Furniture

What Are Accent Chairs? A Buying Guide

Green velvet accent chair against plum-coloured backdrop

Few pieces of furniture offer the versatility, function and flair of an accent chair. Whether you want to add a pop of colour to your space, create a cosy nook for reading and relaxing, or provide extra seating for guests, this handy guide explains what an accent chair is, how to style one and how to choose the perfect fit for your home. 

What Are Accent Chairs?

Accent chairs, also called occasional chairs, are the perfect way to express a little personal style while providing handy extra seating for any room in your home.  

Comfortable and versatile, think of them as a single-seater sofa that can be easily moved around your home as needed. Much like an accent colour, they are intended to enhance the rest of your home interior, bringing a new texture, shade or shape into your space. 

How to Style an Accent Chair

As the name suggests, accent chairs make more of a style statement than your ordinary chair or sofa. By simply placing one in your space, you can add instant lift to your interiors. However, if you would like to create an inviting focal point in a room, there are several things you can do to make an impact. 

Any interior designer will tell you that the ‘rule of three’ is essential when it comes to curating a serene but stylish space. With this in mind, we recommend positioning your occasional chair alongside two other items of furniture for a zoning effect, creating an area that feels distinct, but still harmonious, with the rest of the room. You could also consider placing a statement floor lamp behind your chair, with a footstool or small table set slightly to one side.  

Next, accessorise. Think coffee table books, a delicious-smelling candle, a throw, or a plush cushion. This will add a personal touch, making sure that your new chair is irresistible to anyone looking for a place to perch. 

With minimal effort, you’ll have created a new seating area that will become your go-to spot for lounging, having a quick coffee or enjoying a glass of something cold. But they’re not just for the living room; an accent chair placed in the kitchen, home office, or even the bedroom will add an air of luxury. 

Top Tip: Co-ordinating furniture is a great way to bring a space together. Take a look at our sofa buying guide to find the perfect pairing for your accent chair. 

Choosing Your Accent Chair 

Whether plush velvet upholstery or luxe faux leather is your thing, our range has something to suit rooms of every shape, size and style.

  1. Neutral Colours for Scandi Simplicity
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    Neutral Colours for Scandi Simplicity

    Loved for its interesting textures and serene shades, Scandinavian style is here to stay. Bring a little Copenhagen cool into your home with this boucle tub chair. For maximum hygge, a co-ordinating footstool is a great accompaniment. 

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  2. A Statement Swivel Chair
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    A Statement Swivel Chair

    A beautiful dusky grey, the Roly round swivel chair is a luxurious alternative to a desk chair. Your workspace should be comfortable and visually stimulating above all, and this occasional chair boasts both qualities.

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  3. A Scallop Occasional Chair with Art Deco Appeal
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    A Scallop Occasional Chair with Art Deco Appeal

    With a range of jewel-toned shades to choose from, bring a little 1920’s glamour into your home with the statement Sophia Scallop occasional chair. 

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  4. A Vivid Velvet Armchair
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    A Vivid Velvet Armchair

    Few things say luxury like plush velvet upholstery. Our range of accent chairs includes several beautiful velvet styles, but the Daphne accent chair is one of our favourites.

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  5. Sink into a Button Back Chair
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    Sink into a Button Back Chair

    Straight from the interior of an English country home, a button back armchair is the perfect place to while away the hours with a good book. A beautiful, calming beige, the Celia button back armchair offers a contemporary take on traditional interiors. To complete the look, co-ordinate with an ottoman – the Ginny bed end bench is a great option. 

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  6. A Mid-Century Metal Frame Chair
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    A Mid-Century Metal Frame Chair

    Mid-century modern is beloved by designers for its timeless appeal and industrial origins.  

    Bring a little bit of its ‘statement cool’ into your own home with the Alex mid-century boucle armchair. With beautiful boucle upholstery, it also offers a subtle nod to Scandi textures – combining two of our favourite interior trends.

     

    And there you have it, hopefully our guide to accent chairs has provided a little inspiration on how to add interest to your interiors. Find your perfect fit and have it delivered right to your door or collect instore. Make sure to share pictures of your new purchase with us @Homebase_UK or visit our Ideas & Advice hub for more home and garden guides. 

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