Chess Set as Décor and Playable Piece
A chessboard on the living room table makes a quiet statement: this is where thinking happens, where time is invested. No wonder many people want a chess set for its looks first. The real question usually comes right after: will it actually get played — or does it just sit there as decoration nobody touches?
The dilemma: beautiful, or playable
Many sets that impress at first glance — marble, extravagant piece shapes, oversized boards — fail exactly here. They're too unwieldy for an actual game, too heavy to put away, or the pieces are shaped so unusually that no one can tell which piece is which anymore.
What a set needs to do both
A chess set that works as both a piece of décor and a playable game needs classic, clearly recognizable piece shapes, a board in a manageable size, and storage that makes putting it away and setting it back up easy — such as a built-in drawer for the pieces. That way the set doesn't just look good; it actually invites a game.
Schachatelier: at home in Berlin
Schachatelier is at home in Berlin. Every set is handcrafted by experienced makers — classic enough for the living room table, sturdy enough for the next game.
→ Discover handcrafted chess sets
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a decorative chess set actually be played?
Yes, as long as the pieces have classic, easily distinguishable shapes and both board and pieces are made to a scale suited for a real game.
What size works best for a living room table?
A mid-sized board feels present without dominating the table, while still being comfortable to play on.
How do I store a decorative chess set practically?
A built-in drawer or interior compartment keeps all pieces organized and the set ready to play at any time, with no loose pieces lying around.
