Updating your home to make it look more contemporary can be achieved by adding a single modern chair (or a set of chairs). Such furniture pieces are called accent chairs and they can be used for various purposes, combining style and function. For instance, it could be a rocking chair you’ll use to curl up and read or watch TV or a statement piece that will scream for attention. Depending on its purpose and how it would fit in your already established style references, you should take into consideration a few factors before investing in such contemporary seating.
Type
Accent chair is a term that refers to many types of chairs. Here are the some of the various options.
Armchair
Without a doubt, the most popular type of accent chair designed. Not only do they add a little more extravagance to your home, but they are also designed with comfort in mind. The most common design incorporates two comfortable side supports to rest your arms on and wooden legs. Armchairs are usually upholstered and come in a wide variety of colours and materials to match your preferences. In contemporary decor, an accent chair can be used to pick up on a particular colour within the room, thus adding visual interest and pulling a colour scheme together.
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Tub Chairs
For contemporary interior designs, tub chairs are one of the preferred seating choices because of their unusual curved shape and tight appearance. Although similar to the armchair, the tub chair is more compact than the typical armchair and just as comfortable. This type of chair is a perfect single-seated piece that can be placed in the living room, bedroom, and even bathroom.
Rocking Chair
There is a myth that the rocking chair was invented by Benjamin Franklin. Nowadays, these chairs are characterized by curved legs that serve as the mechanism by which the chair rocks back and forth. Contemporary rocking chairs come with an extra set of straight legs to give you the option to convert it into a classic accent chair. Comfort and flexibility are trademarks for this type of chair, which is why its primary use is in the nursery room. Also, since the relaxing rocking chair offers plenty of back support, comfortable armrests and smooth motion, it is a perfect choice for your patio or porch.
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Occasional Chair
An occasional chair is a transportable chair that’s used less frequently. Since these are light, they can be moved from room to room without much effort. Perfect for family gatherings when an extra seat is needed. While armchairs are typically completely upholstered, the occasional chair is incredibly versatile and can come in various styles, colours, shapes and materials. They are often partly upholstered with part of the timber frame on display. Despite their functionality, these chairs are often selected for their decorative purpose.
Swivel Chair
A swirl, spinny or revolving chair is a chair designed for those who need more movement in their sitting. This chair is perfect for your office where you can swing amidst your filing cabinets. You can find a swivel chair with a design that resembles an armchair and decor your home with this stylish yet comfortable piece of furniture. High quality ones usually stand on a stainless steel swivel base, while the seating area is upholstered.
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Traditional-looking Accent Chair
This is a classic traditional design where curved legs and the design of the upholstery are key, but also, such pieces can also be constructed with saving space in mind, which renders them a good contemporary seating match for homeowners that like to create a more eclectic look.
Once you decide on the type, make sure you double-check the following factors when you are buying modern chairs.
Size
It’s important to choose not only stylish, but also size-appropriate contemporary seating. To check if the chair fits with the dimensions of your space, make out the measurements of the chair with string on the floor when you want the chair to be. Remember that all the pieces of furniture in the room don’t have to be at the same level. A variety of heights is what creates visual interest.
Note: If you are trying to make your space appear bigger than it is, what you can do in addition to smart use of lighting is to invest in modern seats with space underneath and spindly legs.
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Colour
For a mid-century vibe, pairing neutrals with bright colours is recommended. Colours like blue and green can add a sense of calmness to a room. Red, orange and yellow are warm colours that feel cosy and personal. For a simple and clean look, try not to add too many colours. A pink accent chair would be a perfect match for your white bedroom, though. If you want to play it as safe as possible, go with the colour theme in the room. If possible, try to connect the colour palette of the sitting area with that of the dining area.
Material
An important consideration is the serviceability of the fabric, especially if you have kids or pets. Considering washable loose covers for the heavy wear areas is highly recommended, or at least materials that can be sponged. The chair seat of some luxury chairs made from cotton and jute is extra comfortable and enjoyable. A special place in heaven exists for stylish chairs with cushion made of foam, fibre and feather (imagine sitting on a cloud). Regardless of the material, the chair seat should feel soft to sit in on yet at the same time it should offer firm support, just like the armchair or the occasional chair. Dining chairs made of powder-coated metal are very chic and last longer. Oak used for leg material gives the chair elegance and nicely defined appearance. Swivel chairs legs made of a stainless steel base offer better quality.
