Understanding Ottoman
The ottoman's origins trace directly to the Ottoman Empire (13th-20th century), where low, cushioned seats and footstools were fundamental to the diwan (a seating arrangement of cushions and low platforms along the walls of a room). European travelers brought the concept back to the West in the 18th century, where it was adapted into Western furniture forms. Today, ottomans come in an enormous variety of types: the classic rectangular or round ottoman used as a footrest paired with an armchair, the large square or round ottoman used as a coffee table (often with a tray on top), the storage ottoman with a hinged top that opens to reveal interior storage, the smaller cube ottoman used as accent seating, and the pouf (a soft, usually round, floor cushion that is technically a subset of the ottoman family). Ottomans range from small 16-inch cubes to massive 48-inch squares that anchor a seating arrangement.
Ottoman in Interior Design
The ottoman is arguably the most versatile piece of furniture in a living room. A large upholstered ottoman serves as a coffee table (with a tray for drinks), extra seating for guests, a footrest for the sofa, and a surface for styling books and objects — all in one piece. This multifunctionality makes it especially valuable in smaller spaces. Storage ottomans add concealed organization for blankets, remotes, and toys. In traditional living rooms, a tufted leather ottoman adds classic elegance. In modern spaces, a clean-lined velvet ottoman in a jewel tone becomes a statement piece. Matching ottomans flanking a fireplace create formal symmetry. A large round ottoman softens the geometry of a room full of rectangular furniture. Designers often use ottomans to introduce an accent color or texture — a bold-colored ottoman in an otherwise neutral room provides a controlled pop of personality.
