An accent chair is more than just a comfortable side chair. It’s an opportunity to make a statement. Whether it’s a sculptural piece that greets guests in your entryway or a cozy corner seat that invites afternoon lounging, the right accent chair elevates your space with personality, function, and flair.
At ELEMENT Home, we believe that every piece of furniture should be both beautiful and purposeful. A few pieces strike a balance that is better than that of a thoughtfully selected accent chair. This guide will help you choose the perfect one, considering everything from scale and style to upholstery, placement, and personality.
Why Accent Chairs Matter in Interior Design
While sofas often anchor a room’s design, accent chairs bring in texture, color, and visual contrast. They add dimension to your layout, offer versatile seating, and provide a finishing touch that can transform your living room, bedroom, or office into a cohesive and elevated space.
A well-placed accent chair can:
- Create a stylish reading nook
- Add a pop of color or texture to a neutral room
- Serve as a sculptural focal point
- Complement existing furniture with contrast and charm
- Provide extra seating without overwhelming your layout
Think of it as functional art — useful, but designed to spark joy.
1. Understand the Purpose and Location
Before choosing a style or fabric, ask yourself where the accent chair will live and how it will be used. A decorative hallway chair will have different requirements than a chair you plan to curl up in every night.
Consider:
- How often will it be used? Daily lounging or occasional seating?
- Is it decorative or practical — or both?
- Will it need to swivel, recline, or stay stationary?
At ELEMENT Home, we help clients blend purpose and beauty, whether they need a bold accent piece or a cozy corner companion.
2. Mind the Scale and Proportions
Size matters, especially with accent chairs. A chair that’s too bulky can crowd a space, while one that’s too petite can feel insignificant.
Tips to get it right:
- Measure the available floor space and consider flow.
- Make sure the chair feels balanced in relation to nearby furniture.
- Check seat height to ensure it pairs well with coffee tables or side tables.
Need help visualizing how your chair will fit in? ELEMENT Home offers personalized design consultations, complete with floor plan planning and curated furniture combinations.
3. Choose a Style That Reflects You
Accent chairs are an ideal way to show off your unique taste. Whether your style leans modern, organic, traditional, or avant-garde, there’s a chair that speaks your design language.
Popular accent chair styles include:
- Barrel Chairs: Enveloping comfort with curved lines
- Sculptural/Artistic Chairs: Architectural designs that double as artwork
- Mid-Century Chairs: Sleek lines with vintage flair
- Club Chairs: Deep, structured, and timeless
- Swivel Chairs: Functional and fun, perfect for open layouts
ELEMENT Home features curated pieces from North America and Europe, each hand-selected for style, craftsmanship, and longevity.
4. Upholstery and Materials Matter
Fabric and finish dramatically affect the feel and function of an accent chair. Choosing the right one depends on both your lifestyle and your design goals.
Fabric Options
- Bouclé: Soft, nubby, and ultra-trendy — great for cozy corners
- Velvet: Luxurious and rich in tone — ideal for dramatic impact
- Linen or Performance Fabric: Durable, breathable, and family-friendly
Leather
- Durable, easy to clean, and timeless. Great for high-traffic spaces and those who love a tailored look.
Mixed Materials
- Combine wood, metal, or even stone with upholstery for a refined, artful edge. These pieces often become sculptural showstoppers.
At ELEMENT Home, many of our accent chairs are customizable, from fabric and finishes to cushion firmness, so you can create a chair that truly fits your space.
5. Think About Color and Pattern
Accent chairs are your chance to play with color and texture.
- Neutrals (cream, beige, gray): Timeless, easy to style, and perfect for layering
- Bold hues (emerald, saffron, navy): Bring drama and personality to a room
- Textured or patterned fabrics: Add depth and detail, especially in minimalist settings
Our design team often helps clients pair accent chairs with artwork from our Art Gallery in Cherry Creek North, curating spaces that feel intentional and gallery-worthy.
6. Placement Tips and Styling Suggestions
Where you place your accent chair is just as important as the chair itself. Consider how it fits into the flow of the room and what it’s paired with.
Living Room
- Place one across from your sofa to balance the room
- Angle a pair near a fireplace or media console for conversation-friendly symmetry
Bedroom
- Use one in a corner with a small side table and soft lighting to create a serene reading nook
Office or Studio
- Go with a supportive and stylish chair that can serve both as seating and a conversation piece
Want to complete the look? ELEMENT Home offers designer-selected side tables, ottomans, and floor lamps to complement your accent chair, eliminating guesswork and making styling seamless.
7. Prioritize Comfort (Yes, Even for Accent Chairs)
While accent chairs are often prized for their aesthetic, comfort is still key, especially if they’re going to see regular use.
What to look for:
- Supportive seat cushioning that retains shape
- Armrest height that supports natural posture
- Seat depth that fits how you like to sit (upright, reclined, or tucked in)
At our Cherry Creek North showroom, we encourage you to sit, sink, and swivel until you find a piece that feels as good as it looks.
Discover the Perfect Accent Chair at ELEMENT Home
At ELEMENT Home, we believe a well-designed space starts with well-designed furniture. Our accent chair collection reflects our passion for craftsmanship, beauty, and functional living.
Whether you’re searching for a bold sculptural chair, a cozy reading perch, or a signature piece to complete your living room, we offer a curated selection and expert support to help you bring your vision to life.
Explore online or visit our Cherry Creek North showroom to find your perfect match and discover how the right accent chair can transform your space, one seat at a time.
