Hearth And Hand Dining Chairs

Bringing Joanna Gaines’ Vision to Your Dining Room Without Breaking the Bank

When I first decided to revamp my dining room last spring, I found myself in that all-too-familiar position: scrolling endlessly through Pinterest, pinning countless farmhouse-chic dining spaces, and wondering how I could possibly recreate that warm, inviting aesthetic in my own home without emptying my bank account. That’s when I stumbled upon the Hearth and Hand collection, and specifically, their dining chairs. Let me tell you, it was love at first sight—and the beginning of a journey that transformed not just my dining space, but how my family interacts during mealtime.

After spending months researching, testing, and living with these chairs, I’ve compiled everything you need to know before making your purchase. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Magnolia aesthetic or just dipping your toes into the farmhouse style, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the world of Hearth and Hand dining chairs with confidence.

What Exactly Are Hearth and Hand Dining Chairs?

For those who may be new to the brand, Hearth and Hand is a collaboration between Target and Magnolia, the lifestyle brand created by Joanna and Chip Gaines of “Fixer Upper” fame. Launched in 2017, the collection embodies Joanna’s signature modern farmhouse aesthetic, blending rustic charm with contemporary simplicity.

Hearth and Hand dining chairs represent the perfect marriage of style, functionality, and affordability that has made the entire collection so beloved among home decorators. Each chair design seems to tell a story, connecting the past (with traditional silhouettes and timeless materials) with the present (through modern lines and practical features).

What sets these chairs apart from other budget-friendly options is their attention to detail. From the subtle curve of a Windsor-inspired backrest to the perfectly distressed finish on a wooden seat, these pieces bring Joanna’s design expertise into your home at a fraction of what you might expect to pay for designer furniture.

When I first unpacked my set of Windsor-style chairs, I was genuinely surprised by how substantial they felt—not at all like the flimsy, mass-produced furniture I’d expected at this price point. The craftsmanship was evident in the smooth joinery and carefully applied finish, making me feel like I’d scored a set of chairs that could have come from a high-end boutique.

Where to Find These Coveted Chairs

The good news is that finding Hearth and Hand dining chairs is relatively straightforward—the collection is exclusively available at Target. You can shop for these chairs in several ways:

In-store at Target locations nationwide, though selection may vary by location. I’ve found that larger Target stores typically have better displays where you can actually see and feel the chairs before purchasing.

Online at Target.com, where you’ll find the most comprehensive selection. The website often features chairs that may not be displayed in your local store.

Through the Target app, which sometimes offers exclusive deals and promotions.

Through the Magnolia website, which will redirect you to Target for purchasing.

A word of caution from my own experience: these chairs tend to sell out quickly, especially when new designs are released or during major sale events like Black Friday or Target’s semi-annual home sales. If you see a style you love, I wouldn’t recommend waiting too long to make your purchase.

When I was shopping for my Windsor-style chairs, I hesitated for a week, only to find them sold out when I returned. I ended up setting stock alerts through the Target app and snagged them when they were restocked three weeks later. Trust me, the wait was agonizing!

Budget Considerations: What to Expect to Pay

One of the most appealing aspects of the Hearth and Hand collection is its accessibility. These aren’t heirloom-quality pieces with heirloom-quality price tags, but they certainly look more expensive than they actually are.

Based on my research and personal shopping experience, here’s what you can expect to pay for Hearth and Hand dining chairs:

Basic wooden chairs typically range from $90-$130 per chair.
Upholstered options generally run between $120-$180 per chair.
Metal designs usually fall in the $100-$150 range.
Special or limited-edition designs may be priced higher, sometimes up to $200 per chair.

Most chairs are sold individually rather than in sets, allowing you to mix and match or purchase exactly the number you need. However, Target occasionally offers bundle pricing when you purchase multiple chairs, which can save you anywhere from 5-15% depending on the promotion.

I’ve also noticed that Target frequently includes Hearth and Hand furniture in their home sales, with discounts ranging from 15-30%. If you’re not in a rush, it might be worth waiting for one of these sales events. I managed to score my set of six Windsor chairs during a 25% off sale, which saved me nearly $200 total—enough to add that matching sideboard I’d been eyeing!

Materials and Construction: What You’re Really Getting

When it comes to furniture at this price point, understanding the materials used is crucial to setting realistic expectations about longevity and durability.

Hearth and Hand dining chairs typically feature the following materials:

Solid wood components (usually rubberwood, acacia, or pine) for key structural elements
Engineered wood or MDF (medium-density fiberboard) for some components
Metal elements, typically steel with various finishes
Upholstery fabrics ranging from cotton and linen blends to performance fabrics
Natural materials like rattan, cane, or woven seagrass in some designs

The construction quality is generally good for the price point, with proper joinery techniques and reinforcements where needed. Most chairs feature a combination of traditional woodworking methods (like mortise and tenon joints) supplemented with modern fasteners for added stability.

After owning my Windsor chairs for over a year now, I can attest that they’ve held up remarkably well to daily use. The joints remain tight, the finish has proven resistant to minor scratches, and they still look nearly as good as the day I unboxed them. That said, they don’t have the heft or absolute solidity of high-end chairs that might cost three or four times as much.

One thing to note: while the finishes are generally well-applied and even, they may not be as deep or rich as more expensive furniture. The white painted finishes, in particular, tend to be somewhat thinner, showing slight variations in tone when examined closely. I actually find this adds to their charm and handcrafted appearance, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re expecting furniture-showroom perfection.

The Comfort Factor: Form Meets Function

Let’s be honest—even the most beautiful dining chair isn’t worth buying if it’s uncomfortable to sit in. After all, these are pieces of furniture where you’ll potentially spend hours gathered around meals with family and friends.

In my experience, Hearth and Hand chairs strike a reasonable balance between style and comfort. The designs clearly prioritize aesthetic appeal, but not entirely at the expense of comfort.

The wooden chairs typically feature thoughtfully shaped seats that accommodate the natural contours of the body. Some designs, like the Windsor styles, include a subtle curve to the seat that makes a significant difference in comfort during longer sitting sessions.

Upholstered options naturally offer more cushioning, with most featuring medium-firm padding that provides support without excessive softness that might make it difficult to maintain proper posture while dining.

Backrests vary significantly across the collection. Some offer substantial lumbar support, while others are more decorative than functional. The Windsor-style chairs I purchased have a curved backrest with spindles that flex slightly, providing surprisingly good support for my lower back.

Seat height across the collection is fairly standard, ranging from 17-19 inches from the floor, which works well for most standard-height dining tables (28-30 inches tall).

For extended comfort, I found that adding small seat cushions to my wooden chairs made them comfortable enough for lengthy dinner parties. The best part? The simple design of the chairs means they look great with or without cushions, giving me the flexibility to change the look or comfort level depending on the occasion.

Style Varieties: Finding Your Perfect Match

One of the most impressive aspects of the Hearth and Hand dining chair collection is the range of styles available. While all the designs share a common design language that fits within the modern farmhouse aesthetic, there’s surprising variety to suit different tastes and dining spaces.

Some of the most popular style categories include:

Windsor-Inspired Chairs: These classic designs feature spindle backs and contoured wooden seats. My personal favorites (and what I ultimately chose for my dining room), these chairs add timeless charm to any space. They’re available in several variations, from traditional high-backed designs to more simplified interpretations.

Ladder-Back Chairs: Another traditional style featuring horizontal slats across the backrest. These tend to have a slightly more casual, country feel that works beautifully in kitchens or breakfast nooks.

Cross-Back (X-Back) Chairs: These feature an X-shaped detail on the backrest, offering a slightly more contemporary take on farmhouse style. They tend to look particularly striking in black finishes.

Metal Bistro Chairs: Industrial-inspired designs that introduce a different material and texture to the dining space. These work wonderfully as accent chairs or in full sets for a more eclectic look.

Upholstered Chairs: Available with various back styles, these chairs feature fabric seats and sometimes backs as well. They typically offer the most comfort and a slightly more formal appearance.

Bench Seating: While not chairs in the traditional sense, Hearth and Hand also offers dining benches that coordinate with many of their chair styles, allowing for mixed seating arrangements.

What I particularly appreciate about the collection is how easily the different styles can be mixed and matched. For my own dining room, I use Windsor-style side chairs with a slightly different Windsor-inspired armchair at each end of the table, creating a cohesive but visually interesting arrangement.

Sold Individually or in Sets: Flexibility for Your Space

As I mentioned earlier, Hearth and Hand dining chairs are primarily sold individually rather than in sets. While this might initially seem like an inconvenience, I’ve found it offers several advantages:

You can purchase exactly the number of chairs you need for your space, whether that’s four, six, or an odd number like five or seven.

It allows for creative mixing and matching of styles, such as using different chairs at the heads of the table or creating an eclectic collected-over-time look.

You can start with a smaller number of chairs and add more as your budget allows.

If a chair becomes damaged, you can replace just that chair rather than an entire set (assuming the style is still available).

That said, Target occasionally offers bundle pricing when you purchase multiple chairs of the same style, which can provide some savings. These bundles are typically offered as online-only promotions rather than being displayed as separate products.

When I was furnishing my dining room, I initially purchased four side chairs and later added two more when finances allowed. The individual purchasing option made this staggered approach much more feasible than if I’d been required to buy a complete set upfront.

Colors and Finishes: Beyond Basic White

While Joanna Gaines’ aesthetic is often associated with white and neutral tones, the Hearth and Hand dining chair collection offers a surprising range of colors and finishes to suit various design preferences.

The most common finishes include:

Whites and Off-Whites: From bright white to warm cream and antique white with subtle distressing.

Natural Wood Tones: Light oak, medium brown, and darker walnut finishes that showcase the wood grain.

Black and Charcoal: Sophisticated darker finishes that create dramatic contrast in lighter spaces.

Muted Colors: Sage green, navy blue, and muted teal occasionally appear in the collection, offering subtle color without overwhelming a space.

Mixed Finishes: Some designs feature two-tone approaches, such as white frames with natural wood seats or metal frames with wooden seat components.

The finish quality is generally good for the price point, with even application and appropriate sealing to protect against minor spills and wear. That said, these aren’t heirloom-quality finishes—they may show wear more quickly than high-end furniture, particularly in high-traffic dining areas.

In my own home, I opted for the Windsor chairs in a warm white finish with slight distressing. After a year of daily use, including meals with my messy nieces and nephews, they’ve developed a few additional “character marks,” but nothing that detracts from their overall appearance. In fact, I think they look better now with a bit of lived-in patina than they did when brand new.

Assembly Required: What to Expect

Like most furniture at this price point, Hearth and Hand dining chairs typically require some assembly. Based on my experience assembling six chairs (and helping two friends with their purchases), here’s what you can expect:

Most chairs arrive with the major components pre-assembled. For example, the seat and legs might be connected, requiring you only to attach the backrest.

The necessary hardware is included, along with reasonably clear instructions. Some designs may include an Allen wrench or other basic tools needed for assembly.

Assembly time varies by design but typically ranges from 15-30 minutes per chair for someone with basic DIY skills.

The quality of the pre-drilled holes and alignment is generally good, making assembly straightforward.

When I unpacked my Windsor chairs, I was pleasantly surprised by how much was already assembled. Each chair took me about 20 minutes to complete, and the process was intuitive enough that I was able to assemble the last few while watching TV. The pre-drilled holes aligned perfectly, and all necessary hardware was included and clearly labeled.

One tip from my experience: While it’s tempting to fully tighten each screw as you go, I found it helpful to leave everything slightly loose until all components were in place, then tighten everything systematically. This approach helped ensure proper alignment and prevented any wobbling in the finished chairs.

Dimensions and Space Planning

Before falling in love with a particular chair design, it’s crucial to consider whether it will fit properly in your space. Hearth and Hand dining chairs come in various sizes, though most fall within standard dining chair dimensions.

Typical measurements include:

Seat Height: Most chairs have seat heights between 17-19 inches from the floor, designed to work with standard dining tables (28-30 inches tall).

Overall Height: From floor to the top of the backrest, heights range from 33-42 inches depending on the design. Windsor and ladder-back styles tend to be taller, while cross-back and bistro styles are often shorter.

Seat Width: Most seats measure between 17-20 inches wide, providing comfortable accommodation for average adults.

Seat Depth: Typically 16-18 inches from the front edge to the backrest, offering sufficient support without being too deep for proper posture.

Overall Width: Including any arms or wider backrest elements, widths typically range from 18-22 inches.

For my dining room, which measures 12 feet by 14 feet, I found that the Windsor chairs (measuring approximately 20 inches wide, 20 inches deep, and 38 inches tall) allowed for comfortable seating for six around my 72-inch table. I made sure to leave at least 36 inches of clearance between the edge of the table and the walls to allow for easy movement around the space.

If you’re working with a smaller dining area, some of the more compact Hearth and Hand designs, like their metal bistro chairs or armless upholstered options, might be better suited to your space. Always measure your dining area and table before making a purchase, and remember to account for the space needed to pull chairs out and move around them comfortably.

Style Compatibility: Modern Farmhouse and Beyond

While Hearth and Hand is firmly rooted in the modern farmhouse aesthetic that made Joanna Gaines famous, many of their dining chair designs are versatile enough to work with other decorating styles.

In my experience, these chairs pair particularly well with:

Traditional Interiors: The Windsor and ladder-back styles have traditional roots that make them perfect companions for classic decorating schemes.

Modern Spaces: The cleaner-lined designs and mixed-material options can work surprisingly well in contemporary settings, especially when chosen in black or natural wood finishes.

Transitional Homes: The blend of traditional silhouettes with updated finishes makes these chairs perfect for bridging the gap between classic and contemporary.

Coastal Decor: The white and natural wood finishes complement coastal color palettes beautifully.

Industrial Styles: The metal chair options pair exceptionally well with industrial elements like exposed brick and reclaimed wood.

What I’ve found most surprising is how adaptable these chairs are to different decorating approaches. In my own home, which leans more transitional than strictly farmhouse, the Windsor chairs add just enough traditional character without feeling too theme-y or contrived. My sister, who has a much more minimalist aesthetic, purchased the same chairs in black and they look completely at home in her sleek, contemporary dining room.

Durability and Weight Capacity: Real-World Performance

When investing in dining chairs—even relatively affordable ones—you want to ensure they’ll stand up to daily use. Based on my own experience and research, here’s what you can expect in terms of durability and weight capacity:

Most Hearth and Hand wooden chairs have weight capacities between 250-300 pounds, which is standard for dining chairs in this price range.

The joinery and structural elements are generally well-engineered for normal use, though they may not withstand extraordinary stress or abuse.

Finishes hold up reasonably well to everyday wear, though they will show signs of use over time, particularly on the edges and corners where contact is most frequent.

Upholstered options feature decent-quality fabrics that resist minor spills and can be spot-cleaned, though they aren’t typically treated with high-end stain repellents.

In my household, which includes two adults who use the dining chairs daily plus frequent visits from family (including active children), the chairs have performed admirably over the past year. We haven’t experienced any structural issues, though the finish has worn slightly on the edges of the seats where contact is most frequent.

I should note that we’re fairly careful with our furniture—we use coasters, wipe up spills promptly, and don’t allow jumping or standing on the chairs. With reasonable care, I expect these chairs to last 5-7 years before showing significant wear, which I consider excellent value for the price point.

Upholstered Options: Comfort Meets Style

For those prioritizing comfort or seeking a slightly more formal look, Hearth and Hand offers several upholstered dining chair options. These designs typically feature wooden frames with padded seats, though some styles include fully upholstered backs as well.

The upholstery materials vary but commonly include:

Cotton and linen blends in neutral tones like cream, beige, gray, and occasionally navy or sage green
Performance fabrics with greater stain and wear resistance
Textured weaves that add visual interest while hiding minor soiling

The upholstered options I’ve examined in stores feature medium-firm cushioning—comfortable enough for extended sitting without being so soft that you sink in too deeply for proper dining posture. The fabric quality is good for the price point, though not comparable to high-end furniture with designer textiles.

If you’re considering upholstered Hearth and Hand chairs for a household with young children or frequent entertaining, I’d recommend looking for options with removable seat cushions or covers that can be more easily cleaned. Alternatively, you might consider wooden chairs with separate cushions that can be replaced if necessary.

I ultimately chose non-upholstered chairs for my dining room due to their versatility and ease of cleaning, but my neighbor purchased the Hearth and Hand upholstered Windsor chairs and has been very pleased with their comfort and durability, even with two teenage children in the house.

Target Exclusivity and Availability

As mentioned earlier, Hearth and Hand is exclusively available at Target, which has both advantages and limitations:

Advantages:

• Widespread availability through Target’s extensive retail network
• Ability to see many pieces in person at Target stores
• Integration with Target’s reliable shipping and return policies
• Opportunity to use Target RedCard for 5% savings
• Inclusion in Target’s frequent home sales and promotions

Limitations:

• Selection may vary significantly between stores
• Popular styles frequently sell out, sometimes for extended periods
• Limited-edition or seasonal designs may not be restocked once sold out
• Fewer customization options compared to made-to-order furniture

In my shopping experience, I’ve found that Target’s online inventory is far more comprehensive than what’s typically displayed in stores. The website also offers helpful features like stock alerts when items are replenished and the ability to check in-store availability at locations near you.

If you’re set on a particular chair style, I recommend setting up stock notifications and being prepared to purchase promptly when they become available. When I was shopping for my chairs, I missed out initially because I hesitated, but was able to complete my set by acting quickly when stock alerts notified me of a restock.

Comparison with Other Brands

How do Hearth and Hand dining chairs stack up against the competition? After researching extensively before my purchase and now having lived with these chairs for over a year, here’s my assessment:

Compared to Other Target Brands (Threshold, Project 62, etc.):
Hearth and Hand generally offers better construction quality and more distinctive design elements. The price point is typically 10-20% higher than Target’s other house brands, but the design cohesion and attention to detail justify the premium.

Compared to Budget Retailers (IKEA, Wayfair Basics, etc.):
Hearth and Hand chairs are generally more expensive than entry-level options from budget retailers but offer noticeably better materials and construction. The design aesthetic is also more distinctive and consistent.

Compared to Mid-Range Furniture Retailers (Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrel, etc.):
While not matching the material quality or construction of these higher-end retailers, Hearth and Hand offers remarkably similar aesthetic appeal at roughly 30-50% of the price. For style-conscious shoppers on a budget, they represent an excellent compromise.

Compared to Artisan or Custom Furniture:
There’s no comparison in terms of quality, materials, or customization options—handcrafted chairs from skilled artisans are in an entirely different category. However, for the vast majority of consumers who can’t justify spending $500+ per dining chair, Hearth and Hand offers accessible style with acceptable quality.

In my case, I was deciding between Hearth and Hand chairs at approximately $120 each and similar-looking Windsor chairs from Pottery Barn at $299 each. After examining both in person, I determined that while the Pottery Barn chairs were indeed superior in terms of solid wood construction and finish depth, they weren’t worth the 150% price premium for my needs and budget.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Considerations

For environmentally conscious consumers, furniture purchases involve considerations beyond just style and price. How do Hearth and Hand dining chairs measure up in terms of sustainability?

Based on my research, the brand makes some efforts toward environmental responsibility, though they’re not positioning themselves as an eco-focused brand:

Many wooden components use rubberwood, a relatively sustainable choice as it’s harvested from trees that have completed their latex-producing lifecycle.

Packaging materials typically include recyclable cardboard with minimal plastic, though plastic air pillows are sometimes used for added protection.

Some finishes are low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds), though this isn’t consistently advertised across all products.

The durability and classic styling promote longer use cycles, reducing the frequency of furniture disposal.

That said, these are mass-produced items manufactured overseas, so they do involve significant transportation carbon footprints and may not meet the highest standards for sustainable production processes.

If environmental impact is your primary concern, locally made solid wood furniture from certified sustainable sources would be a better choice, though at a significantly higher price point. For budget-conscious consumers who still care about making relatively responsible choices, Hearth and Hand represents a reasonable middle ground.

Practical Considerations: Stackability and Storage

If you’re working with a smaller space or need flexibility for entertaining, the stackability of dining chairs might be an important consideration. While not all Hearth and Hand chairs are designed to stack, several models do offer this functionality:

The metal bistro-style chairs are typically stackable for storage.
Some of the simpler wooden designs with straight legs can be stacked in limited quantities (usually 2-3 high).
Most of the Windsor, ladder-back, and cross-back designs are not stackable due to their curved elements and structure.

My Windsor chairs are definitely not stackable, but this wasn’t a concern for my space since they remain around the dining table permanently. If you frequently need to clear floor space or store extra dining chairs, look specifically for designs that mention stackability in their product descriptions, or consider the metal chair options which are more likely to offer this feature.

Coordinating Pieces: Creating a Cohesive Dining Space

One of the strengths of the Hearth and Hand collection is the availability of coordinating furniture pieces that allow you to create a cohesive dining area. Depending on the chair style you select, you may find matching or complementary:

Dining tables in various sizes and shapes
Dining benches that can be used in lieu of chairs on one side of the table
Buffets and sideboards for additional storage
Bar and counter-height stools in coordinating designs
China cabinets and display shelving

I particularly appreciate how thoughtfully designed the collection is for mix-and-match versatility. When I purchased my Windsor chairs, I was also able to find a perfectly coordinating sideboard that shares similar design elements while not being slavishly identical.

For those who prefer a more collected or eclectic look, the neutral finishes and classic design elements of most Hearth and Hand chairs also pair beautifully with vintage or antique tables, creating an interesting juxtaposition of old and new.

Finding Deals: Maximizing Value

As a budget-conscious shopper, I’m always looking for ways to maximize value, and I’ve discovered several strategies for saving on Hearth and Hand dining chairs:

Target Circle Offers: Join Target’s free loyalty program to access exclusive deals, which sometimes include Hearth and Hand items.

Seasonal Sales: Target typically runs major home sales in January/February and again in July/August, often including 20-30% discounts on furniture.

RedCard Savings: Target’s credit or debit RedCard provides 5% off all purchases, which can add up significantly on multiple chairs.

Floor Models: Occasionally, display models may be sold at a discount, particularly when styles are being discontinued.

Combination Discounts: Watch for promotions that offer discounts when purchasing multiple pieces, such as “save $X when you spend $Y on furniture.”

Clearance Opportunities: End-of-season or when styles are being phased out, remaining stock may be deeply discounted.

I purchased my chairs during a January home sale with 25% off, plus used my RedCard for an additional 5% discount, bringing the price per chair down from $129 to about $92—a significant savings that allowed me to purchase six chairs instead of the four I had originally budgeted for.

Final Thoughts: Are Hearth and Hand Dining Chairs Worth It?

After living with my Hearth and Hand dining chairs for over a year and extensively researching the broader collection, I can offer this conclusion: for style-conscious consumers with moderate budgets, these chairs represent excellent value.

They successfully deliver the aesthetic appeal of much more expensive designer furniture at an accessible price point, with acceptable quality for everyday household use. While they won’t become family heirlooms passed down through generations, they provide a practical way to achieve a designer look without excessive investment.

What I’ve come to appreciate most about these chairs is how they’ve transformed our dining experience. The comfortable, attractive seating has encouraged longer family meals, more frequent dinner parties, and even using the dining table for activities beyond eating—from board games to homework sessions. In that sense, they’ve proved to be not just furniture but facilitators of the kind of home life I aspired to create.

If you’re considering Hearth and Hand dining chairs for your own home, I encourage you to visit a Target store if possible to see and feel the chairs in person. Consider how they’ll be used in your household, measure your space carefully, and don’t hesitate when you find a style you love—the popular designs tend to sell quickly!

Remember that furniture at this price point will involve some compromises compared to high-end pieces, but with reasonable expectations and proper care, Hearth and Hand dining chairs can provide years of both aesthetic pleasure and practical functionality for your home.

What started as a simple furniture purchase for me has evolved into a deeper appreciation for thoughtful design at accessible price points. Whether you’re furnishing your first home or refreshing a well-established space, these chairs offer a compelling blend of style, function, and value that’s hard to beat in today’s market.