Materials Used In Chairs

The variety of chairs available to the consumer these days is immense, and with a huge range of materials on offer, the choice can be a complicated one. Contemporary chairs come in a medley of exotic materials, from faux leather to acrylics and even metal mesh, with the more traditional chairs being available in a number of woods, cane and a host of other natural materials. There are also retro style chairs, with faux leather, nylon and various fabrics.

The multitude of materials doesn't simply end at the seats either. The frames can be several different materials themselves. Chrome plays a predominant role in both retro and contemporary design chairs, the dazzling finish reflecting light in ways that catches the eye. There is also brushed steel, with a more muted presence than chrome but just as durable, and also bare steel, giving the raw qualities and lustre of the metal.

Wood plays a large role in the more traditional designs, giving that rustic feel. Wood gives a certain depth and richness to any environment, with the grain giving added little details that catch your eye and draw you in. Wood has been used for millenia as a staple building and craft material, and it is easy to see why; it is light, durable and can be shaped easily. Wooden chairs blend well in kitchens with lots of terra cotta, or kitchens with wooden beams. It is also superb anywhere with wooden cabinets or flooring. There are also cane and wicker seats, keeping that rustic feel going. The weave on these chairs provides a brilliant look, drawing in the eye with the pattern created. Cane is comfortable and can also be orthopaedic to some!

Faux leather is a versatile matrial that has a multitude of uses, from furniture to bags and shoes. When used for chairs, it gives the look and feel of genuine leather but is more durable, scratch resistant and doesnt stain. Faux leather provides a real alternative to leather, and in many cases bests it! It can be used to create a traditional look, with complex and opulent designs, or it can be used with simple lines and clean edges for a contemporary minimalist look.

Nylons can be used as either solid blocks, giving a look not unlike that of perspex and acrylics, or it can be woven to simulate wicker chairs. In these cases, nylon is a lot more durable and has a higher strength than wicker. It is also easier to clean and does not stain. Another upside is the softness of nylon; where hard cane seats may start to tell after long periods of use, nylon will remain as comfortable as ever. Acrylics give a fresh look. Being mostly transparent and available in a range of colours, acrylic chairs are very airy and can play with light in interesting ways. Tinted acrylics can emit a coloured glow to the room if light is shone through, creating come interesting effects, perfect for that retro-psychedelic kitchen! Acrylics are also superbly durable and quite a low weight so they can be easily moved and relocated.