The Ease of Living wIth Ottomans

Ottoman Tips Decorate with ottomans for the look of today. Storage ottomans offer compartments for items that ordinarily clutter a room. Modern ottomans have soft pillow tops; some have convertible tops that turn ottomans into occasional tables. If you are decorating with ottomans upholstered in fabric, complement the look with throw pillows in coordinating colors. Whereas matching creates a formal look, using ottomans that blend with the decor without looking like cookie-cutter furnishings creates a casual look. Darker fabrics work best on ottomans that are used as footstools. Ottomans on casters can be relocated to create a variety of seating styles and spaces. If space is a problem, consider ottomans that can be tucked away under a coffee table until needed.

A New Attitude

Ottomans were once nothing more than accessories for chairs and sofas. Today, ottomans are as important to the room as the chair, and are classified as multi-functional furnishings. Say hello to the new face of ottomans with pullout drink holders and sleepers that fold out for guest sleeping arrangements.

Use ottomans as stand-alone furnishings; a rectangular ottoman can be placed in an entry hall for seating while putting on or taking off boots and shoes. Oversized ottomans measure almost as large as twin beds. One large, or four 3-foot ottomans can stand alone in the center of a foyer, large room, or lobby to create an outstanding focal point, or use ottomans in offices and lobbies for comfortable bench seating. Insist on ottomans with high-density foam and tufted upholstery for the best balance and support for those seated.

Carefree Decorating

If you are placing ottomans in high-traffic areas or areas frequented by pets and children, consider leather or wicker ottomans. Wicker has a casual appearance and can survive moist areas like porches and patios. Whenever possible, opt for storage ottomans. Leather is the construction of choice, easily cleaned with a damp cloth, and resistant to rips and punctures. Fabric ottomans have a formal appeal, but are not practical if your ottoman will be exposed to spills, if doubling as a coffee table. Turn your decorating focus toward ottomans; today's ottomans are the gateway to functional creativity.