Ottomans & Benches

Choosing an Ottoman, Pouf or Indoor Bench

Complete your living room landscape with an ottoman, pouf or bench. Whether you're looking for extra storage, a place to rest your feet or complements to multiple types of couches, these simple pieces accommodate a variety of needs.

Ottomans: Not Just a Footstool

Not only do they make comfortable footstools, ottomans also double as coffee tables and storage for relaxation essentials. A foot ottoman with storage in front of the sofa makes a great place to rest your legs while reading or watching television. Stow extra throw pillows and blankets inside so they're within reach when you need them. For a casual alternative to the traditional coffee table, consider an ottoman with tray. The removable tray, aside from coordinating effortlessly with the wood finish of the ottoman, provides a convenient flat surface to set drinks and snacks. Frequently find yourself with more guests than there are seats? A cushioned ottoman with storage makes an ideal spot to sit during lively conversations. Keep a few party or board games in the storage compartment to energize a low-key gathering.

Floor Poufs: Leather, Knitted & More

Small as they are, floor poufs make a big impact on a room's versatility. In the living room, top a square pouf with a tray for a place to display special photos and memorabilia, or scatter a few knitted poufs around the room for cozy, casual seating during movie night. Consider a white pouf ottoman in rooms with a classic vibe, or anchor an eclectic room with a neutral pouf ottoman. Poufs are also a natural choice for kids' rooms and playrooms. A floor pouf atop a large kids rug for added softness makes the perfect seat for storytime or quiet play. Want to bring the comfort of a pouf to the backyard? Look for outdoor poufs made from weather-resistant materials, then set one or two on the back patio for a trendy summer hangout. Complete the look with metal lanterns or string lights to illuminate the space during night-time gatherings.

Indoor Benches: Seating and Storage

Offering an inviting spot to pause for a moment, an indoor bench is ideal for the entryway, hallway or bedroom. A storage bench in the entrance hall provides a convenient place to remove shoes and store cold-weather accessories. To coordinate with classic decor, consider an upholstered bench with a wooden shelf underneath, then add wicker storage baskets to keep things organized. In farmhouse-style homes, opt for the sturdy construction of a wood storage bench to coordinate with the rustic decor. Take a different approach by placing a velvet or leather bench in the bedroom at the foot of the bed. Use it to lay out the next day's outfit, or drape a throw across the bench for visual interest and a luxe feel.