Choosing the Perfect Dining Chairs

Choosing the Right Dining Chairs for Comfort, Style & Longevity

Dining chairs do more than complete a table — they define comfort, shape the room’s style, and influence how long guests linger.

The right dining chair should:

  • Feel comfortable for extended sitting
  • Complement your table proportionally
  • Suit your interior style
  • Withstand daily use

At Sun Republic, our collection includes solid timber, woven, leather and upholstered designs — each crafted for durability and refined living.

Step 1: Consider Comfort First

A beautiful chair must also feel supportive.

Key Comfort Factors

Seat Height
Standard dining seat height: 45–48cm
Ensure 25–30cm clearance between seat and table underside.

Seat Depth
Ideal depth: 45–55cm
Deeper seats feel relaxed; shallower seats suit smaller spaces.

Back Support

  • Curved backs = ergonomic comfort
  • Straight backs = architectural look
  • Upholstered backs = softer experience

If you entertain often or host long dinners, upholstered or woven-back chairs offer added comfort.

Step 2: Choosing the Right Material

Each material offers a different aesthetic and practical benefit.

Solid Teak Dining Chairs

Strong, durable and naturally rich in tone.

  • Extremely hard-wearing
  • Ideal for high-traffic family homes
  • Works beautifully in coastal, contemporary and organic interiors

Best paired with: teak or microcement tables.

American Oak Dining Chairs

Warm, timeless and versatile.

  • Smooth grain
  • Light to medium tone
  • Suits modern, Scandinavian and classic interiors

Best paired with: oak or stone tables.

Teak & Rattan

Adds texture and relaxed sophistication.

  • Softens structured dining spaces
  • Lightweight yet durable

Perfect for coastal, Hamptons or relaxed contemporary homes.

Teak & Leather

Refined and elevated.

  • Structured silhouette
  • Comfortable yet architectural

Ideal for modern, masculine or luxury interiors.

Teak & Viro Cord

Durable woven performance material.

  • Comfortable and supportive
  • Highly durable
  • Suitable for indoor and semi-outdoor settings

Creates texture while maintaining strength.

Malawi Cane Dining Chairs

Handwoven, artisan-made statement pieces.

  • Lightweight yet strong
  • Organic texture
  • Ethically handcrafted

Perfect for layered, character-filled interiors.

Upholstered Dining Chairs

Maximum comfort with refined styling.

  • Soft seat cushioning
  • Fabric or linen blend finishes
  • Ideal for long dining experiences

Great for formal dining rooms or entertainers.

Step 3: How Many Chairs Do You Need?

Use this simple guide:

Each guest requires approximately 60cm width at the table.

Example:

  • 180cm table fits 3 chairs per side (6 total)
  • 240cm table fits 4 chairs per side (8 total)
  • 300cm table fits 5 chairs per side (10 total)

Round tables:

  • 140cm round = 4–6 chairs
  • 160cm round = 6–8 chairs

Tip: Armless chairs allow tighter spacing. Armchairs require more width.

Step 4: Mixing Dining Chairs (Designer Tip)

Mixing chairs creates a curated, elevated look.

Popular combinations:

  • Statement armchairs at each end + side chairs along sides
  • Upholstered head chairs + timber side chairs
  • Matching frames with varied textures

Keep consistency in tone or material to maintain cohesion.

Step 5: Matching Chairs to Your Table

Balance proportions carefully.

Heavy solid table?
→ Pair with structured timber or leather chairs.

Soft round table?
→ Pair with curved-back or woven chairs.

Microcement or stone table?
→ Add warmth with timber or upholstered seating.

The goal is balance — not matching perfectly, but complementing thoughtfully.

Common Questions We’re Asked

Should all my dining chairs match?

Not necessarily. Cohesive variation often looks more refined than a perfectly matched set.

Are upholstered chairs practical?

Yes — especially with performance fabrics. Ideal for longer seating comfort.

Are woven or cane chairs durable?

When properly crafted (like Malawi cane and viro cord), they are surprisingly strong and long-lasting.

What is the most durable option?

Solid teak and American oak are among the strongest long-term choices.

Our Recommendation

Choose dining chairs based on:

  1. Comfort for your lifestyle

  2. Material longevity

  3. Visual balance with your table

  4. Whether you prefer relaxed texture or structured form

Investing in quality dining chairs ensures your dining space feels considered, welcoming and timeless.

At Sun Republic, our dining chairs are crafted with integrity, proportion and durability in mind — designed to complement our dining tables while standing beautifully on their own.