When you think about an ottoman, you will likely imagine a versatile, plush piece of furniture that lives in the lounge room, entertainment room or living area of your home. This modern staple serves as a footrest, storage unit and even additional seating depending on the particular style you choose to invest in. From the history of the ottoman to different uses and styling ideas, keep reading to discover 1825 Interiors complete guide to this small but mighty piece of furniture.
What is an Ottoman?
At its core, an ottoman is a modular addition to a sofa or a free-standing, flexible piece that can perform multiple functions throughout your home. It can be part of a sofa set or free-standing and is available in a variety of shapes. Traditional ottomans are padded and upholstered, often with a hollow centre for additional storage in the family living space. Ottomans are generally used as seating options, for extra storage, as a centrepiece alternative or as a footrest.
What is the History of the Ottoman?
Ottomans can be traced all the way back to its roots in the Ottoman Empire – which controlled a large territory for over 600 years from the late 13th century to the early 20th century. Over this period, cushioned footstools were used liberally throughout the empire, also referred to as a Divan. These were often placed to rest against walls, but they also served as extra seating for guests, layered with cushions and rugs for additional comfort.
In the late 18th century, travellers began collecting this style of furniture and bringing it back to Europe. This introduced the ottoman into European households! Originally regarded as exotic and ornamental, ottomans quickly became a standout status symbol in the home.
As the 19th century continued, the ottoman evolved from a symbol of luxury to a functional piece of household furniture. They started to feature nuances we know today, like hidden storage compartments and upholstered textiles, making them an idyllic addition to spaces for everyday functionality. Its shape began to become more standardised, with a soft top and a wooden or metal base.
By the time the 20th century arrived, the ottoman drastically shifted in its overall design and functionality. The utility was emphasised, with many models now being used as both footrests and storage units in a wider scope of households. Their innate versatility made them the ultimate choice for more compact living spaces like apartments, which were quickly gaining popularity during this time. Some ottomans were also created with additional functions like pull-out trays, so they could also be used as coffee tables. With space-saving solutions, comfort, versatility and style all in one small item, the ottoman quickly became a classic furniture addition to all households.
What are Ottomans Used for?
Today, ottomans can be found in a whole world of styles and materials, from classic leather and upholstered fabrics to more creative designs achieved using synthetic fabrications or reclaimed timber. Many are designed to match back with a specific furniture set, such as a sofa set – featuring modular additions and optional formations for a bespoke creation that brings a custom fit solution to a family living room. Loved for its multifunctional capabilities, the modern ottoman is a marvel of versatility and style. Many models feature multiple functions with extra storage, seating options and even convertible designs. From high-style patterns to sleek, simple styles, they are officially an indispensable piece of furniture in every kind of family home.
Ottoman Styling Ideas
There are so many styling opportunities when it comes to Ottomans! For a cohesive look, choose a sofa set with a matching modular ottoman. This adds an extra space to stretch out whilst also amplifying a uniform and professional finish in every style of living room. The Saba set is a beautiful example of the clean and sleek finish you can expect with a cohesive approach to your interior styling.
For those looking to add a statement, choose an ottoman in a contrasting fabrication or material such as organic reclaimed timber – this will bring warmth and style to your formations without interrupting the visual flow.
Choose a luxurious addition to your home styling by investing in the ultra-cosy, plush Primetime Daybed! Adding an extra soft, sumptuous location for you and your family to relax is the perfect switch to make in your living room!
The long-standing history of Ottomans in the family living space is reflective of their never-ending adaptability and timeless stylish appeal. From their beginnings as a symbol of ultimate wealth and luxury to their evolution into the modern staple we know and love, ottomans have been a key component of interior styling for countless centuries. Today, they continue to act as essential cornerstones of the family living formation – bringing style, character and, of course, function to various living spaces. Whether you plan to use your new ottoman as a footrest, storage unit or as sneaky extra seating, it is safe to conclude that ottomans have truly earned their spot as a classic in the world of home furnishings.
Find your next picture-perfect home addition with the complete collection of bespoke and designer family living furniture at 1825 Interiors. From modern must-haves to classic staples, discover the full range of furniture, accessories, artwork and soft furnishings online and in-store with Australia’s favourite family homewares creator.