What Is an Ottoman? A Guide
What is an Ottoman?
It helps to know exactly what you’re looking for as you shop for a new piece of furniture for your home. So, what counts as an ottoman? If it looks like a seat with no arms and no backrest, with a padded cushion on top of a solid frame, it’s likely an ottoman. In most cases, you’ll want to put your new ottoman in front of a couch or comfortable chair so your guests can put their feet up as they sit.
However, ottomans tend to be built to withstand the weight of someone sitting on them, which means they can also work as extra seating in your home. Additionally, an ottoman with a firm surface can act as a coffee table that is stable enough to hold food, drinks and remote controls. Some even open up – providing instant storage for your family or living room!
How Ottomans Have Evolved Over Time
Ottomans are originally from Turkey, also called the Ottoman Empire in the 1700s – and are where this piece of furniture got its name. At the time, ottomans were typically used as seating, since they had lots of cushions piled on top and often spanned a whole wall where people were relaxing. Over time, the Turkish people created a smaller version that could fit in the corner of most rooms.
When the French invaded the Ottoman Empire, they noticed that this small piece of furniture was comfortable as a footrest, so they brought the idea back home. Since then, ottomans have become popular around the world, not just as footrests and seating, but also as tables and storage solutions.
How to Decorate an Ottoman
What Is a Cocktail Ottoman?
Choosing the Right Size Outdoor Ottoman or Pouf
Outdoor ottomans and poufs should visually support the seating group without blocking movement. As a general rule, the ottoman should sit slightly lower than seat height and leave enough clearance to walk around easily.
Oversized ottomans work best in larger sectionals or lounge‑style seating areas, while smaller poufs are better suited for flexible seating or compact patios. Proportion matters more than size alone.
Ottoman Size Guide
Before buying an ottoman, it’s important to understand how dimensions can affect the look and feel of a space. The easiest way to compare a potential purchase to your current living room is to measure it against the length of your sofa – a rule of thumb is that an ottoman should be no less than half the length of the sofa. Keeping to this chart will ensure that your living room feels proportionate (i.e., the sofa doesn’t swallow up the ottoman or vice versa)!
| Sofa Size | 50" | 60" | 70" | 80" |
| Suggested (Minimum) Ottoman Size |
25" | 30" | 35" | 40" |
Types of Ottomans
Ottoman Coffee Table
Storage Ottoman:
Ottoman Ideas for Living Room
The best ottoman décor ideas will make use of an ottoman’s natural comfort and size. Whereas side tables and end tables are hard (wood, metal, etc.), ottomans have a plush surface made of fabric – so any and all elements are naturally softened and texturized. In a living room, try an ottoman as a coffee table: place a tray with vase, a tray with candleholder or a coffee table book. If you want to speak to the plush/fabric/seating elements of an ottoman (as opposed to a table function), layer on a throw blanket over the side of an ottoman, contrasting colors and textures for style.
Ottomans, of course, don’t have to be either coffee table or seat – there is another way to use them in the living room, which is by way of your entertainment center! Placing an ottoman directly adjacent to a TV stand or entertainment center can help create a ledge of sorts; since most entertainment centers and TV stands contain storage and functions low to the ground, an ottoman to hold or perch on as you adjust a gaming console or speaker can make for an easier setup.
Finally, consider unusual objects for ottoman décor: planters, decorative boxes, or bowls of things you’ve collected over the years (if your style is coastal, try shells, sea glass or sand)! Since ottomans do have a soft surface, just make sure to contain objects with a tray for a more durable surface less prone to wobbling!
Common Questions About Choosing the Perfect Ottoman
What's the best way to pick an ottoman that fits my living room's style?
Consider the overall aesthetic of your space. For a modern look, opt for sleek, minimalist designs with clean lines and perhaps metallic accents. If your decor leans more traditional or bohemian, a plush, upholstered ottoman with interesting textures or patterns can add warmth and personality, like those found in Living Spaces' diverse collection.
How can I maximize the functionality of an ottoman in a smaller apartment?
In compact living areas, storage ottomans are a game-changer, providing hidden space for blankets, magazines, or remotes. Look for multi-functional pieces that can double as a coffee table with a tray on top, or even extra seating when guests arrive. Living Spaces offers a variety of smart, space-saving ottoman solutions designed for modern living.
What materials are most durable and easy to maintain for a family with pets and kids?
For high-traffic homes, performance fabrics are your best friend, offering resistance to stains and wear. Materials like microfiber, treated leathers, or tightly woven polyester blends are excellent choices that can withstand spills and playtime. Explore Living Spaces' selection of durable and pet-friendly ottomans designed for real life.
When choosing an ottoman, how do I ensure it's the right size and height for my sofa?
Ideally, an ottoman should be about two-thirds the length of your sofa and roughly the same height as the sofa's seat. This creates a balanced and visually appealing arrangement, making it comfortable for both resting your feet and for occasional seating. Measuring your sofa and considering the overall scale of your room will help you find the perfect fit at Living Spaces.
Are ottomans a good long-term investment for home decor?
Absolutely! A well-chosen ottoman is a versatile piece that can adapt to changing decor trends and room layouts, offering both style and utility. Investing in a quality ottoman from Living Spaces ensures lasting comfort, durability, and a timeless addition that enhances your home's functionality and aesthetic for years to come.