You’ve arranged the sofa, centred the rug, and even lit a candle, yet the room still feels a bit flat.
We’ve all had that moment where guests are coming over and there’s nowhere to rest a tray or kick up your feet. That’s usually the moment an ottoman proves its worth.
Key Takeaways
- What is an ottoman? It’s a low, cushioned piece of furniture that can work as a footrest, extra seat, coffee table alternative, or hidden storage, making it a flexible addition to almost any room.
- Ottomans come in different types and sizes, from compact cubes to storage benches, so the right choice depends on your layout, lifestyle, and how you plan to use it.
- Styling makes the difference, whether you match it with your sofa bed, coordinate colours and textures, or add a tray on top for a more structured surface.
- Simple care keeps it looking good, with regular vacuuming, quick spill clean ups, and protection from direct sunlight helping it last longer.
This guide covers what an ottoman is, what it does, and how to choose one wisely. We’ll keep it practical and easy to follow. If you’re on the fence, you won’t be for long.
What Is an Ottoman?
An ottoman is a low, cushioned piece of furniture with no back or arms. It’s a flexible piece that can act as a footrest, extra seat, soft coffee table stand in (with a tray), or hidden storage, depending on the style you choose.
It often sits in front of a sofa, beside an armchair, or anywhere you want comfort within reach.
If you like furniture that earns its floor space, an ottoman does the job without making the room feel crowded.
Historical Background of the Ottoman
Ottomans trace back to the Ottoman Empire, where low cushioned seating was a normal part of everyday lounging and hosting. Early versions were more like long, low seats set along the walls, layered with rugs and cushions so people could sit, chat, and stretch out comfortably.
As trade expanded, this style spread into Europe and gradually evolved into the smaller, freestanding piece we use today as a footrest, spare seat, or handy storage spot.
What Is an Ottoman Used For?
An ottoman has a way of becoming useful in ways you did not expect. It adapts to whatever your room needs at the moment, which is why it earns its keep fast.
You can actually use your ottoman as:
- A footrest to ease tired legs at the end of the day
- Extra seating when guests drop by
- A softer alternative to a coffee table with a tray on top
- Hidden storage for throws, toys, or stray remotes
- A quick way to stretch out and turn your sofa into a lounge spot
Ottoman Types and Styles
Different homes call for different ottomans. Some prioritise storage, others focus on comfort or surface space, so it helps to know what job you want yours to do.
| Type | Description | Best For |
| Cube Ottoman | Square or rectangular, compact and padded. Easy to move and simple to style. | Small living rooms, apartments, tight layouts |
| Upholstered Ottoman | Soft fabric or leather finish with a cushioned top. Built for comfort and everyday use. | Living rooms, bedrooms, reading corners |
| Storage Ottoman | Features a lift up lid or hinged top with hidden space inside. | Family rooms, kids’ rooms, bedrooms |
| Pouf | Round or organic shape, fully padded with no visible legs. Lightweight and casual. | Relaxed lounges, bedrooms, flexible seating areas |
| Bench Ottoman | Long and low with a structured base. Can seat more than one person. | Entryways, end of bed, dining or hallway seating |
| Accent Ottoman | Statement piece in bold fabric, colour, or texture. Adds visual interest. | Living rooms, entryways, styled corners |
Benefits of Using an Ottoman
If you like furniture that works harder than it looks, an ottoman ticks that box.
Let’s break down what makes it such a smart addition:
1. Extra seating without bulk
It adds another seat without committing to a full chair. If your living room already features a sofa bed, an ottoman keeps things flexible for both guests and everyday lounging.
2. Everyday comfort for tired legs
Putting your feet up can help you relax more fully into your sofa. That small shift often makes a big difference after a long day.
3. Hidden storage that clears visual clutter
Lift the lid and you have space for throws, remotes, or toys. It keeps essentials close without leaving them on display.
4. A softer coffee table alternative
With a tray on top, it holds drinks and snacks just fine. Some designs even include a reversible lid with a timber tabletop, giving you a firmer surface when you need it, while keeping things safer in family homes.
5. Flexible layout control
You can move it around whenever your setup changes. That freedom makes it easier to refresh your space without buying new furniture.
Disadvantages of Having an Ottoman
Before buying, it helps to consider where an ottoman might not suit your setup. A little planning now saves frustration later.
1. It can crowd smaller rooms
In small spaces or bedrooms, an extra piece on the floor may interrupt natural walkways. If your layout is already tight, it needs careful placement.
2. Not always practical with recliners
If your sofa has built in footrests, a separate ottoman can feel unnecessary. You may find yourself shifting it out of the way often.
3. Surface stability depends on the design
Softer tops are comfortable but not as steady as a solid coffee table. Without a tray, drinks and décor can wobble.
How to Choose the Right Ottoman for Your Home
Choosing an ottoman is easier when you start with how you want to use it, then work backwards to size and style.
1. Start with the job you want it to do
- Footrest first: go for a cushioned top and a height that lines up with your sofa seat.
- Extra seating: pick a sturdy frame and a flatter top that will not wobble when someone perches.
- Storage help: look for a lift top or hinged lid, especially if your lounge collects “stuff” fast.
- Coffee table stand in: choose a wider style that comfortably fits a tray, or opt for one with a reversible timber lid for a more stable surface.
2. Choose the right size and shape for your layout
- Small rooms: cubes and poufs tuck in easily and are simple to move.
- Large lounges: a bigger rectangular or cocktail style helps fill the space without looking lost.
- Sectionals: a matching modular ottoman can extend the chaise feel when you want to stretch out.
3. Pick materials that suit real life
- Easy care households: leather or easy wipe fabrics handle spills and sticky fingers better.
- Cosy look: textured weaves and softer upholstery warm up a room quickly. For decorative pieces, softer velvets with decorative stitching or tufted details can elevate your interior design.
- Pets at home: tighter weaves can be more forgiving than delicate fabrics.
- Long term use: check the cushioning and support so it holds its shape over time. In busy households, durable fabrics or faux leather tend to handle daily wear better.
4. Check the build quality before you buy
- Solid frame: choose hardwood or strong metal over flimsy particleboard. If it feels light or unstable, it probably will not last.
- Neat upholstery: look for tight stitching, even seams, and no loose threads. The fabric or leather should feel durable, not paper thin.
- Supportive padding: high density foam or quality filling helps it keep its shape over time. If it sinks too easily in store, it will only soften more at home.
- Clean finishing touches: reinforced corners, smooth edges, and sturdy hardware are good signs. Small details often reflect overall craftsmanship.
- Ask the basics: what is the frame made from? How durable is the fabric? What warranty backs it up? A quick chat now can save you replacing it sooner than expected.
How to Style Your Ottoman
Ottoman styling ideas are less about rules and more about intention. Think about balance, function, and how the piece fits into your daily routine.
Work With Your Colour Story
Choose a shade that connects to your existing palette. Go neutral for a calm feel, or introduce a richer tone or subtle pattern to lift a flat space.
Place It Where It Solves a Problem
In front of the sofa, it can replace a coffee table. At the end of a bed or in an entryway, it becomes practical seating that still looks considered.
Add Texture, Not Clutter
An ottoman is an easy way to layer materials like leather, boucle, or woven fabric. One strong texture can add depth without crowding the room.
Use a Tray to Create Order
A tray instantly gives structure to a soft surface. It keeps drinks, books, and décor grouped together while making the top feel purposeful.
Scale It to the Room
Compact styles suit smaller layouts and can tuck neatly beside furniture. In larger spaces, a wider ottoman can anchor the seating area and hold its own visually.
Simple Care Tips for Your Ottoman
A little regular care keeps your ottoman looking good and lasting longer without much effort.
- Vacuum weekly to remove dust, crumbs, and pet hair before they settle into the fabric.
- Blot spills immediately with a clean cloth to prevent stains from setting.
- Check the care label first so you use the right cleaning method for the material.
- Rotate and fluff cushions occasionally to maintain shape and prevent uneven wear.
- Keep it out of direct sunlight to reduce fading and material damage over time.
- Use a tray on top to protect the surface from drinks, snacks, and everyday mess.
- Let it dry fully after cleaning to avoid trapped moisture and lingering odours.
Where to Find the Best Ottoman in Australia?
Choose Ecosa’s FeetUp Storage Ottoman, a comfortable footrest with hidden storage and a clever reversible lid that flips to reveal a timber tabletop for extra serving space.
Want to complete the setup? Pair your Ottoman with an Ecosa sofa bed, then add breathable bedding, a mattress protector for your sofa bed, and a quilt to keep everything fresh and guest ready!
Explore the range and create a living space that works just as well for daily lounging as it does for overnight stays for guests.