The Complete Guide to Finding the Right Dining Chair Height
Choosing the perfect dining chair height is essential for creating a comfortable and stylish dining experience. Whether you’re outfitting a casual breakfast nook or a formal dining room, getting the right proportions between your table and chairs is key to function, flow, and aesthetics. At HORNE, we offer a wide selection of modern, Scandinavian, industrial, and contemporary chairs that make finding the right dining chair height easy.

Finding the Right Dining Chair Height
Finding the right dining chair height starts with easy measurements. It's important to also know the standard height for most dining chairs. This typically ranges from 17 to 19 inches from floor to seat. Also note that dining tables typically stand 28 to 30 inches tall. You want plenty of leg room for comfortable seating for all guest. For optimal comfort, aim for 10 to 12 inches of space between the seat of the chair and the underside of the table.
Correctly measure dining chair height by following the below process.
- Measure Table Height
- Start by measuring from the floor to the underside of your dining table.
- Account for Comfortable Legroom
- Subtract 10 to 12 inches from the table height to determine your ideal chair seat height.
- Consider Chair Cushioning
- Remember to factor in any soft cushioning that might compress when seated.
Quick Reference Chart
Table Height |
Ideal Chair Seat Height |
28" |
17" to 18" |
30" |
18" to 19" |
Counter-Height and Bar-Height Seating
The same measuring principles also apply when determining the best chair height for counter or bar seating.
Keep in mind that counter-height tables are 34–36 inches tall, and pair best with chairs or stools that have a 24–26 inch seat height. While bar-height tables are 40–42 inches tall and require stools that are 28–30 inches tall. Once again, do not forget about cushioning.
Choosing the Right Dining Chair Style for Your Space
Whether you're home and dining aesthetic falls more in the Scandinavian, industrial, or contemporary area of the design spectrum, there's a chair to suit your style. Choosing the right chair comes down to a few design principles and looks, all of which can be found at HORNE. To achieve the perfect and harmonious dining space, find the chair that matches the style of your dining table.
- Modern dining tables with sleek lines often pairs best with low-profile chairs. One of our favorites is the Ready Dining Chair from Audo Copenhagen.
- Mid-century modern tables match beautifully with minimalist, slightly curved chairs at standard heights. We love the Gubi Coco Dining Chair.
- Industrial furniture looks great with sturdier, raw-material chairs that maintain proportion. We recommend the Noa Chair from Tronk.

Additional Tips for Selecting Dining Chairs
Beyond choosing a chair that is perfect height and effortlessly enhances your home's style, there are a few other considerations when picking out the perfect chair.
- Consider armrests: If you’re choosing chairs with arms, ensure they slide comfortably under the table when not in use. Add this to your measurements.
- Mix and match styles: You can combine bench seating or mix chair styles as long as seat heights align. We recommend adding an accent chair at the heads of the table to introduce another complementing chair style.
- Focus on comfort: Prioritize ergonomics—seats that are too low or high or reclined can make dining uncomfortable over time. Additionally, consider upholstered dining chairs for added comfort.
Shop Dining Chairs at HORNE
At HORNE, we offer an expertly curated collection of modern dining chairs in various heights, materials, and styles to suit every dining room setup. Whether you’re outfitting a modern, Scandinavian, industrial, or contemporary space, our pieces combine beauty, comfort, and function.
Browse our collection today and find the perfect dining chairs to complement your table.