Ottomans are a fascinating and diverse subset of living room furniture, with various sizes, shapes, and styles (ottomans vs. hassocks vs. poufs vs. footstools). We’ve broken down options into several categories to help lead you toward the perfect ottoman for your life and home.
First, we discuss the overall design, highlighting the different types of ottoman that will work best for your space. Next, we cover their appearance, shape, size, and style. Finally, we explore what makes them special, such as storage or comfort features.
Design
Contents
Looking online is the best way to find an ottoman that fits perfectly into your home decor. There are thousands of options to choose from, most of which come in various sizes and shapes.
You’ll also want to consider how much space you have available in your living area. If you live in a smaller apartment, you may be limited to choosing between two styles: small square or rectangular.
On the other hand, if you have a larger space, you might be able to fit a round ottoman. This option allows you to keep your furniture arrangement symmetrical, which makes it easier to navigate throughout the house.
Standard
Traditionally, an ottoman is upholstered with a cushion over a rectangular or square base. These designs are made of leather, fabric, or synthetic materials and are often available in various colors and patterns. Ottomans are designed to provide comfort and stability while serving the basic function of a footrest.
Pouf
A pouf ottoman isn’t an item you would expect to find in a living room. But there are times when you might want to add a little extra cushioning for your feet.
Poufs come in various sizes and shapes. Some look more like pillows than ottomans. Others resemble cushions. You may want to choose a pouf ottoman based on how much space you have in your home. You may consider a smaller model if you have limited floor space.
Cocktail
This type of ottoman is called a coffee table ottoman because it looks like a coffee table. It is made out of wood and has a table top that you can put drinks and food on. Some designs have reversible cushion tops that flip over to become solid tables. In addition, some models have a tray that fits perfectly on top of the surface.
Cube
The cube is an iconic piece of furniture that has become increasingly popular over the past few years. Cube ottomans allow you to stack, arrange, and repurpose them with freedom. They are also available in various materials, including cloth and leather. There are even some that have hidden storage beneath the lid.
Shape
Once you’ve picked out the style and color scheme that works best for your home, it’s time to choose the actual size and shape of the piece. This step isn’t really about aesthetics; rather, it’s about practicality. After all, the bigger the space you’re working in, the better suited it will be for your needs.
The most important thing to consider here is whether or not you plan to use the ottoman as a seating option. If you intend to sit on it regularly, you’ll want to ensure that it’s big enough to accommodate your body. Otherwise, you might find yourself sitting uncomfortably on a smaller model.
However, if you don’t plan to use the otto as a seat, you’ll still want to think about the shape. You’ll want to avoid choosing one that’s too small because it won’t provide much support for your feet. On the flip side, you’ll want to avoid a larger model that’s too bulky because it will take up too much room.
There are many shapes, including square, round, rectangular, oval, and even triangles. Each shape serves a purpose, though, so we’ll discuss each of them separately.
Square
Square and rectangular-sized ottomans are probably the most popular sizes. They’re easy to place and allow for multiple options for placement. You can use one or both sides, as well as the middle. This makes it easier to match up with furniture around the room.
Most people prefer square or rectangular-shaped ones because they look more modern. The best way to decide which type of ottoman you want is to consider how much space you’ll put it in. For example, if you plan to keep it near the couch, go for a square or rectangle-shaped one.
The square and rectangle-shaped ottoman is an excellent choice for any living space. These pieces are versatile and durable whether you have a formal dining area or a casual family room.
They also make great additions to any home. These pieces are perfect for storing books, magazines, toys, blankets, pillows, and more.
You can even use them as extra seating when entertaining guests. If you prefer a smaller size, check out our round ottomans instead.
Rectangle
A rectangular ottoman is a great choice for any living area. Whether you choose a classic style or modern design, there’s bound to be a shape that suits your home decor perfectly. If you’re looking for a stylish addition to your living room, consider adding a rectangular ottoman. This piece is perfect for small spaces because it doesn’t take up much floor space.
A rectangular ottoman is also a smart choice for those who love entertaining guests. Its clean lines and neutral color options make a beautiful accent piece. Plus, it adds height to your sofa without too much space.
Round
A round ottoman is an excellent choice when you need a place to comfortably seat more than one person. If you’re planning a party or having a large gathering, consider purchasing a round ottoman. These versatile pieces are perfect for entertaining and relaxing.
They come in various sizes and styles, so you’ll find one that fits your home decor perfectly. Some models even include storage compartments underneath, making them ideal for keeping items out of sight while providing easy access.
They make a great addition to any living room. Whether you choose a classic model or a modern design, these versatile pieces make a stylish statement in any setting.
Oval
The oval ottoman is an excellent choice for creating a stylish look in your home. Whether you choose a traditional design or opt for more modern styling, these pieces will surely become a favorite among friends and family.
Ottomans are versatile furniture pieces that can be used in multiple ways. From serving as a coffee table to adding seating to a living area, they provide ample storage options and can even double as additional seating when needed.
Upholstery
Upholstered furniture is an investment that lasts for years, and there are plenty of ways to make sure yours stands out. Whether you choose leather, fabric, wood, or another material, you’ll find that choosing the right upholstery for your ottoman is important.
The best way to ensure that your ottoman looks great is to select a color scheme that complements the rest of your room. If you have dark walls, go with a darker-colored upholstery; if you have light walls, pick a lighter-hued option.
You may also consider picking a pattern that matches your décor. For example, opt for a solid-color ottoman if you have a lot of white in your living room. However, you might enjoy a more colorful design if you love bold patterns.
There are many options when it comes to upholstery materials. Leather is a classic choice because it adds warmth and richness to any room. Fabric is another popular option, especially if you prefer a casual vibe. Wood is another option, and it offers a timeless appeal.
Whatever type of upholstery you decide upon, keep these tips in mind:
- Choose a size that suits your lifestyle. A large ottoman will accommodate extra seating, while a small one will fit easily under a coffee table.
- Consider the placement of your ottoman. Is it near a window? In front of a sofa? Or next to a bed? Make sure that its location makes sense within your decor.
- Keep in mind that your ottoman is meant to serve multiple purposes. Use it as a footrest, a place to put drinks, or even a spot to sit back and relax.
- Don’t skimp on quality. When shopping for upholstery, make sure you buy a piece that will last. Look for durable fabrics and sturdy construction.
Fabric
The fabric ottoman is an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile piece that can be used in multiple ways. Whether you choose solid-colored fabrics or patterned ones, there is a wide selection of choices to suit your decorating style.
Fabric ottomans come in various sizes and styles, making it easy to find a size that fits perfectly in your home. Some models even include storage compartments, which makes them great additions to living rooms, bedrooms, and more.
With its ability to match almost any décor, the fabric ottoman will become a favorite addition to your home.
Leather
Leather is an amazing material. It’s durable, soft, supple, easy to clean, and looks great in any setting. But while leather is perfect for sofas, chairs, and ottomans, it doesn’t do well when exposed to moisture. That’s why leather upholstered furniture is usually covered with fabric cushions.
But there’s another option. If you love the look of leather but hate its limitations, consider leather-look fabrics. These faux leather materials mimic the appearance of real leather without exposing them to moisture. So whether you prefer the look of leather or the performance of synthetic leather, leather-look fabrics provide a stylish alternative.
Velvet
Velvet can add close-up textural detail that virtually no other material offers. Typically used on fancier, luxurious models, a velvet upholstered ottoman can spice up a room or sit perfectly at home, depending on the surroundings.
Velvet is an incredibly versatile fabric. It can be used for both interior and exterior projects. It’s often used for both because it’s durable and easy to clean.
It also adds texture and dimension to any space. If you’ve been thinking about adding a piece of furniture to your living room or bedroom, why not consider a velvet ottoman? A velvet ottoman would also make a great addition to any room in your home.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to velvet. So go ahead and give it a shot. You’ll love how it looks and feels.
Suede
Sueded leather is a classic piece of furniture and is an absolute favorite amongst many discerning customers. These pieces hold a truly unique texture and feel that are unmatched. The material also provides softness and comfort for those who regularly sit on this piece of furniture. Unlike other types of an ottoman, suede has a wonderful ability to age beautifully.
Suedes are an amazing material. They are soft, durable, and easy to clean. They also look great in any room. Suedes are perfect for those who love comfort and style. They are incredibly versatile and can be used in almost any setting.
They are extremely popular among homeowners because they add elegance and sophistication to any space. The best thing about them is that they are very affordable.
You can find suedes in a variety of styles and colors. There are even options for custom-made pieces. This means you can choose exactly how you would like yours to look.
This makes them ideal for anyone who wants to make a statement without breaking the bank.
Rattan
Rattan is an extremely versatile material. It’s used in everything from garden furniture to outdoor kitchens. But it’s also great indoors too. It’s a natural fiber that’s easy to clean and maintain. It’s naturally resistant to mold, mildew, and rot. It’s also fire retardant and insect repellent.
Rattan is a very strong material that’s ideal for outdoor spaces where there may be heavy foot traffic. It’s also perfect for indoor areas where you want to create a relaxing atmosphere. The beauty of rattan is that it looks beautiful whether it’s outdoors or inside. It’s a timeless material that doesn’t go out of style.
You can find rattan in a wide variety of colors and patterns. There are even rattan chairs and tables that come in a range of sizes. There are also rattan accessories such as cushions, curtains, and blinds that you can add to your home.
Tufted
The button tufted design has been around for quite some time now. It’s a very popular choice for furniture because it looks great and adds an element of luxury to any room.
It’s also easy to clean and maintain. Buttons are usually made of polyester or nylon materials, making them durable and long-lasting. However, buttons do tend to wear easily over time. If you live in a humid climate, you may find that your buttons begin to fade after a while.
Buttons are also fairly inexpensive. So, if you’re looking for a way to add a little extra flair to your home without breaking the bank, consider adding a few buttons to your living space.
Storage
An ottoman might seem like a simple piece of furniture, but there are quite a few ways it could serve additional functions. For example, some ottomans feature built-in drawers, while others offer extra seating space.
Some even comb with hidden compartments allowing for the storage of smaller objects. So let’s have a quick look at some of the different options that are available to you.
Open Lid
Typically, ottoman storage involves a lid that is either hinged or raised to access the interior. This method works well for storing items like books, magazines, and toys. But it doesn’t work very well for storing larger items such as blankets, pillows, and bedding.
Drawer
An ottoman with a drawer is a great way to add extra storage space without making it obvious. This can be done by placing the drawer on the base of an ottoman with tall legs rather than on a flat surface.
This allows you to use the ottoman as a footstool while adding useful storage. Ideal for storing remotes and other useful Items.
Nested
Nested ottomans are quite different from traditional ottoman models. They offer a combination of features that make it possible to enjoy multiple uses in a single piece. These versatile pieces include a variety of storage compartments, tablet holders, and even removable seats. Some models feature built-in drawers or shelves, while others come with additional trays, baskets, or cupboards.
Because nested ottomans are designed to be used in multiple ways, you don’t necessarily need to purchase several pieces to achieve maximum functionality. For example, a model with several small tables could easily replace a coffee table in your living room. Or, perhaps a larger version of the same design could serve as a TV stand, sideboard, or buffet for entertaining guests.
The best part about nesting ottomans is that they provide plenty of space for storing items such as books, magazines, games, toys, and electronics. Not only does this give you extra storage options, but it makes it easy to keep everything organized.
FAQ
What are small ottomans called?
A Hassock is smaller than ottomans. It’s an upholstered footstool with no storage. It can serve as a seat or leg rest. They can come with legs and without legs. They can be covered in fabric with options for different sizes to suit your room.
Are ottomans out of style
Even though design trends change from time to time, a nice ottoman will never completely go out of style. They were originally designed as places to put your feet up, a need that will never go out of style.
What’s the difference between an ottoman and a cocktail ottoman
Ottomans are used as seating or footstools in living rooms. A cocktail ottoman has a bigger surface, so you can put a cocktail tray on it. They are sturdy and ideal for a coffee table and holding food.
Why are ottomans called ottomans?
The name “ottoman” comes from Ottoman Turkey, where they were first made. They were originally used as footstools for sitting on while eating meals. The word “Ottoman” was derived from the Turkish words “ot” meaning cushion, and “mân” meaning chair.
How do I choose an ottoman
Your ottoman should be approximately one inch shorter than your chair or sofa’s seat height. Take into account the decor style of your room and sofa.
Should your ottoman match your sofa
Ottomans and sofas should be coordinated, but they don’t have to match. Patterns and solids should be mixed. Solid colors should be mixed and matched. Monochrome goes well with bold colors.
Can you have two ottomans?
If you want two, buy two that match. They don’t have to match, but they should coordinate. A pair of matching ottomans can be positioned across a sofa or coffee table.
Can you sit on a storage ottoman
You can use ottomans for more than just decoration. Besides supporting feet and legs, ottomans are strong enough for people to use them as seating. An ottoman can be incredibly useful if you need more seating in a room.
What is the difference between an ottoman and a coffee table
An ottoman can double as an additional coffee table. They can also serve as a writing desk. However, ottomans are much better at serving as a couch or sitting/reclining chairs.
Can I use an ottoman as a coffee table?
An ottoman is a comfortable option for a coffee table. They come in different sizes, so you can choose the one that fits best in your space. Ottomans are designed to add interest and variety to any home decor. They provide extra space for guests and family members alike. These versatile pieces serve as excellent conversation starters and side tables.
What is the best height for an ottoman
An ottoman should be between 13″ and 18″. The ottoman is sometimes shorter than the sofa or couch. Ottomans used as footstools often sit at the same height as sofas.
Why are Ottomans so expensive?
Most ottoman furniture is made with wood, including hardwood, which can cause high costs. Ottoman furniture is very versatile. Use them as extra seating, storage space, footrests, coffee tables, side tables, etc.
