INTERIOR DESIGN JOURNAL | LIVING ROOM STYLE

An ottoman between two armchairs can turn an ordinary corner of a living room into a considered space for conversation, relaxation and everyday living. The secret is choosing a piece that complements the chairs in scale, height, upholstery and function, rather than simply filling the gap between them. This guide explains how to measure the space, select the right ottoman, coordinate fabrics and finishes, and decide whether a bespoke design would work better for your home.

Whether you are furnishing a traditional sitting room, a contemporary apartment or a quiet reading corner, this arrangement offers more than visual appeal. It can provide a shared footrest, an occasional seat, a convenient surface for a tray or a practical storage solution. However, the wrong dimensions can interrupt movement, make the chairs feel cramped or leave the centre of the room looking disproportionately empty.

For UK homeowners, interior designers and property developers, the best arrangement begins with the room itself. Consider how people will sit, where they will walk, what the furniture needs to do and how the upholstery relates to the existing interior. With these details established, it becomes much easier to compare ready-made ottomans with made-to-measure alternatives.

1. WHY AN OTTOMAN BETWEEN TWO ARMCHAIRS WORKS SO WELL

An ottoman creates a visual and functional link between two separate armchairs. Instead of allowing the chairs to appear like unrelated pieces of furniture, it establishes a shared centre and helps define the purpose of the seating area.

CREATE A NATURAL FOCAL POINT

When two armchairs face one another or sit at a slight angle, an ottoman provides a central point around which the arrangement can be organised. This can make a living room feel more deliberate without requiring a large coffee table or another substantial piece of furniture.

The effect depends on proportion. A very small ottoman can look insignificant between two generously upholstered chairs, while an oversized design can dominate the arrangement and make the seating feel crowded. The goal is to create a centrepiece that visually connects the chairs while allowing each one to retain its individual presence.

In a traditional British sitting room, a buttoned ottoman in a complementary fabric can reinforce a classic aesthetic. In a contemporary interior, a plain upholstered design with clean lines may create a calmer, more understated effect.

MAKE CONVERSATION MORE COMFORTABLE

An ottoman can make a conversation area more inviting by giving occupants somewhere to rest their feet or place a book. Depending on its construction and intended use, it may also serve as an occasional seat. That additional function can be useful when entertaining guests, although an ottoman should only be used for seating if its design and stated capacity make that appropriate.

Think about how the chairs will be used most often. If they are intended for reading, a soft upholstered top may be particularly appealing. If the arrangement is used for refreshments, a stable surface and a suitable serving tray may be more important. If the chairs are positioned beside a fireplace, movement around the hearth and any manufacturer-specified safety clearances must also be considered.

CONNECT THE FURNITURE WITH THE REST OF THE ROOM

The ottoman offers an opportunity to introduce a colour, texture or pattern that connects other elements of the interior. It can echo the curtains, pick up a colour from a rug or provide contrast against neutral armchairs.

For example, two cream armchairs can be paired with a forest-green velvet ottoman for depth, a warm caramel tone for a softer palette or a restrained geometric pattern for added interest. A patterned ottoman can also introduce personality without requiring every upholstered item in the room to use the same print.

2. HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT OTTOMAN SIZE, SHAPE AND HEIGHT

The most important decision is not the colour or decorative finish. It is the relationship between the ottoman, the two armchairs and the available floor space. Accurate measurements help prevent a visually attractive purchase from becoming inconvenient in everyday use.

MEASURE THE GAP BETWEEN THE ARMCHAIRS

Start by positioning the armchairs approximately where you intend to keep them. Measure the clear distance between their nearest edges, taking account of any arms that project towards the centre. Do not measure only between the chair legs, as the upholstered arms usually determine the usable space.

Next, establish how much room is needed to reach the seats, stand up comfortably and walk through the arrangement. There is no single clearance that works for every living room: the appropriate distance depends on the size of the furniture, the direction of travel and the people using the space.

As a practical planning exercise, mark the proposed ottoman footprint on the floor with removable tape or newspaper. Walk around it, sit in both chairs and check that the layout still feels comfortable. This simple test can reveal problems before you place an order.

CHOOSE A SHAPE THAT SUITS THE ARRANGEMENT

Rectangular, square, round and oval ottomans each create a different effect. The best option depends on the geometry of the chairs and the shape of the room.

• Rectangular ottoman: Often suitable when the chairs sit side by side or when a longer shared surface is useful. Its proportions can echo a rectangular rug or a linear furniture arrangement.
• Square ottoman: Works well in a compact, balanced seating group where both chairs relate to a central point. Check that its corners do not obstruct the main walking route.
• Round ottoman: Softens an arrangement dominated by straight lines and introduces a more fluid visual shape. It may also make movement around the centre feel less abrupt.
• Oval ottoman: Combines an elongated surface with rounded ends. It can suit a narrow conversation area where a rectangular piece feels too angular.

Shape also affects functionality. A rectangular design may provide more usable surface for a serving tray, while a round upholstered ottoman can work particularly well as a footrest. Neither is automatically better; the decision should reflect the space and the way the furniture will be used.

GET THE HEIGHT RIGHT

Ideally, the ottoman should feel proportionate to the armchairs rather than sitting conspicuously high or low between them. Compare its finished height with the seat height of each chair, taking account of the upholstery and cushion profile.

A lower ottoman can create a relaxed, lounge-like arrangement. A higher piece may be more practical when used as an occasional surface, but it can feel awkward as a footrest if the height is poorly matched to the seated position.

Consider the compressed height of upholstered surfaces as well as their appearance when nobody is sitting on them. Cushion softness, chair seat depth and the intended footrest position can all affect comfort.

COORDINATE THE OTTOMAN WITH YOUR RUG

A rug can visually anchor two armchairs and their shared ottoman. Ideally, the arrangement should look intentional rather than appearing to have been placed on top of a rug that is too small or positioned awkwardly.

Consider the relationship between the ottoman footprint and the rug's edges. A central ottoman can sit comfortably within the rug area, while the chairs may have their front legs on the rug to connect the pieces visually. The precise arrangement depends on the room size and the rug design.

3. UPHOLSTERY, COLOUR AND CONSTRUCTION: WHAT SHOULD YOU COMPARE?

Once the dimensions are right, consider the upholstery, frame, finish and intended use. These choices affect the appearance of the seating area, the way the ottoman feels in daily use and the care it may require.

CHOOSE UPHOLSTERY THAT SUITS YOUR LIFESTYLE

Fabric selection should reflect the room's lighting, the existing chairs and how frequently the ottoman will be used. A central piece may receive more handling than a decorative stool positioned against a wall, particularly if people regularly rest their feet on it or use it as an occasional seat.

• Velvet: Offers a rich surface and can add depth to both traditional and contemporary rooms. Its pile may show changes in direction, pressure marks or differences in appearance under changing light.
• Woven upholstery: Can provide a restrained, tactile finish that works with natural materials and relaxed interiors. Examine the fabric's construction and care instructions before selecting it for frequent use.
• Textured fabrics: Introduce visual interest without relying on a strong pattern. Consider how the texture relates to the chairs and whether it is appropriate for the intended level of use.
• Patterned upholstery: Can turn the ottoman into a feature, especially when the armchairs are plain. Look at pattern scale, repeat and placement so the finished piece feels balanced.

Do not choose a fabric on appearance alone. Ask about its composition, cleaning instructions, suitability for the intended use and any relevant performance information. If samples are available, examine them against the existing chairs and flooring before committing to a colour.

DECIDE WHETHER TO MATCH OR CONTRAST

Matching the ottoman to the armchairs creates a coordinated, understated arrangement. Using a contrasting fabric makes the centre more prominent and can help introduce a new colour into the room.

Exact matching is not always necessary, even when the furniture sits in the same visual group. Similar undertones, complementary textures or a shared accent colour can create a coherent result without making every item identical.

For a quiet-luxury interior, consider warm neutrals, tactile fabrics and restrained contrast. For a more expressive room, a floral, geometric or damask ottoman can create a focal point between simpler chairs. In either case, keep the overall palette deliberate.

CONSIDER THE FRAME AND INTENDED FUNCTION

The upholstery is only one part of the furniture. Ask how the ottoman is constructed and whether the design is intended for footrest use, occasional seating, storage or serving. Different functions place different demands on the finished piece.

A non-storage ottoman may offer a simpler top and a different internal construction from a storage model. If the ottoman will be used as a seat, check its stated suitability and any weight guidance. If it will support a tray, consider whether the top provides a sufficiently stable surface for that purpose.

For a storage ottoman, inspect how the lid opens, how much internal space is available and whether the opening mechanism suits the people who will use it. Do not assume that two ottomans with identical external dimensions have the same usable storage capacity.

READY-MADE OR BESPOKE OTTOMAN?

A ready-made ottoman can be a sensible choice when its dimensions, style and function already suit the room. A bespoke or made-to-measure option becomes more useful when the space has unusual proportions, the chairs require a particular height or you want closer control over the upholstery and finish.

4. WHEN BESPOKE OTTOMAN DESIGN MAKES SENSE

Bespoke furniture is worth considering when a standard piece cannot achieve the right combination of proportion, finish and function. It is particularly relevant when the ottoman must fit precisely between existing armchairs or coordinate with an established interior scheme.

DESIGN AROUND THE SPACE YOU ACTUALLY HAVE

Not every seating area follows standard furniture dimensions. Two large armchairs may leave a narrow central gap, while a generous drawing room may need a longer ottoman to prevent the arrangement from feeling disconnected.

Made-to-measure planning allows you to begin with the available space rather than adapting the room around a fixed product size. The practical limits will depend on the design and the manufacturer's capabilities, so confirm the available options before assuming a particular dimension or shape can be produced.

This approach can also help when the chairs have unusual proportions, the room contains architectural features or a central piece needs to work around an existing rug and side tables.

COORDINATE MATERIALS AND DETAILS

A bespoke brief can identify the desired fabric, colour, overall silhouette and decorative details. Depending on the available options, you may be able to consider plain or patterned upholstery, button detailing, contrasting piping, leg finishes or a particular storage arrangement.

Each detail should serve the overall design. Deep buttoning can create a traditional, upholstered appearance, while clean lines may suit a contemporary scheme. Contrasting piping can define the outline of the ottoman, but too many competing details may distract from the armchairs.

If the ottoman is intended to become the main focal point, a distinctive fabric may be enough without additional decoration. If the chairs already feature strong patterns or ornate details, a quieter ottoman can create a more balanced result.

UNDERSTAND WHAT AFFECTS COST

The price of a bespoke ottoman depends on the agreed specification rather than the word “bespoke” alone. Dimensions, upholstery selection, construction requirements, storage features and decorative detailing can all influence the quotation.

A larger piece may require more material and a different construction approach. A specialised fabric or complex pattern placement may affect material requirements or labour. Storage mechanisms can add further considerations compared with a simple upholstered form.

Set a realistic budget before finalising the design. Ask which elements are included in the quotation, whether delivery is included and how any requested changes might affect the final price. If the budget is limited, prioritise the dimensions and function first, then decide which visual upgrades matter most.

HOW TO ASSESS A BESPOKE FURNITURE SUPPLIER

Choose a supplier who can explain the proposed dimensions, available materials, intended function and limitations of the design clearly. Ask for a written specification and clarify what happens if you need to approve fabric, colour or dimensions before production.

Look for clear product information, relevant photographs and straightforward communication about pricing and delivery. If you are ordering for a hospitality or commercial interior, ask whether the proposed upholstery and construction are appropriate for the expected level of use and whether relevant performance documentation is available.

Do not rely on broad descriptions such as “luxury” or “premium” alone. Specific details about materials, construction, dimensions and care are more useful when deciding whether a piece meets your requirements.

5. STYLING, EVERYDAY CARE AND COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID

Once the ottoman has been chosen, thoughtful styling and routine care help the seating area remain attractive and functional. The arrangement should feel comfortable in everyday use rather than simply looking appealing in a photograph.

STYLE THE OTTOMAN WITHOUT CROWDING IT

A tray can create a more stable surface for selected items when the ottoman is suitable for that use. A book, a small decorative object or a carefully arranged accessory may be enough. Avoid filling the entire surface, particularly if people regularly use the ottoman to rest their feet.

Where the ottoman is upholstered in a strong pattern, keep surrounding accessories relatively simple. If the upholstery is plain, a tray or textured throw may introduce additional interest without changing the furniture itself.

Remember that styling should not interfere with the intended function. Items placed on a storage ottoman may need to be moved before opening the lid, and decorative objects should be removed before the ottoman is used as a footrest or seat.

KEEP THE SEATING AREA PRACTICAL

Test the arrangement after the furniture has been positioned. Sit in both chairs, move between them and check whether the ottoman is easy to approach. If the room is used by children, older people or anyone with limited mobility, consider whether the central piece creates a trip hazard or obstructs a usual walking route.

For smaller UK living rooms, compact proportions and clear circulation can be more valuable than a large centrepiece. In a spacious room, a larger ottoman may help bring the chairs together visually, provided it does not compromise movement.

AVOID THESE COMMON BUYING MISTAKES

• Buying before measuring: A product photograph cannot show whether the finished dimensions will fit between your particular chairs.
• Ignoring height: An ottoman that is too high or low can be uncomfortable as a footrest and may look unbalanced.
• Choosing fabric only by colour: Texture, cleaning requirements, wear suitability and changing light also matter.
• Assuming every ottoman is a seat: Check the manufacturer's intended use and any applicable weight guidance.
• Overlooking lid clearance: A storage ottoman needs room to open and sufficient access for removing stored items.
• Making everything match exactly: Coordinated tones and textures can look more considered than identical upholstery throughout.
• Forgetting delivery access: Check doorways, staircases, corridors and turns if the finished piece is large.

CARE FOR THE UPHOLSTERY

Follow the cleaning and maintenance instructions supplied for the particular fabric. Regular, gentle vacuuming with an appropriate attachment can help remove loose dust, while prompt attention to spills may reduce the risk of permanent staining. Always test any approved cleaning method in an inconspicuous area first.

Do not assume that all velvet, woven or patterned fabrics can be cleaned in the same way. Some finishes are more sensitive to moisture, rubbing or particular cleaning products. Avoid aggressive scrubbing and follow the manufacturer's guidance if the fabric becomes stained or marked.

Keep the ottoman away from prolonged direct sunlight where practical, as some upholstery colours can fade over time. Periodically check visible seams, legs and other accessible fittings for signs of loosening or wear, following any maintenance instructions provided with the product.

The finished arrangement should balance comfort, visual interest and practical movement.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT AN OTTOMAN BETWEEN TWO ARMCHAIRS

1. WHAT SIZE OTTOMAN SHOULD GO BETWEEN TWO ARMCHAIRS?

The right size depends on the gap between the chairs, their overall proportions and the available walking space. Measure the clear width between the nearest upholstered edges, then test the proposed footprint on the floor. Compare the ottoman's width, depth and height with both chairs before ordering. There is no universal dimension that suits every arrangement.

2. SHOULD AN OTTOMAN BE LOWER THAN THE ARMCHAIR SEAT?

Not necessarily, but the heights should work comfortably together. A lower ottoman may be suitable as a relaxed footrest, while a higher design may be more practical for some occasional uses. Compare the finished height with the chair seat and consider how the upholstery compresses when occupied. The intended function should guide the decision.

3. IS A ROUND OR RECTANGULAR OTTOMAN BETTER BETWEEN TWO ARMCHAIRS?

A rectangular ottoman often complements a linear arrangement and provides an elongated surface. A round ottoman can soften angular furniture and make the central composition feel less rigid. An oval or square option may also work depending on the gap and room layout. Mark out the footprint before deciding which shape fits best.

4. CAN I USE AN OTTOMAN AS A COFFEE TABLE?

Yes, if the ottoman is suitable for that purpose. An appropriate tray can provide a more stable surface for cups, books and other small items. Check the firmness and stability of the top, and do not assume that every upholstered ottoman is designed to support refreshments. Remove items before using the piece as a footrest or opening a storage lid.

5. IS A STORAGE OTTOMAN PRACTICAL BETWEEN TWO ARMCHAIRS?

A storage ottoman can be useful for keeping throws, magazines or other suitable items close to the seating area. Its practicality depends on the internal capacity, the lid mechanism and the space available to open it. Check the finished dimensions and make sure the lid will not strike a chair, table or other obstruction when raised.

6. SHOULD THE OTTOMAN MATCH BOTH ARMCHAIRS?

No. Matching upholstery creates a coordinated appearance, but complementary colours and textures can be equally effective. A contrasting ottoman may introduce a focal colour, while a neutral design can calm a room containing patterned chairs. Consider the existing rug, flooring, curtains and lighting before choosing a finish.

7. WHEN IS A BESPOKE OTTOMAN WORTH CONSIDERING?

A bespoke option is worth exploring when standard dimensions do not fit the space, when a particular height is important or when you want a more tailored upholstery finish. It can also be useful when coordinating with existing furniture. Compare the additional flexibility with the quoted price, specification and expected lead time before making a decision.

8. WHAT INFORMATION DO I NEED FOR A BESPOKE OTTOMAN QUOTE?

Provide the gap between the chairs, preferred width and depth, required height, intended use and upholstery preferences. Photographs of the room and chairs can help communicate the style you want. Include any storage requirements, budget considerations and timing needs, and ask the supplier to confirm the final specification in writing.

9. WHICH UPHOLSTERY IS BEST FOR AN OTTOMAN BETWEEN TWO ARMCHAIRS?

The best upholstery depends on the appearance you want, how often the ottoman will be used and the care you can provide. Velvet offers depth and a distinctive texture, while woven fabrics can create a more understated look. Patterned upholstery can make the ottoman a focal point. Check composition, cleaning instructions and suitability for the intended use before choosing.

10. HOW CAN I STOP THE OTTOMAN MAKING THE ROOM FEEL CRAMPED?

Choose a footprint that leaves a comfortable route around the seating arrangement. Avoid measuring only the gap between chair legs; account for projecting arms and the space needed to get in and out of each seat. Use tape to mark the proposed dimensions on the floor and test the layout before ordering.

11. CAN AN OTTOMAN BETWEEN TWO ARMCHAIRS WORK IN A SMALL LIVING ROOM?

Yes. A compact square, round or carefully proportioned rectangular ottoman can provide a shared centre without requiring a large coffee table. Prioritise movement, seat access and the main walking route. A design with useful storage may also help reduce clutter, provided the lid can open properly within the available space.

12. HOW SHOULD I CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AN UPHOLSTERED OTTOMAN?

Follow the specific care instructions for its upholstery. Remove loose dust gently, attend to spills promptly using an approved method and avoid untested cleaning products. Keep the furniture away from prolonged direct sunlight where possible, and check accessible fittings periodically. Seek specialist advice if the fabric is delicate or a stain cannot be removed safely.

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