I want to do something like this in the front parlor/library. Not the style, but the idea of a table with four chairs in front of the bookshelves.
We’re planning on storing board games and some toys in the closed storage of the built-ins, and because one needs an aesthetically pleasing place in which to play Hi Ho! Cherry-O and build LEGOs, I’ve been on the hunt for some furniture. I’ve wanted a round table from the beginning, to echo the round wall with windows, so that’s what I’m focusing on.
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Dawson Pedestal Side Table, Pottery Barn
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Deeda Chair, Jayson Home
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Milo Baughman 1188 Chair, DWR
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Saddle Dining Chair, West Elm
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G-Plan Teak Dining Chairs, Chairish
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Stockholm Chair, IKEA
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Docksta, IKEA
We already have a Docksta (IKEA’s ubiquitous knock-off of the Saarinen tulip table) — it used to be in my stationery shop’s studio. I tried it out in place here and while the size is great, the style isn’t the best fit with the rest of our furniture for the space. Something dark, to tie in with the black walls of the adjacent room, and something with a bit more heft to it would be better. Either that pedestal table above, or something like the antique gateleg table below.
I’d like four chairs around it (and we can pull up either a stool, occasional chair, or dining chair if we need a fifth for our soon-to-be family of five), but I don’t want the set-up to look like a randomly placed dining table. I think upholstered chairs would look and feel best, and I’m not so worried about the combination of fabric seats and little kids since we won’t be eating there.
Of course I like the two most expensive chairs of the bunch (#2 and #3), and both would work with the color palette I’m going for. So perfect! So not in the budget! I’m going to concentrate on getting the table first — one that I know will work with a variety of seating options — and then new chairs can always come later. Which would you pick though, if price didn’t matter? One of the ones above, or do you have a different favorite?
rachelle
April 23, 2014 at 12:32 pmhow about switching it up a bit and going for an octagonal table instead? :)
maybe a bigger version of something like this one!
Making it Lovely
April 23, 2014 at 1:56 pmI’m not crazy about hairpin legs for my house, but I’d be open to something octagonal.
Katie
April 23, 2014 at 6:47 pmI love that table! I originally wanted to make my own dining room table with hairpin leg but sadly the style doesn’t fit the style of my new place at all! SUCH a bummer. Maybe I can do something like this as an accent table in the living room though.
Katie
April 23, 2014 at 6:53 pmI love the chairs from west elm (4)! I’m not sure which table I would pair them with though.
Paige @ Lux Per Diem
April 23, 2014 at 12:36 pmHave you seen the Aero Round table @ RH? It’s similar to the tulip knock off table, but in a dark base with a wood top.
Making it Lovely
April 23, 2014 at 1:57 pmI looked it up. I like it! It looks a little too delicate, but the materials do help ground it.
Nicole
April 23, 2014 at 12:43 pmOh, I love chair number 2! It looks very cozy, great for curling up with a book.
sarah
April 23, 2014 at 12:49 pmGate leg! I think the more wood interest in different tones and styles the better.
Making it Lovely
April 23, 2014 at 1:58 pmI’ve been looking on Craigslist and haven’t found anything, but I’m going to have to head out and check some vintage/antique shops and see what’s out there.
zandi
April 23, 2014 at 12:50 pmyou know, i LOVE the look of the stockholm chair, but in real life, it falls short. the wood part looks cheap (and will look even more so next to your beautiful natural wood!) and is unfortunately so uncomfortable. not everyone feels this way, but its definitely one to sit in for a while at Ikea before buying!
Making it Lovely
April 23, 2014 at 2:18 pmGood to know. That was my least favorite of the bunch (but the most affordable).
nancy50
April 23, 2014 at 12:50 pmI like #3 to break up all the wood going on in that room and visually lighten up the space but sheesh I’d have to sell my left kidney to pay for them!
Ryan
April 23, 2014 at 12:55 pmLibrary tables were very common in houses up to the 1930s. Often the chairs were not “stored” around the table, but rather placed along the wall with the table alone in the center of the room.
Arranging the chairs in this manner could keep it from the Dining set look you want to avoid.
Making it Lovely
April 23, 2014 at 2:20 pmThat’s good advice, thanks.
Sandra
April 23, 2014 at 12:59 pmAs far as table goes. I’d pick your #1 with the pedestal. I think it would be a lot easier to put your chair wherever you wanted it without a bunch of legs from the table deciding where you can and cannot comfortably sit.
Making it Lovely
April 23, 2014 at 2:21 pmThat’s true. I’m looking around to see if I find anything I like for less, but if not, I’m leaning towards getting that one.
Casey
April 23, 2014 at 1:00 pmI didn’t realize you had the Ikea Docksta… How do you like it? Is it sturdy? Would you recommend it?
I really want a Saarinen Tulip Table, but can’t really justify spending the money on it. It’s use would be similar to what you’re looking for, used in a library/family type area for playing games, etc. I’ve been to Ikea a few times and checked out the Docksta and I can’t tell if people are just a little rough on the floor model or it is not the sturdiest. Would love to know how it’s working out for you!
I think that Pottery Barn table would fit better in your ‘library’ space. And I think I’m liking chair #5. The darker wood would go with that table and the blue would give the room a great, bright color to work with.
Making it Lovely
April 23, 2014 at 1:03 pmIt’s not the sturdiest, no. For the price, it’s awesome, but it pales in comparison with the real thing (and even other high-quality knockoffs).
Casey
April 23, 2014 at 1:05 pmThanks for the info!
kate
April 23, 2014 at 1:01 pmI would use the Ikea table with a cool chair like the blue one. I think that would “fun up” the room and I think with all the bookshelves it needs that. Just my opinion though
Making it Lovely
April 23, 2014 at 2:23 pmThe room does need some fun, unstuffy pieces, but that Docksta isn’t doing it for me. I already have it though, so it’s got that going for it…
jacquie
April 23, 2014 at 1:10 pmThe Milo Baughman chair would definitely be my choice if money was not an issue. That chair is absolutely gorgeous!
Making it Lovely
April 23, 2014 at 2:21 pmIt comes in a bunch of fabric and leather options, but that green is so happy!
Kendall
April 23, 2014 at 1:23 pmThe Deeda is beautiful! So pricey though. I will say that the stockholm chair was not very comfortable (at least to my husband and myself) when I gave it a try at our local IKEA. Also, the trendig chair looks similar, but unfortunately has some assembly issues. Alison did a write up of her experience here: http://www.deucecitieshenhouse.com/2014/03/cool-but-not-cool-chair.html
Making it Lovely
April 23, 2014 at 2:24 pmOof, what a nightmare to assemble! Yikes.
emily @ cabin fervor
April 23, 2014 at 2:21 pmLove table #1 and chair #2 together — more traditional styling but in a fun and modern “you” color.
Making it Lovely
April 23, 2014 at 2:25 pmThat’s what I was thinking! Honestly, if I could just buy the table and those chairs right now, I would.
Stacie Johns
April 23, 2014 at 2:38 pmI totally love the Saddle Dining Chairs from West Elm, and I have been eyeing them for a while now. I think they’d look great with a pedestal table because it’s just the right mix of upholstery and wood without being too large. I just love the chairs, what can I say? :)
Making it Lovely
April 23, 2014 at 8:24 pmI’ve been eying them for a while too! Especially the desk chair version, because it swivels.
And
April 23, 2014 at 3:56 pmI used to have a similar English drop leaf table in my kitchen that I purchased from Barley Twist Antiques in Oak Park. They are now located in Hinsdale, and may be worth giving a call. The price often depends on the age: The reproductions from the 1930’s are a lot cheaper than the originals from the 19th century. Barley Twist used to carry both eras and they still may. I couldn’t tell the difference! I love the look of the one you posted.
Making it Lovely
April 23, 2014 at 8:25 pmI’d probably be better off with a reproduction anyway, or at least something that isn’t too fine. I want the kids to be able to play with their toys on the table without being worried the whole time about dings and scratches!
Susana
April 23, 2014 at 4:30 pmLOVE the Deeda chairs with that PB table. Can you track down the manufacturer of the chairs and see if you can find them cheaper elsewhere? Because they are perfect!
Making it Lovely
April 23, 2014 at 8:26 pmTheir spring catalog has a 15% off discount on the back, but they’re still out of my budget. They are perfect though, aren’t they?
Abby
April 23, 2014 at 6:19 pmForgive me if you’ve already mentioned this. But what happened to your old dining chairs? Could you use those? Maybe even with the docksta as a sort of placeholder? I’m kind of a fan of placeholders until I find the perfect piece. Keeps me from making rash decisions cause I need something right now!
Making it Lovely
April 23, 2014 at 8:26 pmYep, I have them. That’s the plan — to use what I already have on hand. They won’t look as good as some of the other options above, but they’re here and free.
Jen @ RamblingRenovators
April 23, 2014 at 6:34 pmI like chairs 2 and 4 with table 1. The low slung arms look comfortable for those long Lego sessions.
Making it Lovely
April 23, 2014 at 8:28 pmAh, good point. The low arms are much more conducive to building!
Jess
April 23, 2014 at 6:49 pmFirst off, I LOVE your choice of putting a table and chairs in front of the built ins… Libraries can look so static and this will add instant action; a seating spot where fun stuff happens! #2 is the obvious choice because it’s the only one in the bunch that has a “parlor” feel. But $1,400 times four?? I’m sure you can find something with similar lines and the same trad/mod feel without spending $6,000, right?
Making it Lovely
April 23, 2014 at 8:29 pmYep, #2 is by far my favorite. But times four and it’s cost prohibitive. Even times one, it’s pricey! But it sure would be perfect.
Jess
April 23, 2014 at 7:09 pmhttp://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Inspire-Q-Kiefer-Grey-Bracket-Chain-Fabric-Sloped-Track-Arm-Hostess-Chair/8585508/product.html?searchidx=0
How about these? The fabric is super grody but how amazing would they be reupholstered in a beautiful fabric? They are Ikea-priced and probably wouldn’t be horribly painful to have reupholstered…
Making it Lovely
April 23, 2014 at 8:31 pmIt looks like they do come in some other fabrics over there too, but nothing like the pretty coral/pink color of course. I wonder how much reupholstering would be.
megan
April 23, 2014 at 9:36 pmJust butting in here – reupholstering would probably be pricey, but you could have tailored slipcovers made for the chairs if you like the lines. I just did this with a chair in my living room and the seamstress put velcro on the bottom of the chair so there’s no skirt, even a short one, on the chair and it essentially looks like I upholstered it. I was amazing at how well it turned out. If you find fabric at a discount place you could make it affordable!
Elizabeth
April 23, 2014 at 7:52 pmI know they don’t come in fun colors, but what about this Pottery Barn chair?
http://www.potterybarn.com/products/hayes-tufted-upholstered-dining-chair/?pkey=e%7Cchair%7C255%7Cbest%7C0%7C1%7C24%7C%7C15&cm_src=PRODUCTSEARCH||NoFacet-_-NoFacet-_-%3Fcm_sp%3DMyRecs-_-LeftNav-_-Search%7CChair
Making it Lovely
April 23, 2014 at 8:30 pmI like them, but I don’t love them enough to buy at $400/chair.
Emily
April 23, 2014 at 8:37 pmChair #3! That green is perfection. (Budget notwithstanding.) Look forward to seeing the room. What a lovely place for family togetherness!
Annamarie H
April 24, 2014 at 1:08 amI agree with you wholeheartedly, No 2 or 3. If you twisted my arm, I’d choose 3.
Norma
April 24, 2014 at 7:23 amNot any help to your decision-making process, but may I please have that room in the first picture!
Lisa
April 24, 2014 at 9:38 amWe own some vintage Stockholm-ish chairs and they are so uncomfortable. They look good in the office as extra seating but I wouldn’t want to play a game of monopoly on them for sure!
Heidi S.
April 24, 2014 at 10:10 amLove this idea! Similar to what someone else mentioned, a round table in the middle of the room (under the gas light) was very common in Victorian houses (it was the only spot with a bright enough light to read by). I really like the idea of upholstered chairs (#2 is really great) that are nice and comfy (also great for moving around when you have guests over). Have you seen this one at OneKingsLane (it seems like they are always selling these in different colors)? Unfortunately still kind of pricy.
https://www.onekingslane.com/product/36285/1876194?cat=6
Andrea
April 24, 2014 at 10:52 amCoincidentally I have 6
kara
April 24, 2014 at 11:01 amdid you see this one? http://chicago.craigslist.org/chc/fuo/4388377990.html
Making it Lovely
April 24, 2014 at 11:03 amIt’s a little low, unfortunately. A good table height is 30″.
Colleen N
April 24, 2014 at 11:29 amI immediately thought of this post: http://www.smittenstudioonline.com/home-progress-searching-for-a-dining-table/
Have you seen it? I love the Lucia for your space. Even the screw table would be fabulous with a brass chancy above it.
Colleen N
April 24, 2014 at 11:38 amI also thought of this:
http://www.pinterest.com/pin/156570524516494560/
What about a pair of chairs across from a sweet love seat? Like the Elton settee from west elm? http://www.westelm.com/products/elton-settee-g235/?pkey=csofas&cm_src=sofas||NoFacet-_-NoFacet-_–_-
I am thinking of doing the same thing in my dining room. We have the Saarinen table & black Eames chairs, I would love this MGBW odette sofettein a pale blue or bright green velvet, but it’s so expensive!!!
http://www.mgbwhome.com/ODETTE-SOFETTE-P9184.aspx
Lynn
April 24, 2014 at 12:00 pmI have a similar drop leaf table, and the space to push the chairs in is limited, so unless you want them stuck out and taking up space, it might be wise to measure up to see what fits under snugly.
Making it Lovely
April 24, 2014 at 4:29 pmI do worry about the legs getting in the way. Sometimes they’re just so beautiful though…
DanielleV
April 24, 2014 at 2:16 pmI wonder if you would consider chairs with casters for a game room? I have heard that they are really nice since comfy upholstered chairs can be heavier and harder to move around.
Making it Lovely
April 24, 2014 at 4:28 pmCasters could be nice, or a swivel.
Joanna @ thenestbook
April 24, 2014 at 3:06 pmMy fav is the green DWR chair. I say splurge!!
Making it Lovely
April 24, 2014 at 4:28 pmAh, but splurge times FOUR? Eeek.
Joanna @ thenestbook
April 25, 2014 at 12:27 pmJeez I know. What am I, crazy?! What about this one: http://www.allmodern.com/sohoConcept-Soho-Lounge-Flat-Arm-Chair-125-SOHFLAT-HOC1153.html ? Too modern? They’re still $400 a pop too. Why are chairs so spendy?! I always want the most expensive one too. :/
Elizabeth
April 24, 2014 at 7:20 pmHave you thought about one of those oak Empire-style pawfoot pedestal tables? They run around $200 in this neck of the woods (PA). I love mine: it’s super sturdy, and it can take a beating because the finish is old but it looks like “patina” not “shabby”. Might be too much oak for your room, but you could always paint the base dark (or even the whole thing).
With an inexpensive table, you could spring for more modern chairs to lighten up the look.
trixxie
April 24, 2014 at 7:42 pmOkay as long as money is no object, I think #3 would be absolutely stunning with all that wood! Also, I prefer the pedestal table style. Personally, I would try to save money on the table…maybe even paint a vintage table so that I could spend a little more on chairs. I was trying to figure out if it was the brass or that shade of green that was drawing me in more, but I realized it really is the combination of the two. A more budget friendly solution might be to find a set of brass chairs with good lines on CL or in a vintage shop and have them reupholstered.
nancy50
April 25, 2014 at 8:44 amRan across these chairs and the color reminded me of your sofa in the 2nd parlor
http://www.worldmarket.com/product/pacific+lydia+dining+chairs%2C+set+of+2.do?&from=fn
Haven’t seen them in person (your sofa or the chairs!) but the black legs look like they’d work with a black table – just throwing it out there!
nancy50
April 25, 2014 at 8:47 amOh and they come in a pinkish color that is on sale http://www.worldmarket.com/product/baked+apple+lydia+dining+chairs%2C+set+of+2.do?&from=fn
Marcee ... ILLINOIS
April 27, 2014 at 1:59 pmOhwow. Love that (dark) table. Might be a bit tricky to fit properly. Re chairs: if I had the moola, (or desperate need) for sure those dark turquoise blue chairs …. entire set of 4, would be m-i-n-e! Gorgeous. Looks as if these chairs are same shade as sofa. Just beautiful. You know how to pick great stuff Nicole! Ha.
kara
May 2, 2014 at 11:34 amhow about this guy? if you can’t see it, it’s from reclaimed, which recently opened a chicago store… :)
https://www.facebook.com/reclaimedcl/photos/a.517864874972435.1073741879.331160650309526/627346044024317/?type=1&theater