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Beyond ChiavariEvent Rentals · Chicago

Chair comparison

Rattan Garden vs Mid-Century Shell: Which Chair to Rent?

Rattan Garden Chair is hand-woven texture for boho and garden parties. Mid-Century Shell Chair is molded shell, wood legs, modern and comfortable. Here is how they compare on cost, comfort, weather and where each looks best.

Rattan Garden Chair for rent in Chicago: hand-woven texture for boho and garden parties. Shown in honey; also available in honey, white wash.
Rattan Garden Chair
Mid-Century Shell Chair for rent in Chicago: molded shell, wood legs, modern and comfortable. Shown in white; also available in white, terracotta, sage, black.
Mid-Century Shell Chair
Side by side: the Rattan Garden Chair (left) and the Mid-Century Shell Chair (right).

Side by side

FeatureRattan GardenMid-Century Shell
Estimated price$12–16 per chair$9–12 per chair
StylesBoho, GardenModern, Minimalist
Best forReception, Cocktail & lounge, CeremonyReception, Corporate, Cocktail & lounge
CushionOptionalNone
StackableNoYes
Outdoor friendlyYesYes

Choose the Rattan Garden if…

  • comfort matters (a cushion is available)
  • you want a boho or garden look
  • it is for the ceremony

Choose the Mid-Century Shell if…

  • your budget matters: about $350 less per 100 chairs
  • fast setup and teardown matters, because it stacks
  • you want a modern or minimalist look
  • it is for the corporate

What each looks like with the table

Rattan Garden Chair: pairs with pampas grass, terracotta, macramé, mismatched glassware.

Mid-Century Shell Chair: pairs with lofts, galleries, colorful florals, corporate dinners.

You can also mix them: use the more decorative chair at the head table and the lower-cost one for guests. That keeps the room photo-ready without paying premium rates on every seat.

Estimated rental cost for 100 chairs: Rattan Garden vs Mid-Century ShellBar chart: Rattan Garden Chair $1,200 to $1,600; Mid-Century Shell Chair $900 to $1,200 for 100 chairs.Rattan Garden$1,200–$1,600Mid-Century Shell$900–$1,200
Estimated rental for 100 chairs, from our per-chair estimates. Delivery and setup are quoted separately.

Frequently asked questions

Which is cheaper, the Rattan Garden or the Mid-Century Shell?

The Mid-Century Shell Chair ($9–12 per chair, estimated) costs less than the Rattan Garden Chair ($12–16). For 100 chairs the midpoint difference is about $350.

Which is better outdoors?

Both handle outdoor events. Ask about ground protection on soft lawn.

Can I use both in the same room?

Yes. Mixed sets are common, for example one style at the head table and another at guest tables. We will help you balance the look and budget on a free call.

Keep planning

Figures are planning rules of thumb and our own estimates, last reviewed 2026-11-01. Your venue's posted capacity, fire code and final quote always take precedence.

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Not sure what you need, or how much?

  • Quantities for your guest count and floor plan
  • Which chairs, tables and linens suit your venue
  • An honest estimate with delivery and setup itemized