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If you want to add that wow factor to your room, there's no easier way than incorporating a statement chair! These quirky design pieces are sometimes referred to as accent chairs, or even occasional chairs, but no matter what you call them the right one will make for a dazzling addition to any home.
However, choosing the perfect statement chair can be daunting. That's why we've put together this guide on how to choose an accent chair! We run you through the basics of popular designs and fabric choices, from Art Deco to 1950s cocktail chairs to help you find one that will complement your space. We've even ranked the top 10 statement chairs in the UK on Argos, Amazon and John Lewis to add a splash of creativity to your home.
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A statement chair will become the design centrepiece of your room, that's why you need to take care and attention to make sure you choose the right one. We're here to help you along with our top tips on design, size and style. So, if you follow our guide, you'll soon become an interior design master!
A unique and interesting design sets a statement chair apart from the rest, but how do you know which design to pick? Two of the main styles statement chairs use are button tufting and Art Deco, and we're here to clue you in on both!
In the 1920s, a popular style of design called Art Deco was born in France. It uses geometric shapes like triangles, straight lines and the iconic sunburst pattern to create a unique look. Place an Art Deco Chair next to a simple table with a lamp to create your very own reading corner, or surround it with indoor plants for a relaxing atmosphere.
Choose this style of chair if you like minimalistic designs. Art Deco is streamlined, so it doesn't look busy, but is far from boring. One of these chairs will add a splash of creativity to a room, especially when paired with block colours and plain painted walls.
Button Tufting is an upholstery technique where buttons are sewn through an upholstered item (chairs in this case) to create a decorative pattern and help keep the stuffing from moving.
Button tufting makes a chair look expensive and grand, similar to something you could expect to find in a stately home. Choose this style if your space has dark wooden furniture, or has wallpaper with a damask motif. It'll complement the room and add a luxurious feel to your space!
You can tell different types of chairs apart by examining their shape and key features. When choosing a statement chair, you want to make sure the style is both comfortable and visually pleasing. Here's what you need to know!
A barrel chair is an upholstered seat with a high rounded back which creates a unique shape that makes a statement, whilst still offering comfort. It'll make a great addition to your living room as there are armrests and enough space for you to tuck your feet up with a wrap-around shape that will feel like a hug.
If that hasn't sold you, these chairs are the perfect size for your pets to slip into. You can even throw a sheet over it so your pet doesn't damage it, leaving your statement piece in tip-top condition.
The Chesterfield is a traditional British sofa or chair with rounded arms, a back of the same height and button tufting. This design sometimes gets repackaged by modern designers to have a higher backrest or a slightly different look, but the original concept is still there.
The cosy armchair design makes this style ideal for a love seat, or cuddle chair, that you and your partner can snuggle in whilst watching a movie. Don't worry if you're single! This chair can offer extra seating space when you host a party, or provide a luxurious seat for you to spread out on.
This part is where things get a little bit confusing because any comfortable chair in a living room or bedroom is often called an armchair. Technically, an armchair is a comfortable upholstered seat that has two arms supports separately attached.
However, not all statement chairs have clearly defined arm supports, and to make things more complicated, styles like the Chesterfield are armchairs, but are a distinct style in their own right. That said, armchairs are a comfortable choice and heir sturdy shape encourages you to sit up straight, so you're not hurting your back by hunching over.
Swivel desk chairs have an adjustable height and wheels, making them ideal for office work. But, they can also be used as beauty chairs for vanity tables or as some extra setting to wheel out when guests come over, without cluttering up your space.
When you imagine a desk chair, you probably think of your standard bulky black office chair, but they come in all sorts of designs. Some statement desk chairs can even look like armchairs on wheels, made from plush velvet with button tufting!
Cocktail chairs are a unique and stylish addition to any room. This style was a big trend in the 1950s and 60s, and many have an Art Deco style. With their vintage vibes, these statement chairs are still popular today among the fashion-conscious.
These chairs have a high rounded back that makes them comfortable without needing armrest support, which is ideal if you don't like feeling boxed in. They'll be a perfect addition to a hallway, as it's the first thing someone notices when they walk in.
It's not only desk chairs that have this feature, many other designs including barrel chairs use it too. A swivel feature is practical if you're playing games or completing an activity that requires you to move around a lot whilst still remaining seated (like sorting through paperwork).
The swivelling motion could even help you to concentrate if you have ADHD, or if you're an active person who likes to move around a lot. Just move the chair slightly from side to side whilst you're working to improve focus. Stylish and practical, they really are the perfect chair choice!
Although good for contraction, they could be a little problematic for anyone with motion sickness, as it's difficult to get them to stay still. Perhaps opt for a chair without swivel, if you suffer from this or get dizzy easily.
When you're shopping for chairs, you might find yourself overwhelmed by lists of measurements and dimensions. You'll be able to get a good sense of how high the legs and back are by looking at the pictures. So to make things easier for yourself, concentrate on the overall size measurement by comparing the width, height and diameter.
When you're choosing a chair, you want to make sure it fits into your space and is big enough for you to sit on it. Once you know the dimensions, you can compare it to the space and furniture you already have.
Velvet, often made from polyester, is the most popular choice for upholstered accent chairs. It's smooth and will feel comfortable against your skin, without irritating it. It also makes the chair look stylish and expensive, adding to the look of your home.
Velvet isn't the only option though, and you'll find statement chairs made from all sorts of fabrics including faux leather. Unlike velvet, you'll be able to wipe this fabric clean, making it a great choice if you want to eat, drink or apply makeup whilst you sit on it.
You might even find some chairs that combine a patchwork of different fabrics. Although it isn't for any practical purpose, it does create a fun patter and provides that real wow factor, making for a striking statement!
This is an aesthetically pleasing chair that comes in velvet, and a fluffier faux fur that's soft against your skin and warm during winter. It has a creative and fun vibe, with a shell shaped back and comfortable seat that's very spacious in width.
There are lots of colour options to choose from, so you're sure to find one that'll match your space. But the real standout feature is the price, as such great value, you could even afford to get it in two colours!
Statement pieces are often a little more expensive than your average seat, so here's a chair that won't leave a massive hole in your wallet. The geometric triangle pattern gives the classic Art Deco look, and the bright pink makes it stand out (you can get it in grey and white too).
Don't be put off by the low back as this chair still offers good back support, making it great for online meetings or gaming. It's also lightweight, so won't be too heavy to move around.
This chair has all the features of a desk chair with the comfort of an upholstered seat. It certainly doesn't lack in style, coming in a stylish shade of emerald green paired with golden legs that give it a hint of grandeur.
Far from your average desk chair, the surprisingly practical design perfectly combines the old with the new. The ruched fabric back takes inspiration from Art Deco designs, but with a more contemporary feel.
The shape alone is what makes most statement chairs shine, but this chair's colourful patchwork design really makes it stand out. It's a truly unique piece that will liven up any room. A great choice for neutral interiors, it'll take away that hotel vibe and impart a splash of personality.
This chair isn't too heavy either, so it can be easily moved around your room. It can even make for a comfier alternative to dining room chairs.
The shell or scallop shape is an extremely popular design if you're after a vintage style statement chair that looks modern. It's a simple piece free from garish colour and busy patterns, instead making a statement via its simple yet quirky shape.
This barrel chair will add some creativity to a room with a feminine colour palette and minimalistic decor. Plus, it has a swivel feature that's perfect for when you're entertaining.
This armchair is a sophisticated piece that will look good in all kinds of homes, from a country farmhouse to a modern city apartment. The traditional look is very versatile, which is why it so easily compliments a rustic interior just as much as an open white space with pink or grey accents.
Let's not forget that this chair has room for two people, which is ideal if you're living with your partner and want some room to snuggle together without buying a large sofa. It also gives you some extra space if you have guests.
This velvet chair comes in midnight blue, grey and pink - all colours that look very stylish. It has a simple Art Deco-style geometric design, with a classic armchair shape for extra support. Add cushions in a contrasting colour to really make the chair pop!
Just be aware that the cushioned base is very firm, so you might get a bit sore after spending a couple of hours on it. Luckily, you can solve this problem by adding some cushions and a blanket.
This chair looks like it could belong in a classy 1930s manor house, with dark wood panelling and faux fur throws. It's a luxury piece that would be a great addition to a cottage or countryside home with its velvet fabric and winged back, making it stand out without looking tacky.
This chair will offer comfort as the back curves around encasing your body offering support, but it has no arms rest for balance. However, the seat does have higher legs which is helpful if you're tall.
This piece is ideal for those with children, or anyone who's a little clumsy, as the dark colour will hide any stains whilst still looking colourful. It's got a unique square shape that almost looks like it belongs in a 1950s American diner, but in a velvet fabric that will be much more comfortable than something you'd traditionally find in a restaurant.
Although it's plush, the low backrest and confined shape may feel uncomfortable. Still, it's a lovely piece and will be ideal for extra seating when hosting a dinner party.
Are you bored of those basic computer chairs that darken the room, making your office space look gloomy instead of inviting? Well, this beautiful plush chair with button tufting is just what you need. It even comes in grey, if pink isn't for you, because no office should have to be boring.
This chair does look beautiful, but it can get uncomfortable after sitting in it for lengthy amounts of time. This is because there's no back support adjustment. However, you can purchase these as extras if you so wish.
You've got your statement chair sorted, but what about the rest of your furniture? Perhaps a coffee table would look great next to your chair, or a bedside table if you'd like to create a comfortable reading nook. You could even branch out and purchase some bar stools for your kitchen. Whatever your interior design dreams, we have you covered!
Whether you're moving house, or looking to switch up your space, choosing new furniture is an exciting process. Hopefully, after reading this article, finding a fun new statement piece for your home will be stress-free!
Author: Rosa Fairfield
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