Do you feel like your small living room lacks sufficient seating options? Or maybe you want to create a dedicated reading nook without cluttering your modest space? Incorporating small living room chairs with arms allows you to maximize both functionality and comfort regardless of square footage.
Unlike bulky recliners or sectionals, compact yet cozy armchairs add seats without overpowering. Their petite profiles slide right into forgotten corners to transform awkward angles into relaxation destinations. And their mobility means they multitask as spare seats for parties or as attractive accents lending character to empty stretches of wall.
What Makes A Chair Ideal For Small Living Rooms?
Not all armchairs work well in pint-sized living rooms. To qualify, they need a specific blend of space-saving dimensions and easy maneuverability. But comfort still reigns supreme.
Size/Dimensions
An armchair’s measurements play a pivotal role in determining if it suits small living room spaces. Look for compact options approximately 30 inches tall with narrow frames and slim arm widths . Low backs keep sight lines open while ensuring the chair doesn’t dominate the room visually. If floorspace allows, choose a model with a slightly wider seat for curling up comfort.
Maneuverability
Even the most perfectly sized armchair loses functionality if it doesn’t easily access all areas of your living room. Prioritize lightweight constructions under 30 pounds for sliding around effortlessly. Swivel bases empower chairs to pivot on a dime to conversatea across multiple groupings. And wheeled feet offer smoothest mobility of all — simply roll chairs exactly where you need extra spots in seconds.
Multi-Functionality
Given square footage limits, petite armchairs must multitask beyond basic seating. Transitional silhouettes complement both modern sofas or traditional loveseats as stylish accent pieces. Compact dimensions allow chairs to migrate between living rooms, bedrooms and offices transporting cozy seats anywhere they fit. Some even moonlight as spare dining options when entertaining.
Cozy Yet Structured Style
Small space chairs still focus on relaxation despite diminished dimensions. Plush cushions padded with sumptuous fill or high-density foam deliver sink-in comfort perfect for reading nooks. But supportive backs ensure proper spinal alignment for the most ergonomic experience. Clean lines and sleek profiles keep the aesthetic lightweight in any room.
Best Materials For Petite Armchairs
Once the right structural specifications get nailed comes choosing an ideal upholstery fabric. The covering must balance durability, easy maintenance and irresistible softness at all touchpoints. These petite throne-worthy options rank top tier.
Performance Fabrics
Faux leather or vinyl covers offer waterproof , extremely scratch resistant and seamless wipe-down cleaning . For a cozier vibe than vinyl try soft microfiber , its tightly woven fibers repel stains, release pet hair easily and feel deliciously plush.
Natural Textiles
Organic fabrics like trusty cotton or breezy linen infuse small space seating with relaxed warmth and effortless elegance. Open-weave wicker or rattan inject breezy, vacation-esque texture. All woven varieties resist fading and stand up well to everyday use.
Plush Piles
Few materials create as irresistible first impressions as velvet , the sumptuously soft, decadently textured fabric associated with luxury. Choose from cotton-, silk- or poly-blends. Or try shaggy faux sheepskin or curly faux fur for literally sinking into. Just beware – these plush piles attract and show everything.
Clever Placement Ideas For Compact Armchairs
Just choosing a petite armchair doesn’t automatically guarantee it fits or functions seamlessly within small living room layouts. But a few insider placement tricks ensure your new chair enhances – not hinders – space.
Float As A Focal Point
Make that new armchair a conversation starter by floating it right in the center of the room rather than relegating it to corners. Sophisticated solids or playful patterns pop while creating handy auxiliary seating. Angle the chair toward other furnishings to feel inclusive of arrangements.
Tuck Into Forgotten Corners
Take advantage of the slender frame on that small-space armchair and slide it into a previously ignored corner. Not only does this spotlight put unused space to work, it also makes the entire room feel larger. Arrange standing lamps or side tables next to the chair to complete the cozy vignette.
Flank Existing Furniture
Nestle that streamlined new armchair snug beside end of the sofa or flanking the fireplace. Symmetrical seating arrangements feel pleasingly pulled together and intentional. This also reassures standard-depth chairs don’t jut out and obstruct pathways, which helps keep traffic flowing freely.
Add Stylish Touches For Extra Coziness
Even after picking the perfect petite armchair sometimes they still need that extra dose of irresistible charm. A few key accessories put the “ahh” factor over the top so curling up never felt so blissful.
Throw Pillows
Toss on a stack of plush throw pillows to elevate the coziness even further. Opt for a variety of irresistible textures like velvet and faux fur or add vibrant jewel tones and playful patterns. But stick to around 2-4 pillows max to avoid overwhelming the petite profile. Consider smart storage options like pillow boxes or bench ottomans to stow spare pillows.
Throws/Blankets
The right throw takes relaxation to the next level by lending enveloping softness and infusing natural texture. Premium cashmere and wool feels decadent draped over petite armchairs, while breezy linen and textural chenille work wonders for all-seasons coziness. Keep extra throws folded in storage baskets within easy reach.
Ottomans
Extend total relaxation by propping up feet on a posh ottoman. Super slim silhouettes slide perfectly alongside petite armchairs without impeding room flow. Some ottomans even offer sneaky hidden storage to accommodate those spare pillows or cozy throws when not in use. Or use the surface of round ottomans as temporary perches for tea trays or snacks.
Those with small living rooms don’t need to sacrifice style or comfort with the many compact, multi-functional armchairs. Clever shapes and designs allow petite armchairs to maximize awkward areas and quickly migrate throughout multiple rooms. Just remember to focus on easy mobility, accessory-friendly proportions and lavish cushions. Once you discover the perfect small space chair, prepare to get wonderfully lost reading, napping and chatting the hours away.
