Want to add personality, a splash of color, and extra seating to your space? Try an accent chair! They`re kinda like shoes; you can never have too many and they come in hundreds of styles. So, how do you know which accent chair is right for you? Here are easy rules to follow:
Check For Comfort
The number one thing I won`t compromise on is comfort. If a chair ain`t comfy, let`s face it, you`re not going to use it and neither will your guests. If you`re considering a chair, ask yourself, is this a chair I would curl up in with a book? Is this a piece that I would sit in while conversing with friends over a cocktail? If you`ve answered yes to either of these, proceed to the next rule!
Assess the Condition
The main reason an accent chair lives in a room is to provide extra seating. Meaning, your accent chair is more than just a pretty face. With that in mind, make sure your accent chair`s sturdy enough to receive actual use. When hunting vintage accent chairs, you`ll find that defects like a snag in the upholstery or a missing button isn`t uncommon. Thankfully, these small issues can be easily repaired. However, a broken leg or a major wobble? Well, let`s just say no one needs grandma falling on her bum during Thanksgiving. If it`s not fixable, you need to part ways with the chair.
Match Your Existing Decor
Whether you select an accent chair in a quirky color, shape, or fabric, it can be a great vehicle for making a statement in a room. That said, don`t go too crazy. I love the look of mixing different decor styles, but wouldn`t want to introduce a Mid-Century Modern chair into a room full of French Country furniture. The same rule applies to color. It`s fun to experiment, but keep in mind that the chair should complement your existing decor, not overpower it.
Consider Size
I can`t tell you how many times I`ve purchased a piece of furniture and hauled it home only to discover it`s too small or too large for the space. Heartbreak ensues. Map out the area where the accent chair will live and measure it not once, not twice, but three times. Beyond actual space confides, it`s also wise to consider scale. If the majority of your existing furniture is apartment-sized, don`t opt for a hulking recliner. Keep it in the same family, scale-wise.