Dining Chairs

The great food writer M.F.K. Fisher once said, ". . . gastronomical perfection can be reached in these combinations: one person dining alone, usually upon a couch or a hillside; two people, of no matter what sex or age, dining in a good restaurant; or six people . . . dining in a good home."

Indeed, dining in a good home is a fine experience, one of communal necessity and social importance. Setting the stage for comfort and great conversation is almost as important as the food served. All of the elements must come together, from dining table to dining chairs. Dining chairs, of course, are the most important, for if the guests are uncomfortable, the meal will seem to last an eternity.

To arm or not to arm

Since their inception in the Middle Ages, dining chairs have been continually evolving into new shapes and forms. Armed dining chairs were originally reserved for nobility at the dinner table, and the armless chair (often called a side chair) were used by the other diners. When choosing dining chairs, this is an option today as well. Although nobility does not likely play a role, comfort and space economy do. Dining chairs without arms allow a diner to move her arms freely and allow multiple diners to enjoy the same space. Dining chairs with arms, however, allow your guests to lounge comfortably and can be pulled away from the table when conversation moves elsewhere.

Coverings

Wooden dining chairs are a popular choice for their classic good looks and ease of cleaning, but you needn't be limited when determining which dining room chairs will work for you. Many options are available, from leather to cloth. Another option you have when updating your dining room chairs is covering them with slipcovers. Elegant dining chair slipcovers are available in long draping styles or short, contemporary designs. Slipcovers are removable, washable, and available in a variety of colors.

When choosing dining room chairs, whether they are leather or a classic Shaker wood design, you don't have to sacrifice comfort for style.