Ideas + Advice

Decor Tips

Designer Tips for Mixing and Matching Dining Chairs

Switch up a pre-furnished set with your own personality! Pivoting from the mentality that all furniture must feel 'matchy-matchy,' a skip away from traditional table-and-chairs, mismatched designs offer a less paint-by-numbers home and more of what makes your style you. These expert tips for mixing and matching dining chairs come from Emilie Navarro, a Living Spaces designer who shares simple ways to freshen up any space.
Visual Interest + Functionality

To get the ball rolling, Emilie shares the why behind pairing 'unpairs' of chairs together. "A dining room with uniform chairs might look polished but can also appear bland. Introducing different styles, colors, and materials adds layers of visual interest. You can choose chairs that are comfortable for longer dinners or sturdy ones for daily use." According to the designer, "this allows you to cater to different needs without compromising on style."

mix match dining chair aesthetic
Balance Is Key

According to Emilie, "Balance is crucial when mixing and matching dining chairs. You don't want one side of the table to feel heavier or more colorful than the other. Aim for symmetry by placing similar chairs opposite each other or evenly distributing different styles around the table."

Play With Colors

"Don't be afraid to experiment with colors," the designer adds. "You can stick to a single color palette for a subtle look or go bold with contrasting shades. For instance, imagine a dining table surrounded by chairs in shades of blue, teal, and navy."

Incorporate Different Styles

When it comes to mixing styles, Emilie states that it "can create a dynamic and interesting dining area," and to "pair modern chairs with vintage finds or rustic pieces with industrial designs." The result? "A space with character that tells a story about your personal style evolution."

Different Chair Aesthetics

The Modern Minimalist Approach

What modern minimalism means varies from person to person, decade to decade. Today, within the spectrum of designs and trends Emilie works with, the definition is neutral — specifcially subtle woods, organic feels and earthy palettes. "The uniformity in color keeps the look clean and cohesive." The designer concludes her advice with encouraging words to pay attention to the details. "Different materials add subtle interest!"

Velvet Side Chairs

Mid-Century Style Chairs

Can you mix and match kitchen tables and chairs?

Yes, mixing and matching kitchen tables and chairs is a wonderful way to inject some creativity into your kitchen decor. You can pair a wooden table with metal or upholstered chairs for a modern look. Another idea is to blend vintage chairs with a contemporary table to create an eclectic feel.

Do dining tables and chairs need to match?

No, dining tables and chairs do not need to match. In fact, mixing styles can add character to your dining space. The key is to find elements that complement each other, such as similar materials, colors, or design themes.

How do you pair mismatched dining chairs?

Here are some tips:
  • Stick to a common theme: Choose chairs that have a similar style, such as all rustic or all modern.
  • Use a consistent color palette: Even if the chairs are different styles, keeping the colors within the same family can create a cohesive look.
  • Balance with symmetry: Place similar chairs at the ends of the table or alternate them around the table for a balanced appearance.

Is it okay to mix and match dining chairs?

Absolutely! Mixing and matching dining chairs is a great way to add personality and style to your dining area. It allows for creativity and can make your space feel more welcoming and unique.

Dining Space Inspiration

Read the Latest

Editorial Disclaimer: Articles featuring tips and advice are intended for educational purposes and only as general recommendations. Always practice personal discretion when using and caring for furniture, decor and related items.