Picking out the ideal living room chair is a crucial part of decorating your living space. It’s important to consider the chair type, style, and function, and you might also be considering adding a large ottoman to enhance the room’s style. Selecting living room chairs that suit your preferences and lifestyle is essential for a beautifully furnished living room.
Several factors need to be taken into account when determining how to choose the right living room chairs. The primary focus should be on selecting living room chairs that offer both comfort and style. Let’s examine some factors to consider when choosing the right living room chairs.
Selecting the Right Size
When planning how to select the right living room chairs, one must consider the size of the living room. Begin by measuring the specific spot in the room where you intend to place your chairs. The chairs should fit perfectly in the living room space. Measuring the living room space before choosing the appropriate chairs ensures that the furniture does not appear cluttered and disorganized.
Consider the Size of Your Current Sofa
Careful planning is necessary when picking the right living room chair. If you already have a sofa, make sure to measure its height and width to help you determine how well the chairs will complement it.
Unless you’re going for a boho or eclectic look, opt for chairs that are similar in size to your sofa to ensure the proportions are just right. You don’t want the living room chairs to look completely out of place when placed alongside your sofa or sectionals. You might opt to purchase a couch and chair set, as you can be sure they will coordinate well.
While you may want to select a living room chair that complements your sofa, it’s not necessary to find an exact match. The main goal is to choose chairs that will enhance the appeal of your living room.
Consider Your Living Room’s Ambiance
Deciding on how to choose the right living room chairs can be quite challenging, especially when you’re unsure of where to begin. You need to consider the type of atmosphere you want for your living room before selecting the right chair.
A formal living room setting would pair well with upright back chairs. Conversely, a casual living room setting is suitable for chaise lounge chairs or recliners.
Consider the Chair’s Upholstery
The upholstery of the chair is crucial to your living room’s aesthetic and style when it comes to choosing the right chair. From durable leather materials to luxurious silk or elegant velvet, the chair’s fabric adds to the charm of your room. You should consider the following tips when selecting the material for your living room chair.
Durability: Make sure to choose chairs with high-quality fabric. Some chair fabrics may look visually appealing but can quickly wear out after a short period of use. Opt for chairs that feature a blend of materials such as polyester, rayon, and cotton for durability.
Color: While considering how to choose the right living room chair, select a color that you will be comfortable with. The mood you wish to create for the room significantly influences the color you choose. Bright colors are suitable if you are aiming to create a modern ambiance. Also, avoid relatively glossy colors if you have children and pets in the house.
Choose from a Variety of Living Room Chairs
In addition to sofas and couches, living room chairs are excellent for providing additional seating spaces in your living room. Let’s explore different types of living room chairs to consider.
Armchairs
Armchairs are seating with armrests. This category includes club chairs, barrel chairs, wingback chairs, and others.
Armless chairs
Armless chairs, as the name suggests, do not have arms. Examples include side chairs, occasional chairs, and so on.
The Importance of Selecting the Right Chair
Comfort
The correct living room chairs should not only be visually appealing but also comfortable. The level of comfort is the key consideration regardless of the type of living room chair you plan to purchase.
Elegance and Style
Living room chairs serve as more than just additional seating; they also contribute to the beauty and grace of your room.
Functionality
Living room chairs provide extra seating options for guests in the home.
Exploring the Variety: Various Styles of Living Room Chairs and Their Uses
Living room chairs are meant for daily relaxation, cuddling with pets, and engaging in conversations with friends. Therefore, choosing the right style is crucial.
For many of us, the living room is a space for relaxation, socializing, dining, and work. Given the multiple functions of the living room, it is essential to choose the right living room chairs.
Let’s delve into the different types of living room chairs to help you find the ideal match for your space, no matter how multifunctional your living room is.
We will assist you in selecting a chair that satisfies your requirements and adds an extra touch to your space. Relax, sit back, and prepare to enjoy style and comfort.
- Wingback Chair
For many of us, the living room is a place for relaxation, socializing, dining, and work—a myriad of activities in one room. Regardless of the living room’s multifunctionality, the right living room chairs are necessary to ensure that the space meets your needs. A wingback chair, also known as a wing chair or wing-back chair, is a club chair with “wings” attached to the back. This design originated in England in the 1700s and has maintained its classic style over time, making it easy to introduce timeless elegance to any space.
How to use it: Historically, wingback chairs were designed with side backs (or “wings”) at head height to shield from drafts and retain warmth. Originally, they were placed near fireplaces to trap heat in the sitting area. With their traditional design, wingback chairs are well-suited for living rooms adjacent to a fireplace or positioned on either side of a side table to enhance visual appeal.
- Chaise Lounge
A chaise lounge, which translates to “long chair,” is a fusion of a sofa and an armchair. It can be described as a chair with a seat or footrest that accommodates your feet or a single-person sofa designed for reclining in a semi-seated, semi-reclined posture.
How to use it: A chaise lounge is ideal for larger living rooms, allowing you to customize the chair’s style to complement your small sofa or sectional. A chaise lounge creates an extremely comfortable spot for reading, napping, or watching TV, and most designs can accommodate more than one person if seating is limited.
- Loungers
A lounger is a comfortable, padded armchair that is versatile and can be used for various activities in a living space. It is specifically designed for relaxation and comes in different shapes and sizes, catering to various style preferences.
How to utilize it: Loungers are commonly used for watching TV or reading. It is recommended to select a chair with a tall backrest for adequate head support and to consider the user’s height to ensure a comfortable lounging experience. For individuals under 5’3”, a seat depth of approximately 20” is recommended, while those over 5’10” should consider a seat depth of 23″ or more.
- Recliner
A recliner is a chair or sofa that allows the user to lower the backrest and extend a footrest, often through a lever or automatic mechanism when reclining. Many recliners offer adjustable lumbar support and headrests, and some include additional features like heat or vibration massage.
How it is used: Recliner chairs are popular for those who prioritize comfort, providing the ability to recline and elevate the legs. Contemporary recliners are available in a wide range of styles, making them suitable for various living room settings, including compact spaces.
- Slipper Chair
Named for the convenience of sitting in them while wearing shoes or sandals, slipper chairs are compact chairs with short legs and no armrests. These chairs usually feature a medium to high back and a low seat height, offering versatility and space efficiency.
How to utilize them: Slipper chairs are informal and ideal for occasional seating or filling small spaces. Additionally, they are great for adding visual interest to a living room or home office design. To make a statement, consider selecting a slipper chair with bold, vibrant velvet upholstery to accentuate a room’s corner.
- Rocking Chair
A rocking chair (also known as a rocker) has curved bands instead of legs, allowing back-and-forth rocking. They typically have a wooden frame, but there are various styles available, including foldable options. Additionally, there are gliders that provide a smoother rocking motion in different styles, some including sliding footrests.
How to utilize them: Rocking chairs are an excellent choice for adding visual interest and unique seating to a living room. They are also commonly used in nurseries and favored by parents raising young children due to their quiet and smooth rocking motion.
- Chair-and-a-Half
Not as large as a sofa but larger than a standard chair, the “chair-and-a-half” is a suitable compromise for space-constrained homes. It offers ample seating and can function as a secondary sofa in smaller living spaces.
How to utilize them: A chair and a half provides additional seating in compact spaces and can serve as a supplementary sofa if space permits. While it may be snug for two adults, it is an ideal option for families with children or pets, offering a cozy spot for reading with little ones or cuddling up with furry friends.
- Tub Chair
Tub chairs have a rounded, upright back and sides, providing a cozy seating experience. They are not only comfortable and aesthetically pleasing but also great for adding extra seating without occupying too much space.
How to use them: Incorporate a tub chair into your living room as a main furniture piece for everyday use, not just as an accent chair. By adding a swivel mechanism to this chair, it offers the same blend of functionality and style as a swivel chair does. When selecting the best chair for your living room, prioritize function over style, and feel free to mix and match different pieces.
- English Arm Chair
An English armchair adopts the classic arm design of a traditional English sofa. Its L-shaped armrests are lower than the chair’s backrest, extending from the back along the side and returning towards the front, but not reaching the edge of the seat. These chairs often come with wooden legs, plush upholstery, and are available in various styles.
How it’s used: English armchairs provide extra seating in spaces with classic, traditional, or transitional home decor. They also pair well with rolled arm sofas and other traditional living room furniture.
- Bean Bag Chair
A bean bag chair is a large fabric or leather piece filled with shredded polystyrene or memory foam balls. These chairs conform to the user’s body, offer good support, and come in various sizes. Some bean bag chairs are large enough to be rolled up and snapped into, while others are about the size of a side chair. Some models feature a metal frame to maintain the chair’s shape.
How to use it: Bean bag chairs offer a casual seating option suitable for modern living rooms, children’s play areas, and casual settings. They are particularly beneficial for individuals with back and neck pain, as they provide full-body support to alleviate tension.
- Papasan Chair
A Papasan chair is a comfortable, bowl-shaped chair with detachable cushions. The chair usually includes a base frame that can be adjusted vertically and that supports a separate frame for the bowl, which is meant to hold the cushions. Both frames are usually made of rattan, wicker, or wood, and the cushions typically contain a thick cotton filling similar to a futon mattress.
How to use it: The Papasan chair pairs well with mid-century modern sofas and retro decor in informal living rooms. It’s great for adding extra seating to a living room with limited space and complements reading nooks and small living rooms.
- Chesterfield Chair
The Chesterfield chair is among the most classic and widely recognized styles in interior design. It is characterized by plush quilted leather upholstery, deep button tufting, and a timeless style. For those who prefer to avoid animal products or the high cost of real leather, there are options with faux leather upholstery available today.
How to use it: The Chesterfield chair is an iconic piece featuring rolled armrests, tacked embellishments, and button-down upholstery, creating a traditional look that is both iconic and comfortable for putting your feet up. It is perfect for adding a touch of sophistication with a classic twist to any space and is almost always the focal point of a living room.
How to Select the Perfect Living Room Chair
Selecting a living room chair is an art, and several factors must be considered before choosing the ideal seating option for your living space. The size and function of the space are crucial.
Dimensions
Considering the size of the chair and whether it fits the living room space properly is crucial. Also, take into account the intended usage of the chair (e.g., regular or occasional use) and the height/size of the individuals likely to use it.
For instance, if your living room is small, a chair with a low back or tall legs can create the impression of a larger space. In a spacious living room with a large family, choose a larger piece of furniture for maximum comfort.
The height of the individuals using the chairs typically affects the seat depth. Below are some general seat depth recommendations:
5’3″ and under: <20″
5’4″ – 5’9″: 21″ – 22″
5’10” and over: >23″
Design
The design of the chair will influence its compatibility with the overall style of the room. Consider whether your living room exhibits a classic or contemporary style, and select a chair that complements the space and its intended use.
The “Who, Where, Why, What” Method
It is recommended to purchase furniture using the “who, where, why, what” approach. Here’s how to implement this method:
Who will use the chair? Do you have a large family? Children? Pets? If so, opt for a sturdy frame and durable fabric that can withstand wear and tear.
Where will the chair be placed? Consider the size and shape of the space, measure the room, and double-check the chair’s dimensions before making a purchase.
Why are you attracted to specific designs? What matters most to you; comfort, style, material?
What is the chair’s purpose? If you want to curl up with a good book, you might prefer a different chair than if you just want to add a splash of color.
A Comprehensive Guide to Accent Chairs: Styles and Expert Tips
Accent chairs offer an uncomplicated and pragmatic means to introduce color, texture, and design to your home or apartment. Many individuals use them as accent pieces to replace traditional seating, or to create new focal points in snug corners in bedrooms, hallways, home offices, and more.
Our guide to accent chairs provides advice on various types of accent chairs, their placement, and where to purchase them.
Varieties of Accent Chairs
Though any chair can function as an accent chair, specific types of chairs are recognized for the visual appeal they bring to any space. While accent chairs can vary in size, shape, and color, they should typically make a statement through color, pattern, and style. We have gathered information from different sources and compiled a guide to the types of accent chairs that can add depth of style and visual interest to your space.
- Swivel Chairs
Swivel chairs are practical and usually more compact, known for their unique shape that adds visual interest. Featuring a center base that allows 360-degree rotation, swivel accent chairs are available in a range of silhouettes, typically barrel-shaped.
Swivel chairs come in various colors, patterns, and styles, from modern to retro. As the name implies, swivel chairs are practical due to their ability to rotate, allowing easy adjustment of position. Position swivel chairs in areas with more than one coffee table or ottoman for added convenience.
- Club Chair
Club chairs are a simple way to create a spacious, comfortable look in any setting. Often crafted from leather or upholstered in fabric, these chairs are distinguished by their ample designs.
Use a club chair to signify that the space is designated for a cozy nook or seating area while introducing visual interest through color and texture. Many individuals choose to pair a club chair with a stack of books for a comfortable reading nook.
- Wingback Chair
The classic wingback chair is an armchair with a higher back compared to the average armchair. It is also known as a “fireplace chair” because it was traditionally positioned facing the fireplace to prevent cold drafts from affecting the person sitting in it.
Wingback chairs are often upholstered in luxurious fabrics like velvet and are generally quite comfortable. Introduce a wingback chair to your space to create visual interest through its distinctive lines and textured upholstery. Additionally, wingback chairs indicate that the area is designed for relaxing with a good book.
- Barrel Chairs
Barrel chairs are as their name suggests: shaped like barrels. They are fully upholstered with a rounded back, adding a unique shape to any room.
Many individuals place barrel chairs in pairs due to their symmetrical design, which creates a balanced feel in every corner.
The Barrel Back Dining Chair featured above has a simple, sleek outline. Danielle Walish suggests using it as an accent chair or dining chair, as its unique and playful pattern is certain to draw attention.
- Bergère Chair
Originating from France, the bergère chair is an armchair with an exposed wood frame and wooden legs. Its iconic rounded back and padded armrests evoke a sense of grandeur that was admired by Parisian aristocrats in bygone eras. Bergère chairs typically convey a classic feeling, and can be used to establish a space with a traditional ambiance.
Pair two bergère chairs to create symmetry in your space, or use one to create an elegant nook or reading area. Some people opt to place a bergère chair in an unexpected hallway or entryway to introduce a unique silhouette to a space in need of character.
- Bench
An unconventional accent “chair” that is actually a bench. Benches used as accent chairs are often vibrant and unusual, featuring bold patterns and fun colors. This can be an excellent way to add dynamism to your space and bring a smile to your guests’ faces.
Furthermore, benches are an excellent method to add visual interest to even the smallest corners, as they tend to be compact and easily movable if additional seating is required.
- Egg Chair
The modern egg chair adds a playful touch to your space. Named for its distinct rounded shape that envelops the individual sitting in it, these chairs are typically partially or completely suspended, creating a modern and inviting appearance.
Available in a variety of materials from rattan to metal, egg chairs feature cushioned seats on the inside. Hanging egg chairs can sway back and forth, bringing a sense of childlike joy to any room.
- Mid-Century Modern Chair
Playful, retro, and stylish, mid-century modern accent chairs usually feature a simple and timeless design with vibrant colors that infuse a splash of color into your space. These chairs adhere to the mid-century design aesthetic that emerged in the United States during the 1950s and 60s.
Because the design emphasizes clean, simple lines that evoke a sense of serenity, adding a midcentury modern accent chair is certain to contribute to that ambiance. Pair the chair with a midcentury modern sofa in the living room, or midcentury modern furniture in the bedroom to further enhance the design aesthetic.
The midcentury modern accent chair above from Maiden Home boasts a minimalist, clean profile and sleek design. However, its deep seat and wide backrest make it a casual lounge chair.
- Chaise Lounge
Introduce comfort to your room with a chaise lounge. A well-chosen chaise lounge can provide both comfort and style. Although elegant chaise lounges are usually in neutral colors, their large, luxurious shape will attract attention when people are looking for a cozy place to sit and unwind.
Chaise lounges are ideal for use as living room chairs or accent chairs in a cozy corner. Keep in mind that chaise lounges need a bit more space due to their reclining feature.
Chaise lounges are popular but can be tricky as they take up a lot of room in a space. When purchasing one, ensure you have enough space to walk around it when it’s reclined and that it won’t hit the wall behind it. If space is limited, consider investing in a wall-mounted chaise lounge that doesn’t require extra space behind it.
- Armchair
A timeless accent chair recognized for its comfortable armrests, armchairs are commonly upholstered in fabric or leather and have visible legs. Accent armchairs are available in various design styles, from traditional to contemporary. No matter the vibe of your space, you will certainly find an armchair that suits it.
- Slipper Chair
Originally created in the 18th century as a practical bedroom chair for slipping on slippers, slipper chairs have gained popularity and can now be found throughout the home.
Ideal for small and narrow spaces, slipper chairs have a low profile and a sleek design. They lack arms and typically come in durable upholstery. While there are many advantages to a slipper chair, they may not be suitable for creating a casual, laid-back space. Due to their small size, slipper chairs are best utilized in bedrooms as originally intended, or in entryways or foyers.
The Petite Slide Chair mentioned above complements any living room and is an iconic accent piece.
- Tuxedo Chair
With its tall back and arms, the tuxedo chair brings a touch of elegance to any room. The tuxedo chair is perfect for pairing with other furniture in a room and features a sleek, custom-designed frame. Many people appreciate the distinct shape that the tuxedo chair adds to any room and opt to pair it with other living room furniture.
Additionally, tuxedo chairs come in various unique features, such as lively prints and patterns that infuse a splash of color. Some may even offer reclining capabilities.
- Chesterfield Chair
The Chesterfield chair is a specific yet popular type of accent chair. It is distinguished by thick buttons and a back that matches or nearly matches the height of the armrests. It also typically includes tacks. The quality of the chair is often indicated by the thickness of the buttons. The depth of the tassels can reveal whether the buttons were simply sewn onto the exterior, allowing the lining fabric to be pulled up for tassels, or if the buttons were meticulously sewn through the padding as they should be.
- Chair-and-a-half
A chair-and-a-half is a sizable chair — larger than a standard accent chair yet not as wide as a loveseat. It is well-suited for spacious living rooms, reading nooks, or bedrooms.
A chair-and-a-half is only suitable for larger spaces or as a replacement for a double sofa typically used by people. It is a substantially-sized armchair, making it great for relaxing or for parents to snuggle up in with children or pets.
Where Can You Utilize an Accent Chair?
Bedroom
While an accent chair might not be the first thing that comes to mind for a bedroom, it’s a handy spot for tossing clothes. Although not intended for storage, it can prevent clothes from landing on the floor and also serve as a seating area. Moreover, in bedrooms with tricky layouts, accent chairs can be the perfect solution, transforming an awkward corner into a cozy retreat and adding a finished look to the room.
If you have extra space to create a separate relaxation area in the bedroom, a pair of comfortable accent chairs would be a great addition.
In the bedroom, accent chairs are usually used for dressing or reading, providing an alternative to using the bed for all activities.
Living Room
Accent chairs in the living room offer additional seating for guests and can help complete the seating area. If you’re concerned about mixing and matching chairs with your sofa, you can easily coordinate them with other furniture by using matching throw pillows.
Besides providing extra seating, accent chairs bring visual interest to any living room. They allow for balanced furniture arrangement and add variety to the room’s layout. Furthermore, they offer comfort for unwinding after a tiring day.
Dining Room
When considering incorporating accent chairs into the dining room, there are multiple options. For instance, using accent chairs at the ends of the dining table can add more interest for the host or hostess.
A good idea for the dining room is to purchase two similar or identical chairs and place them on opposite sides of the dining table. This will enhance the uniqueness of your furniture set while maintaining symmetry in the setting.
Unexpected Places
A great way to make use of accent chairs in your home is by situating them in unexpected spots. This can make use of overlooked nooks and crannies and bring attention to an otherwise neglected area. For example, the accent chair placed beneath a painting in a transitional area takes advantage of a space that’s difficult to use and draws attention to the painting above it. Furthermore, the pairing highlights the painting and adds a touch of irony, as the woman in the painting is seated in a chair with a matching color palette.
Accent chairs can be strategically placed to draw attention to any room, even in the most unexpected spots. Look for unique features that complement your style and think creatively about where to position them. A single chair can be quite attention-grabbing and can also be repurposed for unusual uses, such as a side table.
We suggest placing accent chairs in unexpected spots, like empty corners in open-concept areas. Chairs create a welcoming ambiance and can enliven a small space that would otherwise go unused.
Where to Purchase Accent Chairs: Top Choices for Interior Design
Interior Define
Interior Define provides a variety of accent chairs that can be customized to suit your space better. We recommend them because they offer a wide range of custom fabrics. You have the option to select from various colors and patterns to achieve the perfect look for your space. We also admire the quality of their products and are confident in their durability.
Maiden Home
Maiden Home offers a range of chairs to cater to different styles, from unique three-legged accent chairs and chairs with bold fabrics to classic armchairs. Customize your chair with unique fabrics and leathers to fit your home and get inspired by Maiden Home’s style right away.
Burrow
For a contemporary accent chair, consider exploring Burrow. Whether you want a statement piece or a simple seating piece to complement your space, Burrow is an excellent option. Burrow offers minimalist designs in various solid colors and the ability to mix and match multiple pieces into a set.
Industry West
Specializing in industrial and contemporary design, Industry West offers a wide range of products to fit into any room in your home. Moreover, the prices are hard to beat. Explore Industry West for accent chairs with unique designs and styles, including plush chairs and lounge chairs with dramatic lines.
Anthropologie
If you want to add a unique or bold touch to your home with an accent chair, consider Anthropologie. The chairs are available in a variety of colors, patterns, and fabrics, ensuring you can find one that suits your taste and aesthetic. Whether you’re looking for an interesting conversation piece or a comfortable place to relax, Anthropologie is an excellent place to start your search.
Wayfair
As one of the most popular online home furnishings stores, Wayfair offers a wide selection of accent chairs at competitive prices. They also have many pieces ready to ship, so you won’t have to wait long for your new side chair. With a wide variety of styles to choose from, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste.
Joss & Main
A fantastic source for contemporary furniture and home decor, Joss & Main has a great variety of affordable accent chairs. I appreciate their wide selection with styles that range from traditional to modern. This brand offers accent chairs in a variety of colors and finishes, capturing every iconic silhouette.
1stDibs and Chairish
For unique vintage furniture, be sure to visit 1stDibs or Chairish. These sites showcase the most unique and fun accent chairs, offering the chance to find a one-of-a-kind chair or one that calls for a makeover with lots of personality.