The ottoman as a furniture piece can be traced back to the Ottoman Empire, where it served as the primary piece of domestic seating. Typically, they’re low wooden platforms that are piled high with cushions, originating as three-wall-spanning sectionals. They have since evolved into corner configurations and circular padded seats arranged around a central column or pole in a public space.
After being used in the Ottoman Empire for centuries, the ottoman was exported to Europe in the late 18th century. Throughout the nineteenth century, they evolved into their modern circular or octagonal form, with arms dividing the seating area and a central padded column, serving as a decorative accent. Even today, they remain a source of comfort and visual interest in many homes, so you can harness the same style and comfort in your own space in the following ways:
Match it With Your Existing Seating Area
Traditionally, this kind of furniture has a cushion on top of a rectangular or square base that is a part of the already existing furniture and is meant to be sat on or used as a footrest. When it comes to finding a stylish ottoman you buy and pair with existing decor, they’re generally available in a variety of colours and patterns and are typically made with leather or other softer synthetic materials. Ottomans are in fact intended to be a part of the interior design aesthetic in addition to serving as a footrest or an extra seating spot for guests.
Get One With Storage Space Included
An ottoman with a drawer is an excellent option to conceal additional storage space. This can be accomplished by positioning the drawer on the base of a tall-legged ottoman as opposed to a flat surface. This allows you to use the ottoman as both a footrest and storage space. Great for keeping remote controls, coasters for drinks, and other items you use on a day-to-day basis.
And in regards to utilizing the space on top, whichever of the items you choose to place on your ottoman, a tray is the easiest method to keep them organized. From rectangular trays to round trays to trays made of wood, metal, wicker, and every other material imaginable, the storage options for trays are endless. Use a tray to exhibit figurines, books, attractive boxes, periodicals, vases, and other ottoman accents!
Get a Nested Ottoman With Extensions
Nesting ottomans differ significantly from conventional ottoman types. They provide a blend of traits that allow for various uses in a single product. These adaptable components feature numerous storage sections, tablet holders, and even detachable seats. Some types include built-in drawers or shelves, while others include trays, baskets, or cabinets.
Because nested ottomans are designed to be utilized in a variety of ways, you may not need to purchase many pieces to attain full utility. A model with multiple tiny tables, for instance, could easily replace a coffee table in your living area. Alternatively, a larger version of the same design might function as a television stand, sideboard, or buffet for entertaining guests.
Repurpose It as a Coffee or Cocktail Table
A common type of ottoman is known as a coffee table due to its resemblance to it. It can be constructed of wood with a feature of a tabletop for placing drinks and meals. Several designs feature cushion tops that can be flipped over to reveal solid tables.
Moreover, some models include a tray that fits neatly on the surface. The most common cocktail ottoman shapes are square and rectangular. They are simple to fit in most spaces and offer many placement possibilities. You may use one or both sides in addition to the centre. This facilitates matching with existing furnishings in the room.
The easiest method to determine the type of ottoman you need for your space is to assess the size and furniture needs of your welcoming living room. For example, if you intend to place it next to the sofa, use a square or rectangular shape. If your room is more experimental and moves your furniture around a lot, you might want to consider a round shape, etc.
Use It in Accordance with Your Personal Preference
Obviously, the ottoman you buy doesn’t need to be a coffee table or a seat, it may simply be a decorative centrepiece of your living room. Putting an ottoman directly next to a TV stand or entertainment centre can help provide a sort of ledge; since most TV stands and entertainment areas contain storage and operate close to the ground, an ottoman to grip or perch on while adjusting a gaming console or speaker might facilitate easier setup.
And last but not least, consider unique objects for ottoman decoration, such as planters, beautiful boxes, or bowls filled with things you’ve collected over the years (if your aesthetic is coastal, try shells, sea glass, or sand)! As ottomans have a soft surface, use a tray to contain items for a more stable, less likely-to-wobble surface.
