Ottomans, which one to choose? Models to compare!

Design complements: modern ottomans

The ottoman is an increasingly popular piece of furniture. There are many types, in different shapes, colours and coverings, and for different purposes. The truth is that we are spoilt for choice when it comes to ottomans.

If they are so popular, the reason is simple: an extra seat without taking up too much space, even for last-minute guests. They are truly functional, easily transportable from one room to another and fit into any furnishing style.

But how to choose a ottoman? There is a wide range on offer, and to find the ideal one you need to consider size, shape and colour. Let’s find out how many types of ottomans exist!

Appearing in furniture at the end of the 19th century, it is a type of low stool with a padded, quilted seat and usually cylindrical in shape. But over the years this furniture has also undergone influences and transformations, especially in shape and upholstery. There are rectangular or square ottomans on the market, and designer poufs in fabric, leather or velvet.

But what distinguishes one ottoman from another is its functionality. In fact, we can subdivide them into storage, footstool, beanbag, coffee table.

Storage ottoman: indispensable furniture in every corner of the house

This type is the most popular because, as we know, in every room, you need a space to store everything. Storage ottomans can be filled with books, scarves and many other objects, which are also useful in every corner as decorative accessories. These, in fact, combine aesthetics with functionality. Practical not only in the home environment, but also in the office.

Footstools: comfort and aesthetics

Sofa or armchair footstools for the living area are perfect for resting your legs after a hard day’s work. They are made of top quality fabric, nubuck leather, distressed leather, faux leather, velvet.

This type is also ideal as extra seating for the living room, some models are equipped with a small container where you can place a cushion or magazines.

Fabric living room footstools have removable covers that can be washed separately, making them easy to keep clean or to renew according to changes in the style of your home.

Beanbags: soft, upholstered ottomans

Beanbags, also known as “Puf Poufs”, are upholstered pieces of furniture without a defined shape, which adapt to the body of the person sitting or lying on them. They consist of a soft inner structure, usually made of expanded polystyrene, and an outer cover of durable fabric.

They are very comfortable and versatile, as they can be used as improvised seats, beds or sofas. They are also lightweight and easy to move, making them ideal for children’s rooms or small spaces. Beanbags are available in a wide range of colours, fabrics and sizes, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs and the decor of your home. They usually do not require any special maintenance, but the cover can be removed and washed if necessary.

Ottoman bed: the alternative to a sofa bed

The ultimate space-saving piece of furniture. A ottoman that turns into a bed that can offer a comfortable single or queen-size sleeping surface. A useful solution in the bedroom, but interesting to place in the living room or in houses with limited space such as studio apartments. The bed can be pulled out together with the bedspring at the bottom or, in the case of folding ottomans, the bed can be opened with flap mechanisms.

Furnishing with design ottomans

The versatility of this furniture allows it to be placed in any room of the house, adapting to the furnishing style. From traditional to non-conventional shapes, design ottomans are among the most sought-after furnishing accessories. Poufs can become excellent side tables for the living area, but also bedside tables for the living area and benches for the entrance, the waiting room of an office or the garden.