How to Decorate an Ottoman: Tips, Ideas, and Inspiration

ByKurt Vonnegut Updated

How to Decorate an Ottoman?

To decorate an ottoman, you can start by adding a colorful tray or wire and wood tray to add style and functionality.

Consider using a low-profile tray as a bar station or stacking books to showcase decorative elements.

Mixing accessories with different shapes can add contrast and interest.

If you prefer a more casual look, a knitted pouf ottoman can add a comfortable coastal theme.

Incorporating colors that coordinate with the existing shades of the room can also add visual interest.

For example, using bright blues and shades of coral can create a lively and fun living room, with a coral tray holding a blue vase and other accessories to maintain the color scheme.

Key Points:

  • Add a colorful tray or wire and wood tray for style and functionality
  • Use a low-profile tray for a bar station or to showcase decorative elements
  • Mix accessories with different shapes for contrast and interest
  • Consider a knitted pouf ottoman for a casual, coastal theme
  • Coordinate colors with the existing shades of the room for visual interest
  • Use bright blues and shades of coral to create a lively and fun living room with a coral tray holding a blue vase and other accessories to maintain the color scheme

Did You Know?

1. The word “ottoman” originally referred to a Turkic tribal group, and its association with the furniture item comes from the adoption of such seating arrangements in the Ottoman Empire in the 13th century.

2. Ottomans were traditionally designed with hinged or removable seats, allowing them to serve as discreet storage containers for various items, such as blankets, books, or even weaponry.

3. One of the most famous ottomans in history is the “Sultan’s Seat,” located in the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul, Turkey. It is an intricately decorated, jewel-encrusted ottoman used by the sultans during their official ceremonies.

4. Ottomans can be more than just footrests! They can also function as coffee tables or even extra seating arrangements in modern living spaces, making them versatile and multi-functional pieces of furniture.

5. In the 18th century, many European ottomans were adorned with tapestries, intricately woven fabrics that depicted various scenes, ranging from historical events to pastoral landscapes. These tapestries added both aesthetic value and storytelling elements to the ottomans’ design.

Types Of Ottomans For Living Rooms

Ottomans are versatile furniture pieces that have gained popularity in living rooms. These pieces come in various styles, each with its own unique features. From overstuffed and cocktail ottomans to storage, table, or accent ottomans, there is a wide range to choose from. When selecting an ottoman for your living room, consider its intended function and the overall design aesthetic you want to achieve.

Overstuffed Ottomans

Overstuffed ottomans are a popular choice for those seeking a luxurious and comfortable seating option. These ottomans are designed with plush cushioning and soft upholstery, providing ultimate comfort for lounging or putting your feet up after a long day. Adding an overstuffed ottoman to your living room creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere, instantly transforming it into a favorite spot for relaxation.

Improved version:

  • Overstuffed ottomans are luxurious and comfortable seating options, perfect for lounging or putting your feet up after a long day.
  • These ottomans feature plush cushioning and soft upholstery, providing ultimate comfort.
  • By adding an overstuffed ottoman to your living room, you can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for relaxation.

Cocktail Ottomans

Cocktail ottomans are specifically designed to be a centerpiece in your living room. They offer a flat and sturdy surface, making them an ideal choice for use as a coffee table. Additionally, these ottomans can be paired with a tray, allowing you to conveniently hold beverages and snacks. This creates a stylish and functional space that is perfect for entertaining guests.

  • Can be used as a coffee table
  • Provides a flat and sturdy surface
  • Pair with a tray for holding beverages and snacks
  • Creates a stylish and functional space for entertaining guests.

“Cocktail ottomans: The perfect centerpiece for your living room.”

Storage Ottomans

If you are in need of extra storage space, opt for a storage ottoman. These ottomans are equipped with a hidden compartment, allowing you to store blankets, pillows, or other items. They not only provide a seamless storage solution but also serve as a comfortable footrest or additional seating when necessary.

  • Storage ottomans offer a practical and stylish way to declutter your living space.
  • The hidden compartment provides a discreet storage option, keeping your belongings neat and organized.
  • You can easily access your stored items by simply lifting the top cushion of the ottoman.
  • The sturdy construction of storage ottomans ensures durability and long-lasting use.
  • They come in a variety of sizes, colors, and designs to match your existing furniture or room decor.
  • It’s a versatile furniture piece that can adapt to different rooms and purposes.
  • Use it in your living room to store extra blankets or pillows, keeping them accessible yet out of sight.
  • In bedrooms, use a storage ottoman to store off-season clothing or extra bedding.
  • In playrooms or nurseries, it can be a convenient place to store toys, books, or baby essentials.
  • When not in use for storage, you can use it as a comfortable footrest while you relax or as an extra seat for guests.

Storage ottomans provide a multi-functional solution for your storage needs, combining practicality with style. Upgrade your space with a storage ottoman today!

Table and Accent Ottomans

Table and accent ottomans are a great choice for those looking for a more structured and decorative option. They come with a flat top surface, making them perfect for use as side tables or as decorative accents in your living room. The best part is that these ottomans can be customized to match your existing decor, giving a cohesive and coordinated look to your space.

  • Table and accent ottomans offer a structured and decorative option
  • They have a flat top surface, ideal for use as side tables or decorative accents
  • Can be customized to match existing decor
  • Provides a cohesive look to your space.
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Making Ottomans The Focal Point

When designing a living room, adding an ottoman can make it the focal point of the space. The ottoman’s style, shape, and placement should be carefully considered to achieve this effect. By selecting a unique ottoman and strategically placing it, you can create a visually stunning centerpiece.

Consider choosing an ottoman with eye-catching features such as intricate patterns, bold colors, or interesting textures. This will draw attention to the ottoman and make it stand out in the room. Additionally, placing the ottoman in a central location, such as in front of the sofa or facing the entrance of the room, will further emphasize its significance.

To enhance the focal point effect, minimize the presence of other large furniture pieces around the ottoman. Instead, opt for smaller and complementary furniture, such as armchairs or side tables, that won’t overshadow the ottoman. By giving the ottoman the spotlight, you create a visually appealing and inviting living room.

  • Choose an ottoman with eye-catching features
  • Place the ottoman in a central location
  • Minimize the presence of other large furniture pieces

Tip: By following these steps, you can create a visually stunning and inviting living room with the ottoman as the focal point.

Design Tips And Ideas For Living Room Ottomans

When it comes to decorating an ottoman, the possibilities are endless. Here are some design tips and ideas to inspire you:

  • Use an ottoman as extra seating by placing a cushion on top. This will create a cozy and comfortable sitting area for your guests.

  • Style your ottoman as a coffee table by adding a tray. A colorful tray on a tufted ottoman can act as a cohesive finishing touch, tying together the colors in your living room.

  • Maximize space by tucking an ottoman under an entryway table when not in use. This saves room and adds a touch of style to your entryway.

  • Incorporate farmhouse style by using a wire and wood tray on a tufted ottoman. This provides a rustic touch and allows for easy transportation of items from one place to another.

  • Create a bar station on your ottoman by using a low-profile tray. Place glasses, a whiskey bottle, and a decanter, transforming your ottoman into a stylish and functional space.

  • Add height and visual interest by stacking books on a tray placed on your ottoman. This not only adds a decorative element but also offers a platform to showcase fresh flowers in a decorative vase.

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Ottomans As Versatile Furniture Pieces

Ottomans are known for their versatility and functionality in living rooms. They can be used in various ways, such as seating, footrests, or storage. By choosing the right ottoman and styling it appropriately, you can maximize its potential and enhance your living room experience.

For instance, a large tufted ottoman can serve as a comfortable seat for multiple people. Its soft cushioning makes it a cozy spot for conversations or watching movies. Additionally, ottomans with hidden storage compartments can help declutter your living room, providing a convenient place to store blankets, pillows, or other items.

Ottomans also make excellent coffee tables. With a flat surface and the addition of a tray, ottomans can hold beverages, magazines, and other decorative elements. This transforms the ottoman into a practical and stylish centerpiece for your living room.

  • Ottomans can serve as seating, footrests, or storage
  • Large tufted ottomans provide comfortable seating for multiple people
  • Ottomans with hidden storage compartments can help declutter your living room
  • Ottomans can be transformed into stylish coffee tables with the addition of a tray.

Styling Ottomans With Colorful Trays

Adding color to ottoman decor can greatly enhance its visual appeal. By incorporating colors that coordinate with the existing shades in your living room, you can create a cohesive and harmonious space.

In a lively and fun living room, bright blues and shades of coral may be the dominant colors. To maintain this color scheme, a coral tray could be placed on the ottoman. This serves as a focal point and holds a blue vase and other accessories that match the room’s color palette. The combination of bold colors creates an energetic and vibrant atmosphere, making the ottoman an eye-catching element in the room.

When using colorful trays, consider using materials and textures that complement the ottoman’s design. This adds depth and visual interest to the overall composition. Experiment with different color combinations to find the perfect balance and create a personalized look for your living room.

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Adding Contrast And Interest With Different Shapes

To create a visually appealing living room, incorporating contrast and interest with different shapes can make a significant impact. Ottomans provide the perfect canvas for playing with shapes and adding variety to your space.

For example, if you have a round ottoman, consider using a rectangular tray. The contrasting shapes create a dynamic visual element that draws attention. This adds a touch of excitement and breaks the monotony of round shapes in the room.

Incorporating different shapes can also be achieved through accessories. Mix and match decorative items such as vases, candles, or figurines with varying shapes and sizes. This creates a sense of diversity and depth, enriching the overall aesthetic of your living room.

In conclusion, ottomans are not only functional but also serve as a key design element in the living room. By choosing the right ottoman, making it the focal point, using trays to enhance its design, and incorporating contrast and interest with different shapes, you can create a stylish and inviting living room that reflects your personal taste and style. Embrace the versatility of ottomans and let your creativity soar.

Frequently Asked Questions

What to put on an ottoman for decoration?

A beautiful marble tray can serve as an elegant addition to your ottoman, adding a touch of sophistication to the space. Paired with a small succulent or a scented candle, it creates a perfect combination of natural elements and soft ambiance. Furthermore, a cozy knitted blanket draped over the ottoman not only adds warmth but also enhances the overall visual appeal, inviting you to snuggle up and relax.

How to decorate a plain ottoman?

Transforming a plain ottoman into a captivating focal point can be done with a few simple steps. Start by adding a stylish tray to create a platform for your favorite decorative pieces. Arrange an assortment of books, vases, and candles on the tray, allowing them to showcase your personal style. To add a whimsical touch, incorporate a box of aesthetic matches, which can serve as both a decorative and functional item. Finally, bring in some natural beauty with a strategically placed statue and a vase of fresh flowers, completing the transformation of your plain ottoman into an eye-catching decor element for your space.

Can you decorate an ottoman?

Absolutely! Decorating an ottoman can be a wonderful way to add a touch of personality and elegance to your space. With its practical platform, the ottoman can be adorned with a variety of decorative elements. Consider placing a vibrant bouquet of flowers on top of it, adding a pop of color and natural beauty to the room. You can also showcase a carefully selected stack of books or magazines, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Additionally, complementing your ottoman with stylish accessories, such as a decorative tray or a unique sculpture, will not only enhance its visual appeal but also make it feel more personal and connected to the overall design of your space. So go ahead and let your creativity shine while decorating your ottoman!

What Colour should ottoman be?

When choosing the color for your ottoman, it is essential to consider both complementary colors and the overall furniture palette. While it doesn’t have to perfectly match your couch, opting for a complementary hue is recommended to ensure a cohesive look. Additionally, keep in mind that the ottoman should not clash with other furniture pieces in the room. By carefully considering these factors, you can select the ideal color for your ottoman that harmonizes with your furniture ensemble.

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