Carlo Dining Chair

A side chair from Four Hands built on a solid oak frame, joined with mortise and tenon and reinforced with corner blocks. The seat sits on webbing under a foam-padded cushion, and the back is split so the upholstery shows through the gap. The cream fabric is a polyester and acrylic performance weave, made to take spills, stains and daily wear.

The Carlo is a quiet, modern chair with an armless profile and straight, uncomplicated lines. Toasted oak against cream gives it a tonal, natural look that sits easily beside round pedestal tables, stone tops, or a long trestle in a lighter wood. The split back is the one detail that sets it apart, and it keeps the silhouette from reading as flat.

Pull it up to a dining table where it will see weekday dinners and long Sunday meals, or use a pair at a kitchen island or a writing desk. The armless shape tucks under a table when not in use, and the fabric is built for rooms with children, wine and regular company. Wood tone and grain vary a little from chair to chair, which is part of working in solid oak.

Spot clean with a water-free (solvent-based) upholstery cleaner only; water can leave rings. Blot, don't rub, and test on a hidden spot first. Vacuum regularly, and call a professional upholstery cleaner for larger stains. Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth, and wipe up spills right away with a slightly damp cloth, then dry the surface fully. Use coasters and trivets under hot or wet items, and keep the piece out of direct sunlight and away from heat vents to prevent fading, warping, or cracking. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners and soaking the surface, especially on veneer, where moisture can lift the edges. Vacuum regularly with a soft brush attachment and blot spills right away with a clean cloth. Keep out of prolonged direct sun to prevent fading. Dust with a soft, dry cloth and wipe spills right away. Use coasters and placemats under hot or wet items. Avoid harsh cleaners and silicone polishes, and keep away from direct heat and prolonged sun. Dust with a soft, dry cloth and wipe spills right away; standing moisture can lift veneer. Use coasters under hot or wet items and avoid harsh cleaners.