Ottomans | Footstools
Ottomans, also called footstools, are upholstered independent seating elements designed without back supports. Typically found in a living room as a central furniture piece contributing to the conversation zone of the shared seating area, ottomans today are designed with a range of styles and sizes that often coordinate with related furniture elements. The function and importance of the ottoman within a domestic space has transformed over centuries, with the ottoman that we know today being understood as a multifunctional stool, bench, storage space, or pouf. Ottomans are most often shaped as being square or circular with square ottomans being easily combined as an extension of sofa elements.
Ottoman couches earned their name due to their extensive usage in residential seating within the Ottoman Empire (c 1299-1922). The ottoman was originally designed as a large seating platform piled with cushions, and eventually shrank into the form we know today.
Ottomans come in a large variety of shapes and sizes that range in height from 13”-20” (33-51 cm). Most ottomans are sized to pair with their coordinated furniture sets and are designed with matching heights.
Ottomans are upholstered freestanding couches that can be used exclusively or can combine with armchairs or sofas as extended seating areas. As multifunctional furniture pieces, ottomans can serve a variety of seating styles and may also include integrated storage.
