Open-plan living is here to stay. It’s light, airy, and sociable—bringing together cooking, dining, and lounging into one seamless space. But if you’ve ever tried styling an open-plan area, you’ll know it’s not as easy as it looks.
- Does your space feel disconnected?
- Are you struggling to define zones without making it feel cramped?
- Do you want stylish bar stools and dining chairs that complement each other—but aren’t sure what fabrics or styles to choose?
If any of these sound familiar, you’re not alone. At The Chair People, we’ve helped countless customers create stunning, functional kitchen/dining spaces. Here’s how to get it right.
Define Your Zones
One of the biggest mistakes people make is failing to separate the dining area from the kitchen. Without definition, everything blurs together.
- Use a statement dining table and chairs to anchor the space.
- If you have a kitchen island, your bar stools can either match your dining chairs for a seamless look or contrast for a more dynamic, curated feel. The key is to ensure both styles complement the overall space.
- Consider a feature rug under the dining table or pendant lighting over both areas to create visual separation.
The key is to create a sense of flow while keeping each area distinct. Choosing fabrics and finishes that complement your kitchen tones—rather than matching them exactly—helps to tie everything together without feeling forced. Our design advisors can guide you through selecting durable, stylish options that work for your space.
Choose the Right Dining Chairs and Bar Stools
In an open-plan kitchen/diner, your bar stools and dining chairs are always on show. That’s why they need to work well together and enhance the overall aesthetic of your space.
Key things to consider:
- Frame Style: Do you want a sleek, modern look, or something classic and timeless?
- Fabric Choices: Opt for easy-clean, stain-resistant fabrics for everyday family life.
- Design Impact: Your dining chairs and bar stools should complement each other without overpowering the space.
Our range includes custom dining chairs and bar stools in hundreds of fabrics, allowing you to tailor your choices to your home’s style.
Make Your Seating Work Together
In an open-plan space, your dining chairs and bar stools are always visible together, so they need to complement each other while maintaining their own identity.
- Consider whether you want a matching look for a seamless feel or a contrasting design to add interest.
- Use a unifying element such as fabric choice, frame finish, or shape to ensure a cohesive look.
- If your dining chairs are upholstered in a statement fabric, you might choose a more neutral tone for your bar stools, or vice versa.
Need help selecting the perfect combination? Our design advisors can guide you through styles and fabrics that work beautifully together.
Want expert help choosing the perfect bar stools and dining chairs for your home? Start with our three-minute Design Discovery Profile, and our advisors will prepare a tailored selection of fabric and frame options for you.