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Is It Officially Time to Say Goodbye to Your Coffee Table?
This article explores the growing trend of replacing traditional coffee tables with upholstered ottomans in living spaces. It highlights how ottomans offer a functional, cozy, and versatile alternative, appealing to homeowners seeking to introduce softness and maximize seating without compromising on style. Interior designers Maggie Dillon, Kate Aslangul, and Amanda Khouri provide insights into the benefits and considerations of incorporating ottoman coffee tables into home decor.
The primary advantages of ottoman coffee tables include their ability to add softness and versatility to a room, making them particularly family-friendly due to their cushioned surface. They can also effectively maximize seating options within a living area. Aesthetically, ottomans present an excellent opportunity to infuse color, texture, and pattern into a decorative scheme, allowing for playful and unexpected design details that pull a room's look together.
When selecting an ottoman, designers emphasize several key considerations. Functionally, it is crucial that the ottoman, like a traditional coffee table, allows for easy placement of drinks or books for all surrounding seating. Regarding dimensions, an ottoman should typically be about two-thirds the length of the sofa it accompanies and sit approximately 2 to 4 inches lower than the sofa. For oversized sofas, a smaller ottoman paired with a martini table or ceramic stool is recommended. Shape plays a significant role in balancing a room's aesthetic; round ottomans can soften spaces dominated by clean lines and angular furniture, while square or rectangular options are well-suited for symmetrical layouts, such as those centered around a fireplace or television. In tighter spaces, round, oval, or clipped-corner ottomans can enhance functionality and add unique visual interest.
Material selection is another vital aspect. Designers encourage bold fabric choices for ottomans, noting that they offer a middle ground for expressing personality compared to a large sofa or a small pillow. Patterned and colorful fabrics are not only visually engaging but also forgiving against everyday wear and spills. Textured fabrics, such as interesting weaves or printed linens, are highly recommended for their comfort and character, with durable performance fabrics being a practical choice. Beyond upholstery, design features like raised legs can create an airy, elegant feel, while floor-length ottomans add visual weight. Storage solutions, such as hidden compartments or lower shelves, enhance practicality. Casters are a favored feature for their ability to allow easy repositioning of the ottoman, facilitating flexible room arrangements.
Styling an upholstered ottoman effectively involves using a large, beautiful tray to create a stable, flat surface for decorative items and practical use. This tray grounds the ottoman's appearance and provides a base for elements like flower arrangements or beverages. Designers suggest accessorizing the tray with coffee table books, a small decorative bowl, and a candle, while ensuring space is left for drinks. High-gloss lacquered trays are particularly recommended for their chic appearance and ease of cleaning. Stacks of books placed directly on the ottoman can also serve as a stable and attractive styling element. If the ottoman features a striking patterned fabric, a simpler styling approach, such as a pile of magazines, may suffice. Crucially, the ottoman should also remain comfortable for resting feet, maintaining its dual role as a functional surface and a cozy footrest.
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