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10 STYLISH WAYS TO STYLE AN ACCENT CHAIR LIKE AN INTERIOR DESIGNER
08
Jul
Accent chairs are more than just extra seating—they're statement pieces that can transform an entire room. Whether you're aiming to create a cozy reading corner, a striking entryway, or add personality to a minimalist space, the right accent chair can elevate your home design effortlessly. But choosing the perfect chair is only the beginning. Knowing how to style it like an interior designer can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll explore ten stylish ways to style an accent chair with confidence. From layering textures and playing with colour to adding functional accessories, each idea is designed to help you integrate accent chairs seamlessly into your décor while making a bold impression.
1. Create a Reading Nook with Personality
One of the most popular ways to use an accent chair is by creating a reading nook. But rather than just placing a chair in a corner, think like a designer and turn it into a sanctuary. Choose a chair with plush cushions and a high back for support. Position it near natural light—ideally by a window—and add a soft throw blanket for texture.
Include a small side table with a stack of your favourite books or magazines, and a warm table lamp with a soft, diffused glow. Finish the look with a floor rug that defines the area and adds comfort underfoot. The key is to create a personal retreat that looks curated, not cluttered.
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2. Pair with a Statement Floor Lamp
Lighting can make or break a space, and interior designers often use it as a tool to highlight standout furniture pieces. Position your accent chair next to a tall, sculptural floor lamp to draw attention upward and add vertical interest to your room.
Go for a design that complements your chair’s style. For example, a mid-century modern chair looks great with a sleek, arched lamp, while a traditional tufted chair might be better suited to a classic brass or wood floor lamp.
The contrast in heights between the chair and the lamp adds dimension and creates a more dynamic corner.
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3. Use Pillows to Layer Colour and Texture
Accent chairs offer the perfect canvas to experiment with throw pillows. This simple styling trick lets you change the mood of your space with minimal effort. Choose pillows that complement the chair’s fabric while introducing a new texture or colour. Think velvet on linen, leather on boucle, or patterned on solid.
Stick to one or two pillows to keep things balanced. If you’re mixing prints, follow the interior design rule of pairing one bold pattern with a more subtle one in the same colour family. This creates visual interest without overwhelming the chair.
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4. Float It in the Room for a Designer Feel
Interior designers often avoid pushing all furniture against walls. One trick to making your accent chair stand out is to “float” it in the room. Position it at an angle, perhaps across from a sofa or in an open-concept space, to break up the layout and guide the eye.
This technique is especially effective in large living rooms, lofts, or multipurpose areas. Place a stylish area rug underneath to anchor the chair, and consider a small table or ottoman to complete the floating vignette.
Floating furniture makes a room feel more spacious and thoughtfully arranged—exactly what designers aim for.
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5. Style with a Floor Cushion or Pouf
Designers love to play with height and layers, and one easy way to do this is by styling your accent chair with a floor cushion or pouf nearby. Not only does this add a cozy, bohemian touch, but it also provides extra seating or a footrest.
Choose a pouf that either matches your chair or adds a contrasting texture—like a knit pouf beside a leather chair. This setup works wonderfully in living rooms, bedrooms, or even nurseries where you want to promote a laid-back vibe.
6. Style with a Console Table or Bookshelf Behind
For a look that feels polished and put-together, try placing your accent chair in front of a console table, open shelving unit, or low bookcase. This not only frames the chair nicely but also provides functional storage or space to showcase décor items like vases, candles, or framed art.
Interior designers often layer visual elements behind accent chairs to add depth to the room. For example, a wood-framed chair in front of a dark metal bookcase creates contrast and dimension. Add a small potted plant or a stack of curated books to complete the vignette.
This trick works especially well in entryways, home offices, or transitional spaces that need personality.
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7. Mix and Match Styles for Visual Interest
Gone are the days of matching every furniture piece. Today’s most stylish interiors mix different design eras, materials, and textures. Accent chairs are ideal for this because they can introduce a fresh element without overpowering the room.
If your space is modern and minimal, consider adding a vintage accent chair with a carved wooden frame or rich upholstery. Conversely, if your home is traditional, a sleek, contemporary accent chair in leather or metal can bring it up to date.
The trick is to repeat at least one element—a shared colour, leg style, or fabric—to create harmony while embracing contrast.
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8. Place Near a Window with Sheer Curtains
One way to elevate your accent chair setup is by using natural light to your advantage. Placing a chair near a window—especially one dressed in light, sheer curtains—creates an airy, dreamy spot that instantly draws attention.
Designers use this approach to make rooms feel brighter and more inviting. The soft light highlights the textures of the chair’s fabric, while the flowing curtains add softness and motion to the space.
A nearby side table with a plant or a small stack of books adds a casual, lived-in feel. It’s perfect for bedrooms, sunrooms, or any space where relaxation is the goal.
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9. Frame with Art or Wall Decor
Don’t forget to look up. A beautifully styled accent chair deserves an equally stylish backdrop. Framing the area behind the chair with art, mirrors, or wall hangings can tie everything together and give your setup a gallery-like feel.
You can go bold with a large statement artwork, create symmetry with twin frames, or keep things organic with a collage of small prints. A popular designer trick is to align the bottom edge of your artwork roughly 6–8 inches above the top of the chair for ideal visual balance.
This approach works in virtually any room—living room, hallway, or even a corner of the dining area.
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10. Add a Plant for Life and Colour
Plants are the secret weapon of interior designers, and they pair beautifully with accent chairs. Adding a leafy green beside your chair can soften the overall look, add a pop of colour, and bring in natural energy.
Choose a plant that suits the space—think tall fiddle-leaf figs, trailing pothos, or compact snake plants. A beautiful planter is also part of the look; go for ceramic, concrete, or woven baskets depending on your chair’s style.
Position the plant slightly behind or beside the chair to create a layered look. This small touch can make the entire corner feel alive and well thought out.
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Bonus Tip: Change Seasonally for a Fresh Look
Designers love refreshing spaces throughout the year, and your accent chair can follow suit. In summer, opt for light, breezy linen throws and pastel cushions. In winter, swap them for chunky knits and deeper, richer tones.
This seasonal shift keeps your space feeling updated and intentional without needing to replace large furniture items. It also makes your home more adaptable and enjoyable year-round.
