A living room ottoman works as a footrest, extra seat, or coffee table substitute. Add a tray on top to hold drinks and books, or choose a storage ottoman to tuck away blankets and remotes. It’s one of the most flexible pieces you can add to a living room.

Ottomans are typically square or round, fully upholstered, and used as footrests, seating, or coffee tables. Benches are longer and narrower, better suited for multi-person seating along a wall or behind a sofa. Both can include hidden storage, but ottomans offer more placement flexibility while benches seat more people at once.

Yes. Place a sturdy tray on top and an ottoman works just like a coffee table — holding drinks, remotes, and décor. It’s also safer than a hard-edged table in homes with children, and doubles as extra seating when guests visit. A firm fabric or leather ottoman works best for this purpose.

The most common spot is in front of the sofa as a footrest or informal coffee table. It also works beside an armchair, tucked into a corner, or used to define a seating area in an open-plan room. Leave at least 45cm of clearance around it to keep movement easy.

As a general rule, your ottoman should be roughly two-thirds the length of your sofa and level with or slightly lower than your seat cushions. In small rooms, go for a compact square or two smaller poufs. In larger spaces, a rectangular or round ottoman can anchor the seating area.

Leather and faux leather are the easiest to clean, making them great for homes with kids or pets. Velvet and linen fabrics offer a softer look but need more care. For benches, a solid wood frame with an upholstered seat balances durability and style. Always check that the frame is hardwood for long-term use.

Yes — a compact ottoman or slim bench can add seating and storage without overcrowding a small space. A storage ottoman is especially useful as it hides clutter while serving as a footrest or seat. Stick to lighter colours and simple shapes to keep the room feeling open and uncluttered.

Place a wooden tray on top with a candle, small plant, or books to make it functional and decorative. Drape a throw blanket over one side for a relaxed feel. Your ottoman doesn’t need to match the sofa — a contrasting colour or texture often makes it a stronger accent piece.