Last Updated on June 16, 2023
The ottoman is arguably the most versatile furnishing you can own. Part chair, part coffee table, and part footstool, this handy piece is as much at home in a bathroom or bedroom as it is in a living area. Starting with a basic leather ottoman, here are three tips for incorporating this highly functional item into your space.
1. Choose Your Leather Ottoman Wisely
Not all ottomans are created equal. When you are shopping for the perfect piece, consider these suggestions for finding the perfect ottoman for your needs.
- Choose a leather ottoman for durability and a timeless look that matches nearly everything.
- Select a color that connects the colors of the room; ensure it doesn’t clash with other furniture, walls, or floor. Neutral colors are the most time-honored and will continue to work with your space despite future re-decorating efforts. Your ottoman should blend in naturally, so avoid anything much lighter or darker than your other furniture.
- Pick a shape that complements the dimensions and purpose of your room. Round is most appropriate for informal spaces, and rectangular shapes look great in longer rooms.
- Go with a larger size than you think you will need. Generally speaking, the bigger the leather ottoman, the better it looks in a room.
2. Determine Function
Your leather ottoman can serve so many purposes, but it can’t be everywhere at once. Consider all of the many possible uses before settling on one. Ottomans can provide extra seating in a smaller space. Their softness makes them a safe alternative to coffee tables for homes with toddlers. They can provide a convenient space for changing shoes in a closet or serve as a catch-all space for blankets and throw pillows at the foot of a bed.
3. Decorate Your Leather Ottoman
After your ottoman has been placed and its function determined, you can focus on sprucing it up. There are many ways you can style an ottoman to make the biggest impact in a space.
- Add a tray. This is both practical and fashionable. A tray will protect the ottoman while providing a flat surface and defined space for displaying useful and decorative objects, but is easily relocated when you need a seat. Play around with the shape and color of the tray to complement the shape of the ottoman and the colors in your space.
- Stack books. Coffee table books aren’t just for coffee tables. Using the widest book as a base, stack a few attractive volumes and top with a vase of fresh flowers.
- Create a bar spot. Using a low-profile tray, you can display functional and beautiful serving pieces, such as glasses, a fancy ice bucket, and a decanter. Just add liquor to give your space a speakeasy vibe.
- Play games. Your leather ottoman provides a versatile space for family fun. Use it for assembling puzzles, playing cards, or displaying an antique chess set.
- Layer textiles. Draping a fluffy blanket or heirloom quilt over one corner of the ottoman, or piling up a few throw pillows in the center are all great ways to add warmth to the room and display your cherished items.
Find Your Perfect Piece
Are you ready to add one of these beautiful and versatile pieces to your home decor? Find an attractive and affordable leather ottoman at Poly & Bark.
