IKEA Patrik but I don't know how you'll feel about the color choices..

I was going to suggest the Patrik as well. We use 2 of them (in red) as desk chairs at home (and a DWR Tivola glass table, which I bought super-cheap from someone who needed to move in a hurry, as a desk) and love them. They come in Red and dark gray. They used to come in navy blue as well but I don't see themthose on the site anymore. We've had ours for almost 3 years and they are still in terrific shape and look great, considering we each spend 6 hours a day in them,. They are very comfortable, while still promoting good posture. Here's a link to the Patrik: http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/70074950

I can't find the West Elm version on their site. Is it discontinued?

I too am looking for a chair that I will be spending the next four years in studying for law school, but I'm totally dismayed at the complete lack of options. I don't want an IKEA chair (frankly I don't know why Patrick is recommended by almost every AT user!) but otherwise I'm really open--I'd take a dining room chair if it was comfortable!

But why can't I find anything decent looking and reasonably well made for around $100?

jmg920 - i'm curious what it is you dislike about the Patrik?