairs as accessories but as core design elements. Our collections focus on the balance between design clarity, ergonomic comfort and material integrity, helping designers make informed and confident decisions for residential, hospitality and contract projects.
How to choose the perfect dining chair for an interior project
Specifying dining chairs may seem straightforward, but as any interior design professional knows, it’s one of the decisions that most directly impacts comfort, proportion and the overall coherence of a space. Size. Finish. Upholstery. Structure. Budget. Contract requirements. Residential vs. hospitality use. There are many variables to consider, but they don’t have to be overwhelming.
This dining chair buyer’s guide was created to support interior designers and architects in making informed, confident choices, balancing aesthetics with ergonomics, durability and design intent.
And it all begins with the table. Whether you’re specifying dining chairs for an existing table or selecting both simultaneously, your decisions will be largely defined by how chairs and table interact. In most projects, it’s easier to adapt the chair to the table – particularly when working with bespoke, vintage or statement dining tables.
The right size
What part of the dining table should I measure before specifying dining chairs?
- Perimeter: the table’s total length and width (or circumference, in the case of round tables).
- Tabletop height: measured from the floor to the dining surface.
These dimensions are essential not only for spatial planning but also for ensuring ergonomic comfort across different user profiles.
How do I determine the correct seat height?
- Always check the seat height in the product’s technical specifications – measured from the floor to the top of the seat cushion.
- For comfortable dining, the distance between the seat and the tabletop should be approximately 25–30 cm.
In projects with thick tabletops or sculptural bases, consider the table’s understructure. Bulky frames can reduce thigh clearance and affect long-term comfort.
How many dining chairs can fit around a table?
As a rule, each diner requires a minimum of 60 cm. However, the ideal specification is around 76 cm per seat, allowing comfortable movement without compromising social interaction.
Where your project sits within this range depends on:
- Room dimensions;
- Circulation requirements;
- Number of regular users;
- Desired visual rhythm;
- Whether the project is residential or contract.
Once the seating capacity is defined, determining the optimal chair width becomes significantly easier.
Choosing your design
What upholstery should I specify for dining chairs?
As upholstery specialists, we naturally gravitate towards upholstered dining chairs – not only for comfort but for the warmth, texture and acoustic softness they bring to a space.
That said, upholstery impacts budget and maintenance. For projects with tighter cost constraints or high turnover use, non-upholstered designs may be a practical solution. In family homes, hospitality spaces or pet-friendly environments, performance fabrics are often the ideal middle ground.
Domkapa dining chairs can be specified in a curated selection of fabrics and leathers, including high-performance and contract-grade options. Finishes, stitching and details can be tailored to suit each project’s technical and aesthetic requirements.
Solid Woods
- Timeless, warm and versatile;
- Solid wood chairs offer longevity and repairability;
- Ideal for residential and refined hospitality interiors.
Metals
- Strong, lightweight and contemporary;
- Ideal for contract use and modern interiors;
- Often combined with wood or upholstery in our designs to balance comfort and durability.
Upholstery
- Adds comfort and acoustic softness;
- Performance fabrics are ideal for family homes and restaurants;
- Available across several of our dining chair designs for flexibility.
Soft Materials
- Subtle elements that define craftsmanship and refinement;
- Elevate upholstery and bring character to every design;
- Enhance comfort, texture and visual depth.
What leg design works best for my project?
Dining chair bases play a crucial role in the visual language of a space. Options range from solid wooden structures to refined metal frames, from classic four-leg designs to more architectural solutions.
A strong starting point is to echo the table’s materiality and language. If both the table and chair use the same material type, consistency is key – for example, avoiding dark wood chair legs paired with very light wood tabletops unless contrast is intentional.
For tables with sculptural pedestal bases, opt for visually lighter chair legs to avoid competing focal points.
Should I specify dining chairs with armrests?
Dining armchairs instantly elevate comfort and often lend a more formal, expressive character to a space. They are also particularly beneficial in projects designed for extended dining or for users with reduced mobility.
Keep in mind:
- Armchairs require more lateral space;
- Armrest height must allow the chair to slide under the table.
A classic specification strategy for rectangular tables is to place armchairs at the heads and armless versions along the sides, creating hierarchy without visual clutter.
What type of backrest should I select?
The backrest is one of the most defining elements of a dining chair.
- Tall, structured backrests communicate formality and pair beautifully with leather upholstery.
- Curved or enveloping designs introduce softness and invite longer seating moments.
- Sculptural backs can act as a counterpoint to minimal tables, adding visual tension and character.
The right choice depends on the atmosphere you’re creating – from elegant dining rooms to relaxed, hospitality-inspired spaces.
Should I mix or match dining chairs?
Matching sets remain timeless and harmonious – especially in projects aiming for a refined, cohesive look. That said, mixing dining chairs has become increasingly popular in contemporary interiors.
An accessible approach is to work with two coordinated designs:
- On square tables, alternate opposing sides;
- On rectangular tables, vary the heads and sides;
For more expressive projects, designers can mix multiple designs unified by colour palette or materiality.
Testing the chair
Whenever possible, we recommend experiencing the chair in person. Assess structural integrity by gently testing the backrest: it should feel stable, with no flex or weakness. Inspect finishes, stitching and joins carefully.
Most importantly: sit down. Comfort reveals itself over time, not seconds. A dining chair specified for long dinners or hospitality use must support the body naturally and effortlessly.
Our showrooms allow interior professionals to test collections, review material samples and discuss custom solutions with our team – ensuring each chair is aligned with the project’s functional, aesthetic and budgetary needs.
Explore Domkapa’s dining chairs
Add character, comfort and craftsmanship to your dining projects. With extensive customisation options – from upholstery and finishes to dimensions and detailing – Domkapa dining chairs are designed to adapt seamlessly to residential and contract interiors alike.
The right dining chair brings together comfort, proportion and design intent and when it’s fully adaptable, it becomes a true asset to your project. From dimensions and finishes to upholstery and structure, flexibility is key to achieving a cohesive and functional dining space.
At Domkapa, our dining chairs are crafted for specification: customisable, built to last and designed to integrate seamlessly into residential and contract interiors. Explore our collection and discover seating solutions that elevate your projects – from concept to completion.
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