37 Different Types of Chairs for Your Home Explained (2023 Ed.)

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Quicklist: Chairs

I’m a big fan of chairs. While I love a comfortable sofa, especially a sectional sofa, my first choice for seating in any room is a large, deep-seated chair that I can sink into, deep and comfortable.

However, just like with most other furniture options, we all have our own chair preferences. These various preferences have resulted over the decades in a great many types of chairs, all different in design, and in some cases, function.

In order to get a solid understanding of all your chair options, we decided to put together a chair buying guide, which sets out many different styles of chairs you can purchase for your home.

Related: Parts of a Chair | Bassett Arm Chair Reviews | Types of Accent Chairs | Reclining Arm Chairs | Types of Desk Chairs | Chair Alternatives | Chair Back Styles | Types of Dining Room Chairs

Different Types of Chairs

Your home should be a space where you can relax, unwind, and enjoy life. That’s why it’s essential to have comfortable chairs throughout the house on which you can sit. No matter which room you’re shopping for, you have plenty of options of chair types available to you.

Below you will find:

All types of different chairs
All styles of chairs
Different types of chair design
Chair types names

Living Room Chairs Types

Of all the rooms in a home, it’s most important to have comfortable, stylish chairs in the living area. The living room is where the family gathers, where you enjoy company, and you binge-watch your favorite shows. Make sure the living room chairs you choose are up to these tasks.

You are not limited only to using cozy couches in your living space. You can choose from all kinds of seating, such as armchairs, recliners, ottomans, round chairs, loveseats, and club chairs. Whatever your style, you have many different options for your living room seating.

1. Armchair

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Evan Davis once said, “A chair’s function is not just to provide a place to sit; it is to provide a medium for self-expression.” An armchair is one of the best and easiest ways to express your personal style in your living room, just as Davis suggests.

Armchairs can be wonderful accent chairs, that can provide an outlet for expressing creativity while also providing additional and comfortable seating.

Armchairs seat just one person at a time, unlike their couch and loveseat cousins. They come in all sorts of styles – from contemporary, to traditional, and every style in between.

When it’s time to buy an arm chair, budget to spend at least $200. Many of these seating chairs start at this price and often go up from there. Some armchairs will even cost over $1,000.

2. Recliner

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The recliner feels like a modern innovation, and in some respects, it is. However, historians believe that Napoleon Bonaparte owned the first version of this relaxing chair type. Luckily, designers have made great strides in the design of the recliner since Napoleon’s time.

Recliners are the epitome of comfort in a home. These chairs can come in leather or cloth upholstery, with manual or electronic mechanisms, and plenty of different styles. You can also find these chairs in all kinds of colors, even patterns, like camouflage.

Certain recliners are a perfect option for people who struggle to get out of chairs from time to time. The lift-assist recliners make it easier for people with certain disabilities to be more independent in their homes.

3. Contemporary Round Chair

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Feeling boxed in by traditional chair choices? If so, the contemporary round chair might be a perfect chair type for you.

These oversized seats often have a width around 58 inches and cushion depths around 30 inches. Those dimensions make for a perfect snuggling or relaxing chair, perfect for curling up in with a good book and a blanket!

The shape of these chairs make them great accent pieces, as well. Round chairs come in all sorts of fabric coverings, but most often use suede or leather upholstery.

Most contemporary round chairs also come in neutral colors, although some add a little pop of brighter shades and hues. One of the more expensive chair types, these seats will set you back $350 to $700.

4. Loveseat

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Many chairs are only designed to accommodate one person at a time. However, loveseats up the cuddle factor by allowing just enough room for two people to sit together.

Some loveseats are big enough for two people to sit on together without touching, but many are designed to facilitate closeness.

Like many other types of living room chairs, loveseats come in all styles. Whether you desire a modern look or something more classic, you can find a loveseat to fit your living room.

Likewise, these chairs come in a wide range of colors and come upholstered in all kinds of fabrics. You can find a great loveseat for $225 to $600, depending on variables like the retailer, style and size.

5. Accent Chairs

Accent chair is an umbrella term for a variety of living room chairs, including the club chair, wingback chair, English-rolled arm chair, Bergère chair, barrel chair and Lawson chair.

We list all of these independently below. FYI, be sure to also check out our illustrated guide to sofa and chair arm styles here.

Source: Wayfair

Below we list out the various types of accent chairs you can buy.

— Club Chair

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A club chair sets a mood of comfort and relaxation in a space, as if the people in it are being serenaded. This type of chair was first invented in France, where it was called “fauteuil confortable,” or comfortable chair.

The original name shows how a club chair wraps you in comfort and has more rounded edges than other chair types.

Club chairs are characterized by deep seats, leather chair upholstery, a lower back, and a general roominess.

These chairs can add a certain je ne sais quoi to a living room, and usually for a reasonable price. You can grab a basic one for around $100 or spend up to $500 for a premium club chair.

— Wingback Chair

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One type of accent chair that can add flair and fashion to your space is a wingback chair, or wing chair. This kind of living room chair is characterized by the high sides that surround the sitter, or the “wings” of the chair.

Wingback chairs make excellent options for reading, relaxing, and visiting, and they’re generally a classic and timeless design that can weather any number of home décor changes.

The signature design element of a wingback chair is the forward side panels extending from the chair back. Another common feature is a high chair back.

You can find wingback chairs to fit in every style of home décor. Whether you are a fan of contemporary, traditional, eclectic, or some other style, you can find a wingback chair that will fit in your space.

Like other accent chairs, you can expect to pay between $150 and $300 for a beautiful wingback chair.

— Bergère Chair

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For fans of traditional French style, there’s hardly a better accent piece than the bergère chair. This type of chair allows you to bring a touch of opulence to your home to make you feel like royalty.

Royalty, like French King Louis XV and his family, turned the bergere chair into a mainstay of French home décor style.

Bergère chairs are characterized by elements like a deep, wide seat with a (sometimes) loose seat cushion, and exposed wood.

The exposed wood on a bergère chair is typically located on the arms of the chair between the upholstered armrests and the chair back, the legs of the chair, and the outer edges of the chair back.

A bergère chair is an intricate work of art that also serves as seating. As such, you can expect to pay a little more than you might for other types of chairs.

On the lower end, you can find a new bergere chair that costs about $500. However, these chair types can cost up to $1,300, and sometimes even more.

— Lawson Chair

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A Lawson chair is a chair style that lies somewhere between traditional chair design and mid-century modern design. This type of chair, with its armrests at the ideal height for most adults to rest their elbows upon, makes for a perfect reading chair.

The Lawson chair style is characterized by the straight lines used in its design, with rounded or square arms that are lower than the chair back, and its firm cushioning. Lawson chairs are a perfect addition to a library, or a reading nook in a living room.

— Barrel Chair

Source: Hayneedle

Another living room chair option is the barrel chair. A barrel chair resembles the top of part of its name, a barrel, and there is evidence that early barrel chairs were in fact made using actual barrels. These chairs can feel almost like a hug from behind, due to their shape.

A barrel chair’s design is characterized by its solid, rounded back, large size, and the fact that it is most often designed as one piece with arms. Barrel chairs often appear more masculine overall, but their rounded shape also suggests a femininity, making this chair design incredibly versatile.

— English-Rolled Arm Chair

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A very traditional design, the English-rolled arm chair just oozes coziness with its soft, deep cushioning and rounded edges. It’s an incredibly comfortable armchair option, due mostly to the cushioning and angled chair back of this type of chair.

English-rolled arm chairs have a few key designs that distinguish them from other chair types. These include their low, rounded arms and deep seat with soft cushioning, as well as the angled chair back.

— Slipper Chair

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The slipper chair is an armless accent chair with a seat that is low to the ground. This armless chair, with its high chair back, rose to popularity in the Victorian era.

Slipper chairs got their name during this time, as these chairs were used to make it easy for upper-class ladies to sit and put on their shoes or slippers.

A slipper chair is unique from the other living room chairs listed here because it is an armless chair with a high chair back and low seat. Many slipper chairs truly embrace their identity as an “accent chair,” coming in a plethora of colors, patterns, and styles, from the neutral to the outlandish.

Because the slipper chair is an armless chair, it can be a wonderful choice for those with small living spaces, because their lack of arms means that these chairs tend to take up less space than chairs with arms do.

— Ottoman / Lounge Chair

Source: Hayneedle

Sit back, relax, and kick your feet up with a comfortable ottoman. As you may expect, the origins of this type of furniture date back to the Ottoman Empire of the 1700s. Since then, these footstools have become multi-functional, cost-effective mainstays in living rooms around the world.

Many ottomans serve not only as a resting place for tired feet, but also as extra storage and a coffee table. Sometimes, the top of an ottoman can come off to reveal that the other side is wood or plastic — perfect for use as a coffee table.

An ottoman may also be hollowed out in the middle for blanket, pillow, and other item storage.

Best of all, an ottoman can serve as additional seating when guests are visiting and seating is limited. Because ottomans range from $20 to over $100 in price, this makes an ottoman one of the best ways to add seating to your home.

See our huge collection of accent chairs with matching ottoman here.

— Chesterfield Chair

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Most people think “sofa” when Chesterfield style comes up, but there are Chesterfield-style chairs in existence, too. Chesterfield chairs look just like the sofa with which they share a name, except that they are smaller, seating only one person at a time.

The key element in a Chesterfield design is its tufted upholstery. In fact, the tufted upholstery of a Chesterfield chair is its defining element. This is due to the fact that there are Chesterfield styles that fall under other styles such as a wingback chair — in which case, the chair would be considered a wingback chair with tufted upholstery.

Dining Chair Types

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While we cover the main dining chair styles here, if you wish to get a better understanding of more dining chair types, check out our detailed article setting out the many different types of dining room chairs.

The dining area in a home can be a great place for a family to connect. As you enjoy meals together, you should sit in comfort so that you can focus on the people who surround you. That’s why it’s important to find the perfect dining room chairs, both in terms of style and comfort.

Whether you need seating for a kitchen island, places for guests to gather around the dining room table, or both, there are plenty of options for you available. These dining chairs come in all sorts of styles, so take a look and see what may be right for you and your needs.

1. Bar Stool

Source: Hayneedle

There are many types of bar stools to choose from. If you have a high-top table or an island with an overhang, you most likely need bar stools to fit in this space. Bar stools can come in many different heights, so it’s crucial for you to measure your table or counter before purchasing barstools.

Some barstools have adjustable heights, while others stay at one height. Some rotate, and others do not.

Some barstools are true stools with no back, and others have varying back heights, from low and minimal to high and supportive. It’s important to consider all these options before making a decision.

Online, you can find bar stools that cost anywhere from $50 to $100. Whether you prefer bar stools that are ultra-modern or with farmhouse charm, there is a perfect barstool for you on the market.

2. Wishbone Chair

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For a mid-century look at your dining room table, you can choose chairs in the wishbone style. Wishbone chairs are often made from wood, with a cushioned or wicker seat. Their defining characteristic is the support up the middle of the back that splits like a wishbone shape.

These chair styles also curve around the back to add extra support for the seated person. Wishbones chairs typically come in neutral colors, but you can find them in bright colors as well. Wishbone style bar stools that match wishbone dining chairs are also available from many retailers.

A well-made wishbone chair can cost anywhere between $150 and $350. These chairs are usually no more than 20 inches wide, which make them perfect for dining room tables everywhere, but especially for smaller dining spaces.

3. Ghost Chair

Source: Amazon

Don’t be fooled by the name of this chair style. A ghost chair isn’t haunted; it’s just made from clear plastic. Ghost chairs are the perfect dining room accessories for any ultra-modern home. You can purchase these chairs with or without arms, in sets of two and four, and in varying heights.

Some ghost chairs have metal or wood accents on their legs. These accents can add dimension and interest to a dining room set. Looking to bring this chair style to other parts of the home? Some ghost chairs make great accent chairs in a living room or an office.

A ghost chair can be a perfect addition to a small room and/or a room that receives limited natural light. Because they seem to disappear before the eye, they don’t block natural light or create too much visual clutter.

The prices on ghost chairs aren’t too spooky, either. They usually cost between $75 and $125 each.

4. Side Chair

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The side chair is probably the most common dining room chair option purchased and used in most home dining room sets.

It’s difficult, if not impossible, to fit armed chairs around a typical dining table. While an end chair may have room for to have armrests, the middle of the table often doesn’t have enough space for chairs with arms.

That’s where side chairs come in. These seating solutions are armless dining chairs. A side chair’s lack of arms mean that it takes up less space, so more can be fit around a table.

You can find sides chairs made from metal, wood or even plastic. They come in any number of colors and styles. The prices of side chairs reflect the variety of styles in which they are available. You can buy a side chair for a price that is anywhere from $70 to $300.

Office Chair Types

If you do any work from home or use your home office regularly, it’s vital to have a comfortable office chair in which to sit. You don’t have to sacrifice style to achieve comfort, however.

You can find task chairs, like reading, desk, or gaming chairs, that fit your décor and are comfortable to use.

1. Reading Chair

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Logan Pearsall Smith once said, “People say that life is the thing, but I prefer reading.” If you’re the type of person who loves to read, you know how vital a good reading chair is to an office.

Reading chairs can be armchairs, recliners, or even a lounge chair with an ottoman. An essential feature of a great reading chair is its comfort.

Reading chairs should invite you in and envelope you once you’re sitting in them. Like the books you read, you should never want to leave your favorite reading chair.

A stylish and inviting reading chair can cost between $150 and $300, depending on the features you desire. No matter the style of your office, you can find a reading chair that fits it perfectly.

Learn more from our extensive types of reading chairs article.

2. Desk Chair

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A desk chair is a type of task chair that provides comfort while you work at a home desk. There are several different types of desk chair from which you can choose. Here is a list of a few desk chair types:

Executive Office Chairs: These desk chairs provide premium comfort.
Ergonomic Desk Chairs: These desk chairs are designed to fit your body for maximum, personalized comfort.
Drafting Chairs: These are basic office chairs with improved movement abilities.
Banker’s Chairs: These desk chairs are usually made from wood, and have arms and armrests.
Office Stools: These desk seating options have no arms or back.
Alternative: One desk chair alternative is a stability ball, though there are others, as well.

The type of task chair you need will depend on how you use your desk. If you only use your home desk to pay bills occasionally, you may want just an ergonomic chair, which is typically quite affordable.

However, if you work for several hours a day at your desk, you may prefer an executive chair. If you’re short on space, a stool that can be stored under the desk when you aren’t using it can be an ideal solution.

See our types of desk chairs here.

Outdoor Chair Types

Creating a perfect outdoor space for entertaining family and other loved ones means setting a relaxing atmosphere and providing the correct seating for everyone on your guest list. There are several types of outdoor chairs to choose from, or you can even mix and match outdoor chair styles.

1. Folding Chair

Source: The Home Depot

If you host backyard parties and barbeques, you need plenty of seating for all the guests that attend. Folding chairs can be a cost-effective solution for your next party. As the name suggests, these chairs fold up for easy and space-saving storage.

A folding chair is usually made of plastic, metal, or some combination of the two. You can purchase folding chairs for as little as $14 each. Using folding chairs is a great way to accommodate all your guests at once, without taking up too much space when they are not being used.

2. Chaise Lounge Chairs

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While your outdoor space can be wonderful for entertaining guests, it’s also perfect for relaxing alone or in small, intimate groups. A chaise lounge can be the perfect place to soak in the sun and spend time relaxing outdoors.

These chairs extend outward, so that the legs of the person sitting in it are propped up on it. The backs of these chairs lean, to hold you in the perfect, most peaceful position.

Some chaise lounges are equipped with outdoor cushions that can withstand the elements. The base of a chaise lounge is often made from wood, metal, or plastic.

You can choose chaise lounges that adjust to several different positions; some even extend so that you can lie all the way down.

Hang out by the pool, get a tan, or read a great book with a chaise lounge. Please note that not all chaise lounges are meant to remain outdoors, as some designers have adapted the classic chaise for indoor use only.

3. Wicker Chairs

Source: The Home Depot

If you want an outdoor chair that makes a statement, a wicker chair set is precisely what you need.

The wicker used in these chairs can withstand all kinds of outdoor conditions. Plus, wicker chairs also often come with specialized cushions that are treated to withstand different weather conditions.

Most often, wicker chairs come in neutral colors like white, brown, and black. These chairs are also usually sold as part of a set. You can expect to pay between $150 and $300 per chair.

But, remember that wicker chairs are built to last much longer than some other outdoor furniture pieces are, making them ultimately worth the up-front investment.

4. Camping Chairs

Source: Lowe’s

Chairs don’t have to stay at home! If you’re going camping or tailgating, you may wish to buy and bring camping chairs with you. These polyester chairs fold up into smaller packages, so they fit in your vehicle quite easily.

Then, when you’re ready, camping chairs quickly fold out into a comfortable place to sit.

Camping chairs come in all kinds of colors and patterns. You can even grab a camping chair with your favorite team’s logo – perfect for tailgating! You can often find camping chairs for as little as $10 apiece, making them one of the cheapest and most portable sitting solutions around.

5. Hammock

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Are you not sure if you want a hammock or a chair in your outdoor space? Get the best of both worlds with a hammock chair, also called a hanging chair. These comfortable chairs sway like hammocks, but they are easier to get in and out of than a hammock typically is.

Most hammock chairs come with weather-proofed cushions that make outdoor time particularly relaxing. You can choose cushions in all kinds of bright colors and patterns.

These relaxing hanging chairs can cost anywhere between $30 and $50. They provide plenty of comfort and style considering their low price.

Children’s and Baby Chair Types

If you have little ones in your home or one (or even two!) on the way, you may need to make some adjustments to your sitting situation. A rocking chair or kid-sized seats can be a welcome addition for any family, whether children have been around or are about to arrive.

1. Rocking Chair

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“Rock-a-bye baby” isn’t a common and well-loved lullaby for no reason. Babies and toddlers love it when their parents rock them, especially when it’s time to close their little eyes and sleep. That’s why every nursery needs a rocking chair. It’s a game-changer for kids and parents alike.

The most unique feature about rocking chairs is their ability to rock back and forth, creating a soothing motion. This motion can calm fussy babies, though scientists aren’t exactly sure why yet.

Rocking chairs can be plush with armrests, or they can be more minimalist. Many have cloth coverings, but some are leather. Still others are made from wood and are more traditional in style.

The two most important factors to remember when purchasing a rocking chair is that you should feel comfortable in it, and that the rocking chair must fit in your space. You can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $500 for one of these nursery must-haves.

2. Glider Chair

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The glider chair is similar to a rocking chair, but the motion it allows is more even than that of a rocking chair, in that the seated person’s head doesn’t tilt down and up and back again.

Instead, the motion generated while in a glider chair is more of a back and forth motion, rather than a rocking motion. The gliding motion makes it easier to feed and/or nurse babies, yet still provide a subtle rocking motion to soothe tired little ones.

Another interesting feature when it comes to glider chairs is that their ottoman glides as well, allowing the entire body to glide with baby effortlessly and incredibly smoothly — which is important when trying to get a baby to sleep (been there done that many, many times)!

3. Chairs for Kids

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Does your child like to do everything you do? Do they crave things that are only theirs? Children love to do things that their parents do independently, and they love to feel that they have something that is wholly their own.

That’s why kid-sized chairs are essential. Create a space that’s just the right size for your child using these cool seats.

Almost every type of chair that comes in adult sizes comes in smaller, child-friendly sizes too. Kids’ rocking chair? Sure! Child-size arm chair? Why not?

You can even get a desk chair for the little boss in your life, so they can sit at a tiny desk and draw or paint. Get something just like your favorite chair to make your child feel like a big shot.

Child-sized chairs can cost anywhere from approximately $30 to upwards of $100. The price of a kids’ chair depends on the style and needs it supports.

Gaming Chair Types

Source: Amazon

Do you live for video games or know someone who does? Gaming chairs are perfect for avid video gamers.

For console players, chairs like the one pictured above can position you in front of a television perfectly. Some gaming chairs even have built-in speakers to enhance the gamer’s experience.

Are you more of a PC player? No problem. Some desk chairs come equipped with special features for gamers. These gamer chairs are ergonomic, high-tech, and completely comfortable. No matter your game, you can usually find the right gamer chair for between $50 and $150.

Styles of Chair Backs

You just might be surprised by how many chair back styles there are. Here’s a terrific infographic setting out all the different styles of chair backs:

Chair Materials

Furniture makers can use all kinds of materials to create a beautiful chair. Some chairs are upholstered in leather, cotton, or polyester, while others are made from metal, wood, or plastic. Often, chairs combine these materials for more a textured and interesting look.

Upholstered Chair Styles

Upholstered chairs use either leather, cotton, or polyester to cover the cushions that make the chair comfortable. Check out the features and benefits of each type of upholstery.

— Leather

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There’s a reason that leather is synonymous with luxury. You can find genuine and faux leather on all kinds of chairs — from rocking chairs, to loveseats and more.

Pros of Leather Upholstery:

Easy to clean
Non-staining
Comfortable

Cons of Leather Upholstery:

Typically more expensive
Must use special cleaner to maintain it
Can get hot in the summer

If you want to add a classic, comfortable look to your home, consider adding a leather chair.

— Cotton

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Cotton is the fabric that everyone knows and loves. People use it in clothes, towels and more. So, why not use it on chairs as well?

Pros of Cotton Upholstery:

Feels pleasant to the touch and against skin
Comes in many colors and patterns
Durable
Easy to care for

Cons of Cotton Upholstery:

Colors and patterns can fade in sunlight
Must be treated, or it will be flammable

If you love using and wearing cotton in your everyday life, consider this type of upholstered chair. Whether you need side chairs, seats for little ones, or an accent chair, there is probably a cotton version of whatever chair style you need that is perfect for you.

— Polyester

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If you want an upholstered chair for your outdoor space, you will probably need to choose a polyester chair. This tough fabric can stand up against almost any weather and look great doing it.

Many cushions on wicker chairs are covered in polyester, as are the cushions on many hammock chairs. Polyester chairs come in a variety of colors, shapes, and styles, so it should be wasy to find one you love.

Metal Chair Styles

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If you love a more industrial look, you may need to add a few metal chairs in your home. These durable seats look great and come in plenty of shapes, colors and sizes.

Most often, you can find metal chairs used in a dining area or at a kitchen island. Best of all, you can buy a metal chair for as little as $40 or as much as $90, making them a truly affordable seating option.

Wood Chair Styles

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Are you building your farmhouse dream home? Maybe you love the traditional décor style. Both of these decor styles, and many others, incorporate wood chairs.

Whether you want wood in your kitchen, dining room, office, or all of the above, there is most likely a wood chair to fit whatever need you have.

Pros

Sturdy
Beautiful
Come in many styles and finishes

Cons

Require special cleaners to maintain
Can fade over time in the sun
Can be difficult to remove stains from

Plastic Chair Styles

Source: Amazon

Plastic is a standard material in outdoor, dining, children’s, and corporate chairs. Because plastic is so cheap to produce, chairs made using this material often cost less than their wood or metal counterparts.

Plastic chairs are simple and easy to clean and maintain — often, all you have to do is wipe away the mess.

There are some downsides to buying and using plastic chairs. First of all, they tend to be less comfortable than wood and upholstered versions. Secondly, many can look cheap.

However, some plastic chairs can be more high-end. For example, the use of the ghost chair is a significant and current trend, and these chair types are made from clear plastic.

The last downside to plastic chairs is that some can be flimsy. When searching for a plastic chair or chairs, it’s important to look for pieces that are made to withstand use.

Unique Features

Sometimes, you just need to shop based on what a chair can do. Believe it or not, some chairs are made for more than just sitting in and relaxing! Some can offer storage, while others can convert to a bed, and some can even swivel.

Storage

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What if your chair could help put an end to clutter around your home? Certain chairs and ottomans have secret storage compartments that allow you to cut down on visual clutter and keep things looking nice and tidy.

The most common type of storage seating is the ottoman. Ottomans can function as extra seating, a place to rest tired feet, additional storage, and sometimes also coffee tables. If you prefer functional furniture, this might be the type of seating for you.

However, ottomans don’t keep all the glory. Some arm chairs have storage, too. Keep your favorite blankets out of sight until it’s time to break them out, or store pillows in these chairs when their space is needed.

Convertible Chair

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If you don’t have the room for a guest bed and don’t want a heavy sleeper sofa, you can invest in a convertible chair for your occasional guests. These comfortable chairs look attractive when upright, and can fold into a bed when needed.

Forget what you think you know about futons and convertible chairs. These pieces of furniture have come a long way in recent years. Nowadays, futons and convertible chairs can be relaxing as traditional chairs and beds. These are truly functional pieces of furniture that also look great.

You can sometimes find convertible chairs for around $170, and they typically cost up to about $350. When you think about it, that’s a great price for what is essentially two pieces of furniture.

Swivel Chair

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You likely know that Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence and was the third President of the United States. However, did you know that this founding father was also an inventor? Jefferson invented the swivel chair in 1775, smack in the middle of the American Revolution.

The swivel chair has come quite a long way since the American Revolutionary War. These days, even comfortable, cushioned arm chairs can swivel.

These chairs can be fun additions to a living room, and can come in many shapes, colors and fabrics. Typically, a swivel chair is only meant to hold one person.

Some swivel chairs are more suited for use in offices, making them a type of desk or task chair. Other types of swivel chairs are great for outdoor use.

Best Types for Various Purposes

The Best Living Room Chairs

Comfort, budget, and personal taste all matter when choosing a living room chair. Target’s Vernon Upholstered Barrel Accent Chair is perfect for nearly any living room. Thanks to its simple design, it can complement many decor styles.

“The Vernon chair is a favorite in the design industry,” says interior designer Arvin Olano. “It’s comfortable, it’s tailored really well, and it can be styled in many ways.”

If you’re looking for a chair you can really sink into, the West Elm Cozy Swivel Chair is also great. It can spin a full 360 degrees, making it easy to change the direction the chair faces. If you order the chair, you’ll be able to choose from lots of colors and fabrics.

The Best Chairs for Bedrooms

A small accent chair can a lot to your bedroom. The right chair can be a great place to read or get ready for the day! Anthropologie’s

Velvet Elowen Chair is elegant and comfy, but it doesn’t take up much space!

Another cozy option is the Casterly Amber Swivel Chair. The swivel design makes it a flexible option. It’s available in a variety of fabrics and colors, and there’s even a matching stool!

The Best Chairs for Dining Rooms

A good dining room chair should be lightweight and comfortable to sit in during long meals. Article’s Svelti Dining Chair is a great basic option. It’s made of moisture-resistant molded plastic and is easy to clean.

If you’d prefer a hardwood chair, the Ton Ironica Dining Side Chair is a terrific choice. It’s handcrafted and made from contract-grade beech wood. The classic design will look great with lots of dining room tables.

The Best Chairs for Outdoors

With the right chairs, you can get more out of your outdoor living space. If you want a portable chair that’s still comfortable to sit in, the Coleman Cool Mesh Quad Chair is perfect. It has a built-in cup holder, and the mesh back promotes air circulation.

If you’re after something permanent, the Serina Lounge Chair is another good choice. It has an egg design that provides some shade from the sun. The cushions are removable for easy cleaning.

The Best Chairs for Home Offices

Sitting at a desk for long stretches of time can strain your neck and back. That’s why it’s so important to find an office chair that will give you proper support. Other factors, like adjustability, are also important.

The Herman Miller Embody Chair is one of the best office chairs on the market. It has a narrow back that encourages you to sit up straight. The chair is able to conform to your movements and keep pressure from building up while you sit.

A budget-friendly option is the HON Ignition 2.0. Both the height and recline angle of the chair are adjustable. It has a mesh back for air flow and offers great lumbar support as well.

The Best Chairs for Gaming

It’s important to find a chair that can give you support during gaming sessions. One of the most popular gaming chairs is the Secret Lab Titan EVO. It’s a premium chair with an ergonomic design that’s available in several colors and sizes.

Secret Lab’s Omega series is great as well. The seat offers a snug fit and is made from memory foam that conforms to your body. It’s a very adjustable chair that can be customized in lots of ways.

Another solid choice for gamers is the Razer Iskur X. The recline, tilt, and height of the chair are all adjustable, as are the armrests. Better yet, the chair is steel reinforced for extra support.

The Best Chairs for Ergonomics

A chair with an ergonomic design will put less strain on your body, helping you avoid aches and pains. The right chair can also reduce pressure on your hips and promote good posture.

The Steelcase Leap has a flexor system that conforms to the shape of your spine. It also offers height-adjustable lumbar support and an ergonomic seat. The chair is very adjustable, allowing you to get the perfect fit.

“The Steelcase Leap is a jack-of-all-trades,” says lifestyle YouTuber David Zhang. “It’s ergonomic, with adjustment options to fit a range of people.”

You may also want to consider the Modway Articulate Office Chair. The seat has a cushion that’s 6 inches thick, and the back of the chair is made from breathable mesh. It’s easy to adjust and offers passive lumbar support.

Top Brands

Lexington Furniture

Source: Lexington Furniture

This trusted brand has been designing and making furniture for indoor and outdoor living for years. Today, Lexington Home Brands carries six different popular furniture brands, including Tommy Bahama Home, Lexington, Artistica Home, Barclay Butera, and others.

You’ll find a wide range of stylish chairs from this dynamic brand that ranges in styles from high-end to casual and everything in between. Look for soft, comfortable upholstered chairs that bring a touch of elegance to any room, no matter the price point.

Lexington offers sophisticated tufted chairs, modern chairs with colorful upholstery, and a wide range of dining chairs that are sure to suit virtually any interior design style.

You can purchase chairs from the brand directly or find them at a wide range of furniture stores both online (like Wayfair) and throughout the country.

Stressless by Ekornes

Source: Stressless

Nothing says modern comfort quite like a Stressless chair. This modern brand features products designed in a clean and classic Scandinavian style that’s sure to bring a modern element to any living space, home office, or bedroom.

Every piece of furniture designed by Stressless undergoes a rigorous process that includes not just the aesthetic design itself, but also the construction and comfort level. The Glide System by Stressless allows you to move and change your body to any position simply by moving.

There are no levers to pull and no buttons to push. Just a simple movement provides exceptional support for the entire body. Stressless offers a wide range of recliners, and some include a built-in power footrest for a sleek and simple look.

If you’re on the hunt for the perfect combination of modern luxury and enduring comfort, then you can’t go wrong with a chair, sofa, sectional, or recliner from the Stressless brand.

Bassett Furniture

Source: Bassett Furniture

Bassett Furniture is a popular American furniture brand that offers a wide range of products for every room, including your outdoor space.

Every item from Bassett is handmade in the United States and the company has a reputation for creating durable, beautiful, high-quality furniture that’s made to stand the test of time. It also offers an Everyday Value line for anyone who needs a new chair or bedroom and dining room furniture on a budget.

The company also has a unique BenchMade service that lets you create your very own custom furniture. Choose your favorite frame style, arm style, fabric, color, and more to create a unique piece of custom furniture designed just for you.

Look for a range of chairs from Bassett Furniture in a variety of price points, sizes, and styles. From casual accent chairs to comfy recliners, this brand offers something for every type of home and every lifestyle.

Armchairs with a swivel feature and soft cushioning add casual comfort to your space, while more formal dining chairs help you create a beautiful and relaxing entertaining experience.

Coaster Furniture

Source: Coaster Furniture

If you’re looking for an aesthetically pleasing and extremely comfortable chair, look for products from the Coaster Furniture brand. This brand offers pieces that provide a perfect combination of quality and affordability, making everything accessible to almost any budget.

Coaster is a leading furniture importer and distributor and aims to offer furniture for every type of household and for every life stage. The company also has several sub-brands including CoasterEveryday, CoasterEssence, CoasterSleep, and CoasterElevations.

Every brand focuses on something different, but the main goal is to blend form and function together to provide consumers with quality furnishings that are made to last.

Look for comfortable chairs from Coaster Fine Furniture including upholstered swivel armchairs, stationary accent chairs, and stylish chairs completed in leather upholstery.

No matter what type of style you like best, it’s almost guaranteed that Coaster Fine Furniture will have what you need to make your living space, dining room, or bedroom complete.

Ashley Furniture

Source: Ashley Furniture

If you’re looking for something that’s versatile and stylish, you can’t go wrong with chairs from Ashley Furniture. This popular brand has retail locations throughout the United States and offers something for the home office, entryway, bedroom, living room, dining room, and kitchen.

You’ll find comfy and stylish upholstered chairs in a wide range of designs and colors, including leather recliners, fabric upholstered armchairs, and everything in between.

The best thing about Ashley is that the brand is extremely accessible to everyone, whether you’re looking for new furniture on a budget or want to add something a little more pricey to your space. Explore their offerings online or visit a local Ashley Furniture distributor to find the perfect chair for you.

Where to Buy

Burrow

Burrow is a furniture retailer for those looking for sleek, modern pieces. The retailer offers an excellent variety of chairs, sofas, shelving, and tables that lend a contemporary aesthetic to your home. Burrow also offers rugs, lighting, and accessories to help you tie everything together.

When it comes to chairs, check out the brand’s line of modular seating that provides exceptional versatility and variety for your home. You can even purchase things like an extra set of arms or a corner piece for your living space.

Burrow chairs and sofas are also very easy to move, which makes them a great choice for those who are constantly changing apartments or condos. Each of the modular pieces connects together using heavy-duty clasps that are completely hidden from view.

All you need to do is unlatch each piece, pack them up, and go. The only downside to buying a new chair or other products from Burrow is that it has a high price point, but the cost could be worth it if you’re looking for furniture that’s a long-term investment.

Wayfair

Think of Wayfair as the Amazon of furniture. This dynamic online retailer sells furniture and home goods of every type and at every price point, including plenty of stylish, budget-friendly options.

This retail giant has accent chairs, recliners, dining room chairs, and larger pieces like sofas and sectionals in case you’re looking to completely furnish your home. The company also provides free shipping right to your door on any order of $35 or more.

You can find just about anything from Wayfair, including lighting and area rugs, but its selection of chairs is definitely dynamic and vast.

Whether you need something on the cheap or you’re looking for something a little more high-end, there’s little doubt that you’ll have trouble finding it at Wayfair. Check the company’s website often, as they constantly have sales and discounts available to customers.

West Elm

If modern is what you’re looking for, then don’t sleep on West Elm. This ultra-modern furniture and home goods retailer offer a wide variety of high-quality contemporary chairs, sofas, and much more.

Look for a wide range of stylish chairs from this brand online, and there are select West Elm brick-and-mortar locations sprinkled throughout the United States, too.

You’ll find everything that’s on-trend right now, including boucle swivel chairs, sleek Scandinavian-inspired chairs, and accent chairs upholstered in luxurious leather. When it comes to adding a contemporary element to your space, West Elm is one of the best places to go.

Look for new additions often, and the company also offers free shipping on select items as well as various sales throughout the year. There are also West Elm outlet stores available in select locations in the U.S. as well, so you can find the perfect chair for your home at an even deeper discount.

IKEA

If you need some new chairs for a great price, you can never go wrong with products from IKEA. This popular home goods brand offers everything from kitchen cabinets and wall art to planters and sofas. Shop IKEA’s selection of chairs by visiting a local retail location or browsing their website.

Most chairs are within an affordable price range and come in a vast array of modern designs. IKEA sells awesome desk chairs for your home office, comfortable chairs for your dining room, and lots of armchairs and accent chairs for your living space.

You’ll also find barstools and other stools for your kitchen or dining room as well as chair pads to make your stiff, uncomfortable wooden chair comfier to sit on. Many chairs from IKEA come pre-assembled while others might need a bit of assembly, but they’re all fairly easy to put together.

If you have been looking for ways to furnish your home or apartment on a budget, then a visit to IKEA should definitely be on your list of places to check out. The Ekero Armchair is a great option that features colorful upholstery, a wide seat, and a sleek and modern design, all for just $149.

Target

Target has always been one of the best retailers for home furnishings and décor. This massive retailer offers a myriad of stylish chairs from its popular Threshold, Hearth & Hand, and Opalhouse lines.

Whether you need a set of dining room chairs or a comfortable accent chair for your living room, Target has it all. The company also has frequent sales that include several percentage points off of your furniture purchase, especially during various holidays throughout the year.

From rattan chairs to velvet dining chairs with metal legs, you can find stylish and affordable chairs at Target. And if you don’t want to head to the store, almost everything ships right to you with a minimum order of $35.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are chairs made?

There are a few steps to making a chair. The first is to choose the wood you want to use. The wood determines how the chair looks when completed. Next, you peel the bark. After that, you split the parts of the chair.

Once you split the parts, you are able to shape them. You can steam the parts and then bend them. Depending on the back and chair of the seat, you take steps to create those pieces. For example, if you want a woven chair, you then weave the back and seat.

How wide are chairs?

The average seat height for a dining chair is between 18 to 20 inches. The average seat width is 18 inches in the front and 15.5 inches in the back. The average depth is between 16 to 18 inches.

Can wicker chairs get wet?

Natural and organic wicker chairs will rot if they get wet. Even wicker chairs that are painted will eventually rot. However, you can purchase plastic synthetic wicker chairs that are waterproof and can get wet.

Which chair is best for long sitting?

When you know you will be sitting for a long time; you should consider the Aeron Chair. While it is a hefty investment, it is worth it to sit correctly and avoid repetitive injuries.

When were high chairs invented?

High chairs as we know them today were not invented until about the 1830s. There were early versions of the high chair in the 1700s that had a footrest. However, the tray table portion was not added until the 1800s.

When were chairs made?

Chairs have been around since 3100 BCE in the Early Dynastic Period in Egypt. They were made of wood that was carved and covered by leather or cloth.

Can Papasan chairs be used outdoors?

It depends on the material used for the wicker portion of the Papasan chair. If it is natural and organic wicker, it can be used outdoors but cannot get wet. If it is synthetic plastic, then it can be left outdoors, even during the rain.

Can rattan chairs be left outside?

If they are made of synthetic plastic, they can be left outside.

Why are chairs so uncomfortable?

The most common reason a chair is uncomfortable is that it does not have proper lower back support. Also, if the chair is made from inferior materials, it may be uncomfortable.

How are chairs measured?

You measure the width of a chair across the widest point of the front. Then, you measure the height of the chair from the top to the chair seat.

Can bamboo chairs be left outside?

No, bamboo chairs should not be left outside because they do not respond well to the sun or rain.

Which chair is best for working at home?

The Herman Miller Aeron Ergonomic office chair is the best chair for working at home. It is an expensive chair, but many believe it is worth the cost.

Which chair is best for back pain?

A saddle chair is the best chair to use when you have back pain. It allows you to have better posture and spinal alignment.

Which chair is best for studying?

The best chair for studying is one that has a high back and a neck rest.

What chair is best for posture?

A saddle chair is the best chair for posture because it allows for better positioning of the head, neck, spine and upper body.

What is the most comfortable chair ever?

The most comfortable chair ever made is the winged G plan swivel chair. These chairs were popular between 1965 and 1980. The company that makes it, Gommes, has called it the world’s most comfortable chair.

Will Goodwill take chairs?

Yes, Goodwill accepts furniture, including chairs, that is usable.

Are cantilever chairs safe?

Yes, cantilever chairs are safe and comfortable.

Jon Dykstra

Jon Dykstra owns an interior design company in North Vancouver, British Columbia. He's fascinated by architecture and interiors. He also enjoys gardening at his "house in the burbs" and "homesteading" at his off-the-grid boat-access cabin.

Combine all that with a love of writing and Homestratsophere.com was born. He balances his working time between running his interior design company, working on his off-the-grid cabin and publishing homestratosphere.com.