What Is an Ottoman?
Stylish and functional.
Ottomans are a piece of furniture that can serve multiple purposes. Whether you want additional seating, storage, or a functional decor piece, ottomans have a variety of uses and make for the perfect addition to any room. If you’ve been asking yourself, “What is an ottoman?” read on to learn what an ottoman is and what its benefits are.
What Is an Ottoman
Types of Ottomans
Ottoman Shapes
Ottoman Sizes
Ottoman Features
What Is an Ottoman?
An ottoman is an upholstered stool that sits low to the ground and can be used as a footrest, storage, extra seating, or a decorative accent. Ottomans are often padded with cushions, with a solid frame that allows them to withstand the weight of someone sitting on them. They are stable yet comfortable and come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors.
Turkish ottoman furniture is originally from Turkey and was designed in the 1700s during the Ottoman Empire. They were used so often during that time that it is where they got their name. The design and comfort levels of ottomans have evolved since then, but their unique usage remains the same.
Types of Ottomans
Footstool: Footstool ottomans are designed to rest your feet when you are relaxing. They often match accent chairs and are the same or similar heights to those chairs, creating the perfect spot to kick back and relax.
Pouf: Pouf ottomans are as stylish and functional as other types of ottomans but do not have legs. Often round, pouf ottomans can easily add interest to the space while acting as a lightweight seating option that can easily move around the room.
Standard: A standard ottoman, or traditional ottoman, is designed to add a footrest to your seating area. Most standard ottomans have four legs and are square, rectangular, or round. They are the most basic style and do not offer any extra unique features, like storage.
Cube: A cube ottoman is on the smaller side and in the shape of a cube, making it the perfect addition to a small living room. Whether you are storing it in the corner or using it as a footrest, the small size of a cube ottoman will help ensure that it doesn’t overpower the space.
Cocktail: Cocktail ottomans are often larger in size and can be used as a coffee table in your living room. A cocktail ottoman offers the same functionality as a coffee table while adding a decorative touch to your living room.
Ottoman furniture come in a variety of different shapes.
Square: Square ottomans are generally on the smaller side and are used as footrests or small seats. Some square ottomans have a removable lid that allows for storage, letting you store an extra blanket or pillow for when you want to get cozy. Square ottomans pair easily with sectionals.
Round: Round ottomans offer a unique shape to your space while acting as a decorative place to sit. They offer all the functionality of a typical ottoman, while their rounded corners give the room a modern feel. Round ottomans are great for modern sectionals due to their rounded corners.
Rectangle: Rectangular ottomans are versatile due to their shape, able to fit into small and large spaces. Whether you are using it as an ottoman coffee table or placing it to sit flush with a wall, a rectangular shape offers more foot or sitting space than a square ottoman. Rectangular ottomans work well with L-shaped sectionals.
Specialty: Specialty (also called novelty) ottomans are unique because they aren’t your typical ottoman shape. Whether it is an octagon shape or a fun animal shape for your little one’s room, a specialty ottoman offers an easy way to add a fun twist to a regular piece of furniture. Specialty ottomans come in a variety of shapes and can add that extra touch of decor you needed.
Oval: If a rectangular ottoman isn’t your style, try an oval ottoman! Oval ottomans have a longer, oblong look, providing more ottoman space while their curved corners add a modern feel. The rounded corners can also prevent little ones from bumping into sharp corners.
Ottomans come in a variety of sizes. Most ottomans vary in height, ranging between 13-22".The size you choose will depend on the intended use of the ottoman and the size of your sectional or chair you want to pair it with.
Mini (Under 18"): Mini ottomans are under 18" wide and are great for small spaces. They can be used as a footrest, a decorative accent, or for storing your remotes.
Small (18"–25"): Small ottomans range between 18" and 25" wide, their small size being perfect for a footrest or decorative accent.
Standard (26"–40"): Standard-size ottomans make for great seating for one or excellent footrests.
Larger (Over 40"): Ottomans over 40" wide are great for larger spaces due to their size; they are able to accommodate two comfortably and can also be considered as ottoman sofas.
Storage: If you find yourself with limited storage space in your living room, an ottoman with storage is the perfect choice. These ottomans' tops open up to reveal extra storage space, allowing you to store must-have items like blankets, pillows, and cozy essentials.
Tufted: If you are looking for a decorative ottoman, opt for one with tufted details. The traditional stitched tufting gives the ottoman an elegant look.
Tray Top: If you find yourself wanting to use your ottoman as a coffee table, opt for an ottoman with a tray top. Ottomans with a tray top have a hard and flat surface on the top, essentially functioning as an ottoman coffee table where you can easily rest your drinks or plates.
Nailhead Trim: Nailhead trim is great for adding a decorative touch to upholstered furniture, like ottomans. Nailhead trim adds detail to the ottoman while keeping the upholstery in place.
Sleeper: Sleeper ottomans are the perfect choice for smaller homes with frequent overnight guests. Sleeper ottomans hold a pull-out bed inside of them, making one of these pieces of functional decor the perfect addition to any small living room. When the pull-out bed is not in use, the ottoman appears as a regular large ottoman – guests will never know there is a bed concealed inside.
Wheels: If you find yourself redecorating often, opt for an ottoman with wheels. Wheels will make it easy to transport your ottoman from room to room, allowing you to redecorate with ease.
Distressed Leather: If you are looking to enhance the rustic vibe of your space, opt for an ottoman upholstered in distressed leather. The used look will not only make your ottoman look more comfortable, but will add to the rustic charm of your space.
With all of this information, you no longer have to ask "what is an ottoman?" as you can now select the perfect one for your home.
