13 Ottoman Decorating Ideas That’ll Elevate Your Home
If you’re looking for ottoman decorating ideas to elevate your home, you’re in the right place. Ottomans are not only stylish and functional, but they’re an affordable way to make your home look expensive.
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A well-chosen ottoman can serve many purposes. It can be a storage solution, provide extra seating, add a pop of color, or even replace a traditional coffee table.
Ottomans can be used to make a statement in front of a sofa, at the foot of a bed, or in a cozy reading nook. Check out any high-end furniture showroom or designer space, you’ll notice ottomans used in many ways.
The versatile pieces will add beauty and function to any room of your home. From sleek and modern designs to plush and cozy options, there’s one for every style and budget.
In this post, you’ll learn creative ways to style ottomans, how to choose the best one, different types, materials, and where to shop.
This post is all about ottoman decorating ideas.
READ MORE>>> Furniture Inspiration On Inspired Design Talk
What is the Purpose of an Ottoman
The purpose of an ottoman is:
- to be a comfortable footrest
- provide extra seating
- double as a coffee table
- be a storage solution
It was originally designed to be a footrest to complement a seating area but has evolved to be one the most functional and stylish pieces of furniture you can own. It’s the best combination of comfort, style, and practicality.
What’s the Difference Between an Ottoman and Pouf
Tibetan Sheep Ottoman // Color Block Ottoman // Black Velvet Tassle Ottoman // Blue Moroccan Pouf // Seagrass Pouf // Square Leather Pouf
An ottoman and a pouf may seem similar but they serve different purposes. Ottomans are often sturdier and can be used as a coffee table or extra seating. They may have features like built-in storage for added functionality.
Poufs on the other hand are softer and usually smaller. They’re lighter and easy to move making them perfect to use as a footrest or for casual seating.
Ottomans are multi-purpose while poufs are more for comfort and aesthetics.
How to Choose an Ottoman
When choosing an ottoman it should match the existing elements of your room. Everything from the size, shape, materials, and textures should be considered.
Matching Your Design Style
The ottoman you choose should complement the style of your living space. A traditional ottoman will have different design details than one that’s modern, contemporary, or coastal.
The Traditional Style Ottoman will have nailheads, tufted upholstery, or turned legs. It will have ornate details in classic silhouettes.
Modern Style Ottomans will have clean lines and neutral colors. It may have mixed materials like a leather upholstered cushion with a metal frame.
The Contemporary Style ottoman on the other hand will have plush fabrics like velvet, boucle, and fur. They’ll often have unique shapes and sculptural silhouettes with mixed materials.
The Coastal Style Ottoman may have materials like jute, rattan, wicker, ticking stripe fabrics, and light wood.
A Boho Style Ottoman on the other hand is colorful and eclectic. It may have bold patterns, embroidery, and hand-crafted details like tassels, fringe, or intricate stitching.
Size and Shape Considerations
Size and shape are crucial when picking an ottoman. Measure your available space before shopping to avoid cluttering your room. Small rooms benefit from compact or multifunctional ottomans, such as those with storage inside.
For larger rooms, feel free to go bold with bigger, statement pieces. If you’re using the ottoman as a coffee table, ensure it’s proportional to your seating arrangement.
Shapes vary from square and rectangular to round and oval. A round ottoman can soften the look of a room with rigid lines, while a square one aligns well with modern designs.
Ottoman Height Guidelines
The height of the ottoman you choose can range from 14 to 20 inches. It just depends on how you plan to use it and how it works with the other pieces in your room.
Footrest ottomans tend to be on the lower end at 14 to 16 inches while those used for extra seating or as an ottoman are usually closer to 18 to 20 inches.
Pro Tip: The height should be level with or just lower than the sofa or chairs in your room for comfort and visual harmony.
Material and Texture Choices
Materials and texture play a significant role in how your ottoman feels and functions. Fabric options include leather, suede, velvet, and cotton. Each material has distinct characteristics. For example, leather is durable and easy to clean, while velvet offers a luxurious feel and a pop of texture.
If you have kids or pets, durable and stain-resistant materials like microfiber or treated leather might be ideal. Choose textures that complement your room’s current aesthetic. A plush fabric can add coziness, while a minimalist leather finish can keep things sleek and contemporary.
Think about the ottoman’s frame too. Wooden legs can add a rustic touch, metal frames can lend a modern feel, and hidden casters can add mobility without sacrificing looks. These material choices will greatly influence both the function and appearance of your ottoman.
Common materials include:
- Linen
- Cotton
- Velvet
- Boucle
- Leather or Hide
- Fur or Sheepskin
- Jute, Rattan, or Wicker
These can be found alone or in combination with wood or metal accents.
Multipurpose Ottoman Decorating Ideas
Ottoman decorating ideas include more than just footrests. They can transform spaces by serving as coffee tables, integrating storage solutions, and providing extra seating.
From Footrest to Coffee Table
An ottoman doesn’t have to be just for your feet. You can easily convert it into a coffee table. Place a decorative tray on top to hold items like magazines, candles, or a drink.
This setup is stylish and functional. Use a sturdy, flat-topped ottoman for better stability.
You can also mix and match designs and colors. A bold, colorful ottoman can be a focal point, while a neutral one blends seamlessly with your existing decor.
Experiment with different textures and materials like leather or fabric to match your style.
Integrating Storage Solutions
Storage ottomans are fantastic for keeping your living room tidy. They often have a hollow interior where you can store blankets, pillows, or even kids’ toys.
This hidden storage helps to declutter your space while keeping necessary items accessible.
Choose a storage ottoman that matches your room’s color scheme and design. Lift-top designs are particularly practical.
Some come with removable lids, making it easy to access stored items. Combining storage and seating, these ottomans offer both style and functionality.
To get really fancy and maximize your space check out the expandable furniture cube ottoman that has 5 hidden seats inside.
My favorite use is for extra seating. They’re life savers when hosting a company and during the holidays. They add a comfortable seating option that’s easy to move to any room it’s needed.
Extra Seating Ottoman Decorating Ideas
When you have guests over, an ottoman can be a lifesaver as extra seating. They are easy to move and can accommodate one or more people depending on their size.
Ottomans are more comfortable than hard chairs and offer a relaxed seating option.
For a cohesive look, match the ottomans with your sofa or chairs. You can also use multiple smaller ottomans around a large table, creating a casual and inviting seating arrangement. Look for ottomans with a foam cushion top for added comfort.
Styling in Different Rooms
Ottomans will make a practical and stylish addition to any room. Here are ottoman decorating ideas and inspiration for your home.
- Use an oversized ottoman as a softer alternative to a traditional coffee table.
- Adding a pair of ottomans in your living room will square off your seating arrangement and elevate the look.
- Add a pair of ottomans in front of your fireplace for a cozy spot to sit and relax.
- In a bedroom, add an ottoman or two at the foot of your bed for a luxurious, hotel-like feel.
- In a walk-in closet add an ottoman in the center or next to a floor-length mirror.
- Use an ottoman with a desk or make-up vanity to save space and add personality.
- Create a moment next to a chair or daybed for a spot to hold a book or put your feet up.
- Add an ottoman to your bathroom for a touch of luxury and spa-like feeling.
- In a home office add an ottoman in an empty corner for a cozy reading nook or in front of your desk.
- If you have a larger foyer or entry way add a pair of ottomans to a small dining table with table decor for a sophisticated look.
- Add a storage ottoman next to your coat for a place to hide shoes, hats, gloves, an umbrella, or anything you may need to grab on the way out the door.
- Add a pair of ottomans in front of a window for another place to sit down and enjoy the beautiful view.
- Maximize your square footage with a pair of ottomans under a console table in your living room, entryway, or foyer.
That’s A Wrap!
Decorating with ottomans can be both fun and functional. Choosing the right ottoman can enhance your living space, adding style and practicality.
Ottomans are very versatile. They can serve as extra seating, a coffee table, or even storage. Think about the primary purpose of your ottoman to make the best choice.
When selecting an ottoman, consider its color, texture, and material. These elements can impact the room’s overall look.
It’s also essential to think about the size of your ottoman. A large ottoman can anchor a room, while a smaller one might be more subtle.
Here are a few quick tips:
- Multi-functional: Some ottomans have hidden storage.
- Material matters: Leather, fabric, and velvet can each provide a different vibe.
- Match or contrast: Coordinate with your existing furniture or choose something bold to stand out.
Remember, your ottoman can reflect your personal style. Whether you prefer something classic or trendy, there’s an option for you. Enjoy the process of exploring and finding the perfect piece for your home.
This post is all about ottoman decorating ideas.
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Last Updated on March 31, 2025 by Nicole DelaCruz
