Notes on Arm Chairs
The arms of our dining chairs:
- support the elbows and forearms.
- allow the chair to tuck under tables when not in use.
- are integral to the architecture of the chair.
- are strongly anchored and attached.
Arm Height
We determined the location of the arms by testing, asking many people to sit and comment on various heights and shapes. We found that to be useful, dining chair arms need to be 9" above the seat. This optimum location for comfort and utility places the arms 27" from the floor.
Arm Length
Many tables have an apron which limits clearance above the floor to about 26". Chair arms at the optimum height will therefore contact table aprons. We do not extend the arms to the front of the seat for this reason. At table, they are long enough, just right.