From minimalist designs to eclectic interiors, a footstool is a great way to bring texture, color, and character to a well-designed room. However, a footrest offers more than just great style; use a fashionable — yet functional — piece to create hidden storage, offer additional seating, or display unique decor. While the living room may seem like the most obvious choice for a footrest or ottoman, these small furnishings are functional in any space. There are many creative ways to design with footstools — like a white pouf ottoman in the entryway, a leather footstool in the bedroom, or a storage footstool in the playroom. Wander from room to room as we explore the best tips and tricks for incorporating functional footstools throughout the home. Kick back, relax, and put your feet up!
Entryways & Foyers
From the moment you enter a home, you should be greeted by design that impresses. Whether it’s a vintage footstool, cowhide footstool, or faux fur footstool, there is an eye-catching piece ideal for your space. Place a footstool by the doorway for a place to toss a purse or keys, use a set of stools beneath a console table to create drama, or use an ottoman stool for storage of shoes, scarfs, or gloves. A footrest or ottoman can also double as seating in an entryway, which is great for children who need a place to sit as they put on or take off shoes.
Living Areas
When it comes to family rooms and living areas, there are countless ways to have fun with footstools, ottomans, and poufs. Situate a set of small, round ottomans around a coffee table for extra seating or use a large stool as a coffee table. Fashionable footrests can accompany a set of stylish armchairs. A stool beside a sofa can create additional surface space — great for displaying books, vases, or decorative items. Due to their small nature and versatility, an ottoman footrest can easily be moved around to accommodate guests. To create more space, a large square ottoman will fit into the corner of the room. In the living room, stools and ottomans are also used together to create visual interest. Mix and match pieces to create a geometric configuration, like with octagonal ottomans or triangle stools.
Bedrooms
Rather than placing a bench or settee at the foot of the bed, use a set of stylish stools to complete the design of a bedroom. Consider textured furnishings that add to the style of a space — like a sleek, leather ottoman; a vibrant, velvet pouf; or a natural, wicker footstool. For those in need of extra space, consider a bedroom storage ottoman. In a spacious master bedroom, use a comfortable armchair in the corner of the room and add a unique footstool to elevate the look. Choose contemporary products made from linen, wool, and hide, as well as industrial-style pieces made from wood and metal.
Playrooms & Game Rooms
A well-designed playroom or game room should blend fun with sophistication, exuding a playful style that adults and children will love. When designing with children in mind, allow imagination to take over. A creative blend of textures, colors, and patterns will bring the space to life. For a unique accent, incorporate a brightly colored ottoman, a set of whimsical stools, or a faux fur pouf. Great for storing toys, a large ottoman keeps a space organized and stylish. Position a leather storage ottoman against the wall or a rectangular ottoman coffee table in the center of the room.
Bathrooms
Whether it’s in a modern master bath or a rustic guest bathroom, a chic footstool is the perfect accent. Available in vibrant patterns, bold colors, and eye-catching textures, a stylish footrest or ottoman will elevate your space. Place a small footstool beside the bathtub, a decorative stool in front of the window, or a plush ottoman in the center of a spacious master suite. When it comes to function, a footstool can be hidden under the sink or tucked away in the corner.
The Outdoors
From the patio to the garden, use a footstool as a fashionable and functional accessory in any outdoor space. A wood, wicker, or rattan footstool will blend seamlessly with nature, while a glass or ceramic stool will stand out among the surrounding landscape. Use a neutral footstool to create seating in a flourishing garden. A decorative stool can be used as a side table beside outdoor furniture, and a painted metal footstool is a great way to add a pop of color to an exterior space. When crafting an outdoor living area, don’t forget to include an outdoor ottoman or pouf in front of the sofa.
