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5 statement accent chair ideas

A statement chair, aka an accent chair, is so much more than an additional seat. It’s an entire mood. From luxe velvet to retro-modern, the right statement chair can literally transform a space. Over to Mark Reynolds, Furniture Village’s upholstery buyer, for his tips on choosing the perfect piece. “Accent chairs don’t just score highly on style, they have plenty to offer in terms of practicality, versatility and comfort.”
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Hot pink accent chair in a retro-style room
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Consider the purpose of your accent chair

As with all things interiors, a accent chair needs a purpose – even if that purpose is purely to spark joy. So, let’s consider how you’ll be using this chair. For cosying up with a book? Think comfort first, a plush wingback chair to cocoon you will fit the bill perfectly. For snuggling together with a partner? Think cuddle chair, quite possibly the most romantic furniture you’ll ever buy! For breathing life into a dull corner? Think palette, a sunny pink will instantly lift your room.

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Choose an accent chair with a statement silhouette

An accent chair, by its very nature, packs a style punch so it’s important that it talks to your other furniture and home accessories, not argues with it. But that doesn’t mean it has to be matchy-matchy. “A traditional Chesterfield can look stunning in a contemporary setting” says Mark. “Prefer a more cohesive look? A Scandi silhouette lends itself to a more modern aesthetic and a leather wingback will partner beautifully with a deep plush sofa.”

“There are two schools of thought with accent chairs – coordinate or contrast. Both are right!”

And if you’re wondering what the best small living room accent chair ideas are, we have the answer. Our swivel chairs make it easy to get comfy - at any angle - even if you’re short on space.

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Leather or fabric: which accent chair is best?

Whether your accent chair is decorative or fully functional, there’s no denying it’ll draw focus so choose upholstery that’s deserving of admiring glances. “We’re seeing increased demand for velvet in terms of searches, swatch requests and sales but any tactile fabric – microfibre, tweed or cotton – is well suited to a statement chair” says Mark.

Alternatively, choose a fine grain luxury leather and guests won’t be able to resist giving it a stroke. “Pure leather can be remarkably resilient so it’s actually a great choice for high-traffic areas,” adds Mark. Or, for an equally family-friendly option, explore our range of fabric accent chairs. “If you’ve got children, pets or are fond of a spag bol on the sofa, we’ve got your back!”

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Go for accent chairs that turn heads

An unexpected pattern, a pop of colour, a high voltage accent… these are wonderful things, instantly elevating your scheme with personality and energy. “Grey remains a popular choice in sofas but lots of customers like to shake it up with a vibrant accent chair. Teal works beautifully alongside grey” adds Mark. Accent chairs can be darker or lighter than your sofas, it’s your choice whether you want to be bold or keep things more pared back.

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How to style an accent chair in a bedroom

We love it when function and form combine… never more so than with a beautiful chair in the bedroom. Bedroom accent chairs are so much more than a resting place for discarded clothes, they’re the perfect spot to enjoy a digital detox, a cup of tea, a heart to heart or just be still with a good book.

“A button back chair makes a beautiful addition to the bedroom and of course it’s easy to move into the main living space when guests arrive.”

We’d LOVE to see how you’re styling your accent chair. Tag us on Instagram with #MYFVHOME and share the inspo!

Looking for more interior design ideas? Visit our Home of Inspiration for trends, tips and styling advice.

We hope you’ve enjoyed reading our 5 statement accent chair ideas and that you feel inspired to get creative as find the perfect perch to accent your sofa or bed. Need help creating a new look? Visit our Home Design Studio to get in touch with our expert designers.

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