Armchairs and Accent Chairs

An accent chair is a great addition to almost any space; it can complete a living room or dining room set, or serve as the perfect bedroom chair for reading. Whatever its use, you’ll find a wide variety of armchairs and accent chairs for sale on Houzz. While browsing, keep in mind the following advice on style, size and material to help you narrow down your search.

What type of armchair will work best for me?

Consider the room’s current design scheme and what you’ll want to use your furniture piece for when making this decision. Do you want something that can double as a focal point? If so, find something elegant and luxurious looking, like a leather armchair. Do you want to sink into your new seat with a glass of wine at the end of a long day? If relaxation is your main goal, you’ll want a design where comfort is key — think thick cushions, wide armrests, or even an oversized chair. Consider the following types of chairs for your home:

Armchairs: Just like the name says, these feature two arms, and are part of the classic comfy living room ensemble. They come in many styles, but the most common are the soft and inviting oversized chairs that sport substantial armrests. These are perfect for curling up in and getting lost in a good book. Smaller models, like a club or barrel chair, can be a great way to incorporate that same cozy feeling in a slightly more formal way.

Armless Accent Chairs: If you’ve got a tighter space but still want to add a functional accent piece, an armless design should fit the bill. These typically upholstered chairs can provide a more formal look and can also be used in the dining room.

Wingback Chairs: The high sides and back of this style were originally intended to protect the sitter from drafts or help trap in heat from a fireplace (which explains why they’re often pictured near one). This stately design can make an elegant focal point in living rooms today.

Egg Chairs: This iconic style was created by Arne Jacobsen in 1958, and is sure to bring a playful, modern look to your space. With rounded lines that curve inward, this design comfortably envelopes you.

What style, color and materials do I want for my accent chair?

Bedroom and living room chairs can make a big difference in the mood of a room, and it can be fun to create a look around a striking color or interesting pattern on your upholstery. For a traditional beachy look, try using a blue accent chair in your living room. For a more contemporary style, decorate with modern accent chairs in bold patterns and colors. When choosing among different upholstery materials, consider how much maintenance will be needed as well as your home’s natural environment. If you live in a colder place and want a cozy, lasting piece of furniture, a brown leather chair might be the best option. But if you live in a sunnier climate or are worried about stains and damage, perhaps you should look for a piece with a fabric slipcover that can be removed.

Should I pair my living room chair with an ottoman?

Ottomans and footstools are great for kicking back and relaxing, and work well if your armchair falls in line with a more casual, lounging style. Still, even if your space is slightly more formal, a leather chair with an ottoman perched near a fireplace can have its own appeal. You’ll always need to consider space: Will there still be sufficient room for pathways and access to the chair itself? If so, your next step will be to make sure to get the height and width right. To maximize comfort, both pieces should be of similar width, with the footstool being as high as or slightly lower than the seat height. Ideally, you should try to coordinate the pieces by matching color, material or pattern.