Parsons chairs come in so many attractive variations that choosing the perfect one can be a bit daunting. This guide has been put together to help you select Parsons chairs to match the style of your home décor. Whether you’re looking for a group of Parsons dining chairs or a chair or two to decorate the living room, this guide will point you in the right direction.
Traditional style parson’s chair
When many people envision traditional decor, they think of large, formal dining rooms and living rooms. A richly upholstered, full skirted parsonage chair looks truly stately! However, traditional Parsons chairs can also be adapted to more casual settings. These designs are timeless and elegant and rarely go out of style. Features of traditional Parsons-style chairs include wood legs in deep, classic finishes like cherry, walnut, mahogany, and dark oak. The legs are often in the “S-curved” Queen Anne style, also called cabriole legs, or in the bolder Chippendale style. Chair backs are usually scrolled, crescent-shaped, or camel-shaped, giving them a more formal feel. Traditional Parsons chairs can have a full rim, tri-fold, or box fold for a more elegant look.
When choosing upholstery for a traditional-style Parsons chair, you have many options. Select a fabric that complements the color scheme and overall mood of the room. A safe idea is to pair a light fabric, either a solid color or with a subtle pattern, with a darker wood. Ivory, light blue, or soft green are great choices. Traditionally designed chairs can also withstand strong, rich color prints, such as large flowers, scroll patterns, teals, burgundy, dark blues, and gold. Nailhead trims, braided bands, and tassels are classic upholstery accents.
Modern style Parson chair
Both contemporary and modern furniture emphasize functionality and architectural inspiration. The design lines are sober and elegant, with little or no ornamentation. Parsons chairs are a natural match for these elegant and sophisticated styles. Choose a chair with a straight or simply rolled back. The curved sides are very modern and add immense visual interest. Legs must be straight edge, tapered or saber style. Both wooden legs and upholstered legs work well. If you want a skirted Parsons chair, go for a very simple design, such as a half skirt or pleat. Too many pleats or ruffles will break the clean lines that characterize the contemporary and modern style.
The names of today’s most popular modern contemporary fabric and wood finishes sound good enough to eat: espresso, cappuccino, and chocolate! The contemporary casual style has become fashionable and makes use of lighter woods such as oak in honey tones. Leather is the quintessential modern fabric, especially in a rich brown, black, or white. Vinyl and velvet microsuede are also effective options. Solid fabric colors are more common in modern contemporary styling, although some understated patterns can be used. Look for simple patterns based on geometry, like wide stripes and blocks. Ribbed bands around the seat give it extra punctuation and reflect the design lines of the chair.
Transitional Parson Chair
The transitional style has gained popularity in recent years, most likely due to its extreme versatility and adaptability. It is defined as a perfect blend of traditional and contemporary styles. As a result, it’s a “safe” decorating style that’s very easy to integrate with an existing room’s décor. For a transitional Parsons chair, pair a rounded top with straight-edged upholstered or wood legs. Skirts should be simple, such as a half skirt or pleated design. The transitional style generally uses lighter wood finishes like fruitwood, light oak, and maple. Contemporary fabric colors and patterns work best.
Tropical Style Parson Chair
These styles, which emphasize the use of natural materials, are extremely popular in today’s furniture market! Tropical furnishings help turn a home into a haven of tranquility, reminiscent of a relaxing island beach vacation. Tropical Parsons chairs are made from materials including rattan, wicker, bamboo, woven seaweed and abaca, in all their natural beauty and variations in color and texture. The upholstery is done in relaxing tones such as creams and light greens, or in safari, floral or palm leaf prints.
Cottage Style Parson’s Chair
Always a favorite, this style focuses on comfort and a vintage look. Parsons chairs can fit right in with a country house decor by selecting the right features. A ruffled skirt is ideal. For a Parsons chair with wooden legs, choose a curved leg with a distressed finish. The fabric should be a soft color, like a pastel or cream. Solids, light florals, pastel plaids, and plaid are all good choices.
Parson Casual Style Chair
This wraparound style often includes country and cottage elements. Look for straight or tapered legs, either wood or upholstered. Lighter finishes, such as natural, pine, or white, are your best options. Almost any upholstery will work, as long as it’s not too heavy or formal. Choose from solids, plaids, simple prints, florals, and even polka dots!