Top 15 Decorating Ideas for Ottomans That Stand Out in Any Room

Want to make your ottoman the highlight of your room? Discover practical and creative decorating ideas for ottomans that stand out. From bold colors to DIY projects, this guide has everything you need to transform your ottoman into a stunning focal point.

Key Takeaways

• Choose bold colors and patterns for your ottoman to make it a focal point in the room.

• Use decorative trays to organize items on your ottoman while enhancing its visual appeal.

• Explore various shapes and sizes while incorporating storage solutions to maximize functionality and style.

Choose Bold Patterns and Colors

One of the simplest ways to make your ottoman a focal point in any room is by choosing bold patterns and vibrant colors. An ottoman with a striking print, like a window pane or stripes, can add rich character and personality to your living space. Bright colors such as green, blue, or coral can create a beautiful contrast against neutral palettes, instantly drawing attention and adding inviting color and texture to the room.

Don’t be afraid to mix and match colors and patterns. A bright green ottoman, for example, can stand out beautifully in a room with neutral colors walls and flooring, providing a fresh and stylish touch. If you prefer flexibility, consider using slipcovers in various colors and fabrics to quickly refresh your ottoman’s look, adapting to different decor styles throughout the year.

Use Decorative Trays for Organization

Decorative trays are not just practical but also a stylish addition to any ottoman. Placing a tray on your ottoman can help organize and display items like candles, books, or small plants, making your living space look neat and sophisticated. These versatile pieces come in various sizes and can unify the overall decor by matching the tray’s color with the rest of your living room.

A well-styled tray can transform a simple ottoman into a functional coffee table. Layering decorative items such as flowers, coasters, and books on the tray adds depth and interest to your living space, turning your ottoman into a sophisticated focal point. This practical approach not only enhances functionality but also boosts the aesthetic appeal of your decor.

Layer Textures and Fabrics

Mixing different textures and fabrics is a fantastic way to enhance the visual appeal of your ottoman. Consider the following combinations and additions:

• Combine materials like worn leather with wicker.

• Pair velvet with linen.

• Use textured throw pillows and blankets to make the ottoman more inviting.

• Introduce a variety of tactile experiences through these textures.

These approaches add depth and interest to your room’s design inspiration idea ideas.

Choosing the right color for your ottoman is crucial as it influences the overall feel of the room. Consider the following:

• Darker colors can define areas in larger rooms.

• Lighter colors can create an illusion of openness in smaller spaces.

• Opting for luxurious materials like velvet can give your ottoman a plush and stylish look, making it a standout piece in your decor.

Incorporate Storage Solutions

Storage ottomans are a brilliant way to combine style and functionality. Many ottomans feature lift-top lids or built-in drawers, providing practical storage solutions while keeping your living space tidy and decluttered. These multifunctional pieces are ideal for small living areas where space is at a premium.

Storage ottomans let you hide items like blankets, books, or toys, maintaining a clean and organized look. They offer a practical way to keep your living room neat without compromising on style. With storage ottomans, you can enjoy the best of both worlds – a stylish piece of furniture that also helps you manage clutter.

Add Nailhead Trim for Elegance

Adding nailhead trim to your ottoman can significantly enhance its sophistication. This detail works beautifully on both modern and traditional ottomans, creating a refined look that draws attention to the piece. Nailhead detailing can serve as a focal point, elevating the overall design of the ottoman and the room.

Nailhead trim pairs well with various upholstery styles, making it a versatile addition to your home decor. Whether you choose a tufted ottoman or a sleek, upholstered piece, the nailhead detail adds an elegant touch that can enhance any living space.

Use Ottomans as Coffee Tables

Ottomans can double up as stylish and practical coffee tables, especially when paired with a decorative tray. Placing a tray on top creates a stable surface for items like books, drinks, and decorative pieces, transforming your ottoman into a functional coffee table. This approach not only maximizes space but also adds a unique touch to your living room decor.

In small living rooms, replacing a traditional coffee table with an ottoman can create a more open and flexible space. A bench-style ottoman, for instance, can provide extra seating while serving as a coffee table. Ottomans can also act as side tables, offering a convenient surface for drinks or decor.

For added style, consider a tufted ottoman or a round ottoman that complements your existing furniture. These pieces can provide extra seating when needed, making them a versatile addition to your living room.

Pair with Matching Accessories

Creating a cohesive look in your living space is easy when you pair your ottoman with matching accessories. A leather ottoman with nailhead trim, for example, can seamlessly blend with various design styles and other furniture pieces. Matching your ottoman with your sofa, chairs, or curtains can tie the room together, creating a harmonious and stylish environment.

Adding textured blankets and decorative pillows to your ottoman can enhance its aesthetic appeal and comfort. Using a storage ottoman provides not only a stylish look but also practical storage for blankets and magazines, reducing clutter and enhancing the overall decor.

Experiment with Shapes and Sizes

Don’t be afraid to play with different shapes and sizes of ottomans to create visual interest and balance in your room. Ottomans come in a variety of shapes, including:

• Square

• Rectangular

• Round

• Oval

A round ottoman with turned legs can break up the linear shapes in a room, adding a solid beautiful piece and contrast to the center.

For larger rooms, consider oversized ottomans that make a bold statement and maintain balance within the design. You can also stack two ottomans one on top of the other to increase height and visual interest, creating a unique focal point in your room.

Utilize Slipcovers for Versatility

Slipcovers offer a versatile and practical way to change the look of your ottoman. A slipcovered ottoman typically features a rectangular silhouette with a skirted design, adding a classic touch to your decor. Rich brown slipcovers can warm up a space, especially when paired with neutral walls.

Linen slipcovers blend casual elegance with practicality, suitable for both formal and informal settings. Slipcovers are washable, making them easy to maintain and perfect for keeping your ottoman looking fresh and new. The fabric of the slipcovers adds to their charm and durability.

They allow you to adapt the appearance of your painted ottoman to match seasonal styles or new interior design trends to decorate.

Create Cozy Reading Nooks

Creating a cozy reading nook is a wonderful way to utilize an ottoman. Pair a plush ottoman with a comfortable armchair to create a perfect spot for relaxation and unwinding. A low ottoman without feet can add to the relaxed vibe, giving your nook a contemporary feel.

Placing an ottoman in front of a sofa or in a dedicated reading nook setting can enhance the comfort and style of your living space, especially when paired with a chair or a footrest. This setup is ideal for creating an inviting atmosphere where you can sit, rest, read, and enjoy some quiet time.

Integrate Ottomans in Small Rooms

Ottomans are perfect for small rooms where space is limited. Choosing multi purpose furniture like storage ottomans can maximize space efficiency by:

• Providing both seating and storage solutions

• Being stylish

• Being space-saving

• Being versatile These qualities make them ideal for compact living areas.

In small living rooms, ottomans can serve as space-saving alternatives to bulky coffee tables by:

• Creating a more open and flexible layout

• Maintaining open sightlines due to their low height, making the room feel more spacious

• Offering additional seating and style without overwhelming the space when opting for compact designs

Highlight with Lighting

Strategic lighting can enhance the visual appeal of your ottoman, making it a focal point in the room. Positioning a lamp near the ottoman can accentuate its design and create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Floor lamps or table lamps can effectively illuminate the ottoman, highlighting its textures and colors.

Illuminating the ottoman helps define the seating area, making it more inviting and functional. Using bold lighting choices can add to the overall styling of your room, ensuring your ottoman stands out in the best possible way.

Combine with Rugs for Texture

Combining your ottoman with a textured rug can significantly enhance the visual interest and depth of your living space. A patterned or shag rug beneath the ottoman can help define the seating area and improve the overall aesthetics. This layering effect adds coziness and warmth to the room.

Choosing a rug that complements the ottoman’s color or pattern can unify the decor, maintaining a cohesive yet layered look. A rug large enough to accommodate both the ottoman and surrounding furniture creates a cohesive layout, enhancing the room’s style and comfort.

Use Ottomans Outdoors

Ottomans aren’t just for indoor use; they can also enhance your outdoor spaces. Durable outdoor ottomans made from materials like:

• jute

• rattan

• wicker

• light wood are perfect for patios and gardens. Outdoor poufs can provide versatile seating options, such as:

• replacing bulky coffee tables

• serving as additional seating.

Using a round ottoman or a tufted ottoman outdoors can add a touch of style and comfort to your garden or patio, making it an inviting space for relaxation and gatherings. These versatile pieces can withstand the elements while providing extra seating and enhancing your outdoor decor.

Personalize with DIY Projects

Personalizing your ottoman with DIY projects can make it a unique and practical decor piece. Reupholstering your ottoman allows you to choose fabrics that reflect your personal style, giving the piece a fresh and unique look. Thrifted or secondhand furniture can be creatively transformed into a unique ottoman through reupholstering and painting.

Consider using thrift store tables, barrels, or galvanized tubs as a base to make a DIY ottoman that stands out. Engaging in DIY projects not only personalizes your space but also encourages creativity and resourcefulness, making your home truly one-of-a-kind.

Shop At Smokey Mountain Furniture Today!

Add versatility and charm to any room with an ottoman from Smokey Mountain Furniture. These pieces work as seating, storage, or stylish accents, blending function and fashion perfectly. Whether you’re looking for a coffee table alternative, extra seating, or a pop of color, Smokey Mountain Furniture has the perfect ottoman for you.

Explore their wide range of ottomans to find the perfect piece that matches your style and needs. With high-quality materials and beautiful designs, Smokey Mountain Furniture ensures that you can enhance your home decor with ease and elegance.

Summary

In summary, ottomans are incredibly versatile pieces that can elevate any room’s decor. From choosing bold patterns and colors to incorporating storage solutions, and from using lighting to highlight their beauty to personalizing them with DIY projects, there are countless ways to make ottomans stand out in your home. Each idea offers a unique way to enhance your living space, providing both functionality and style.

We hope these ideas inspire you to rethink how you use ottomans in your home decor. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of elegance, create a cozy nook, or simply organize your space, there’s an ottoman design idea that fits the bill. Happy decorating!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make my ottoman the focal point of my living room?

To make your ottoman the focal point of your living room, choose bold patterns and vibrant colors that really pop. This will not only draw attention to it but also elevate your overall decor!

Can I use my ottoman as a coffee table?

Absolutely, using your ottoman as a coffee table is a great idea! Just add a decorative tray to make it functional and stylish for holding drinks and decor.

What are some practical storage solutions for ottomans?

Storage ottomans with lift-top lids or drawers are a great practical solution to keep your living space tidy and organized. They're not just functional; they also add style to your décor!

How can I personalize my ottoman?

You can totally personalize your ottoman by reupholstering it with fabric that speaks to your style, or by transforming a thrifted piece into something unique. It's a fun way to make it truly yours!

Are ottomans suitable for outdoor use?

Absolutely, outdoor ottomans made from materials like jute, rattan, and wicker are great for patios and gardens, offering both style and functionality. They make excellent alternatives to coffee tables and provide extra seating when needed.