The Essential Guide to Styling and Placing Small Armchairs in Your Living Room

A thoughtfully chosen and strategically placed small armchair can completely transform your living room. These compact, versatile chairs are the perfect way to add flexible seating, maximize small spaces, and create cozy spots for relaxing or conversation. With so many styles and placement options to consider, it can be tricky to choose the ideal small armchair for your home.

You'll learn how to select the perfect chair for your space, discover clever placement ideas to make the most of corners and empty areas, and get expert tips on accessorizing for maximum comfort and visual appeal. By the end, you'll feel confident placing and styling a small armchair to elevate your living room design.

What Are Small Armchairs?

Definition and Key Features

Small armchairs, sometimes called accent chairs or tub chairs, are compact, petite armchair styles that take up less space than regular recliners or armchairs. They often have a smaller seat width, lower seat height, and more petite proportions overall compared to standard armchairs. The cozy, space-saving size makes them perfect for squeezing into spots where a full-size chair won't fit.

Popular Styles and Materials

You'll find small armchairs available in a diverse range of styles, from classic designs like French bergere chairs to contemporary egg chairs or mid-century modern lounge chairs. Some popular specific styles include:

• Tub chairs - Round, armless chair with upholstered sides forming a "tub" shape.
• Accent chairs - General term for a wide range of small-scale chairs.
• Lounge chairs - Low, reclined chair with extended leg rest.

Small armchairs come in fabrics like velvet, leather, or cotton. The frame may be wood, metal, plastic, or a combination. Choose a material that fits your room's aesthetic - leather for modern, velvet for traditional, etc. Durability is also a consideration.

Why Use Small Armchairs in Your Living Room?

Incorporating thoughtfully chosen small armchairs offers many benefits for enhancing your living room's design and function.

Extra Flexible Seating

One of the top reasons to add a small armchair or two is for flexible extra seating. When you have guests over or the whole family is relaxing in the living room, small chairs provide additional spots to sit and chat. Nestle a pair of chairs together to create an intimate conversation nook in your living room.

Maximize Small Spaces

Small armchairs are perfect for making the most of compact living rooms or unused corners. Tuck one into an awkward empty space you don't know what to do with. Their petite size visually opens up the room. Small armchairs allow you to add seating without dominating the area.

Add Visual Interest

Strategically placed small armchairs can be design focal points. A bold colored or patterned chair contrasts well with neutral sofas or sectionals. Clustering two chairs together also creates an eye-catching vignette. The variety in texture and silhouette makes the room more visually dynamic.

Where to Place Small Armchairs in Your Living Room

Now that you know the benefits of small armchairs, where should you put them? Here are some of our favorite small armchair placement ideas for living rooms.

Opposite the Sofa

Positioning your small armchair directly opposite your main sofa or sectional helps balance out the weight of larger pieces. It designates a dedicated conversation area in your living room. Angle the chair slightly toward the other seats to craft an intimate gathering place.

Tucked Into a Corner

Take advantage of an unused corner by tucking a small armchair snugly into the space. This instantly creates a cozy reading nook. Place a floor lamp or side table next to the chair. If possible, angle it slightly toward the room to avoid it feeling isolated.

Next to a Side Table

Flank a small armchair with an end table or side table. This gives you a convenient surface for drinks, books, remotes, or decor next to your seat. Clustering the chair and table together makes for a relaxing vignette. Opt for a round accent table to soften the look.

How to Style Small Armchairs

Choosing coordinating accent decor is key for making small armchairs feel like an integrated part of your living room's style. Follow these tips when styling your petite chair.

Select Complementary Accent Pieces

Any additional decor you add to the small armchair should complement your overall interior. For a traditional space, add patterned throw pillows and an ornate table. Or try a fur throw and modern sculptures for a contemporary vibe. Tie it all together.

Adjust Proportions Thoughtfully

Proper proportions are important when placing a small armchair in your existing space. Make sure the chair isn't too large or small relative to the room and other furniture. You can use decor to help balance proportions - a tall floor lamp visually lifts a low armchair.

Layer Textures and Patterns

Layering various textures and patterns helps a small armchair feel purposefully styled. Try topping the chair with throw pillows of different fabric patterns. Drape an ornately patterned throw over an armchair with simple upholstery. The mix of fabrics adds visual interest.

Choosing the Best Small Armchair

With so many styles and options, choosing the perfect small armchair for your living room can feel overwhelming. Keep these tips in mind as you shop to find your ideal chair.

Measure Your Space

First, consider the footprint of your living room and where you want to place the armchair. Measure the space to ensure you select a chair sized in proportion. Allow at least 18-24 inches of clearance around the chair for comfortable walking flow.

Consider Your Style

Assess the overall decor style of your living room - modern, traditional, industrial, mid-century, etc. Choose an armchair design that fits and complements your existing furniture and style. Aim for a cohesive look.

Evaluate Comfort

While small, armchairs should still offer ample comfort. Test chairs in person when possible. Look for cushion fill that provides support while allowing you to sink in slightly. Consider seat depth and height - make sure your feet can rest flat on the floor when seated.

With their space-saving size and cozy style, small armchairs offer big benefits for enhancing living room designs. Clever placement lets you take advantage of unused corners or gaps and the variety of styles means you can find one suiting your decor. Finish by accessorizing with plush pillows and throws to create an inviting spot for relaxation.

We hope this guide provided you with essential tips for choosing and styling the perfect small armchair for your living room. Just take dimensions, existing furniture, and comfort into account when selecting. Then complement with decor that aligns with your interior design style. Within no time, you'll be enjoying the added seating and visual appeal a thoughtfully placed small armchair brings to your living space.