Not just comfortable, but stylish: How to choose the perfect chair for the school year

Choosing a chair is, of course, a matter of personal preference. Try to identify your needs: how many hours a day you spend sitting on the chair, whether it's for a work or study environment, the size of the space, the height of the desk, and what is most comfortable for you. Above all, it's crucial to choose a chair that supports your spine. Adjust the height so that your feet rest flat on the floor, or use a footrest to ensure your thighs are parallel to the ground. A chair with a wheeled base and side armrests will provide maximum comfort and easy mobility with minimal effort. We’ll also explore the differences between padded and non-padded chairs. Remember, nowadays, you can combine functionality, comfort, and aesthetics, selecting a stylish, comfortable chair without compromise.

Interior designer Sharon Kennet explains, “The office chair has taken center stage in recent years, as more people work from home and need an attractive workspace, either in a shared living area or a closed home office where they spend long hours. In both cases, the work chair is a central element in the workspace, and beyond comfort, it’s important that it fits the story the space tells. Today, many meticulously designed chairs can complement and enhance a space’s design language. It’s important to zoom out, understand the room where the workspace is located, and buy a chair that is precise, high-quality, and of course, comfortable.”

In the chair collections at quality stores like Prat Living, which offers premium brands from around the world, you’ll find minimalist designs with maximum comfort. You can choose the wood color, whether it’s padded or not, as well as the design style that best suits you. Take note of the new Supra chairs, characterized by clean, simple lines, comfort, and innovative finishes. The internal curve of the chair supports the back while allowing flexibility, making it incredibly comfortable for prolonged sitting. The polypropylene version offers a beautiful, semi-transparent raw polypropylene in several color options. The chair comes with a variety of finishes, including different leg styles like wooden legs or a central swivel base. You can also upholster the chair in various fabrics, and it comes with or without armrests for a perfect look.

Is a Padded or Non-Padded Chair Better?

The choice between a padded or non-padded chair depends on several factors, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Here are some pros and cons to help you decide:A padded chair is very comfortable. The padding provides a soft layer that can make chairs more comfortable, especially for prolonged sitting. Padding can help absorb shocks and prevent back discomfort during extended daily use. Padded chairs can also add volume and design to a space and are available in various colors and materials. The downsides are maintenance and cleaning: padding can be tricky to clean, particularly with delicate fabrics or light colors. Additionally, with time, padding can wear out or fray, which may affect the chair’s overall appearance.

Non-padded chairs, made from materials like polypropylene, metal, or wood, offer greater durability and are easier to clean. They are simpler to maintain, avoiding concerns over stains or padding damage. Non-padded chairs can also provide a minimalist, modern look that fits different design styles.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal needs, how long you intend to sit in the chair, and the design style you're after. If you plan to sit for many hours during work or study, a padded chair may be the right choice. On the other hand, if you're looking for lightweight and comfortable chairs, non-padded chairs offer diverse design options.

Should You Choose Chairs with or without Armrests?

Deciding whether to go for chairs with or without armrests depends on several factors, such as comfort, function, and personal style. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of each option:

Armrests provide additional support for your arms, which can relieve tension in your back and neck, especially during long periods of sitting. Armrests can also serve as a support point when getting up or sitting down. Additionally, chairs with armrests can enhance the elegant, designed look of the chair and sometimes complete the overall aesthetic.

The disadvantages of chairs with armrests are that they take up more space, which might be an issue in small areas or near closely placed tables. In some cases, the armrests may be positioned awkwardly or interfere with the chair's fit at the table, so it's important to check compatibility before purchasing.

The benefits of armless chairs include greater seating flexibility and easier movement, which can be convenient for prolonged work. They are usually more compact and fit well in narrow spaces or when multiple chairs need to be combined. For modern or minimalist designs, armless chairs can offer a cleaner look.