One of the most versatile furniture pieces you can use in many ways in your home is the ottoman chair. It is an item that brings style, history and elegance in the home. Introduced into Europe in the late 18th century from Turkey, it was the central piece of domestic seating which during the upcoming years evolved into a smaller version designed to fit the corner of a room. Since then, the ottoman has come a long way and it can be used as a part of the decor of a room, making a strong statement about the style. Here are several ways how to include this hidden gem in the design of your home.
Footstool
The primary use of an ottoman is as a footstool. Its comfortable cushioning and low profile make it a perfect solution for putting your feet up and have a rest in your favourite armchair. You can read a book or enjoy a glass of wine in a quiet evening while watching your favourite TV programme. You can select a colour combination that complements the colour of the rest of the seating furniture and place the ottoman it in front of the armchair.
If you are a fan of the wooden tones of the Scandinavian style, you can choose a mid century ottoman with a cushion in a neutral colour like midnight blue or and a wooden frame made of American white oak with a touch of a cinnamon stain. Or, you can go for a pale blue or sage green cushion with a wooden frame made of the robust American white oak. This combination of a mid century ottoman will perfectly fit in a Scandinavian style designed living room.
Extra Seating
You can use your ottoman as an extra seating when there are more guests visiting and there is not enough seating for all of them. As it is a robust design, with sturdy legs, lush fabrics and soft cushioning it can make an ideal transition from footrest to a chair. The guests will be as comfortable as seating on a sofa.
Coffee Table
Another use for your ottoman is as a coffee table. Its height makes it suitable to put a solid tray with cups of coffee or a teapot with cups and saucers. You just need to make sure to use a tray as spilling some coffee or tea may ruin the quality fabric of the cushion.
Bed bench
Ottomans can find their place in the bedroom as well. You can put it at the end of the bed to transform it into a small seating arrangement where you can seat when you get up from the bed and put on socks and shoes. Additionally, not only will it be a practical item, but also it will add to the style of the bedroom.
Visual Interest
Ottomans can raise the visual interest in the living room, subtly becoming an addition to the central piece. Its various shapes and geometric designs can make it look fun and aesthetically appealing. There are mid-century ottomans that are so strong with their presence that attract all the attention and have the „all eyes on me“ factor. They are extravagant and lush in such an affluent seating.
Children Friendly
As they have soft cushioning, the ottomans can be used by children to put things on it while sitting on the floor. The flat surface is perfect to be used even for board games and playing with friends without bothering the adults who are seated around the main dining table in the home.
Teressa Notes 