Embrace the differences

“Contrary to what you may think,” says Foster, “mismatched chairs can really add interest and personality to your space. Instead of trying to match everything perfectly, think about creating a cohesive look with a mix of styles, colours, and materials. If you have chairs that complement each other in some way, you can achieve a curated and intentional appearance that matches your unique personality.”

Choose a unifying element

Foster says: “To tie the mismatched chairs together, consider incorporating a unifying element that appears throughout. This could be things like chair cushions, seat covers, or a common colour scheme. Using identical seat cushions or covers can help add some cohesion to the table. This simple trick not only adds a sense of unity but also enhances the overall visual appeal of your dining area.”

Play with patterns and textures

“Generally, mixing chairs with different patterns or textures always creates a really interesting look,” Foster explains. “Consider combining chairs with different upholstery fabrics, patterns, or even incorporating different materials such as wood or metal. The key is to strike a balance that complements the overall aesthetic of your space.”

Opt for a statement head chair

“If you’re working with a long table,” says Foster, “designate a specific chair as the ‘head chair’ and choose one that stands out from the rest. This could be a larger or more unique chair, but it will help to tie the whole thing together and give a grandeur to the space. The statement chair becomes a focal point of the area, drawing attention away from the mismatched nature of the other seats.”

Use decorative accents

“Try your hand at tablescaping with items like table runners, unique centrepieces such as a colourful vase or mismatched candlesticks,” recommends Foster, “these are small touches that can really help to make your table look put together, working in harmony with the mismatched chairs.”

Got mismatched dining room furniture? Here’s how to make it work