1. Define the Purpose First
Before focusing on style or colour, clarify how the chair will be used. This determines everything from size to upholstery.
- Occasional seating: Prioritise style and visual impact
- Reading or relaxation: Look for ergonomic support and cushioning
- Statement piece: Focus on bold design, texture, or shape
- Complementary seating: Ensure it balances your existing sofa or lounge
A common mistake is choosing purely on appearance—function should always come first.
2. Get the Scale and Proportion Right
An accent chair should enhance your space—not overwhelm it. It doesn't have to blend in perfectly, but some level of unanimity is ideal.
- Small rooms: Opt for armless or slim-profile chairs. Something like this Boucle Duo which utilises vertical space.
- Larger rooms: Go for wider, deeper, or more sculptural pieces. Can't go past a wide armed armchair like this classic retro upholstered armchair.
- Seat height alignment: Ideally similar to your sofa for visual cohesion - nothing worse than a party enjoying a card game at awkwardly different heights.
- Negative space: Leave breathing room around the chair to avoid clutter
Tip: If your chair feels “too big,” it’s usually not the size—but the visual weight (bulky arms, dark tones, heavy fabrics).
3. Choose a Style That Adds Contrast (Not Competition)
Accent chairs work best when they complement your space without blending in completely.
If your living room features:
- Neutral sofas: Introduce colour or texture (bouclé, leather, velvet). Bouclé especially is having a massive resurgence currently and can be found featured in trendy living rooms everywhere.
- Modern interiors: Add softness with curved or organic silhouettes like this Mid-Century Chenille & Solid Wood Armchair. Pairing the solid wood outline with contemporary décor can create a unique retro inspiration.
- Traditional styling: Consider clean-lined or mid-century designs for contrast. Neutral colours and simplistic designs bring a sense of understated class that will never go out of style.
The goal is controlled contrast—something that stands out but still feels intentional.
4. Material Matters More Than You Think
Your upholstery choice affects durability, maintenance, and perceived luxury.
- Upholstered: Soft, versatile, ideal for everyday comfort. Can't go past a velvet armchair for an added touch of elegance.
- Leather or PU leather: Durable, easy to clean, premium luxury look suitable to all types of chairs from massage to statement.
- Bouclé or textured weaves: On-trend and adds depth
- Timber frames: Introduce warmth and structural integrity, with solid wood frames an essential in traditional households.
For high-traffic areas, prioritise stain-resistant or easy-clean materials.
5. Consider Colour Psychology and Placement
Colour plays a critical role in how your space feels.
- Light tones like this (beige, cream, soft grey): Open up the room
- Dark tones (charcoal, black, deep brown): Ground the space and give it a moody feel.
- Earthy hues (olive, rust, tan): Add warmth and trend appeal, a must have in contemporary styled rooms.
- Bold colours (mustard, navy, green): Create a focal point and a statement!
Placement strategy:
Position your accent chair near natural light to draw visual focus, and pair it with a side table or floor lamp to create a defined, functional zone. Angle the chair slightly toward the sofa to encourage a natural conversational flow and a more cohesive living space layout.
6. Comfort Is Non-Negotiable
Even if the chair is primarily decorative, comfort still matters—especially for living room situated chairs and long-term use. Finding the right armchair isn't unlike finding the right mattress.
Check for:
- Seat depth (too shallow feels restrictive, too deep reduces support)
- Backrest angle (upright vs relaxed)
- Cushion density (firm vs plush)
- Armrest height (if applicable)
7. Think Like a Stylist: Layer the Look
An accent chair rarely works in isolation. Styling enhances cohesion, comfort and overall appeal to home dwellers and guests.
- Pair your chair with:
- A textured throw or cushion
- A timber or marble side table - browse our huge range here
- A floor lamp for vertical balance
- A rug to define the space
Pro Tip for Shoppers
If you’re unsure where to start, begin with a neutral-toned accent chair in a versatile fabric, then layer styling elements around it. This approach gives you flexibility while still elevating your living space immediately.
Looking to upgrade your living room? Explore our curated collection of accent chairs designed to bring comfort, style, and everyday luxury into your home. Shop here for unbeatable variety.
