You have just moved into a new home, and the living room is a blank canvas waiting for a personal touch. Apart from all the furniture pieces you plan to furnish the abode with, consider the armchair – a practical and stylish addition. With countless options in materials, designs, and features, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. In this blog, let us explore the essential steps to selecting the perfect armchair for a living room.

1. Understand Your Space

   The proportions of the armchair should complement the size of your existing furniture. A large, bulky chair can dwarf smaller pieces, while a petite chair may appear lost next to a substantial sofa. Begin by measuring the available area to determine the size of the armchair that will fit comfortably, without overwhelming the room or obstructing pathways.

   Create a functional and inviting living room by choosing from one of the following layouts:

   Conversational: arrange seating to encourage interaction
   Symmetrical: balanced furniture placement
   Open-plan: the armchair defines a specific area within a larger space

2. Define Your Style

   Mid-Century Modern: These armchairs often feature wooden frames and leather upholstery, creating a sleek yet comfortable seating option. Earthy tones such as walnut, brown, or mustard add warmth and sophistication to your living room. The design focuses on clean lines and tapered legs, making the armchair a versatile piece that complements various living room styles.

   Scandinavian: Known for their minimalistic design, these armchairs use light wood and fabric to create a serene, airy atmosphere. Neutral shades like white, grey, and beige allow the armchair to blend seamlessly with different colour schemes and decor styles. With their focus on natural materials & light and their functional design, Scandinavian armchairs create a bright and modern living room.

   Traditional: These armchairs often feature dark wood frames and luxurious velvet upholstery in rich, deep, burgundy, navy, or emerald green. The design includes ornate details, rolled arms, and tufted backrests, adding a touch of sophistication to your living room.

   Industrial: These armchairs typically use metal and leather, offering durability and a distinctive aesthetic – dark, muted tones like black, grey, or deep brown contrast with lighter furniture and decor. The design often features exposed metal frames, rivets, and distressed leather, giving your armchair an edgy and modern vibe.

   Bohemian: These armchairs often feature woven rattan or cane frames paired with colourful and patterned fabrics. Bright colours like turquoise, magenta, and orange, combined with intricate designs, create a lively and inviting atmosphere. The design embraces a mix of textures and patterns, reflecting a free-spirited and artistic lifestyle.

3. Prioritise Comfort

   Consider the seat depth and height, ensuring they suit your preferences regarding support and relaxation. A deep seat allows for lounging, while a shallower one provides a more upright posture. The backrest is another critical factor; a high backrest offers more support to your neck and shoulders, while a low backrest provides a sleek, modern look.

   The armrests should also cater to your comfort needs, with options ranging from low to high and wide to narrow. Cushions filled with high-density foam or down provide lasting comfort and shape retention, making the armchair a cosy spot for reading, watching TV, or simply relaxing.

4. Consider Functionality

   A chair with good lumbar support and comfortable seat depth is ideal, if it is primarily for reading. For watching TV or lounging, you can consider a reclining chair or one with an adjustable backrest. Swivel chairs provide versatility and ease of movement, making them ideal for spaces that serve multiple purposes.

   Additionally, armchairs with built-in storage or side pockets can be highly practical, especially in smaller living rooms where space is at a premium. These features allow you to keep essentials such as remote controls, books, or magazines within easy reach, maintaining a clutter-free environment.

5. Evaluate Durability

   Start by examining the frame – ideally it should be made of solid hardwood like oak or beech, that are known for strength and longevity. Avoid chairs with particleboard or plastic frames, as they are less durable. Check the joinery; sturdy joints like dowels, mortise, and tenon are more durable than staples or nails.

   The upholstery fabric should be of high quality, with tight weaves and robust materials such as leather, linen, or heavy-duty cotton, which resist wear and tear. Opt for armchairs with double stitching and reinforced seams to ensure the upholstery is durable and resistant to fraying. Choose cushions filled with high-density foam or down; this ensures they maintain shape and provide long-lasting comfort.

6. Budget Wisely

   High-quality furniture items may have a higher price tag, but often provide better comfort and durability. Armchair prices vary on metercube – reflecting different styles, materials, and features. Set a budget that aligns with your needs and priorities.

   Look out for sales, discounts, and seasonal offers to find a quality armchair within your price range. Invest in a well-made piece, as it can save money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent replacements.

7. Test Before You Buy

   To ensure comfort and quality, test the armchair before purchasing it. Sit in the chair for 10-15 minutes to assess seat depth, cushion firmness, and backrest support – ensuring it suits your posture and preferences. Inspect the build quality, upholstery, and stitching to identify any defects.

   In-store testing provides a hands-on experience, while home trials allow a better view of how the chair fits in the space. Reading customer reviews offers additional insights. This thorough approach ensures your investment enhances the living room’s comfort and style.

Conclusion

Carefully consider your space, the armchair’s functionality, and its durability – to invest in a piece that reflects your taste and meets daily needs. Whether for relaxing after a long day, entertaining guests, or adding a touch of elegance, the right armchair will become a cherished part of the living room.

Take time to explore various options and choose wisely to create a space that is uniquely yours. This thoughtful selection will enhance both the comfort and style of your home, making it a beloved haven for years to come.