An armchair is one of the few pieces of furniture that can pull everything together in your living room. Besides that, it’s perfect for curling up with a good book or unwinding after a long day. Choosing the right one is therefore important, and there are several factors to consider to ensure it complements your lifestyle and elevates your home decor.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to explore stylish armchairs in Australia and select the perfect addition for your space.
Choosing the Right Armchair for Your Space
Here are the main factors to consider:
Understand Your Style and Space
Choosing a stylish armchair that aligns with your aesthetic needs a clear understanding of your style and the space in which the chair will live. Is your style eclectic and colourful, clean and minimalist, or classic and timeless? High-end stores feature unique designs and fabric finishes that fit different styles.
Besides that, consider how the chair fits in with the other furniture in terms of style and size. Do you want a complimentary design or a match? The size should also match the other furniture, although this can change with the size of the room. If it’s a larger one, a bolder, oversized chair can add visual interest while filling the space. Check out interior design magazines or social media apps such as Pinterest if you’d like some visual inspiration.
Consider the Functionality
While the design may draw much attention, you also need to think about the purpose of the chair. Are you looking for a cosy spot to read, or is it a stylish addition to your casual gatherings? Perhaps it’s a place for unwinding after a long day or something meant for purely decorative purposes and the occasional seating? These chairs are available in hundreds of designs aimed at different uses.
Besides that, you also need to consider other factors such as whether the chair needs to move around or it’s a more stationary piece of furniture. You can combine this with personal needs like a high backrest armchair for back pain or sturdy armrests to ease sitting down and standing up.
Think About Materials and Textures
The material of the armchair plays a huge role in both the aesthetic appeal and the functionality of the chair. Leather will give you timeless sophistication and will be easy to maintain. On the other hand, velvet is rich in texture and has a subtle polish that can make the room more elegant. There are also other materials, such as cotton and linen, that bring warmth and texture.
Besides the aesthetic, consider the use. For example, if you have pets, you may need to opt for leather or microfiber as these are easy to clean and resistant to wear.
Find Colours that Compliment and Contrast
The colour will determine whether the armchair blends effortlessly or stands out as a statement piece. Which of these are you looking for? Generally, the colour should complement the space, whether it’s a lively pop or a subtle tone.
When choosing the colour, also consider the overall mood you want to create. Colours like blue and green bring some calmness, while warmer tones like reds and yellows provide a more energetic feel.
Test for Comfort
An armchair should be both beautiful and inviting. Before you make a choice, check the seat depth, back support, and cushion firmness. These should be considered relative to the functionality. If you are looking for something to sink into with a book, it should be relaxing while at the same time providing firm support.
One of the biggest variants in armchair designs is the armrest height, so consider the level of support you want. If possible, give it a “test sit” to make sure it feels just right for you.
Bringing It All Together
Selecting the perfect armchair is about balancing style, comfort, and practicality. Consider your style and that of the room where the chair will fit, and then see how you can complement this with the design, fabric, and colour. You can then move to the functionality. Different designs are available to match varied styles and functionalities, whether it’s a chair you’ll use often or just a statement piece. Balance this with your instincts and budget, and you’ll find the armchair that fits your aesthetic and transforms your space.
