One armchair at a time: How to inject a classical/contemporary vibe into your home
When it comes to enhancing the aesthetic appeal and comfort of your sitting room, small thoughtful additions can make a significant impact. Oftentimes overlooked for their impact, adding a pair (or a singular) armchair can often times transform a rooms feel and depth. Here’s how you can add a touch of refined elegance to your sitting room by incorporating new armchairs.
Choosing the Right Style
The first step in selecting the perfect armchairs is to consider the style that best complements your existing décor. Whether your sitting room exudes a classic, contemporary, or eclectic vibe, there are armchairs to suit every taste. Here are a few styles you may wish to consider:
Classic Wingback Chairs: With their high backs and winged sides, these chairs offer a timeless elegance.
Featuring an elegant wingback design, button-tufted diamond stitching, and turned legs, this chair offers the look, feel, and design of a truly contemporary piece. With a minimalistic yet refined structure, this chair brings out a simplistic style that emphasizes comfort and functionality.
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Modern Accent Chairs: Sleek lines and minimalist designs make these chairs ideal for contemporary spaces.
These modern accent matching linen chairs provide a contemporary contrast to any living room or even your kitchen. Choosing contemporary contrasts in a classical setting is a simple way of giving your living space a modern boost.
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I spotted these leather & rattan chairs and I absolutely fell in love with them. They are an easy and fun way to add an element of luxury and style to your living room or kitchen. Pair them with a boucle sofa, an oversized rug and some ceramics, and you are on your way to achieving a classic/contemporary vibe.
See on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3R12Nc7
Mid-Century Modern Chairs: Characterised by clean lines and organic shapes, these chairs bring a retro charm to your sitting room.
These armchairs look as though they have taken inspiration from the designs of Isamu Noguchi, embodying a sleek and modern design that effortlessly enhances any room. Their fluid shapes and clean lines create a harmonious balance, making them a striking addition to both minimalist and contemporary interiors. Whether positioned in a living room, study, or hallway, they inject a touch of sophistication and elegance into your space.
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French Bergère Chairs: Upholstered with plush fabric and featuring exposed wooden frames, these chairs add a touch of sophistication.
On the converse to the more modern features above, opting for a French-influenced design can enhance either a modern or classical setting. I imagine these armchairs paired together, parallel to the fireplace, contrasted against a modern marble or glass coffee table.
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For those who wish to achieve a Parisien style without having to compromise on a modern touch, I absolutely love these spindle legged armchairs. The separation of the large cushioned backrest and seat cushions creates a modern feel paired with the classical spindle legs. I just love these.
See on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3R13Usj
Selecting the Perfect Fabric
The fabric of your armchairs really depends on a multitude of factors, like whether you have pets in the house, whether you have kids (with beautiful but grubby faces and hands), and so on. Opt for materials that suit your needs, not only look luxurious but also feel comfortable. Some fabric options to consider may include:
Velvet: Soft and opulent, velvet adds a rich texture and a sense of luxury to your armchairs.
Leather: Durable and timeless, leather armchairs exude a refined elegance and are easy to maintain.
Linen: Light and airy, linen offers a casual yet sophisticated look that can brighten up your sitting room.
Silk: For a truly luxurious feel, silk upholstery can add a touch of glamour to your armchairs.
Considering Colour and Patterns
The colour and pattern of your armchairs should harmonise with your sitting room’s overall colour scheme. Neutral tones such as beige, grey, and cream are versatile and can blend seamlessly with various décor styles. If you’re looking to make a statement, consider bold colours like deep blue, emerald green, or rich burgundy. Patterns such as florals, stripes, or geometric designs can add visual interest and personality to your space.
Placement and Arrangement
Strategic placement of your armchairs can enhance the flow and functionality of your sitting room. Here are a few tips for arranging your armchairs:
Create a Conversation Area: Place two armchairs facing each other with a small table in between to create an inviting space for conversation.
Flank the Fireplace: Position armchairs on either side of the fireplace to create a cosy and balanced look.
Anchor the Room: Use armchairs to define different zones within your sitting room, such as a reading nook or a TV area.
Accessorising Your Armchairs
To complete the look, accessorise your armchairs with decorative pillows and throws. These accessories not only add comfort but also introduce additional textures and colours to your sitting room. Consider coordinating the accessories with other elements in the room, such as curtains, rugs, and artwork, to create a cohesive and polished look.
I always love adding a striped or patterned cushion to any room to add some texture and contrast. These linen covers really caught my eye, with the delicate stitching detail, they are a subtle way of introducing some contrasting tones and texture.
See on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3FnA8eU
Adding new armchairs to your sitting room is a simple yet effective way to infuse refined elegance into your space. By carefully selecting the style, fabric, colour, and placement of your armchairs, you can create a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere that reflects your personal taste. Whether you opt for classic wingback chairs or modern accent chairs, the right armchairs can transform your sitting room into a haven of comfort and style.
