In this guide
An accent chair is the easiest way to add personality to a room. It gives guests an extra seat, creates a reading corner and brings in colour or texture your sofa does not have. Here is how to choose the right style and size.
Quick tips
- Seat height around 17–19 inches, similar to your sofa.
- Allow about 30 × 32 inches of floor space per chair.
- Contrast with the sofa — different colour, fabric or wood.
- Pairs of chairs look formal; a single chair looks relaxed.
Popular accent chair styles
Wingback
Tall back with “wings” at the sides — originally designed to block draughts, now loved for the cosy, enclosed feel. Perfect beside a window or in a bedroom corner.
Mid-century armchair
Slim wooden frame, angled legs and a cushioned seat. Light and modern, it suits apartments and smaller drawing rooms.
Cane and rattan chairs
Natural woven cane adds texture and keeps air moving — comfortable in warm weather and very stylish with wood and plants.
Lounge chairs
Deeper and wider seats for relaxing. Great in TV lounges and bedrooms where you want to sink in with a book.
Accent and lounge chairs
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Where to place accent chairs
- Drawing room: a pair facing the sofa across the centre table.
- Bedroom: one chair by the window with a small side table and lamp.
- TV lounge: angled at the end of an L-shaped sofa for an extra seat.
- Entrance or corridor: a single statement chair with a console table.
How to match it with your sofa
Accent chairs do not need to match — they should complement. If your sofa is a plain neutral fabric, choose a chair with colour (olive, rust, mustard) or texture (bouclé, velvet, cane). If your sofa is bold, pick a calm neutral chair with a wooden frame. Keep seat heights similar so the group looks tidy.
Comfort checklist
| Feature | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Seat height | 17–19 inches |
| Seat depth | 20–22″ upright, 23–25″ lounging |
| Back | Supports your shoulders if you will read or relax |
| Arms | Useful for elders standing up |
| Frame | Solid wood, stable joints, no wobble |
Planning the whole room? Read our living room layout ideas, or browse all chairs and armchairs.
Frequently asked questions
Should an accent chair match the sofa?
No — it should complement it. Choose a different colour, fabric or texture, but keep a similar seat height and style level.
How much space does an accent chair need?
About 30 × 32 inches for the chair itself, plus 18 inches in front for legs and a walkway behind if possible.
Which accent chair is most comfortable for reading?
A wingback or a deep lounge chair with a supportive back and arms, placed near natural light.
Need help choosing?Send us your room size on WhatsApp — free advice from our furniture team.
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