How to Use Accent Chairs to Create a Seating Area

A proper seating arrangement in a room not only provides comfortable places to sit, but it also encourages conversation, directs the flow of foot traffic as well as directs attention to key focal points of the room. Many of these items are accomplished through the use of secondary seating also known as accent chairs. Accent chairs get their name from the fact that they are often covered in a different fabric from the couch or love seat. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Select accent chairs that are in a style that complements the existing sofa, or other furniture in the room. Although the accent furniture doesn't need to be the exact same style, it should be similar. For example, upholstered accent chairs look better near sofas than straight-back accent chairs.

2

Select accent chairs in a color that is different from the sofa. The accent chairs should look different from the other seating, but blend in at the same time.

3

Decide where the accent chairs should be located. If the chairs will be used for reading, place them near a window. If you will use the chairs as overflow seating in a room with a sofa, place them near to the sofa.

4

Place a coffee table, ottoman or some other focal point in the center of the accent chairs. Choose a table that is round or oval-shaped to counterbalance the straight lines of the chairs.

5

Place the chairs diagonally to each other, with the seats facing a center focal point. Leave a distance of 2 1/2 feet around the edges of each chair to allow for foot traffic in the room.

6

Place small side tables near the accent chairs to hold drinks and table lamps. Floor lamps also work well next to accent chairs if you do not need a side table.