An armchair alone often appears incomplete if your feet cannot find a comfortable resting place. An ottoman complements the seating area, creating a well-thought-out unit. For both pieces of furniture to work harmoniously, seat height and ottoman height must be coordinated. Equally important is the choice of upholstery material: different fabrics or leathers can disrupt the overall aesthetic, even if the proportions are correct. This guide shows you which measurements to consider and how to combine upholstery materials effectively.
The Correct Height Difference Between Armchair and Ottoman
The seat height of an armchair typically ranges between 42 and 48 centimeters. An ottoman should be approximately 8 to 15 centimeters lower than the armchair's seat to allow the legs to rest at a natural angle. For an armchair with a seat height of 45 centimeters, an ottoman with a height of 32 to 37 centimeters is recommended. If the ottoman is too high, pressure will build up behind the knees. If it is too low, the legs will dangle, which becomes uncomfortable over time.
Always measure the seat height of your armchair from the floor to the top edge of the cushion, not to the frame. Keep in mind that soft cushions will compress by one to two centimeters under weight. A firm foam will yield less than a down filling. Therefore, check the actual seat height under load before selecting an ottoman.
Coordinating Upholstery Materials
Armchairs and ottomans do not need to be upholstered identically but should match in material and color tone. For example, combine a velvet armchair with an ottoman upholstered in the same velvet or a related velour. Different materials like leather and velvet can work if both share the same color tone and a similar surface texture. A glossy velvet next to matte suede, however, creates a restless impression.
For leather: full-grain smooth leather harmonizes best with the same type of leather. Nubuck or aniline leather exhibit a different tactile quality and patina. If you wish to combine different types of leather, ensure that both have received the same tanning and surface treatment. Color variations between two batches of the same material are possible, as natural materials vary. Therefore, order the armchair and ottoman from the same production series if possible.
Considering Proportions and Footprint
An ottoman's footprint should be approximately two-thirds of the armchair's width. For an armchair with a width of 85 centimeters, an ottoman of 55 to 60 centimeters fits well. Ottomans that are too small appear lost, while those that are too large visually dominate the armchair. The depth of the ottoman should ideally be between 45 and 55 centimeters, allowing both feet to rest fully without the knees protruding.
Also, pay attention to the shape: a round ottoman can soften the composition if the armchair is rectangular. Conversely, a rectangular ottoman can ground a curved armchair. However, avoid too many different shapes in the same room, as this can create a cluttered impression.
Distance Between Armchair and Ottoman
The ottoman is usually placed 10 to 20 centimeters in front of the armchair. This distance allows for a relaxed leg position without having to stretch. For very deep armchairs with a seat depth exceeding 60 centimeters, the distance can be increased to 25 centimeters. Too great a distance forces you to stretch your legs, which can impair circulation. Too small a distance leaves no room for a natural foot position.
Plan for sufficient movement space: at least 60 centimeters should remain clear in front of the ottoman so you can stand up without bumping into anything. To the side, 40 centimeters are sufficient for comfortable seating.
| Armchair Seat Height | Recommended Ottoman Height | Height Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 42 cm | 30–34 cm | 8–12 cm |
| 45 cm | 32–37 cm | 8–13 cm |
| 48 cm | 35–40 cm | 8–13 cm |
Care and Longevity of Upholstery
Different upholstery materials age at different rates. Velvet shows signs of wear in the form of shiny spots after a few years, while leather develops a patina. If the armchair and ottoman are used daily, both should be made of the same material so that aging occurs evenly. Otherwise, after five years, one material will appear significantly more worn than the other.
Clean both pieces of furniture with the same care products and at the same intervals. Leather requires regular care with leather grease or milk, while velvet is vacuumed and occasionally brushed. Avoid aggressive cleaners that could accentuate color differences between the armchair and ottoman.
Maintaining Stylistic Uniformity
Armchair and ottoman should belong to the same style. A classic wingback armchair with turned legs does not pair well with a modern ottoman on metal runners. Pay attention to details such as stitching, buttoning, and leg shape. If the armchair features tufting, the ottoman should either also be buttoned or offer a smooth surface that does not disrupt the pattern.
- Measure the armchair's seat height under load, not when empty.
- Choose an ottoman that is 8 to 15 centimeters lower than the seat.
- Combine upholstery materials of the same tanning or weave.
- Ensure both pieces of furniture come from the same production series to avoid color variations.
- Plan for 10 to 20 centimeters of space between the armchair and ottoman.
- Check that the ottoman's footprint is approximately two-thirds of the armchair's width.
You can find suitable pieces under Armchairs and Ottomans. Information on how the pieces are constructed, available dimensions, and delivery times can be found on Eichholtz Armchairs and Eichholtz Benches and Ottomans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I purchase an ottoman separately for an existing armchair?
Yes, that is possible. First, measure the seat height of your armchair and choose an ottoman that is 8 to 15 centimeters lower. Ensure that the upholstery color and material quality match the armchair. For leather or velvet, it is advisable to order samples to check for consistency before purchasing.
Does the ottoman have to be the same color as the armchair?
No, but both should harmonize in color. An ottoman in a darker or lighter shade of the same color family can work if the material is identical. High-contrast combinations like black and white require a deliberate design of the entire room to avoid appearing arbitrary.
How much space do I need in total for an armchair and ottoman?
Calculate the armchair depth plus 10 to 20 centimeters of space plus the ottoman depth plus at least 60 centimeters of movement space in front. For an armchair with a depth of 90 centimeters and an ottoman with a depth of 50 centimeters, you will need approximately 170 to 180 centimeters in total depth. To the sides, 40 centimeters should remain clear.
Can I combine different materials like velvet and leather?
This is possible but requires a delicate touch. Both materials should have the same color tone and a similar surface effect. A matte velvet pairs better with matte aniline leather than with high-gloss patent leather. Test the combination beforehand by placing samples side by side and observing them under different lighting conditions.