Ottomans are small furniture pieces that can add style, comfort, and extra function to any space. You can use ottomans in the living room, bedroom, or even the hallway. Some come with storage, others serve as coffee tables, and some are just there to make the room feel cozy. If you’re planning to buy one soon, this article will share simple yet clear tips to help you choose the right ottoman for your space.
1. Think About the Purpose
Ask first how the ottoman will be used in your space, like for a coffee table or footrest. Some designs include concealed storage, ideal for tucking blankets, toys, or other objects. Knowing the main goal helps you select one that meets your demand without becoming overwhelmed by too many possibilities. Once it is obvious, it becomes much simpler to narrow down the form, dimensions, and characteristics.
2. Measure Your Space First
For a correct measurement, you should get a measuring tape and see how much space is free before making purchases. Make sure the ottoman fits without obstructing paths or unnecessarily tightening the space. However, if it faces a sofa or chair, provide ample room to move about comfortably. Generally speaking, leave at least 12 to 14 inches separating the ottoman from other furniture.
3. Pick the Right Shape
Ottomans come in round, square, rectangular, and oval shapes; that’s why the form you choose should fit your room. If you are sitting well in front of a sofa, square or rectangular ottomans help to balance the area. Opting for a round ottoman softens a room packed with strong lines, assisting in the edge-breaking action. If you want to use the ottoman as a table, a flat-top design facilitates trays or books.
4. Choose a Style That Matches Your Room
For you to maintain everything looking balanced, the ottoman you choose should complement the decor of your area. While a more classic area complements tufted designs and soft materials, a modern environment performs best with simple shapes and clean lines. But if your room combines two types, you should think about an ottoman in a neutral color with a basic form to help it integrate in.
5. Look at the Material
Keep in mind that investing in an ottoman could require extra maintenance for sturdiness. Fabric ottomans provide comfort and are available in a variety of colors and prints. Options in leather or imitation leather is more polished and easier to maintain. For households with children or pets, choose a robust and straightforward rug to keep, such as simple woven or wooden designs with some texture.
6. Pick the Right Color
Take note that the ambiance of a room is much influenced by color, so choose depending on the desired mood. Bright colors or patterns on a dramatic ottoman will offer entertainment value and personalize the environment. Choose neutral colors like beige, gray, or mild browns if you wish a cleaner appearance. Furthermore, neutral colors are easier to mix into several styles and fit most furniture.
7. Check the Height
For both comfort and design, make sure that the ottoman height matches adjacent chairs or sofas. If it’s too high or too low, it might be hard to use and throw off the balance of the room. Additionally, the top of footrests should be either exactly level with the sofa seat or somewhat lower. For you to have a neat, pleasant appearance as a coffee table, it shouldn’t be taller than the seat height.
Make Your Space Work Better With Ottoman
Selecting the right ottoman means choosing one that serves a purpose, fits your area, and complements your style. Before you buy, consider how you will use it, like for storage or a footrest, and then inspect the size, form, and color. The proper decision should feel natural in the space without overwhelming it. A chosen ottoman not only provides comfort but also serves to finish the feel and style of the room.
