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Functional, stylish, and statement-making, accent chairs can instantly refresh your space. They provide extra seating and serve as decorative pieces that complete the room’s look.
Whether you’re seeking an accent chair for the living room, hallway, bedroom, home office, or dining room, several factors need consideration to find the perfect piece. From sumptuous velvet to cozy linen, plain or patterned, neutral or bright—the options are endless, making the task both exciting and challenging.
We’ve put together this comprehensive guide to accent chairs, exploring the best colors, styles, and fabrics to help you choose the right one for your space.
What is an Accent Chair?
An accent chair, sometimes referred to as a side chair, is a decorative piece of furniture designed to stand out in a room. Beyond providing extra seating, its primary purpose is to create a visual point of interest. In thoughtfully designed spaces, accent chairs draw the eye and offer a welcoming, inviting atmosphere.
Interior designers often select accent chairs in colors, shapes, or materials that differ from other furniture in the room. Despite these contrasts, the chair complements the existing decor, tying everything together harmoniously. Achieving this balance requires careful consideration, but the result is a cohesive and dynamic space.
How to Choose an Accent Chair?
Selecting an accent chair depends largely on your room’s current decor. For instance, in a neutral living room, an accent chair in a bold color can brighten the space and immediately draw attention. Conversely, if your room features leather sofas, a faux fur chair can soften the overall look. The goal is to create an aesthetically pleasing balance.
Consider the following when choosing an accent chair:
- Color: Decide whether you want the chair to blend in or stand out. Bold colors can make a statement, while neutral tones offer subtle elegance.
- Material: Choose materials that complement existing textures in the room. For example, pairing a velvet chair with a leather sofa adds depth and interest.
- Style: Ensure the chair’s design aligns with your overall decor theme, whether it’s modern, traditional, or eclectic.
Accent Chair Styles
There are numerous accent chair styles, many mirroring various armchair designs. Finding the perfect one may take time, but understanding popular styles can guide your decision:
- Mid-Century Accent Chair: Characterized by smooth lines and a streamlined design, mid-century chairs are comfortable, functional, and ideal for smaller spaces. This retro style remains highly popular.
- Modern Accent Chair: Typically armless with simple yet eye-catching designs, modern accent chairs focus on clean lines, minimalism, and natural materials. They can be enhanced with bold colors or fun prints.
- Sculptural Accent Chair: Serving as eye-catching statements, sculptural or luxury accent chairs offer a luxurious feel. Designed more for their artistic aesthetic than function, they act as focal points in modern homes.
Best Colors for Accent Chairs
Before selecting a color for your accent chair, assess your room’s existing color palette. Identify dominant colors in items like sofas, curtains, and lampshades, as well as secondary hues in wall art, cushions, rugs, and other decor. Choosing an accent chair that matches these secondary colors can create impact without appearing out of place.
For a bolder approach, consider contrasting colors. A bright red accent chair can stand out against blue sofas, while a stark white chair can add depth and lightness to a dark, neutral scheme. Introducing pops of color such as green, blue, orange, pink, or yellow can refresh and transform the room’s dynamic positively.
Materials and Fabrics for Accent Chairs
When considering materials and fabrics for your accent chair, reflect on the existing textures in your space. If your room features various fabrics, a smooth material like leather can provide balance. Alternatively, a velvet accent chair adds plush warmth and is often scratch-resistant.
Consider your lifestyle as well. If you have children or pets, opt for stain-resistant fabrics to ensure longevity and ease of maintenance.
How to Choose a Comfortable Accent Chair
Comfort is crucial when selecting an accent chair. Consider the following:
- Armrests: If the chair has arms, ensure they are sturdy and, if preferred, padded.
- Filling: Common fillings include foam and fiber, with feather as a luxurious option.
- Shape and Size: Artistic or sculptural chairs may not offer the same comfort level as a wingback style, which provides a snug embrace.
If possible, test different styles in-store to determine comfort. When purchasing online, research the material, quality, filling, and size to make an informed choice.
How to Choose an Accent Chair for Small Spaces
For small spaces, getting the chair dimensions right is vital. Measure the intended area to ensure the chair’s height, width, and depth fit appropriately. Accent chairs can maximize space in smaller homes, making every corner usable. Chairs raised off the floor by short legs can create the illusion of space and make cleaning easier.
How to Style an Accent Chair and Pair it With Your Sofas
Styling an accent chair involves ensuring it stands out without overwhelming the space and pairs well with other furniture. Consider the following:
- Color: Choose contrasting colors for depth or a monochromatic look. Matching smaller decorative items to the chair’s color can create a cohesive appearance.
- Scale: Ensure the chair’s scale aligns with your sofas and other furniture. Similar proportions help maintain visual harmony.
- Pattern and Textures: Match patterns subtly, such as pairing a patterned chair with similarly patterned curtains. Balance heavy textures with smoother materials.
- Style: Align the chair’s style with your room’s overall aesthetic. For a glamorous look, a velvet chair fits well; for a darker, edgier vibe, leather is suitable.
An accent chair does more than provide extra seating—it transforms a room. Whether you’re looking to add a splash of color, introduce a new texture, or create a cozy corner, our Accent Pieces Collection has options for every style and need.
Find the perfect chair today and give your space the refresh it deserves!
Also, read our handy guide on how to choose the perfect dining table, which features some helpful buying and styling tips.