Interior Design Tips: Types of Accent Chairs

Written by Sachin Arora

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Posted on June 19 2024

When looking for a way to bring some personality, color, and style into a room, accent chairs are the way to go. They give you extra seats but at the same time serve as decorative pieces that can either match or contrast with your existing furniture. This article will look at different kinds of accent chairs and provide guidelines on how to select one that suits your needs best.

What is an Accent Chair?

An accent chair is defined as any kind of seating arrangement in a room that stands out from other types of furniture by its special design, shade, or upholstery. Unlike most living room sofas or dining chairs, accent chairs are often chosen to emphasize various parts or themes in space. It may be a loud piece making its presence felt in the room; it might also be an almost invisible final touch to close up the space; or simply serve its purpose in making life easier and more comfortable.

How Do I Select The Best Accent Chairs?

There are several factors involved in choosing the perfect accent chair including style, comfort, functionality, and space. These include:

  • Discover Your Style: To shop before, know what style you prefer. Do you want modern, classical, traditional, or eclectic decor? It should complement the look of your space.
  • Comfort is important: Comfort should never be at the expense of style. You should ensure that the chair offers good support and feels comfortable to sit on.
  • Purpose and Functionality: How do you wish to use this chair? Will it be for occasional seating, a reading nook, or an extra seat in your living room? These things will determine which type of chair you buy.
  • Material and Upholstery: Look at what kind of fabric/material was used for making this chair. Different materials have different levels of durability and require varied maintenance. For instance, leather is lasting and easy to clean while velvet may need more care while cleaning.

Types of Accent Chairs That Are Popular Now

Different types of accent chairs possess unique features and benefits attached to them. Below are some common choices:

1. Armchairs

Armchairs are a common pick for accent chairs. With arms that offer additional comfort and support, these chairs are perfect for relaxation or reading purposes. They also come in various designs ranging from traditional wingback styles to modern sleek ones.

  • Pros: Comfy, multipurpose, and available in many styles and materials.
  • Cons: They may become bulky and require more room.

2. Armless Chairs

If you have a small space or want something that looks less busy, then armless chairs are the way to go. These chairs lack arms hence it is easier to fit them in tight spaces because they are not as big.

  • Pros: Space-saving, versatile, and usually cheaper than armchairs.
  • Cons: May not be comfortable for long hours of sitting.

3. Occasional Chairs

Occasional chairs are rarely used and are often more aesthetic rather than practical. These also move easily across any room making it perfect for extra colors or design elements within your house.

  • Pros: Highly decorative, flexible placement, and often lightweight.
  • Cons: Cannot be used for longer periods without being uncomfortable.

a)    Leather Occasional Chairs

Leather accent chairs never go out of fashion; instead, they make any room look classy. This makes them a good choice especially in households with children or pets since they last long and can be cleaned easily when dirty.

  • Pros: Durable, easy to clean, and luxurious appearance.
  • Cons: Can be expensive and may feel cold to the touch in cooler climates.

b)    Black Occasional Chairs

Bold and striking black accent chairs can be chosen to create a bold contrast in a room. They are adaptable and hence suitable for almost any color scheme.

  • Pros: Fashionable, versatile, and can easily blend with other decors.
  • Cons: Dust and scratches tend to show more on darker furniture.

Take Measurements into Account

To make sure that it fits seamlessly within the available space, you need to consider the measurements when selecting an accent chair. Consider these tips as you go through this process:

Size of Your Room or Available Space

Your decision-making on an accent chair will be impacted greatly by the size of your room or available space. So, here’s how you should go about this:

  • Living Room: In a larger living room, you might have the flexibility to choose a larger or more elaborate chair. Will the new chair work with your existing furniture arrangement? You want it to be a focal point without overwhelming the space.
  • Bedroom: In the case of bedrooms, smaller chairs that offer intimacy may be more appropriate. It becomes a cozy place for reading or just sitting while putting on shoes.
  • Balcony or Outdoor Space: If you are trying to find an accent chair for an outside space such as a deck or terrace, the material should be weatherproof. Also, consider its footprint and how it will fit with your other outdoor furniture.
  • Small Spaces: In apartments or smaller homes, choose a chair that can give maximum comfort without consuming too much space. These may include armless chairs or smaller occasional chairs.

Double Check the Dimensions of the Chair

Before purchasing one, ensure you double-check the dimensions of the chair. Here’s how:

  • Measure Your Space: Measure out the area where you want to put your chair. Remember to leave room for walkways around it.
  • Compare Dimensions: Compare these measurements with those given for the chair. This includes its height, width, and depth.
  • Consider Proportions: Make sure that the proportions of the chair are appropriate for both the size of the room and the other furniture in it. For example, a tall and heavy-set chair would look awkward in a low-ceilinged room with delicate furniture.
  • Visualize the Placement: Tape the chair’s footprint to visualize how it will fit in the space. See if it fits well without crowding the room.

Get Occasional or Accent Chairs with Divano

The right accent chair choice involves considering style, comfort, and functionality as well as space constraints. The best accent chair for your living area could be a classic armchair, a modern armless chair, or an attractive occasional seat that can provide appealing aesthetics and comfortable seating. When selecting an accent chair, you must think about your taste and preferences, and its purpose and carefully measure the available space to find one that suits it perfectly both visually and functionally.