12 pouffes that are equal parts stylish and functional – with prices starting from £33

If your sofa isn't big enough for you to stretch out on, a plump pouffe is the answer for all your lounging needs.

Not only does a comfy pouffe prop your legs up, but it also acts as handy extra seating, a convenient side table, and a place for pets to sit, too. Plus, it’s an easy way to make your living room feel cosier in an instant. It works equally well in a home office, bedroom or dressing room too. If you have a busy home, a pouffe with storage is also a great option if you want to keep soft furnishings tucked away when not in use. Talk about versatility!

The best thing about pouffes is that there's a plethora of options to choose from, so you're sure to find a style to suit your home. Choose a knitted pouffe for living rooms, a grey pouffe if you like to keep things understated, or a leather pouffe if you’re a fan of classic decor.

What’s the difference between a pouffe and a footstool or ottoman?

Simply put, a pouffe is a type of footstool – but not all footstools are pouffes. Footstools and ottomans are larger and firmer structures, while pouffes are more like giant cushions. The word pouffe is derived from a French term for something that is 'puffed out'. When it comes to the difference between footstools and ottomans, the distinction is much clearer.

The experts at Where Saints Go explain: 'Footstools or footrests are historically humble pieces of furniture which are usually used simply for resting or elevating your feet whilst seated.

'An ottoman, on the other hand, can indeed be a multipurpose piece of furniture which can be used in bedrooms, living areas and dining areas. They can be used for seating; storage and a popular current trend is to use them in place of a coffee table in front of a sofa as an attractive centrepiece in a living room.'

What are the benefits of pouffes as multifunctional pieces of furniture?

Aside from being a comfy addition to your home, versatility is key to why a pouffe is a worthwhile piece of furniture to invest in. Rachel Galbraith, creative director at ercol, tells us more: 'With the increase in the time we've all been spending at home, there’s been a big rise in searches for soft furniture that exudes comfort and cosiness. People want to feel embraced and relaxed in their homes, which is very much reflected in the "cocooning" trend.

'Sofas and armchairs with deep seats for lounging are a classic choice, but opting for an upholstered footstool that can double up as a coffee table or extra seating is a great way to introduce even more texture and softness into your living room.'

You can also add a tray to your pouffe to create a coffee table effect, then remove it when you want to put your feet up.

Keep reading to discover our favourite living room pouffes for 2025...