Ultimate relaxation with an armchair

Armchairs have long been celebrated for their unmatched comfort and cosy appeal, making them an essential piece in any living space. Whether you're savouring a hot cup of coffee on a slow Sunday morning, you’re lost in the pages of a captivating book, or unwinding with your favourite movie, an armchair provides the ideal retreat to relax and recharge. With their plush cushions, armchairs invite you to sink in and escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, offering a serene haven of comfort.

Discovering the different types of armchairs

When choosing an armchair, the first thing to consider is its purpose. This, along with the space where it will be placed, will guide you in selecting the right type. Armchairs come in various shapes and serve multiple purposes. Let’s explore the most common types.

• The classic armchair: The classic armchair is a cosy seat with armrests, designed for prolonged sitting. Over time, its traditional design has evolved into various interesting shapes and styles. Regardless of the design, an armchair should always prioritise comfort. Most models are upholstered and feature a supportive backrest, fantastic for curling up with a good book. Whether placed in a bedroom, reading nook, or living room, a classic armchair adds charm and comfort to any space.

• The recliner chair: If ultimate comfort is what you seek, a recliner chair is the right choice. This armchair can recline to a horizontal position, allowing you to relax fully while watching movies or taking a nap. With an adjustable footrest and backrest, lying down becomes comfortable. Available in various styles, the recliner armchair is an ideal addition to any living area.

• The accent armchair: An accent chair is any armchair that stands out and steals the spotlight. Whether it’s a reclining armchair, an egg chair, a butterfly, a tub, or a cube armchair, an accent chair adds depth and texture to your décor. For instance, a purple swivel egg chair can bring a pop of colour to a contemporary living area, while a yellow cube armchair can enhance the cosiness and vibrancy of a bedroom.

• The outdoor armchair: Even the smallest outdoor space deserves the comfort of an armchair. A mango wood armchair with a leather canvas seat, for example, can be great for a balcony. Bamboo deck chairs are ideal for leisurely weekend mornings outside. When choosing an outdoor armchair, it’s important to protect it against the elements based on its material, ensuring it remains a cherished spot for relaxation.

Which material makes the finest armchair?

The strength, style, and overall visual impact of your ideal armchair largely depend on the materials used in its construction. Typically, armchairs and reclining chairs feature strong bases made of wood or metal to ensure stability. However, the upholstery, which should be thickly cushioned with a soft-to-the-touch material, truly defines the comfort level. Before making a decision, it’s essential to consider your needs, preferences, and lifestyle. Here are some excellent options to explore:

• Fabric armchairs: Cotton and linen are popular choices for upholstery due to their softness and hardiness. These materials are easy to clean with soap and water, making them ideal for households with children or pets. Another great option is a synthetic blend, known for its resistance to pilling, fading, wrinkling, and soiling. These fabrics often look fantastic with accents like buttons or natural wood legs and armrests, especially in a farmhouse-inspired décor.

• Leather armchairs: Leather armchairs, whether made of genuine or synthetic leather, are timeless classics that age beautifully. Leather is resilient, long-lasting, and easy to maintain with a simple wipe-down. Additionally, it is hypoallergenic, repelling dust and fur. A leather armchair suits an industrial interior perfectly, adding a beautiful touch to the space.

• Velvet armchairs: Velvet is one of the nicest materials for armchair upholstery. It offers a plush, cosy feel and enhances the design of the armchair. Velvet chairs are known for their timeless look and textured appeal. While velvet may wear out faster than other materials, it is not necessarily harder to clean. Velvet armchairs often come in vibrant colours and patterns, making them the focal point of any room.

• Bamboo or rattan armchairs: Though less common, armchairs made of exotic materials like rattan or bamboo are well-constructed, flexible, and weatherproof. These materials allow for indoor and outdoor use, though it’s advisable to protect them from the elements to maintain their beautiful colour and texture. Rattan or bamboo armchairs often include extra padding cushions for enhanced comfort, despite their construction mimicking the natural posture of your body.

How to pick the right style for your armchair

Reclining armchairs are essential pieces of furniture, available in a wide array of styles and designs. Once you’ve decided on the material, the next step is to find a style that complements your existing décor. You can choose an armchair that seamlessly blends with your interior style or one that creates a striking contrast for a more eclectic look. Here are some popular recliner armchair styles to consider:

• The contemporary armchair: Contemporary armchairs are characterised by sleek lines, fine detailing, and neutral colours. This style serves as a baseline for modern design, offering options like a dark grey armchair with a metal base or a more eye-catching piece, such as a silver egg chair. The contemporary style emphasises simplicity and elegance, fitting seamlessly into minimalist and modern interiors.

• Industrial armchairs: Industrial-style armchairs are distinguished by their bold materials and striking designs. Combining elements like leather, metal, and wood, these chairs are perfect for creating a big-city loft feel. The slender lines of the metal or wooden frame enhance the rich, worn-out look of the leather, making the industrial armchair a standout piece in any room.

• Bohemian-style recliner armchair: Bohemian-style armchairs invite you to embrace a life of leisure and relaxation. Drawing inspiration from nature, a boho recliner in your living room can become your favourite lounging spot. Consider a statement piece like a rattan chair with a peacock-inspired design or a circle armchair with multicoloured handwoven cotton upholstery to brighten up your reading nook.

• The cosy farmhouse armchair: Farmhouse-inspired armchairs prioritise comfort, evoking the charm of an old cottage where cosiness reigns supreme. These recliners often feature thick padded cushions covered in soft cotton, ensuring a comfortable posture for hours. Complete the farmhouse look with a rustic side table, great for a cosy reading area.

By exploring these styles, you can find the right reclining armchair that enhances your space and offers the ultimate comfort.

Tips to style your armchair

Styling an armchair is more than just placing it in a room; it's about creating a cosy, inviting space that reflects your personality and enhances your home décor. Whether you’re aiming for a reading nook, a relaxing retreat, or a stylish corner, a few well-chosen accessories can transform your armchair into a lovely spot. Here are three tips to help you style your armchair for both comfort and visual appeal.

• Add a coffee table: A coffee table is a functional and stylish addition to your armchair setup. It provides a convenient surface for placing books, beverages, or decorative items. Choose a coffee table that complements the style and height of your armchair. For a cohesive look, consider materials and colours that harmonise with your chair and other furniture in the room.

• Incorporate a plant or vase with fresh flowers:  Bringing greenery or fresh flowers into your space can breathe life and freshness into your armchair area. A potted plant can add a touch of nature and improve air quality, while a vase of fresh flowers can provide a burst of colour. Place them on a side table or on the floor next to your armchair to create a lively and vibrant atmosphere.

• Position a small lamp: Lighting is crucial for creating a cosy and inviting space. A small lamp placed near your armchair can provide the perfect amount of light for reading or relaxing. Choose a lamp with adjustable brightness to set the mood according to your activity. The lamp’s design should complement the overall décor, adding both function and style to your space.

By following these tips, you can style your armchair to create a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing space that you'll love to relax in. Oh, and you’ll have a cute, Instagram worthy spot in your home.