When searching for furniture the natural inclination is to analyze how it appears from the front. Dining chairs, however, are different because they are tucked under the table where it is difficult to appreciate that view. Let's remember that dining chairs are usually approached from the side and back. Adding unexpected details to the backside of a chair makes them more dynamic and interesting.

Product Source: Bartoli Design

Bartoli Design's 1085 uses Italian leather for the back and seat. The natural hide is softened and folded around the frame, then pinned with a nautical tie-rod. The folding plays with the natural properties of leather textures by revealing an under layer of subtle suede material. 

Product Source: Flexform

The Crono by Antonio Citterio blends comfort and elegance. The armrests flare at the perfect point for elbows to relax. The back is hand-woven with cowhide cording, creating a visual pattern of solid and void. The upholstered seat invites the diners to linger long after the final course has been served. 

Product Source: Vonnegut Kraft

A traditional chair has a relatively square shaped seat with four legs in each corner. But what if the seat is round? Vonnegut Kraft's designers play with this concept.  Kana Chair's main structural frame becomes legs, arm rests, and back in a fluid movement. Lucious mohair is upholstered on the cushions. 

Product Source: agrippa

As designers we often dive head first down the rabbit hole, searching for the perfect product. We develop intense crushes along the way. The Sara Bond arm chair sparks that fire. Available in walnut, ash and oak, the wood is lovingly carved into spectacular curves with delicate valleys. The weight is balanced, and the back is sculpted for maximum comfort. Each chair is handcrafted in the Mediterranean city of Valencia, Spain. #swoon

Author: Sydney Piwowar

1. Pick a Theme

This year, I am keeping a simple Scandinavian winter theme with a neutral palette. Natural textures, greenery and soft candlelight create a relaxed setting where the focus can be on the great food and conversation around the table.

2. Simple Textures

Layering up textures is very important. Here, starting with a layer of white linen sets a soft tone. A rough grey linen runner lines the table adding needed balance against the perfect white. Notice that the grey and white tones call back to the dive grey dishes set on the table.

3. Natural Accents

They say that scent is the strongest memory trigger. The smell of pine at this time of year reminds me of all the great holidays of my past and to come. Using the left over tree trimming is an easy way to add a more festive feel to any holiday table.

4. Add Height

I don't like focus of a table setting to be down. I like to give the eye eye freedom to travel around the room. One easy trick is to add height which is easily done with the addition of a few tall candlesticks. In the winter months, candlelight is essential to any gathering. Burning candles creates the ultimate cozy ambiance. Another trick to fill up a larger table is to add a combination of tall candlesticks and low tea lights scattered along the table foliage so there's light at different levels. 

5. Simple Accessories

Black and brass candle sticks are a simple, yet gutsy way to go. This trend pays homage to traditional candles, but adds a fun and celebratory feel. This is also an opportunity to showcase special occasion cutlery that is more exciting than the everyday stainless steel set. Textured or patterned napkins serve as a pop against the white setting here.. Tying the edgy black stainless steel in with the rest of the clean, elegant, table setting.

To see more amazing table setting inspiration images, check out my Pinterest board HERE!