Inspiration: Ottomans & Chaise Longues For Your Home
When we are planning to decorate our homes with designer furniture we often think about essential pieces like sofas, chairs, dining tables, coffee tables and bedroom furniture. Other pieces like ottomans, pouffes and chaise longues are often overlooked and come as an afterthought. And, sometimes, not even as a thought at all! Today, we want to shine a spotlight on these pieces because when done right they can really make or break a room.
Let’s begin with the simplicity and versatility of the ottoman, a multipurpose gem that can be used as a cocktail table, gorgeous footstool for a sofa or a beautiful space-saving storage piece. They can be made from tufted fabric, leather or suede. Here are some of our favourite ones:
1. Miss Feet stool by Munn
2. Riviera ottoman by Oxleys
3. Mellow stool by Munna
4. Jeane stool by Munna
5. Katakana ottoman by Dare Studio
6. Dew pouffe by Moroso
3 simple ways of using ottomans:
1. Additional seating space
Open plan living spaces can benefit from a few ottomans dotted around to give your family and guests more seating options. You could even push a few of them up against a wall, add soft cushions and create a very cosy area.
2. Rest your feet
Putting your feet up after a long day will never go out of style, and having the right ottoman will make it wonderfully relaxing.
3. Store it inside
Our living rooms are always in need of storage for small pieces, like remote controls, throws, gaming equipment and toys. Ottomans with a hidden space inside make the best storage units.
Interestingly, the ottoman was introduced in Europe in the 18th century from Turkey where piled with cushions, the ottoman was a central piece of a seating area. On the other hand, while the name is French, we can trace the origins of the chaise longue all the way back to the Egyptians who originated the blend of the chair and day bed. For the purposes of this post let’s keep the definition of chaise longue as a long chair. We could get into the differences between a divan, a daybed or settee but I’ll save the history lesson for another day. Also, either chaise longue or chaise lounge is equally valid and correct.
When we think of a chaise longue we’re immediately transported to the old Hollywood glamour era, where the likes of Greta Garbo and Marilyn Monroe would sensually drape themselves in a sating robe on a luscious chaise longue. If you’re one for feminine curves and making the chaise longue the star of your home then opt for the Envy chaise longue by Koket. A design laden with soft button tufting, a tailored fixed cushion and polished brass feet that ooze elegance and sophistication.
Try it in an unexpected place for maximum impact
If you prefer something with a modern edge, then we suggest the LC4 concocted by Le Corbusier together with Charlotte Perriand and Edouard Jeanneret for Cassina.
One of the most recognisable pieces of modern furniture
There is something to be said for comfort versus style and a well-designed piece of furniture will achieve both in one swell swoop. Tom Dixon’s Bird rocking chaise longue for Cappellini may appear to veer towards style rather than comfort but its rocking motion, soft multi-density polyurethane foam and its removable cover make it a practical piece to own as well.
Style and comfort in one
Speaking of style and comfort, it would be remiss not to mention the variety of chaise lounges offered by one of our favourite brands, Moroso. From the soft floral structure of the Antibodi to the boho vibes of the Bohemian chaise longue and the cacophony of colours that rule the hand-woven strands of the Shadowy, there is one to suit every interior décor.
Last but not least, if you’re looking for something with a chic, Scandinavian aesthetic look no further than Gubi’s Modern Line chaise longue. A simple silhouette available in three upholstery options with legs finished in either black or brass.
Shining the light on furniture that goes beyond luxury chairs, sofas, sideboards and coffee tables opens up a world full of possibilities when it comes to decorating your home. So, tell us, would you rather have an ottoman or a chaise longue?
