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When picturing a dining room, most people envision a classic setup: a sturdy dining table surrounded by elegant dining chairs. However, in recent years, dining benches have emerged as a stylish and functional alternative to traditional seating.
Zeina Badawi, the interior designer at La-Z-Boy Kanata, says, “Dining benches offer a more relaxed, communal seating arrangement that challenges the conventional look of dining spaces.” But does that mean they are the better choice? Or do classic dining chairs still reign supreme?
To help you make an informed decision, this article will explore the key differences between dining chairs and dining benches, highlighting their advantages, disadvantages, and the best ways to incorporate them into your home.
In This Article…
When talking about dining room seating, people tend to think first of dining chairs. However, dining benches and barstools offer unique interior design benefits.
For the purpose of this article, we will only talk about dining benches and not barstools. If you would like to learn more about Dining Barstools and Which Height to Choose, check out this article.
Dining chairs have long been the standard choice for dining room seating. With a vast array of styles, materials, and upholstery options, they offer flexibility in design and comfort.
At Canadel Custom Dining, for example, dining chairs are available in numerous styles, ranging from traditional wooden frames to modern upholstered designs. Dining chairs can also be customized with or without arms—armchairs are typically placed at the heads of a table, while armless chairs are positioned along the sides.
From rustic wooden finishes to sleek, contemporary designs, dining chairs can complement virtually any interior style. They are also ideal for hosting formal dinners, as they offer ergonomic back support and individual seating arrangements for guests.
To learn more about different chair styles, check out our article Everything You Need to Know About Canadel Customization.
Dining benches, on the other hand, introduce a more casual and adaptable approach to dining room seating. Zeina notes that "benches are casual but practical, whereas dining chairs are classic and relaxing."
Benches can comfortably accommodate multiple people, making them ideal for large families or homes with children. They also work well in smaller dining areas, where a streamlined seating arrangement is necessary.
When it comes to materials, dining benches are available in wood, metal, and even upholstered options. While wooden benches may feel less comfortable over time, adding an upholstered cushion can enhance seating comfort and serve as an accent piece in the dining room.
Benches can also be built into walls, creating a cozy banquette-style seating area that maximizes space. This is particularly useful in open-concept homes or compact dining nooks.
You can learn more about Dining Room Furniture in Small Spaces by reading this article.
When deciding between dining chairs and benches, consider the following factors:
Dining chairs provide a wider selection of styles, materials, and upholstery options. Whether you prefer classic wood, modern metal, or plush upholstery, there is no shortage of options.
Benches offer fewer customization choices, but their minimalist appeal makes them a great fit for contemporary or rustic designs.
If you want a traditional or formal look, dining chairs are ideal. If you prefer a relaxed, space-saving solution, benches are a great option.
Dining chairs are ideal for structured, single-person seating, while benches create a more communal and space-efficient arrangement.
Benches can also serve multiple purposes, such as extra hallway seating or storage solutions, making them a versatile investment.
Choose chairs for individual comfort and structure; opt for benches if you want flexibility and multipurpose use.
If you frequently rearrange your dining area, chairs are more convenient. If you need extra storage, a bench is a smart choice.
Chairs provide back support, making them more comfortable for extended use. Benches, while stylish, lack lumbar support, which may lead to discomfort over time.
If ergonomic support is a priority, chairs are the best option. If you prefer casual, short-term seating, benches work well.
Dining chairs generally cost more per seat because multiple pieces are needed to complete a set. Canadel dining chairs range from $350 to $1,500 per chair, while benches range from $500 to $1,100.
Benches are more cost-effective, as fewer pieces are required to seat multiple people. However, chairs offer more customization and individual comfort.
*Please note that La-Z-Boy prices listed in this article are subject to change without notice. Information is current as of March 19th, 2025. Contact your local Ottawa, Gatineau or Kingston location by phone or in person for up-to-date pricing.
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Dining Chairs |
Dining Benches |
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✅ More variety in styles and materials |
✅ Can seat multiple people |
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✅ Provides better back support |
✅ Space-saving and versatile |
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✅ Ideal for formal dining settings |
✅ Some models include built-in storage |
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❌ More expensive (requires multiple pieces) |
❌ Less ergonomic, lacks back support |
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❌ Takes up more space individually |
❌ Can be heavy and difficult to move |
Zeina explains that mixing dining benches and dining chairs together in one dining room set is becoming a trend. “This trend is called creating an eclectic dining table,” she says.
The process of making an eclectic dining room is much simpler than you think. The proper way to mix and match dining chairs and dining benches at one table is by having chairs on one side and benches on the other.
Zeina also says you can choose to have dining benches on both sides and have dining chairs at the heads of the table.
Dining benches typically look better aesthetically next to or up against a wall since they have a flat surface. Further, some dining bench designs are built into a wall, especially in houses with smaller living spaces.
Now that we've explored the pros and cons of each option, which one is best for you? Your decision should be based on budget, style preferences, and functionality.
Zeina notes that benches are often the more affordable choice, as they can seat multiple people with fewer pieces. However, the cost depends on the manufacturer and quality—La-Z-Boy and Canadel offer mid-to-high-end dining furniture designed for long-term durability.
To learn more about the Quality and Craftsmanship of Canadel Dining Furniture, take a look at this article.
Benches work well in casual settings, such as kitchen nooks, cottages, or outdoor dining areas. They’re also great for families with children due to their spacious and easy-to-clean design. However, they lack back support, which may be uncomfortable for extended use.
Dining chairs, on the other hand, provide structured, individual seating and better ergonomic support, making them ideal for formal dining spaces and hosting guests.
For more inspiration, check out our guide on Dining Table Styles in Your Home.
Canadel is a custom dining furniture store that has partnered with La-Z-Boy for quite some time. Canadel has been around for over 30 years now, selling high-quality custom dining room furniture for many to enjoy.
Each collection under the Canadel brand has a different selection of dining furniture to choose from. You can venture into a more French country style with the Champlain collection, or stay in the big city with the industrial Loft and East Side collections.
Whether you live in a studio apartment or an urban townhome, Canadel is sure to have a style that fits your preferences. You can take a look at each collection by reading our Canadel review articles:
Within these collections, you will find a wide variety of dining chairs and benches to choose from each with varying styles and features.
After reading this article, you now have more knowledge about the advantages and disadvantages of dining chairs and dining benches. Now that you have an idea of what might work well in your dining room, why not check out some products today?
La-Z-Boy also offers design assistance on all things Canadel custom design. By visiting an Ottawa, Gatineau or Kingston showroom, or the Canadel Kanata showroom, you can receive one-on-one assistance in selecting and custom designing your Canadel dining furniture.
You can also book an appointment with our interior design experts for any burning questions you may have.
If you’re looking for comfortable living room furniture to go with your comfortable dining room furniture, make sure to check out some of our best-selling living room furniture at La-Z-Boy:
To learn more about La-Z-Boy dining furniture, take a look at our Dining Furniture Buyer’s Guide.
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