Who doesn’t want a little reminder of beach relaxation in their home? When it comes to re-creating a coastal vibe in your dining room, the right chairs can make all the difference. Let's dive into three families of options that play on the coastal theme, what colors they would work best in, and when they might be a good fit for your dining room.
Rattan or Wicker Chairs
Ah, rattan and wicker - the darlings of coastal decor. These materials have been used for millennia, with rattan furniture found in ancient Egyptian tombs and wicker techniques employed in ancient Rome. Their popularity in Western interiors surged during the Victorian era, particularly as colonial influences brought these styles into fashion.
These chairs are perfect for dining rooms that want to embrace a laid-back, tropical feel.
Visually, these chairs are all about texture. The woven patterns create interesting shadows and a sense of depth. They often have curved backs and arms, giving them a soft, organic look that's right at home in a coastal setting.
Slipcovered Chairs
Now, if you're after that effortlessly chic, "I just threw this together" coastal look, slipcovered chairs are your new best friend.
This style gained widespread popularity in the 1990s as part of the shabby chic movement, but the concept of protective slipcovers dates back much further. In the 18th and 19th centuries, wealthy households used loose covers to protect furniture from dust and sun damage when not in use, especially during summer months or when families were away from their country homes.
These chairs are ideal for dining rooms that see a lot of action. Got kids? Pets? Love to entertain? Slipcovered chairs can handle it all with grace. They work beautifully in spaces that mix old and new, creating a collected-over-time feel that's so quintessentially coastal.
Cross-Back Chairs
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Last but not least, let's talk about cross-back chairs. These chairs, also known as X-back chairs, have their roots in 19th century European bistro design. The style, often associated with the famous bentwood chairs by Michael Thonet, became popular in cafes and restaurants before finding its way into homes.
These chairs are fantastic for dining rooms that want to blend coastal with farmhouse or French country styles. Think of a space with a mix of weathered woods, maybe some shiplap walls, and plenty of natural light. Cross-back chairs will fit right in, adding a touch of casual elegance.
The defining feature of these chairs is, obviously, the X-shaped back. It's simple, stylish, and adds just the right amount of visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Color Choices
When it comes to coastal dining chair colors, the palette is often inspired by the beach and sea but you have a few choices.
- Whites and Creams: These are quintessential coastal colors that can make a space feel larger and more open, perfect for capturing that expansive oceanfront vibe. These colors work well with all three chair styles we've discussed.
- Blues: From pale sky blue to deep navy, light blues can create a serene, tranquil atmosphere while darker blues add depth and drama. Blue-painted cross-back chairs or blue-and-white striped slipcovers can emphasize the seaside theme.
- Neutrals: Soft grays, tans, and beiges reminiscent of driftwood and sand work for a more subtle coastal look. These colors work particularly well for rattan or wicker chairs, enhancing their natural texture.
- Wood Tones: For cross-back chairs or the frames of other chair wood forward styles, consider natural or weathered wood tones. These can range from light, sun-bleached finishes to deeper honey colors, all of which complement a coastal aesthetic.
Completing the Look
To make the most of your chosen coastal chair style, pair it with complementary elements. For rattan or wicker, add potted palms and light, breezy curtains. Slipcovered chairs can work well with a mix of vintage and modern pieces, creating a collected-over-time atmosphere. With cross-back chairs, consider incorporating shiplap walls or a weathered wood dining table. Whichever style you choose, remember that the key to achieving a coastal look is to keep the overall feel light, airy, and relaxed.
By thoughtfully selecting and styling your dining chairs, you can bring a touch of beach-inspired tranquility to your everyday meals and gatherings.
