This article was written by Ryan Podnar, furniture expert at La-Z-Boy South Texas
An accent chair is a versatile and stylish piece of furniture that adds both personality and functionality to a room. While often not the main seating in a space, an accent chair plays a crucial role in complementing the overall design and enhancing the aesthetic of a room.
With a wide range of designs, colors, and styles, accent chairs offer an opportunity to express creativity and add a touch of flair to any space.
This article will walk you through what an accent chair is, how it adds value to your home, and the different types of accent chairs.
Coming Up…
- Understanding the Purpose of an Accent Chair
- Types of Accent Chairs
- Materials and Fabrics for Accent Chairs
- Choosing the Right Accent Chair
- Ready to Find the Right Accent Chair For You?
Understanding the Purpose of an Accent Chair
An accent chair is typically used as a complementary piece to the primary seating in a room, such as a sofa or reclining loveseat.
Unlike the larger, functional pieces that are used every day, accent chairs are designed to stand out. They are used to create visual interest, introduce color, texture, or pattern into the room, and offer additional seating when needed.
While accent chairs are not meant to be the primary seating option, they serve a variety of purposes:
- Enhancing the Room’s Design: A patterned accent chair can be used to tie together various design elements in a room, such as matching or contrasting with a color scheme, complementing other furniture, or adding a pop of color or pattern.
- Adding Comfort: Accent chairs often offer extra seating for guests or additional comfort for reading, relaxing, or enjoying a cup of coffee.
- Filling Empty Spaces: They can be used to fill corners or spaces that may otherwise feel empty or underused, ensuring the room feels complete.
Types of Accent Chairs
Accent chairs come in a variety of styles, sizes, and shapes. The key is selecting a chair that complements the overall design of the room while adding something unique. Here are some popular types of accent chairs:
1. Wingback Chairs
Wingback chairs are classic and timeless, often characterized by high backs and “wings” that extend from the back to the armrests. These chairs are traditionally used in more formal spaces, but modern versions come in a variety of fabrics and colors, making them suitable for a range of interiors.
2. Club Chairs
Club chairs are low, deep, and comfortable chairs often upholstered in leather or fabric. With their rounded arms and soft, padded design, they offer a relaxed, cozy vibe, making them a popular choice for living rooms and reading nooks.
3. Barrel Chairs
Barrel chairs are compact chairs with a round or semi-circular back that wraps around the user. They are great for adding a modern, curvy element to the space, and their comfortable, cocoon-like design makes them ideal for smaller spaces or creating intimate seating areas.
4. Slipper Chairs
Slipper chairs are armless, low-profile chairs with a clean, simple design. These stylish chairs are ideal for smaller rooms or spaces where you want to keep things minimal. They can work well in entryways, bedrooms, or living rooms and are often covered in light, neutral fabrics.
5. Lounge Chairs
Lounge chairs are designed for comfort and relaxation, often featuring a lower profile and wide, padded seating. These chairs are perfect for lounging areas or creating a cozy nook for reading, watching TV, or enjoying a conversation.
6. Modern Accent Chairs
Modern accent chairs often feature sleek lines, minimalistic designs, and bold, contemporary patterns. These chairs are perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to modern, minimalist, or industrial-inspired interiors.
7. Accent Armchairs
An armchair with a unique design or bold color can function as an eccentric accent chair. These armchairs may include standout features such as unusual arm shapes, intricate fabric patterns, or a striking color that contrasts with the rest of the room.
Materials and Fabrics for Accent Chairs
One of the most important aspects of an accent chair is the choice of materials and fabrics, as they directly impact the chair’s aesthetic and functionality. Here are some common materials used for accent chairs:
- Fabric: Fabric is the most common material for fabric accent chairs. It comes in a variety of textures and patterns, allowing you to select the perfect style to match your room. Popular fabrics include linen, cotton, velvet, and microfiber.
- Leather: Leather accent chairs add a sophisticated, luxurious feel to a space. They are also durable and easy to clean, making them great for high-traffic areas.
- Wood: Wood frames are often used for more traditional or rustic styles of wood accent chairs. The wood can be polished or painted, depending on the look you're aiming for.
- Metal: Metal legs or frames give accent chairs a modern, industrial feel. These chairs are often paired with fabrics or leather for a sleek, contemporary design.
Choosing the Right Accent Chair
When selecting an accent chair for your space, it’s important to consider a few key factors:
- Room Size: The size of the room will dictate how large or small the accent chair should be. In smaller rooms, opt for a compact chair that doesn’t overwhelm the space. In larger rooms, you can afford to choose a larger or more dramatic chair that stands out.
- Style and Design: Choose a style that complements the existing furniture and overall design of the room. If your room has neutral tones, an orange accent chair can create a bold statement. Conversely, if your room is already busy, a simpler, neutral-toned accent chair might work best.
- Comfort: While accent chairs are primarily decorative, comfort should still be a priority. Look for a chair with proper cushioning, ergonomic design, and a shape that supports your body well.
- Functionality: Consider how the chair will be used. If it’s going to be used for lounging or as a reading chair, choose one with adequate support and comfort. If it’s purely decorative, you may prioritize a visually striking design over comfort.
Ready to Find the Right Accent Chair For You?
An accent chair is much more than just an additional piece of furniture—it’s an opportunity to enhance the design of your room, add comfort and personality, and create a unique focal point.
Whether you’re looking for a chair that adds a splash of color, a bit of luxury, or a cozy reading nook, the perfect accent chair can transform your space and make it feel more welcoming and complete. However, the only way you’ll know which chair is right for you is to try them out for yourself!
If you’re ready to take this step, visit your nearest La-Z-Boy South Texas store to see how our accent chairs fit you.
