When it comes to decorating, the dining room is often the area of a home least infused with an individual’s personal style. Since the room consists of little more than a giant table, this is not surprising. All the more reason, then, for dining room chairs to make a statement.

“Each piece of furniture has a silhouette that defines its style and its contribution to that room. A dining room chair is a perfect example of how that’s done,” says Penny Law, owner of PCL Interiors, Charlotte, North Carolina. “Each element – including the legs, back, arms and fabric design – is important and helps to define the style of the room itself.”

Luckily, dining room chairs come in a vast array of shapes and styles to suit the needs of any design scheme.

“They can be dramatic and colorful, sleek and architectural, clean and simple or elaborately ornate,” says Nora Murphy, founder and editor of the lifestyle web magazine NoraMurphyCountryHouse.com and former style director with Ethan Allen, Danbury, Connecticut.

Here are a few particularly striking new seats that are sure to elicit “oohs” and “aahs” at next month’s dinner party.

1. Refined Minimalist

“People should be careful to invest in dining chairs that are well designed, well made and comfortable,” Murphy says. Elegant and graceful, yet barely there, Thos. Moser’s Pasadena dining chair is just that: expertly crafted, with a clean, curvaceous design that exudes style while remaining understated.

2. Offbeat Conversation-starters

Über-modern and ready to make a splash, transparent plastic chairs are perfect for the homeowner who isn’t afraid to stand out. Blending historical elegance and futuristic glam, the transparent Philippe Starck Louis Ghost Chair for Kartell follows classic 18th century French design. “With the creative use of new materials in traditional styles, it’s the perfect blend for any interior,” Law says.

Also sure to get guests talking, the Canteen Utility Chair from Very Good & Proper puts an eye-catching spin on a schoolhouse classic.

3. Updated Old World

The uncomplicated, clean lines of the classic Queen Anne chair suit a range of design schemes, from an updated farmhouse look to a more formal style. “It’s an adaptation of a traditional design from the very early 1700s,” Law says.

4. Comfortable Chameleon

If you switch style preferences as often as you change socks, try a chair that can be fitted with a slipcover. “Parsons chairs have a retro, vintage feel, but adding custom slipcovers to fit your room design can put a whole new twist on [the] 1930s design,” Law says. Ethan Allen’s Thomas side chair offers a comfortable canvas for endless colors and patterns. “Slipcovers that reach the floor have neat, clean lines,” Murphy notes. “If you’re looking for a chic solution to dress up your dining room, set these around a table.”

 

Photos: Philippe Starck Louis Ghost Chair; Canteen Utility Chair from Very Good & Proper

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