This article was written by Ryan Podnar, furniture expert at La-Z-Boy South Texas
Accent chairs are the unsung heroes of home decor. Often overlooked in favor of larger furniture pieces, accent chairs can transform a room with their color, texture, and design.
They are versatile additions that not only provide additional seating but also offer the opportunity to add personality and style to any space. Whether you are decorating a living room, bedroom, or office, accent chairs can be a focal point or a complementary piece that elevates the overall design of your room.
In this article, we’ll explore how to decorate with accent chairs, offering tips and ideas on how to style them in various spaces while maximizing their impact.
The first step in decorating with accent chairs is selecting the right one for your space. The chair you choose should complement the overall style of the room and fit the scale of the space.
Consider the size of the room and the furniture layout. In smaller rooms, an oversized accent chair may overwhelm the space, while in larger rooms, a smaller accent chair may get lost. It’s important to find a chair that fits both the size of your space and the visual weight of the other furniture in the room.
For example, in a cozy living room, a small armchair with a slender frame will complement the space without dominating it. In a larger room, you can choose larger, more substantial chairs that make a statement.
One of the simplest and most impactful ways to decorate with accent chairs is by introducing color into your space. A bold accent chair, such as a yellow accent chair, can become a statement piece that draws attention and adds visual interest.
If the rest of the room is decorated in neutral tones like beige, gray, or white, consider adding a vibrant accent chair in colors like red, navy blue, mustard yellow, or emerald green. This will create a focal point and liven up the space.
If you prefer a more subtle approach, choose a muted shade like soft blue, blush pink, or sage green to add a gentle pop of color without overwhelming the room.
Patterned accent chairs are another great way to add visual interest to a room. Consider floral prints, stripes, chevron patterns, or even abstract designs for a more modern look. Patterned chairs can work especially well in neutral-colored rooms, where they provide contrast and depth.
Be sure to choose patterns that match or complement your existing décor. For example, floral accent chairs can work beautifully in a more traditional or cottage-style room, while geometric prints may be better suited for modern spaces.
In open-plan spaces or rooms with multiple functions, accent chairs can help define different zones and provide functional seating.
Use accent chairs to visually divide an open-plan living room from a dining area or office nook. A strategically placed accent chair can help create the feeling of separate areas without the need for walls or partitions.
For instance, place two matching chairs near the edge of the living room to create a small conversation area. Pair them with a side table and lighting to enhance the space and give it a cozy, defined feel.
An accent chair can easily create a cozy reading nook or quiet corner in your home. Position a comfortable chair near a window or in a well-lit area and pair it with a small side table for books, a reading lamp, and a throw blanket for extra comfort.
You don’t always need matching furniture when decorating with accent chairs. Mixing different styles and colors can create a personalized, curated look that feels inviting and relaxed.
Accent chairs and sofas don’t have to match perfectly. Instead, aim for contrast and complement the sofa with the chair. For example, a vibrant accent chair in a bold color can be paired with a neutral sofa to create balance.
Alternatively, you can match an accent chair with a sofa in a similar style but use different upholstery. If your sofa is a solid color, you could choose an accent chair in a bold pattern or a contrasting color.
Accent chairs can be used to create contrast with your existing furniture. If you have a neutral sofa, adding a patterned accent chair can make the space feel more dynamic. Similarly, if your living room is already colorful, an understated chair in a solid neutral tone can help balance the look.
While accent chairs are often chosen for their visual appeal, they should also enhance the comfort of the room. Look for chairs that offer great support, especially if you plan to use them frequently.
Make sure the accent chair you choose has plush cushions for comfort. Look for chairs with supportive backs and armrests, especially if you plan to use them for reading, chatting, or watching TV.
If you have a small space, choose lightweight accent chairs that can be easily moved around. This will allow you to rearrange your room whenever you need more space or want to refresh the layout.
Accent chairs are an excellent opportunity to inject your personal style into the room. Whether you prefer vintage, modern, or bohemian décor, an accent chair can be a reflection of your unique taste.
Look for vintage-inspired chairs if you love classic designs. Wingback chairs or mid-century modern chairs can bring a sense of elegance and nostalgia to the room.
For a bohemian-style living room, choose an accent chair with a patterned fabric or woven rattan material. Pair it with colorful throw pillows and natural textures to create a relaxed, earthy feel.
Accent chairs are a versatile and effective way to add both comfort and style to any room in your home. By choosing the right fabric, color, and placement, you can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your space while providing additional seating for guests or family members.
From adding a pop of color to creating a cozy reading nook or defining different zones in an open-plan space, accent chairs are one of the easiest ways to make your living room, bedroom, or office feel more inviting.
However, if you don’t have the right surrounding furniture and feel upgrades are needed, the right accent furniture won’t make a difference.
To find the right furniture, visit your nearest La-Z-Boy South Texas store.