The term ‘Ottoman’ refers to any type of upholstered seating furniture that does not have arms or a back and is generally low to the ground, resembling the traditional low seating of the Ottoman Empire.
Ottoman chairs became popular in the West during the 19th century, when European designs were strongly influenced by Eastern culture. Ottoman chairs offer plenty of cozy seating options and are often found in living rooms, dens, and other casual living spaces.
The low profile of ottoman chairs make them great for entertaining as they don’t obstruct conversations or seating areas. Not only are they a stylish addition to any room, but they also offer extra storage with their lift-up lids or removable cushions.
They provide the perfect place to store books, extra pillows, throws, or even toys and games.
What is an ottoman footstool?
An ottoman footstool is a type of upholstered furniture that most people place in their living room or bedroom. It is a comfortable piece of furniture that also has a storage capacity. This type of footstool is typically a large rounded square or rectangle-shaped seat with metal or recyclable plastic legs.
Oftentimes, ottoman footstools are used as extra seating in a room, especially if the style and color matches the existing decor of the room. Also, the hinged lid can be opened to store items or pillows.
Many ottoman footstools also come with matching pillows that can be used in different spots around the house. Ottomans are generally designed to be lightweight and extremely versatile pieces of furniture that can fit in any space.
What is the difference between ottoman and hassock?
The primary difference between an ottoman and a hassock is the shape; while an ottoman tends to have a more rectangular shape, a hassock has a round, cushiony shape. Aside from shape, ottomans may often include storage options in the form of a lid, while hassocks do not.
Functionally, ottomans are typically larger and may be used as extra seating, whereas hassocks are usually used more as a footstool. Both ottomans and hassocks can be used to add a touch of style while providing additional comfort to a space.
Are ottomans for sitting?
Yes, ottomans are typically used for sitting. An ottoman is a padded, upholstered, low seat or stool, often used as an additional seating option in a living room, bedroom, or other seating area. This type of furniture evolved from the traditional Ottoman Empire and was originally used by members of the royal family as a low footstool or mattress.
Although they are often now used as accent pieces or small side tables, ottomans are most commonly used with comfortable chairs or sofas for added seating. They provide extra seating when needed and can easily be moved around to create more room.
They also look great in a home office, bedroom, or other living space.
What is a cocktail ottoman vs ottoman?
A cocktail ottoman and an ottoman are both versatile pieces of furniture that can be used for extra seating and storage. However, the main difference between them is size and shape. A cocktail ottoman is typically larger than a traditional ottoman—as much as four times bigger—and is often more square or rectangular in shape.
It’s called a ‘cocktail’ ottoman because its size is perfect for gathering around and sharing a few drinks. It can also be used as a footrest, or a place to set magazines and books. A traditional ottoman is round or square, much smaller than the cocktail ottoman, and usually has a hinged lid which can be used to store items like extra cushions and throws.
Can you use an ottoman as a couch?
Yes, it is entirely possible and relatively easy to use an ottoman as a couch. You can use the ottoman for extra seating, as a decorative piece, or even as a makeshift bed. To use an ottoman as a couch, you can place it against a wall or in the center of a room.
You can pair the ottoman with a few chairs and cushions to create a comfortable seating area. The ottoman can also be used as a footrest while you relax on the couch. Additionally, it can be used to help keep your living space organized, when items like books and blankets can be stored neatly inside the ottoman.
With a few simple adjustments, an ottoman can be an attractive, functional, and comfortable piece in any room.
What is the point of an ottoman?
An ottoman is a versatile piece of furniture that can serve many different functions. It can be used as extra seating, a footrest, a storage unit, or even as a decorative accent piece. As a seat, ottomans can provide comfortable seating without taking up a lot of space.
They can also be used as a footrest when paired with a chair or sofa, making it easier to reach things that are further away while in a seated position. Ottomans that provide storage space save on floor space by giving you a place to store blankets, pillows, and other items.
They also come with removable lids, allowing you to conveniently access the items stored inside. Decorative ottomans can add a bit of flair to any room, as they come in various shapes, sizes, and materials.
Can you put an ottoman in the living room?
Yes, you can put an ottoman in the living room. Ottomans are great for providing extra seating and styling in living spaces. They are also great for storing items like blankets, magazines, newspapers and books.
They can provide an attractive footstool for your living room, as well as a practical storage solution. Ottomans can also be used for a makeshift coffee table for snacks, drinks and laptop work. With the large number of designs available, you can easily find one that matches your existing furniture and color scheme.
Can a pouf be used for seating?
Yes, a pouf can be used for seating. A pouf is a small, padded ottoman that is often filled with styrofoam beads and covered with fabric. They are lightweight and versatile pieces of furniture that are perfect for small spaces because they can be easily moved around.
They can be used as an extra seat for guests or as a footstool for extra comfort. A pouf is also a great accent piece for any room and can be used to complete or even create a look. They are both stylish and comfortable, making them a great addition to any room.
How do I decorate my ottoman living room?
Decorating your ottoman living room can be a fun and easy process that will help add more style and charm to the room. Start by deciding on the overall theme that you would like the living room to have.
Some popular themes include contemporary, minimalist, Scandinavian, bohemian, and traditional. Once you have chosen a theme, select the furniture pieces and accessories that best fit. For example, if you choose a contemporary theme, consider buying ottomans with geometric shapes and minimal embellishments.
Add pops of color throughout the room with bright throw pillows, curtains, rugs, and accent pieces. Make sure they are consistent with your theme. You can also add textiles, such as wall hangings, to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
If you have an oversized ottoman, you can use it as a makeshift coffee table or store extra magazines and books, depending on its size.
Finally, finish off the room with a few decorative items, such as wall art, candles, plants, and other accessories. This will help create a homey and inviting space that will make you and your family want to relax and linger for a while.
By following these steps and mixing in some personal touches, you can create a beautiful ottoman living room that will be both comfortable and stylish.
Should ottoman be lower than sofa?
Yes, generally, ottomans should be lower than the sofa or chair they are being used with. Ottomans are made to be used as footrests or extra seating, and should typically be low enough to allow a user to easily put their feet up while they are sitting in the chair or sofa.
If a ottoman is too high it can be uncomfortable, especially for shorter people, and it can detract from the look of the room. Low ottomans also typically take up less visual space, making the room look larger.
Lastly, if an ottoman is lower than the sofa it can help to create a feeling of the room being laid out for conversation and relaxation.
What Colour should my ottoman be?
The color of your ottoman should depend on the overall design style of the space you are putting it in. If you have a modern design style in your living room, an ottoman in gray or black would look nice, as these colors are often used in modern spaces.
If you’re going for a more traditional space, then an ottoman in a hue like navy blue, hunter green, taupe, beige, or even red would be perfect. If you consider yourself a minimalist, then a white ottoman might be the best selection.
However, if you want to make a bold statement, then a bright color like yellow, pink, or purple could be the way to go. Ultimately, choose a color that you connect with and one that will work with the rest of the decor in the room.
How much space do you need around an ottoman?
When it comes to an ottoman, it is important to provide ample space around the item. This should include between 12-24 inches of clearance on all sides for easy manoeuvring and a pleasant appearance.
Additionally, it is important to take note of the maximum width and depth of the ottoman when purchasing in order to guarantee that there is plenty of room for surrounding furniture and walkways. At the very minimum, there should be a few feet of space between the ottoman and any other furniture pieces, walls, or doorways.
Finally, ensure that there is enough space on all sides of the ottoman to prevent any potential tripping hazards or obstructions.
How much lower should an ottoman be than the chair?
When selecting an ottoman for your living room or bedroom suite, you should be aware of the height difference between the chair and the ottoman. Generally, the rule of thumb is that the ottoman should be about 4-6 inches lower than the seat of the chair, as this allows for comfortable use and avoids any unnecessary strain on your back.
Furthermore, this difference in height also plays a role in determining the overall style and aesthetic of your living space. For instance, if you have an armchair with a tall back and a wide seat, an ottoman that is too low can make the room look disproportionate.
Additionally, if your chair has a short seat, a taller ottoman may create an offset balance. Ultimately, the desired height difference between the chair and the ottoman should bring about a sense of harmony in your furniture piece composition.
What height should ottoman be compared to chair?
When choosing a height for an ottoman compared to a chair, there are a couple of factors to keep in mind. Generally, the height of the ottoman should be slightly lower than the chair it is accompanying.
The ottoman should also be comfortable to use and have enough space between it and the chair to allow for easy access. When seated in the chair, the ottoman should be low enough for the user to rest their legs comfortably.
When measuring the height of the ottoman, it is important to take into consideration the height of the seat of the chair. The standard height of a seat is 18-20 inches high from the ground. To ensure the correct height for the ottoman, measure the height of the seat and then subtract 4-6 inches.
This should give you the ideal height for your ottoman.
When designing the size and height of an ottoman, also consider its use. If it is for a living room, for instance, where people may put their feet on it while lounging, a slightly taller ottoman may be more suitable.
Additionally, if the ottoman is to be used only for occasional use, such as when entertaining, it should be somewhere between 15-18 inches tall, depending on the height of the chair.
Finally, the size of the ottoman should fit the size of the room, as well as the chair. A large ottoman and chair combo in a small room may be too cumbersome and make the room look cramped.
In summary, the ideal height for an ottoman compared to a chair should be slightly lower than the height of the chair seat. When deciding on the height, it is important to consider the size and use of the ottoman, as well as how it fits within the room.
Can your ottoman be higher than your couch?
Yes, your ottoman can be higher than your couch. This can be a great option if you are looking for a more modern or dramatic look. For example, a taller ottoman can provide a contrast to a lower-lying couch, making for an interesting visual.
Additionally, a higher ottoman can make the room seem larger, as it can bring the eye up, visually expanding the space. It can also be a practical option for those who prefer to put their feet up high.
With some creative styling and positioning, a higher ottoman can make a great addition to your living space.
How do I know what size ottoman to get?
When choosing an ottoman, size is one of the most important factors to consider. Generally, the rule of thumb is to pick one that is proportional to the size of your space and the surrounding furniture.
If your room is large, you can go for a larger ottoman, whereas if the space is small, you will need to opt for a significantly smaller one. As a general rule, try to opt for an ottoman that’s approximately two-thirds the length of your couch.
Additionally, pay attention to the height of the ottoman in relation to your sofa or chairs. You should choose one with a height that is about equal to the height of your furniture. If you’re looking for an ottoman with storage inside, be sure to check the capacity so you can make sure it will fit all of your items.
If you’re pairing an ottoman with a piece of furniture that already has a skirt, you will want to make sure to pick a ottoman with a skirt that is no taller than the furniture’s skirt. Otherwise, it may look awkward.
Finally, be sure to pick an ottoman that fits your style, whether that’s traditional, modern, or eclectic.
Does ottoman have to match chair?
No, you do not have to match your ottoman and chair. In fact, mixing and matching different styles and shapes can often bring a unique, eclectic look to a room. It can also be a great way to add visual interest and texture; for example, pairing a bright velvet ottoman with a more muted-colored chair.
On the other hand, if you would like to create a more unified look, then you can also find ottomans that look similar to the chair, or have the same pattern or colors. It all depends on the look you’re seeking to achieve.
