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Small in size but big on style
Whether you need to style a corner, like a reading nook, or you're in need of additional seating in your living room, a small armchair is a smart solution for small spaces. These designs might be small but they're big on style – from boucle-covered seats to modern metal chairs, here are our favourite styles to shop right now.
A small armchair doesn't just seat extra people come Christmas; it's also a practical way to fill an otherwise empty corner of your home. Plus, small armchairs also work well in guest bedrooms, master bedrooms or even the kids' room. More than just a seat, placing your armchair in the right spot might also bode well for temporary clothes storage (otherwise known as the chairdrobe in our homes), and they're a great way to display those gorgeous seasonal cushions and throws you're desperate to show off.
When it comes to a small armchair, we're not talking about something you'll find in Grandma's home. We've handpicked designs that won't overfill a room, and most importantly, we've found styles that are equally as comfortable as they are pretty.
Whether you're searching for something for your contemporary space or you're decorating a minimalist bedroom, these 10 designs from the likes of Dusk, Wayfair and Dunelm are highly rated by shoppers – and for good reason.
Sherpa upholstery and piping details make this armchair extra special. The minimalist design is finished with angled, dark beech wood legs and stylish, sloped arms. It might not be something you sink into, but if you need to fill an otherwise empty space and you know you won't be using this armchair for relaxing in front of the TV, then this is a great pick – especially considering the affordable price tag.
Its deep mustard finish also brings a subtle pop of colour to a room that might need it.
| Size | H82cm x W63cm x D76cm |
|---|---|
| Made from | Birch frame and legs, polyester seat |
| Colours | 1 |
| Seat height | 43cm |
| Warranty | 1 year |
If you're looking for comfort and can go a little bit bigger, then this is the armchair to choose! It's armless, so it takes up less space than your regular bulky armchair, while it sits low to the ground, to give the illusion that it's smaller than it really is. It has a cosy buttoned seat and back, and comes in three colourways, including a stunning rust.
Though its base is wider than the other small armchairs in our edit, you can push this one flush against a wall to sit comfortably in a corner. Place a small side table next to it and you've got a cosy nook!
| Size | W80cm x D96cm x H79cm |
|---|---|
| Made from | Plywood, chenille |
| Colours | 3 |
| Seat height | 57cm |
| Warranty | None |
| Assembly | Full Assembly Required |
Stripes are so in, and this chair is giving vintage vibes thanks to its wooden tapered legs and buttoned back detailing. We think that it looks double its price tag, and it'll work well in all different room styles – from neutral to traditional.
Comfort is key thanks to its high back, while its thin arms mean it doesn't take up quite as much space in your home as your traditional-style armchair. The best part? Other matching furniture is available for you to upgrade your sofa and more, too.
| Size | H107cm x W73cm x D96cm |
|---|---|
| Made from | Wood, polyester |
| Colours | 1 |
| Seat height | 46cm |
| Warranty | None |
Plump cushions make this armchair an irresistible spot to sink into. We love the way they contrast the plump seat and back cushions with the thin, minimalist frame. It's a great pick for a modern or minimalist space, while its affordable price makes it even more attractive. Better yet? Its design is anything but bulky, making it great for a tiny corner or a cosy nook, as it won't make a room look overfilled.
As well as grey, it comes in an oatmeal colour with the black frame, too.
| Size | H69cm x W78cm x D78cm |
|---|---|
| Made from | Steel frame, foam cushions with a polyester cover |
| Colours | 2 |
| Seat height | 48cm |
| Warranty | 2 years |
The understated design of this boucle accent chair makes it a versatile piece that'll suit just about any contemporary interior. It'll work in a bedroom, a nursery, a hallway and even a living room, and you can style it with a blanket to add some colour, if you like.
This design from Dusk sits on angled black legs, and its rounded back makes it structured yet comfortable. It's available in two other colours – green chevron or cow print – if off white boucle is too risky in your home.
| Size | H79cm x W70cm x D61.5cm |
|---|---|
| Made from | Velvet, foam, iron |
| Colours | 3 |
| Seat height | 49cm |
| Warranty | None |
Finished in a rich green velvet, this small armchair has a chic look and feel, making it an ultra-inviting place to sit. The metal frame keeps the overall look contemporary and tidy, and it comes in two colours – grey and green – both with a soft-to-the-touch feel.
Though its seat and back cushions are nice and thick, do be aware that its arms are just metal – so perhaps not the most comfortable for lounging.
| Size | H82 x W64 x D80cm |
|---|---|
| Made from | Metal, foam |
| Colours | 2 |
| Seat height | Not specified |
| Warranty | None |
You'll appreciate the deep seat on this armchair – not to mention its gorgeous curved arms. Speaking of which, the hardwood dark-stained frame contrasts wonderfully with the nubby off-white upholstery.
It's the ideal extra seat for when guests come over, and when not in use, use it to display your favourite fancy cushion (the one that you don't really want people to use!).
| Size | H8cm x W64cm x D77cm |
|---|---|
| Made from | Polyester, hard wood, FR foam filling |
| Colours | 1 |
| Seat height | Not specified |
| Warranty | None |
Inspired by mid-century design and drawing inspiration from the charm and heritage of Jack Wills, this small armchair features smooth lines, smart button detailing, and sleek, tapered legs. Its velvet seat will add more texture to a room, while its orange seat adds colour and will draw attention – in a good way.
We love its chunky arms for a warm, cosy feel. It'd especially work well as an extra seat in your living room, as there's a matching sofa and footstool available.
| Size | H91cm x W91cm x D94cm |
|---|---|
| Colours | 12 |
| Made from | Foam cushions |
| Seat height | 53cm |
| Warranty | 3 years |
Its contemporary design and chic rattan make this armchair a real eye-catcher without sacrificing comfort. The fuzzy padded seat and backrest will make you want to sit on this chair all day long, while its raised arms make for a cosy seat to sip your tea and catch up on your favourite TV show. Thanks to these high arms, it'd also make a great bedroom chair – you know, the one that you use as a chairdrobe for six out of seven days of the week.
| Size | W69cm x D80cm x H80cm |
|---|---|
| Made from | Wood, cane, polyester |
| Colours | 3 |
| Seat height | Not specified |
| Warranty | None |
Add a pop of green to your space with this Skye armchair from Urban Outfitters. With a pretty velvet finish and a soft foam-filled seat, this tub-style chair is as impactful as it is comfortable. Truly, it's as cosy as it looks thanks to its thick, curved arms and its chunky seat cushion. Even better? Its eucalyptus wood frame makes it eco-conscious. An easy way to brighten up a dark room that might need a new lease of life, we think.
| Size | L71cm x W74cm x H77cm |
|---|---|
| Made from | Eucalyptus frame, foam, fabric |
| Colours | 1 |
| Seat height | 42cm |
| Warranty | None |
Rooms where you either relax or entertain (or both) will always benefit from additional seating, especially when it's as unobtrusive as a petite chair. Vicki Foster, in-house stylist at ScS, explains: 'A small armchair can be used to create a mini focal point in the living room. Positioning it in a corner opposite the sofa ensures the two items aren't competing for attention.'
Bedrooms are also a great place for a small armchair, as their size means they won't consume too much of the room and fight with the bed for space. It also helps transform the bedroom from a room for sleeping into somewhere you can sit and relax in dedicated seating.'Small armchairs also suit home offices particularly well. Place at the opposite end of your working desk, and it becomes a comfortable spot to sit and unwind after wrapping up work at the end of each day.
Despite their use as accent pieces, you can elevate the appeal of your armchair with the addition of soft furnishings.'Blankets are great for draping over the edge of an armchair,' say the design experts at TBCo. 'For example, if you have a plain coloured chair, add a pop of colour or bold design with checks or gingham. Or, if you've gone for a patterned chair, balance it with a plain blanket that adds softness to your room. A knee or small blanket is the perfect size for subtle armchair decor – and for curling up under with a good book and a brew, of course.'
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