AROUND THE DINING TABLE
The right dining chair can make all the difference – with so many strong options, you can really make a statement.
CHOOSING DINING CHAIRS
Comfort is king when choosing a dining chair, says Fiona Hayvice of Yoyo. “If your chairs are uncomfortable no one will linger very long,” she says. Upholstered seats are typically a comfortable option. Choose leather or a fabric with a synthetic component as they’re easier to clean, she says.
If you’re buying a dining table and chairs separately, it’s often a good idea to make sure the styles match, says Fiona, although an eclectic mix of chairs can certainly add interest to a room. There aren’t really any rules, says Fiona, but try to keep everything balanced. Ask yourself – is the colour of a couple of the chairs overpowering the rest? If you’re choosing fabriccovered chairs how well does the print or colour complement the style of the table?
When planning your dining area try to leave enough space for diners to move around and not feel hemmed in – as a rough rule of thumb aim for at least 80cm between the back of the chair and the wall, and about 60cm of table edge per diner. If you’re short on space in your dining area, bench seats are a great option for accommodating extra diners and they create a highly sociable dining experience, says Fiona.
Wire dining chairs such as Yoyo’s Devonport chair, see right, are another great option as they allow you to see through them, creating an illusion of space. At the same time, they’ll showcase an on-trend pedestal dining table and even the view beyond. “Try adding sheepskin seat pads for comfort,” Fiona suggests.
ENDURING TREND: MID-CENTURY
It’s the trend that keeps on giving. Mid-century styling – whether original, a replica or merely inf luenced by the era – is as popular as ever, see the Oslo dining suite from Harvey Norman, bottom right.
Depending on how much of a purist you are, the midcentury movement began around 1947 – that’s 70 years ago, so it’s ageing well. Aude Sarney of Zuca says the style has an uncomplicated, fresh, modern look. “The retro look is ontrend, and each piece has a story behind it.” >