Hearth And Hand Chairs

Finding Your Perfect Seat in the Magnolia Magic

When it comes to creating that perfect cozy corner or completing your dining room set, nothing transforms a space quite like the right chair. I still remember the day I stumbled upon my first Hearth and Hand chair at Target. There I was, aimlessly wandering the home section when this beautifully crafted farmhouse-style accent chair caught my eye. Five years and several Hearth and Hand purchases later, I’m here to share everything I’ve learned about these gems of the furniture world.

If you’re considering adding one (or several) Hearth and Hand chairs to your home, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into the world of Joanna Gaines’ tasteful designs and discover which piece might be the perfect fit for your space.

The Hearth and Hand Aesthetic: Modern Farmhouse Perfection

Hearth and Hand with Magnolia, the brainchild of Joanna Gaines in partnership with Target, has redefined what accessible, stylish home furnishings look like. The chair collection embodies that signature modern farmhouse aesthetic that has taken the design world by storm over the past decade.

What makes these chairs special is their ability to bridge the gap between rustic charm and contemporary sensibility. Unlike overly distressed farmhouse pieces that can sometimes feel like caricatures of country living, Hearth and Hand chairs strike that perfect balance between homey and sophisticated.

I remember redecorating my living room last fall and debating between a trendy velvet chair from a high-end retailer and a Hearth and Hand accent chair with wooden legs and a neutral upholstery. The Hearth and Hand piece won out, and I’m still grateful for that decision. It has this timeless quality that doesn’t scream “I’m trying too hard to be farmhouse!” but rather whispers, “I’m comfortable, well-made, and here to stay.”

Style Varieties: More Options Than You Might Expect

When many people think of Hearth and Hand chairs, they immediately picture simple wooden dining chairs with that quintessential Windsor-inspired silhouette. While those are certainly available (and gorgeous), the collection offers a surprisingly diverse range of styles:

Dining Chairs

The dining chair selection is where Hearth and Hand truly shines. From ladder-back designs to Windsor-inspired silhouettes, there’s something for every table. The Windsor-style chairs feature that classic spindle back that’s been popular since the 18th century, but with modern proportions and finishes that work in contemporary homes.

I opted for a set of four black Windsor-style chairs for my own dining room, and they’ve completely transformed the space. The contrast against my light oak table creates that perfect modern farmhouse vibe without feeling themed or forced.

The X-back dining chairs are another popular option, offering slightly more back support with their crisscross design. These tend to have a bit more heft to them, which can be great if you have active kids or frequently host dinner parties where chairs get moved around a lot.

Accent Chairs

For living spaces, Hearth and Hand offers several accent chair options that work beautifully as statement pieces. From upholstered armchairs perfect for reading nooks to more streamlined slipper chairs that can tuck into smaller spaces, the variety is impressive.

My personal favorite is their barrel accent chair, which I have in my home office. The rounded back creates this cocoon-like feeling that’s perfect for those long work-from-home days, and the neutral linen-like upholstery blends with virtually any color scheme.

Barstools and Counter Stools

The barstool collection deserves special mention because it solves a problem many homeowners face: finding affordable, stylish seating for kitchen islands and breakfast bars. The Hearth and Hand barstools come in various heights (make sure to measure your counter height before purchasing!) and styles ranging from industrial metal to warm wood.

I recently helped my sister select counter stools for her newly renovated kitchen, and we went with the backless wooden Hearth and Hand stools. They tuck neatly under her island when not in use, and the simple design doesn’t compete with her statement pendant lights.

Outdoor Chairs

Yes, Hearth and Hand has ventured into outdoor furniture territory as well! Their metal bistro chairs have that perfect Parisian café vibe, while their wooden Adirondack-inspired pieces bring a touch of lakeside leisure to any patio.

Last summer, I added two of their metal bistro chairs to my small balcony, creating a perfect morning coffee spot. Despite being exposed to the elements (I live in a rainy climate), they’ve held up remarkably well with just a quick wipe down before use.

Materials: Quality You Can Feel

One of the questions I’m asked most frequently about Hearth and Hand chairs is whether the quality matches the aesthetic. After years of personal use and recommending them to friends and family, I can confidently say that the materials used in Hearth and Hand chairs offer exceptional value for their price point.

Wood Options

The wooden chairs typically use solid wood for the frames and structural elements, with popular choices including:

• Oak: Light in color with visible grain, perfect for creating that airy farmhouse feel
• Acacia: Slightly darker with interesting grain patterns, extremely durable
• Rubberwood: Sustainable and sturdy, often used in painted pieces

My dining chairs have endured countless dinner parties, holiday gatherings, and everyday use for over three years now, with only minimal signs of wear at the joints – impressive for chairs that see daily use.

Upholstery Fabrics

For upholstered pieces, Hearth and Hand typically uses:

• Cotton blends: Breathable and easy to spot clean
• Linen-look polyester: More durable than pure linen but with a similar texture
• Performance fabrics on newer models: Specially treated to resist stains

The fabric on my barrel chair has withstood countless coffee spills (I’m notoriously clumsy before my morning caffeine) and still looks presentable. The key is immediate spot cleaning – don’t let spills set!

Metal Elements

Some Hearth and Hand chairs incorporate metal elements, particularly in industrial-inspired pieces or as accents. These typically feature:

• Powder-coated steel: Resistant to rust and scratches
• Cast iron: Heavier but incredibly durable
• Brass or bronze-finished hardware: Adds warmth to otherwise cool metal pieces

The metal components on my bistro chairs have developed a slight patina over time, which I actually prefer to the original finish – it gives them character and that lived-in look that feels authentic rather than mass-produced.

Price Points: Affordable Luxury

Let’s talk money – because no matter how beautiful a chair is, if it’s not in your budget, it’s not the right chair for you. One of the most appealing aspects of the Hearth and Hand collection is its accessibility. These are not heirloom-priced pieces that require a second mortgage, but they’re not disposable furniture either.

Dining Chairs

Individual dining chairs typically range from $99 to $149, with some simpler designs occasionally dipping below $90 during sales. Sets of four usually offer a slight discount compared to buying individually.

When I purchased my set of four dining chairs, I waited for Target’s seasonal home sale and saved about 20% – bringing the cost to approximately $320 for the set, which felt like an absolute steal given their quality and design.

Accent Chairs

The larger upholstered accent chairs are naturally more expensive, typically ranging from $229 to $349 depending on the complexity of design and materials used.

My barrel chair was on the higher end of this spectrum at $329, but considering comparable chairs from West Elm or Pottery Barn would easily run $700+, it felt like a reasonable investment for a piece I use daily.

Barstools and Counter Stools

These typically fall in the $79 to $129 range for individual stools, with some of the more elaborate designs with backs and upholstery reaching up to $169.

Outdoor Chairs

The outdoor collection typically ranges from $89 to $199 per chair, with the metal bistro chairs on the lower end and the more substantial Adirondack-style chairs commanding higher prices.

My metal bistro chairs were $89 each, which felt reasonable for pieces that have now survived two summers and still look presentable.

Where to Buy: Beyond the Target Aisles

While Target is the exclusive retailer for Hearth and Hand products (it’s their partnership with Magnolia, after all), there are several ways to purchase these chairs:

In-Store at Target

Nothing beats seeing and feeling furniture in person before buying. Many Target locations have Hearth and Hand display areas where you can test out the chairs for comfort and see how the colors look in real lighting (which is always different from website photos).

I’m fortunate to have a Target with an extensive home section nearby, and I always recommend checking there first if possible. Being able to sit in my barrel chair before purchasing was crucial – I almost went with a different style until I realized how perfectly the barrel design fit my body.

Target.com

The online selection is typically more extensive than what’s available in stores. The website also offers helpful features like 360-degree views of some pieces and customer reviews.

When I helped my sister with her counter stools, we browsed in-store but ultimately ordered online since her preferred color wasn’t available at our local Target.

Target App

The Target app sometimes offers exclusive discounts or early access to new Hearth and Hand releases. If you’re a regular Target shopper, it’s worth downloading.

Secondhand Markets

Due to their popularity, Hearth and Hand chairs frequently appear on marketplace sites like Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, and even eBay. This can be a great way to score discontinued styles or colors.

I found a set of two discontinued Hearth and Hand cane-back dining chairs on Facebook Marketplace last year for just $120 total – less than the price of a single new chair. They needed a slight tightening of the screws but were otherwise in perfect condition.

Comfort: Form Meets Function

Style is important, but a chair that looks beautiful yet feels like sitting on medieval torture device isn’t worth having. Comfort is subjective, of course, but I can share my experiences and those of friends who own various Hearth and Hand chairs.

Dining Chairs

The wooden dining chairs prioritize good posture over sink-in comfort, as you’d expect from pieces designed for meals rather than lounging. That said, they’re more comfortable than many comparable dining chairs I’ve tried.

The Windsor-style chairs have that classic curved seat that accommodates the natural shape of your body better than flat seats. After two-hour dinner parties, my guests are still comfortable enough to linger for dessert and coffee.

For all-day comfort, consider adding seat cushions – Hearth and Hand makes coordinating ones, or you can mix and match with other designs for a more eclectic look.

Accent Chairs

The upholstered accent chairs are where comfort becomes a priority. My barrel chair provides excellent back support while still being soft enough for curling up with a book.

The armchairs tend to have medium-firm cushioning that strikes a balance between support and softness. They’re not the sink-in-and-disappear type of chairs (look to cloud couches for that experience), but rather the “I can sit here for hours working on my laptop” kind of comfort.

Barstools and Counter Stools

Comfort in barstools largely depends on whether you choose a backed or backless model. The backless stools are fine for quick meals but can become uncomfortable for extended periods.

My sister’s backless counter stools work perfectly for her family’s quick breakfasts, but when they entertain and people sit at the island for longer, she brings out cushions to add comfort.

The backed barstools, especially those with some padding, can be surprisingly comfortable even for longer gatherings. The height is key here – make sure to measure your counter height and compare it to the stool measurements to ensure proper ergonomics.

Assembly: From Box to Beautiful

Let’s address the elephant in the room – assembly. Most Hearth and Hand chairs require some level of assembly, which can range from attaching a few legs to a more involved process with multiple components.

What to Expect

In my experience, most Hearth and Hand chairs come with clear instructions and all necessary hardware. The dining chairs typically require the most assembly, while some accent chairs might arrive with just the legs needing to be attached.

My dining chairs took about 30 minutes each for assembly, though I got faster with each successive chair. The most crucial element is having enough space to lay out all the pieces and work uninterrupted.

Tools Needed

While most Hearth and Hand furniture comes with the basic tools needed (typically an Allen wrench), having your own set of tools can make the process easier:

• Phillips screwdriver
• Rubber mallet (for gently tapping pieces together)
• Battery-powered drill (optional but saves time and wrist strain)

Assembly Tips

From someone who has assembled more than her fair share of these chairs:

1. Unbox everything in the room where the chair will live to avoid having to move fully assembled pieces through doorways
2. Count all hardware pieces before starting to ensure nothing is missing
3. Don’t fully tighten screws until all pieces are in place and aligned
4. Follow the instructions in order – they’re sequenced for a reason
5. If something doesn’t fit, don’t force it – double-check the instructions

The barrel chair I mentioned earlier arrived with just the legs needing attachment – a 10-minute job that even the most assembly-averse person could handle. The dining chairs were more involved but still manageable for one person with basic DIY skills.

Dimensions: Will They Fit Your Space?

Before falling in love with any chair, you need to ensure it will actually fit in your space. Here’s a general guide to Hearth and Hand chair dimensions, though exact measurements vary by model:

Dining Chairs

• Seat height: Typically 17-19 inches from the floor
• Overall height: Usually 35-39 inches
• Width: Most are 18-20 inches wide
• Depth: Generally 20-22 inches

My Windsor-style dining chairs have a seat height of 18 inches, which pairs perfectly with my 30-inch high dining table. The standard rule of thumb is to allow 10-12 inches between the seat height and table surface for comfortable dining.

Accent Chairs

• Seat height: Usually 17-19 inches
• Overall height: Typically 30-36 inches
• Width: Can range from 25-32 inches
• Depth: Generally 27-32 inches

My barrel chair is on the more compact side at 28 inches wide, which made it perfect for the small reading nook in my office. Always measure your available space and account for clearance around the chair for comfortable movement.

Barstools and Counter Stools

Hearth and Hand typically offers two height options:

• Counter height: Seat is 24-26 inches from the floor
• Bar height: Seat is 28-30 inches from the floor

Measuring your counter or bar height is crucial here – counter-height surfaces are typically 35-37 inches high, while bar-height surfaces are 41-43 inches high.

Outdoor Durability: Weather the Elements

If you’re considering Hearth and Hand outdoor chairs, you’re probably wondering about their durability in various weather conditions. While they’re designed for outdoor use, their longevity will depend on your climate and how you care for them.

Weather Resistance

The metal bistro chairs have powder-coated finishes that resist rust and fading, though extreme conditions will eventually take a toll. My pair has weathered two rainy Pacific Northwest summers with minimal care.

The wooden outdoor pieces typically use acacia wood, which has natural resistance to moisture and insects. However, like all wooden outdoor furniture, they benefit from regular sealing or oiling.

Seasonal Storage

In harsh winter climates, storing outdoor chairs indoors or under protective covers will significantly extend their lifespan. Even the most weather-resistant materials will degrade faster when exposed to snow, ice, and freezing temperatures.

I bring my bistro chairs inside during the winter months, which isn’t a huge inconvenience given their compact size and lightweight construction.

Cleaning and Maintenance: Keeping Them Looking Fresh

Different materials require different care approaches. Here’s how I maintain my various Hearth and Hand chairs:

Wooden Chairs

For my wooden dining chairs, I:

• Dust weekly with a soft cloth
• Wipe down with a slightly damp cloth when needed
• Apply furniture polish once every few months
• Tighten screws periodically, especially after heavy use

Upholstered Pieces

For my upholstered barrel chair:

• Vacuum with an upholstery attachment regularly
• Treat spills immediately with a clean, dry cloth
• Use fabric-appropriate spot cleaners for stains
• Once yearly, I use a rented upholstery cleaner for a deeper clean

Metal Chairs

For my outdoor metal bistro chairs:

• Wipe with a damp cloth to remove dust and pollen
• Use mild soap and water for more stubborn dirt
• Touch up any chips in the paint promptly to prevent rust
• Apply a thin coat of car wax once a season to help moisture bead off

Color Options: Beyond Basic White

While Hearth and Hand is known for its neutral palette, the chair collection offers more color variety than you might expect:

Wood Finishes

The wooden chairs typically come in:

• Natural oak or light wood tones
• Medium-tone brown finishes
• Black or charcoal painted finishes
• White or cream painted finishes
• Occasionally, limited-edition colors like sage green or navy

I chose black dining chairs specifically because they create contrast with my light oak table and white walls. The contrast draws attention to their beautiful silhouettes.

Upholstery Colors

For upholstered pieces, common options include:

• Cream and off-white
• Light beige and tan
• Charcoal and gray
• Occasional seasonal colors like forest green or rust

My barrel chair is in a warm oatmeal color that acts as a neutral but has enough warmth to feel inviting rather than stark.

Metal Finishes

The metal chairs typically come in:

• Matte black
• White
• Bronze or brass tones
• Occasionally, seasonal colors like olive green or deep red

My bistro chairs are in the classic matte black, which creates a nice contrast against my wooden deck and coordinates well with the black hardware on my exterior doors.

Dining Room Compatibility: Setting the Table

Hearth and Hand dining chairs are designed to work with a variety of table styles, not just farmhouse tables. Here’s how to know if they’ll work with your existing dining setup:

Table Height Compatibility

Standard dining tables are typically 28-30 inches high, which pairs perfectly with the standard 17-19 inch seat height of most Hearth and Hand dining chairs.

Style Mixing

Don’t feel confined to matching your chairs to your table style exactly. Some of the most interesting dining rooms mix elements:

• Windsor chairs look stunning with a modern concrete-top table
• X-back chairs pair beautifully with traditional cherry wood tables
• The simpler wooden designs work with almost any table style from mid-century to traditional

In my own home, I’ve paired black Windsor-inspired chairs with a light oak table that has somewhat mid-century lines. The contrast in styles creates visual interest while the scale and proportions work harmoniously together.

Customer Reviews: The Real-World Experience

Before purchasing my first Hearth and Hand chairs, I dove deep into customer reviews. The general consensus across multiple pieces seems to be:

Strengths Consistently Mentioned

• Aesthetic appeal: Nearly all reviews praise the design and appearance
• Value for money: Most feel the quality exceeds expectations for the price
• Sturdiness: Particularly for the wooden dining chairs
• Versatility: Many reviewers mention using the chairs in multiple rooms

Common Criticisms

• Assembly instructions could be clearer for some models
• Some upholstered pieces may have slightly uneven stitching
• Wooden chairs occasionally arrive with minor scratches
• Limited color options for some styles

My own experience aligns with these general trends. The aesthetic and quality have exceeded my expectations, particularly given the price point, though the assembly instructions for my dining chairs did require careful reading and a bit of intuition.

Brand Comparisons: How Do They Stack Up?

It’s natural to wonder how Hearth and Hand chairs compare to other popular brands at similar price points. Here’s my assessment after owning pieces from several different companies:

vs. IKEA

• Higher quality materials than most IKEA chairs
• More distinctive design aesthetic
• Slightly higher price point but generally better durability
• Less variety in styles but more cohesive design language

vs. World Market

• Similar price points
• Hearth and Hand tends toward more minimalist designs
• World Market offers more global-inspired options
• Comparable quality with Hearth and Hand having a slight edge in construction

vs. Pottery Barn

• Hearth and Hand offers similar aesthetic at roughly half the price
• Pottery Barn may have slightly more substantial construction
• Hearth and Hand has more frequent design refreshes
• Pottery Barn offers more customization options

I’ve owned dining chairs from both IKEA and Pottery Barn in the past, and my Hearth and Hand set hits the sweet spot between them – better quality than IKEA but without the premium price of Pottery Barn.

Cushions and Comfort Add-Ons

Many Hearth and Hand wooden chairs are designed to be used with cushions, either included or sold separately:

Included Cushions

Some accent chairs and dining chairs come with attached or loose cushions. In my experience, these tend to be well-made with good density that doesn’t compress too quickly with use.

Add-On Options

For wooden dining chairs without cushions, Hearth and Hand offers coordinating seat cushions that attach with ties or velcro. These typically cost $15-25 per cushion and come in fabrics designed to complement the chair finishes.

I added cushions to my dining chairs after about a year of use – not because they were uncomfortable without them, but because I wanted to introduce some textile elements and softness to my dining area.

Durability for Long-Term Use

After several years of owning various Hearth and Hand chairs, I can speak to their long-term durability:

What Holds Up Best

• Solid wood frames maintain their integrity with proper care
• Metal joints and hardware show minimal wear
• Upholstery resists pilling better than many competitors at this price point
• Painted finishes remain vibrant with normal use

Potential Wear Points

• Chair joints may loosen over time and require occasional tightening
• Seat edges on wooden chairs can show wear from sliding in and out
• Some lighter upholstery fabrics may show discoloration if not promptly cleaned after spills

My dining chairs are approaching their fourth year of daily use and still look presentable enough for company. The joints have needed tightening once, and there’s some minimal wear on the paint where the chairs tuck under the table, but otherwise, they’ve maintained their appearance and functionality remarkably well.

Styling Tips: Creating a Cohesive Look

One of the greatest strengths of Hearth and Hand chairs is their versatility. Here are some ways I’ve styled mine and seen others use them effectively:

Dining Room Ideas

• Mix and match chair styles for an eclectic look – perhaps Windsor styles at the heads of the table with simpler designs for side chairs
• Add textile interest with seat cushions in complementary patterns
• Create contrast between table and chair finishes
• Consider bench seating on one side with chairs on the other

Living Room Placement

• Use accent chairs to create conversation areas
• Place a statement chair in an otherwise empty corner with a small side table and lamp
• Create a reading nook with a chair, ottoman, and good lighting
• Use a pair of chairs instead of a loveseat in smaller spaces

Unexpected Locations

• A wooden dining chair makes a perfect vanity seat in a bedroom
• An accent chair in an entryway creates a practical spot for putting on shoes
• A small-scale chair can transform an awkward landing on stairs into a usable space
• Counter stools can double as plant stands when not in use

In my own home, I’ve used a spare dining chair as a bedside table by adding a small tray on the seat – it adds character while providing a surface for books and a glass of water.

Finding Deals: Maximizing Your Budget

If you’re looking to save on Hearth and Hand chairs, here are my tried-and-true strategies:

Seasonal Sales

Target typically runs home sales several times a year, often coinciding with:

• January/February “refresh your space” promotions
• Spring cleaning season (March/April)
• Back-to-college time (July/August)
• Black Friday/holiday season

I purchased my dining set during a January sale and saved about 20% off the regular price.

Target Circle Offers

The free Target loyalty program frequently offers percentage-off deals on home goods, including Hearth and Hand. Combining these with sales can lead to substantial savings.

Clearance Finds

End-of-season clearance can be a goldmine for Hearth and Hand chairs, particularly as they refresh their collection. The downside is limited selection, but the savings can be significant (often 30-50% off).

I found my barrel chair on clearance when the fabric was being discontinued – the new version was nearly identical but with slightly different upholstery. The $110 savings was well worth accepting the “outdated” fabric (which, ironically, I preferred anyway).

Floor Models

Occasionally, display models are sold at a discount. These may have minor wear but can be significantly cheaper. Always inspect carefully before purchasing.

Storage Solutions: When Space Is Limited

Some Hearth and Hand chairs are designed with space-saving features:

Stackable Options

Several of the simpler wooden dining chairs and metal bistro chairs can be stacked for storage. This is particularly useful for:

• Small apartments
• Chairs kept on hand for entertaining
• Seasonal outdoor seating

Folding Designs

A few models, particularly in the outdoor collection, fold flat for off-season storage or to create space when needed.

Nesting Potential

Some of the accent chair and ottoman combinations are designed to nest together, taking up less floor space when not in use.

While my main dining chairs don’t stack, I do have a pair of the metal bistro chairs that stack neatly in my storage closet during winter months, taking up minimal space.

Coordination with Other Hearth and Hand Pieces

One of the strengths of the Hearth and Hand collection is how well the pieces work together:

Color Coordination

The limited color palette ensures that even pieces from different seasons or years tend to work harmoniously together.

Complementary Designs

The design language remains consistent across the collection, with recurring elements like spindles, X-backs, and similar proportions.

Mixing Collections

Don’t feel limited to one style family – mixing different Hearth and Hand pieces often creates more interesting spaces than perfectly matched sets.

In my dining room, I paired my Windsor-style chairs with a Hearth and Hand buffet from a different collection. They weren’t designed as a set, but the shared design elements and finish create a cohesive look that feels intentional rather than matchy-matchy.

Ergonomics: Support Where You Need It

Different Hearth and Hand chairs offer varying levels of ergonomic support:

Dining Posture

The dining chairs generally promote good posture with:

• Slightly angled backs that support the natural curve of the spine
• Seat heights that allow feet to rest flat on the floor
• Seat depths that accommodate most body types without cutting into the legs

Lounging Comfort

The accent chairs typically offer:

• Deeper seats for relaxed sitting
• Armrests at comfortable heights (typically 7-9 inches above the seat)
• Back heights that support the upper back and sometimes the head

Work-From-Home Considerations

If you’re looking for a chair for a home office or work area:

• The upright dining chairs can work for shorter periods
• The more substantial accent chairs with good back support are better for longer sessions
• Consider adding a small lumbar pillow to increase comfort for extended use

My barrel chair wasn’t specifically designed as an office chair, but with the addition of a small lumbar cushion, it’s become my preferred spot for afternoon work sessions when I need a change of scenery from my desk.

Final Thoughts: Are Hearth and Hand Chairs Worth It?

After living with various Hearth and Hand chairs for several years and helping numerous friends and family members select their own, I can confidently say that these chairs offer exceptional value for anyone seeking quality, style, and affordability in home furnishings.

What makes them special isn’t any single revolutionary feature, but rather the thoughtful combination of good design, quality materials, accessible price points, and versatile styling potential. They manage to look both current and timeless, trendy without being faddy.

For my own home, they’ve been the perfect middle ground – better quality than budget furniture that needs replacing every few years, but without the investment required for high-end pieces. They’ve weathered daily use, countless gatherings, a move, and even a rambunctious nephew who treats chairs more like jungle gyms than seating.

Whether you’re furnishing your first apartment, upgrading your family home, or just looking to refresh a tired space, Hearth and Hand chairs deserve a place on your consideration list. And if my experience is any indication, they’ll likely earn a place in your home as well – and stay there for years to come.