Where To Put Ottoman In Living Room

(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for Storables.com, at no extra cost. Learn more)

Introduction

When it comes to designing and decorating our living rooms, it’s important to consider every element carefully. One such element that often gets overlooked is the ottoman. An ottoman is a versatile and functional piece of furniture that can not only elevate the comfort level of your living room but also add style and personality to the space.

Choosing the right ottoman for your living room can be a daunting task. With so many options available in terms of size, shape, color, and material, it can be challenging to decide where to put your ottoman for maximum impact and functionality.

In this article, we will explore different placement ideas for ottomans in the living room and discuss their various purposes. Whether you’re looking for a stylish coffee table, extra seating, a footrest, a decorative accent, or a storage solution, we’ve got you covered.

So, let’s dive into the world of ottomans and discover the perfect spot for it in your living room.

Choosing the Perfect Ottoman

Before we dive into the different placement ideas for ottomans in the living room, it’s crucial to find the perfect ottoman that suits your style and practical needs. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing your ottoman:

1. Size: The size of your ottoman should be proportionate to your living room. A small living room might benefit from a compact ottoman, while a spacious one could accommodate a larger ottoman or even a combination of multiple ottomans.
2. Shape: Ottomans come in various shapes, including rectangular, square, round, and oval. Consider the shape that best complements your living room’s existing furniture arrangement and aesthetic.
3. Material: Ottomans can be upholstered in a variety of fabrics, such as leather, velvet, or linen. Choose a material that not only looks appealing but is also durable and easy to clean.
4. Color: The color of your ottoman can either blend in with the rest of your living room’s color scheme or make a bold statement. Consider the overall vibe and color palette of your space.
5. Functionality: Determine the primary purpose of your ottoman. Do you want it to serve as a coffee table, provide extra seating, act as a footrest, or offer storage space?

By taking these factors into account, you can find an ottoman that not only complements your living room’s aesthetic but also serves its intended purpose.

Now that we have a better idea of what to look for in an ottoman, let’s explore some creative placement ideas for ottomans in the living room.

Ottoman as Coffee Table

An ottoman can serve as a stylish and functional alternative to a traditional coffee table. It can create a focal point in your living room while providing a place to rest your drinks, books, and decorative items.

One way to use an ottoman as a coffee table is by selecting a larger, rectangular-shaped ottoman. Place a tray on top of the ottoman to provide a stable surface for your belongings. This allows you to enjoy the convenience of a coffee table while adding a touch of elegance and versatility to your space.

Additionally, ottomans with built-in storage can be a great option for a coffee table replacement. You can neatly store magazines, remote controls, and other small items inside the ottoman, keeping your living room organized and clutter-free.

Consider upholstering your ottoman in a durable and easy-to-clean fabric, especially if you anticipate heavy use. Leather or stain-resistant fabrics work well in high-traffic areas and are easy to maintain.

When arranging your living room furniture, position the ottoman at the center of your seating area, ensuring that it is within reach of all seating options. This will make it convenient for everyone to access the items on the ottoman and create a cohesive and functional living room setup.

Using an ottoman as a coffee table not only adds a touch of elegance and versatility to your living room but also provides a comfortable and convenient surface for your everyday needs.

Ottoman as Extra Seating

In addition to serving as a coffee table, ottomans can also function as extra seating in your living room. They offer a versatile and flexible seating option that can easily be moved around and used when needed.

Depending on the size and shape of your ottoman, it can serve as a standalone seat or be paired with your existing seating arrangement. Ottomans with a square or rectangular shape often work well as additional seating options, while round ottomans can add a unique and stylish touch to your living room.

Upholster your ottoman in a fabric that complements your existing furniture, or choose a bold pattern or color to make a statement. Consider adding a cushion for added comfort, especially if you plan on using the ottoman for extended periods of time.

Ottomans can also be used to create a cozy seating area in small spaces. Arrange a few ottomans in a circular or semi-circular pattern to encourage conversation and provide extra seating for guests. This arrangement is not only practical but also visually appealing and inviting.

Whether you’re hosting a game night, a movie marathon, or simply need extra seating for guests, ottomans can be an excellent solution. They offer flexibility, style, and comfort, and can easily be incorporated into your living room design.

So, the next time you’re short on seating, don’t overlook the versatility of ottomans. They can provide the extra seats you need while adding a touch of style to your living room.

Ottoman as Footrest

One of the most common and practical uses of an ottoman in the living room is as a footrest. After a long day, there’s nothing quite like putting your feet up and relaxing. Ottomans can provide the perfect spot to do just that.

Whether you’re watching TV, reading a book, or enjoying a conversation, an ottoman can offer a comfortable and supportive surface to elevate your feet and rest your legs. It helps to promote relaxation and relieve the stress on your lower body.

An ottoman used as a footrest should be at a height that allows your legs to comfortably rest without causing strain. Consider the height of your existing seating to ensure that the ottoman aligns properly and provides the desired level of comfort.

The size and shape of the ottoman can also contribute to its effectiveness as a footrest. Choose an ottoman that is wide enough to accommodate both of your feet comfortably. A rectangular or square-shaped ottoman can provide ample space, but even a round ottoman can work well if it is wide enough.

When positioning the ottoman in your living room, place it in front of the seating arrangement, within reach of your favorite chair or sofa. This allows for easy access and encourages you to use it whenever you feel the need for a bit of relaxation.

Consider upholstering the ottoman in a soft and plush fabric, such as velvet or microfiber. This adds to the comfort level and creates a cozy and inviting space in your living room.

Using an ottoman as a footrest not only enhances your comfort but also adds a touch of luxury to your living room. So, sit back, put your feet up, and enjoy the relaxation that an ottoman can provide.

Consider placing the ottoman in front of a sofa or sectional to serve as a coffee table or extra seating. It can also be placed near a chair for a comfortable footrest.

Ottoman as Decorative Accent

In addition to being a functional piece of furniture, ottomans can also serve as decorative accents in your living room. They can add style, texture, and personality to the space, making it more visually appealing and inviting.

One way to use an ottoman as a decorative accent is to choose a bold and eye-catching design. Opt for ottomans upholstered in vibrant colors, intricate patterns, or luxurious materials that complement the overall aesthetic of your living room. This can instantly elevate the style quotient and become a focal point in the room.

Another way to incorporate an ottoman as a decorative accent is to select one with unique details or interesting shapes. Look for ottomans with decorative nailhead trim, tufted upholstery, or ornate legs. These distinctive elements can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your living room.

Consider using ottomans to play with texture in your space. Choose an ottoman with a plush and soft fabric, such as velvet or faux fur, to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Alternatively, opt for an ottoman with a textured or woven material to add visual interest and depth.

When using ottomans as decorative accents, placement is key. Position them strategically in your living room to enhance the overall design. Place them next to a window to create a cozy reading nook, pair them with a side table for a stylish vignette, or use them as standalone pieces to bring balance and symmetry to the room.

Don’t be afraid to mix and match ottomans with other furniture pieces and accessories. They can easily blend with different styles and materials, allowing you to create a personalized and eclectic look in your living room.

By using ottomans as decorative accents, you can infuse your living room with style, personality, and visual interest. They offer a unique opportunity to showcase your creativity and add a touch of elegance to your space.

Ottoman as Storage Solution

Not only are ottomans versatile in terms of their functionality and style, but they can also provide a clever storage solution for your living room. With limited space, it’s essential to find furniture pieces that can serve multiple purposes, and ottomans with built-in storage compartments do just that.

An ottoman with hidden storage can help you keep your living room organized and free from clutter. You can use it to store blankets, pillows, magazines, remote controls, or any other items that tend to accumulate and create a messy look.

Opt for ottomans with a hinged top or lift-up lid, allowing easy access to the storage compartment. Ensure the storage space is deep enough to accommodate your belongings without sacrificing the comfort of the ottoman.

When choosing an ottoman as a storage solution, consider the durability and sturdiness of the piece. Look for ottomans with a solid construction and sturdy hinges to ensure they can withstand frequent use.

Upholster your storage ottoman in a fabric that can withstand wear and tear, or opt for leather for added durability and easy maintenance.

When incorporating an ottoman with storage into your living room, place it strategically in a spot where it can easily be accessed. For example, position it near a sofa or armchair so that you can conveniently retrieve items and put them away as needed.

Accessorize your storage ottoman with decorative elements such as a tray or a small plant to add style and functionality to the piece. This way, it becomes not only a practical storage solution but also a decorative accent in your living room.

Using an ottoman as a storage solution maximizes the functionality of your living room and helps keep your space tidy. It’s a seamless way to combine practicality and style in your furniture choices.

Ottoman Placement Tips

Now that we’ve explored the various ways to use ottomans in the living room, let’s discuss some helpful tips for proper ottoman placement:

1. Center of Attention: When using an ottoman as a coffee table or focal point in the room, position it in the center of your seating area. This creates a visually balanced and cohesive look.
2. Contrasting Colors: If your ottoman is upholstered in a bold or vibrant color, consider placing it against a neutral backdrop. This allows the ottoman to stand out and become a statement piece in your living room.
3. Flow of Traffic: Ensure that the placement of your ottoman does not obstruct the natural flow of traffic in the room. Leave enough space around the ottoman for easy movement and accessibility.
4. Complementing Furniture: Coordinate the style and material of your ottoman with the rest of your living room furniture. This creates a harmonious and cohesive look that ties the space together.
5. Scale and Proportion: Consider the size of your ottoman in relation to your seating and the overall dimensions of the room. A large ottoman can overpower a small space, while a small ottoman may get lost in a larger room.
6. Layering with Rugs: If your living room boasts a rug, consider placing your ottoman on top of it. This creates an added layer of visual interest and helps anchor the ottoman in the space.
7. Mixing and Matching: Don’t be afraid to mix and match different ottomans in your living room. You can experiment with sizes, shapes, and colors to create a unique and eclectic look.
8. Functionality First: Ultimately, the placement of your ottoman should prioritize its functional purpose. Whether it’s for resting your feet, adding extra seating, or storing items, ensure that it is positioned in a way that enhances its usefulness in your space.

By following these ottoman placement tips, you can effectively incorporate these versatile pieces of furniture into your living room design while optimizing both style and functionality.

Conclusion

Choosing the right ottoman for your living room can greatly enhance its comfort, style, and functionality. Whether you decide to use your ottoman as a coffee table, extra seating, a footrest, a decorative accent, or a storage solution, it can add a unique touch to your space.

When selecting an ottoman, consider various factors such as size, shape, material, color, and functionality to ensure it aligns with your living room’s design and meets your practical needs.

An ottoman can serve as a stylish and functional coffee table, providing a place to rest drinks and accessories while adding elegance and versatility to your living room. Additionally, it can act as extra seating, offering a flexible and movable seating option for guests or creating a cozy space for you to relax and unwind.

As a footrest, an ottoman can provide comfort and support, allowing you to put your feet up and kick back. It can also serve as a decorative accent, adding color, texture, and personality to your living room, becoming a focal point that complements your overall design scheme.

Furthermore, ottomans with built-in storage compartments offer a practical solution to keep your living room organized and clutter-free, offering a concealed space for blankets, remote controls, or other items.

When it comes to ottoman placement, keep in mind the center of attention, complementing furniture, flow of traffic, and scale and proportion. These considerations will help you position your ottoman in a way that optimizes both its functionality and visual appeal within your living room.

In conclusion, ottomans are versatile and multifunctional pieces of furniture that can elevate the comfort and style of your living room. By choosing the perfect ottoman and placing it strategically, you can transform your living room into a welcoming and functional space that reflects your personal taste and lifestyle.

So, embrace the flexibility and creativity that ottomans offer and discover the endless possibilities they bring to your living room design.