Ottoman Buying Guide

Ottomans are versatile and functional pieces of furniture and come in many shapes and sizes. Gone are the days that their only purpose was as a foot rest; today’s ottomans serve as cocktail tables, coffee tables and even storage areas. Leather ottomans are still the first choice of many, but upholstered ottomans are quickly becoming just as popular due to the new trends in fabrics, patterns and colors.

Round Ottomans

These are the traditional shape most ottomans can be found. They’re easy to maneuver, add a bit of flair to a room and are ideal for bridging a sofa and love seat or other seating areas. Many ottomans can be found with built in storage, since ottomans are generally hollow. Because of its shape, these add dimension to a room and look especially well-placed with longer sofas.

Cube Ottomans

Square ottomans, also known as cubes, are quite popular these days, especially when you pair two together to make a coffee table. Because they’re usually tightly upholstered, they easily convert into a sturdy resting place for books, vases and other items you might find on a coffee table. Your decorating options are plentiful, as you can strategically place the a few inches apart or link them with trays or other décor that will rest across both. Of course, you can always use them for foot rests, the idea is to make it your own.

Leather ottomans, as mentioned, are generally the first choice for many homeowners. They’re especially durable and resistant to damage. They signify elegance and refined living.

modern leather ottomanUpholstered ottomans offer a wide choice in fabric coverings and colors. Generally speaking, you don’t necessarily need to match the fabric of your other living room furniture, but you want to stay within the same color scheme. If you currently have a floral covering on your sofa and love seat, you might wish to select either a solid color upholstery or perhaps stripes that are similar to the colors you’ve already incorporated.

With a little creativity, adding an ottoman to your current design layout is an easy and affordable way to liven a room.