What Are Occasional Chairs?
Occasional chairs are standalone lounge chairs that are meant to complement a room's existing seating arrangement. They are not always part of a matched set and can vary in style, colour, and material.
Occasional chairs are designed to add interest to a room, and they can be used in a variety of ways. They can be placed in a corner to create a cozy reading nook, used to add seating to a lounge room, or even placed in a home office. The Johanna, which features a curvaceous and elegant form paired with comfortable memory foam cushioning, is an excellent example of this concept. Its versatility makes it a superb addition to any space.
Johanna Occasional Chair by Kett, Image by: Martina Gemmola
What Are The Different Styles of Occasional Chairs?
There are a variety of styles of occasional chairs to choose from, each with their own unique look and feel. One popular style is the wingback chair, which features solid sides that are designed to provide a sense of privacy and comfort. The Spring is an excellent example of this concept, encouraging comfortable repose in its high back while adding elegance to your space with its beech wood frame.
Spring Chair by Potocco
Another popular style is the slipper chair, such as the Stay, which is low to the ground and often used in a bedroom or dressing room. Finally, the club chair is a style often seen in living rooms or home offices. These chairs are typically larger and more substantial than other occasional chairs, and they often have a classic, traditional design. The Erskine’s dramatically sweeping arms and generous cushioning make it a superb example of a club chair.
Erskine Lounge Chair by Kett
For those seeking a more modern look, there are plenty of contemporary occasional chairs to choose from. These chairs often have clean lines and minimal designs, and they can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, leather, and fabric, as in the Glenaire, whose classic, curved seat and swivel base balance artistry and engineering.
Glenaire Low Back Swivel Chair by Kett
What Should I Consider When Choosing An Occasional Chair?
When choosing an occasional chair, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, you should think about the room in which the chair will be placed. You'll want to choose a chair that complements the room's existing decor and doesn't clash with other furniture pieces.
Consider the size of the chair and how it will fit in the room. Your occasional chair should fit proportionately with the other pieces in the space - the general rule of thumb is that it should be within ten centimetres of the height of the furniture around it.
Otway Lounge Chair by Kett, Image by: Scott Burrows
If you have a small space, you may want to choose a smaller occasional chair that won't overwhelm the room, such as the Otway lounge chair. Chairs with rounded corners create a visual effect that gives the impression of a more spacious area around them, allowing you to expand a smaller room. On the other hand, if you have a larger space, you may want to choose a larger, more substantial chair that can hold its own in the room.
Comfort is also an important consideration when choosing an occasional chair. While style is important, you'll want to make sure that the chair is comfortable to sit in for extended periods of time. Look for chairs with good back support and cushioning, and consider the height of the seat and arms to ensure that it is comfortable for you. For a chair with a high back, consider the Velis Lounge Chair, whose solid, welcoming back provides comfort and support.
Velis Lounge Tub Chair by Potocco, Image by: Jody Darcy
Finally, you’ll want to consider whether you want your chair to be able to swivel. Swivelling chairs, such as the Velis pivoting armchair, allow you to easily turn to access other features of the room, which makes them ideal for smaller, cosier spaces.
Occasional chairs are a small but impactful addition to any room. Our range of occasional chairs and accessories contains a wide variety of pieces suitable for every aesthetic.
Speak to our team for expert advice on occasional chairs and accessories today