Most of us grow up knowing a standard way that certain things are done. A standard bedroom has a bed and a dresser. A standard living room has a sofa, coffee table and an easy chair. A dining room has a table with chairs, perhaps with armed chairs at the ends. That’s generally what we see when we go shopping for furniture. But one way to create an interesting environment in your home is to get to the essence of what a space needs. And a dining space needs a horizontal surface for serving and eating food, as well as seating of some type. I have spied quite a few non-standard seating options lately that may spur you into thinking with a broader mind when searching for dining chairs.
As gorgeous as your typical wood-frame, lightly upholstered dining chair may be, perhaps an unconventional material like a fiberglass shell may be just the ticket – with either a wood base or a thin metal armature, either way they look substantial and modern. Or perhaps choose a metal chair. These can range from light wire models to vintage industrial pieces. Benches can create family-style seating with a more minimalist vibe. For a lighter look, stools are another great option. They tuck away under the table when not in use, and range from light frames to solid wood or upholstered blocks. Or why not mix and match? There is no rule that says you need to have matching seating options, although that is typically what we choose. Each seat can be a different chair, or might be a mixture of benches and chairs, or may include a built-in seating option to make good use of small spaces. Whichever seating you choose, getting down to the essential requirements can help broaden your possible options.
(above) Fiberglass Shells
Mix and Match + Black and White with Built-in
Window Seat + Minimalist Benches
Amy wrote this post. She is the designer and owner of FormFire Glassworks, where she creates modern lampwork glass beads and jewelry, and by day designs custom homes for a small firm in Southern California. You can follow her twitter @formfireglass.
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I know what I try to remember, when I think about eating/seating is what is comfortable but still has the look & feel that I want. If the seat isn’t comfortable, no one will want to sit around the and chat–and that’s my favorite part! =) well, and eating=).
Lindsey