There are hundreds of different styles of relaxing chairs available, from Chesterfields and wingbacks to recliners and chaise lounges, and choosing the best one for your space is not always easy.
A good chair should balance comfort, durability, and visual appeal, but with so much to think about, where do you start? Follow our top tips, and you're sure to make the right decision.
Get inspired
Before you start shopping, we recommend you get a clearer idea of the style of chair to suit your decor. The best way to do this is with a bit of chair research. When it comes to getting inspiration for interiors, the internet is an excellent resource. Explore inspirational photos of decor you love at Foter.com, then assess your current interior style. Consider what chair designs, colors, and materials will blend with your home.
Perhaps you're drawn to the clean lines of mid-century modern design to create a sleek aesthetic in your contemporary home? Or maybe a bold rattan accent chair with a plush cushion would add dramatic flair to your boho style? Whatever your interior aesthetic, inspirational images give you a place to start on your search for the perfect chair.
Consider how the chair will be used
Are you looking for a cozy chair for your reading nook where you can snuggle up for hours with a good book? How about a pair of modern chairs for your office where you can have informal meetings with clients? Need a convertible chair that can accommodate visiting friends and family? Or maybe you just want a beautiful piece for your bedroom where you can have your morning coffee before starting the day?
Thinking about how you intend to use your chair helps you decide what features it needs to have. If you know you will spend long periods sitting, you may need something that has good back support. If you're someone who likes to curl up into a chair, you should look for a wider seat to offer the most comfortable position. Good furniture is a marriage of aesthetics and function; keep both in mind when selecting your relaxing chair.
Size up your space
Once you have determined the perfect room for your relaxing chair, you need to size up the layout and take measurements. It doesn't matter how gorgeous or comfy your chair appears if it can't fit in the room.
To find the maximum size of your chair, measure the length and width of your space, taking into account 10" - 12" clearance space around the front of the chair to allow for foot traffic. If you're buying a recliner, don't forget to find out how large it is when it's fully extended.
Remember, although a chair might physically fit in a space, you need to consider its size in proportion to the room and the rest of your furniture. Bulky seats can dominate a small space while dainty chairs can get lost in bigger rooms. If you're buying for a smaller space, streamlined designs will be more successful. Whereas, in larger areas, you can afford to experiment with exaggerated shapes.