Ottomans exist to provide a place to rest our feet or as extra seating. They’re often used as a table and for storing items you want to keep out of sight. These multi-functional pieces can add an air of elegance or casualness to your space. Determining which styles and sizes you should choose depends on where and how you plan to use the piece.
Living rooms are common areas where ottomans are used to upgrade the room’s look. In a formal living area, fully upholstered and deeply tufted ottomans with metal nail-head accents only enhance the feel. Place one or two in front of the sofa as a comfortable footstool for family and guests.
For a more casual space, a simple square or round pouf lets everyone know it’s a room to kick back in and relax as you take in a movie or stream a beloved sitcom.
They also make wonderful coffee tables. Place a few magazines on top next to a tray for snacks, and you’ve brought a night in with friends to a whole new level. Large round ottomans work well with a sectional as each person seated has equal access to the piece. Everyone can put their feet up as you sit and share the latest gossip.
Ottomans are a great way to add pops of color to the room. Here accent ottomans can be found in various sizes and designs. You can stick with a single bold, bright hue or find a pattern or print that matches the current color scheme. Don’t be afraid to experiment with contrasting colors, especially if you have white or black sofas. A touch of orange or yellow can liven up and bring depth to the space.
Do you need more seating for those guests who stop through with an unexpected friend in tow? Use an ottoman to make them feel welcome. You can keep it tucked away in a corner or under a sofa table until you’re ready to use it. That way, no one is ever left out of the conversation.
Create a cozy reading corner in any room by pairing a small footstool ottoman with an accent chair and floor lamp. You’ll have a small retreat in the home where you can stretch out and get lost in a good book. Find one with storage for your books or magazines, and you’ll have a dedicated space just for reading.
Bedrooms are another popular spot for ottomans. Place one inside your walk-in closet, and you’ll have an instant dressing room. Store your shoes, purses, and other accessories inside the empty drum, so you have one centralized location to prepare for your day.
Storing bedding is another way to use your ottoman. Keep extra pillows, blankets, and sheets at the foot of your bed for easy access. Place one next to your child’s bed for storage and a place to sit as you read them bedtime stories. These are just a few ways you can benefit from having an ottoman.
