When choosing dining chairs, one of the biggest decisions is the material. Two of the most popular options are wooden dining chairs and fabric upholstered dining chairs — and each offers very different benefits.
The right choice depends on your lifestyle, dining habits, and interior design preferences. In New Zealand homes — especially open-plan living spaces — dining chairs are not just functional furniture. They are also an important part of the overall look and feel of your home.
If you're exploring options, you can browse our full range of dining chairs to find styles that suit your space. And for help pairing chairs with the right table, our complete dining chair buying guide covers height, size, and style in detail.
TL;DR
- Wood chairs = durable, easy maintenance, classic look
- Fabric chairs = comfortable, soft, modern feel
- Wood is better for low-maintenance homes and families with kids
- Fabric is better for long meals and comfort-focused spaces
- Choose based on lifestyle + cleaning needs
1. Wooden Dining Chairs: Durable and Timeless
Wooden dining chairs are one of the most traditional and reliable options for NZ homes. They've been a staple in dining rooms for generations — and for good reason.
Key advantages of wood chairs:
- Strong and long-lasting — solid wood can handle years of daily use
- Easy to wipe down and maintain
- Works with most table styles, from rustic to Scandinavian
- Natural, timeless look that doesn't go out of fashion
Wood chairs are especially effective when paired with a wooden dining table. This creates a cohesive and balanced dining space. For guidance on getting that pairing right, our dining table and chair matching guide explains how to balance materials, colours, and proportions.
The main trade-off is firmness — wood seats can feel hard during longer meals. Adding a seat cushion is a simple fix if comfort is a concern.
Best for:
- Families with kids or pets
- Low-maintenance households
- Classic, Scandinavian, or farmhouse interiors
2. Fabric Dining Chairs: Comfortable and Stylish
Fabric upholstered dining chairs are designed for comfort and a softer visual feel. If you spend extended time at the table — whether for meals, work, or socialising — an upholstered chair makes a noticeable difference.
Key advantages of fabric chairs:
- Cushioned seating for improved dining chair comfort
- More inviting for long dinners and entertaining
- Adds warmth and texture to the space
- Wide range of modern and contemporary styles available
Upholstered chairs do require more care than wood — fabric can absorb spills and stains. If you have young children, consider choosing PU leather or a stain-resistant fabric that's easy to wipe clean.
Best for:
- Entertaining guests and longer dinner parties
- Homes that prioritise comfort
- Modern, cozy, or contemporary interiors
3. Wood vs Fabric: Key Differences
| Feature | Wood Chairs | Fabric Chairs |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | Medium (firm seat) | High (cushioned) |
| Maintenance | Easy — wipe clean | Moderate — needs spot cleaning |
| Durability | Very high | High |
| Style | Classic / Scandinavian | Modern / contemporary |
| Weight | Heavier | Lighter (varies) |
| Kid / pet friendly | Very — easy to clean | Depends on fabric type |
When comparing dining chair materials, the main difference comes down to comfort versus practicality. Wood chairs are the safer all-round choice for busy households. Fabric upholstered chairs are the better pick when comfort and visual softness matter most.
4. Which One Should You Choose?
Choose wood chairs if:
- You want low maintenance and easy cleaning
- You have kids or pets at home
- You prefer a clean, minimalist look
Choose fabric chairs if:
- You value sitting comfort above all
- You host guests and dinner parties often
- You want a warmer, more inviting interior style
In many homes, mixing both materials works surprisingly well. For example, placing upholstered chairs at the head of the table and wooden chairs along the sides adds character without sacrificing practicality. You can explore both styles in our dining chairs NZ collection.
Treasurebox Tip: If your dining table is the centrepiece of your home, choose chair materials that complement it — matching or contrasting textures intentionally creates a more cohesive dining space.
Looking for dining chairs that match your lifestyle?
