How to Choose the Right Ottoman for Your Living Room

An ottoman is one of the most hard-working pieces in a home. It can be a footrest, an extra seat when guests arrive, a side table for a tray of chai, or hidden storage for throws and magazines. But with so many shapes, sizes and fabrics, how do you pick the right one? Here is a simple guide.

1. Start with how you will use it

• Footrest: choose a height close to your sofa seat – usually 40–45 cm.
• Extra seating: look for a firm top and a stable base.
• Storage: a storage ottoman with a lift-off or hinged lid keeps blankets, toys and remotes out of sight.
• Coffee table: a large flat-top ottoman with a tray works beautifully in smaller living rooms.

2. Pick the right size

As a rule of thumb, leave about 40–45 cm between the ottoman and your sofa so you can walk around comfortably. In a compact room, two small pouffes are often more flexible than one large piece – you can move them around as you need.

3. Choose a shape that suits the room

• Round and mushroom shapes soften a room full of straight lines.
• Cube ottomans look clean and modern and fit neatly into corners.
• Oval and bench styles work well at the foot of a bed or along a window.

4. Think about fabric

Bouclé adds a soft, textured, luxurious look. Corduroy feels warm and cosy with a subtle ribbed texture. Jute and woven pieces bring a natural, earthy touch. Chenille and velvet-like fabrics feel plush and rich. Families with kids or pets may prefer darker shades or tightly woven fabrics that are easier to maintain.

5. Match the colour story

Neutral tones like ivory, beige, taupe and sage blend with almost any décor. If your sofa is neutral, an ottoman in a deeper shade can become the accent piece that ties the room together.

Find your ottoman

Explore the full range of Casaverve ottomans and pouffes – crafted in India, with free shipping across India.