The Complete Guide to Accent Chairs: Styles and Expert Advice

Accent chairs are a simple and practical way to add color, texture, and design to your home or apartment. Many use them as accent pieces placed in traditional seating arrangements or create new ones in cozy nooks in the bedroom, hallway, home office, and more. As interior designer Karen Rohr says, “When accent chairs are involved, there’s no wrong answer.”

Our guide to accent chairs, featuring seven design experts, offers advice on how to pick accent chairs, the different types, chair placement, and where to purchase them. 

14 Types of Accent Chairs

While it’s true that any chair can act as an accent chair, many select types of chairs are known to pack the punch that an accent chair brings to any space. Lucinda Loya puts it well when she says, "an accent chair can be any size, shape, or color, but typically should represent interest by way of color, pattern, and style.” 

We consulted our team of experts to create a guide with 14 accent chair types that add stylistic depth and visual interest to your space.

1. Swivel Chair

A swivel chair is a practical and often more compact chair that creates visual interest through its unique shape. Jameelah Watkins and Ebonee Clark define a swivel chair as “a chair with a central base that allows it to spin 360 degrees” and add that swivel accent chairs come in various silhouettes but are commonly seen in a barrel shape. 

Swivel chairs can be found in a variety of colors, patterns, and styles, ranging from modern to retro. As the name suggests, swivel chairs are practical due to their ability to spin, allowing those who use them to easily adjust their positioning. Place a swivel chair in an area with more than one coffee table or ottoman for ultimate ease.

2. Club Chair 

Club chairs are easy to bring and are oversized and comfortable to look into any space. Commonly leather or upholstered, club chairs “are known to have an oversized design,” said Watkins and Clark. 

Use a club chair to indicate that the space is intended to serve as a comfortable corner or seating area while creating visual interest through color and texture. Many choose to pair a club chair with a stack of books for an easy reading nook.

3. Wingback Chair

According to Watkins and Clark, the classic wingback chair is “an armchair whose back is significantly taller than an average armchair.” Wingback chairs are also known as “fireside chairs” because they were traditionally placed facing the fireplace to block the cold winds from blowing into the person sitting in them. 

Karen Rohr says wingback chairs are often upholstered in velvet or other luxurious fabrics and tend to be quite comfortable. Add a wingback chair to your space to create interest through the chair’s unique lines and textured upholstery. Additionally, wingback chairs signal that a space is meant for hunkering down with a good book. 

4. Barrel Chair 

A barrel chair is shaped just as you’d think: in the shape of a barrel. Barrel chairs are “fully upholstered chairs with a rounded back,” according to Watkins and Clark, and bring a unique shape to any space. 

Many place barrel chairs in pairs due to their unique symmetrical design that brings a sense of evenness to any corner.

The above Barrel-Back Dining Chair has a simple and sleek silhouette. Danielle Walish recommends using it as an accent chair or dining chair, as its unique, playful pattern will surely create a bold statement in any room. 

5. Bergère Chair

Originating in France, a bergère chair is “an armchair with an exposed wood frame and wood legs,” according to Watkins and Clark. The iconic rounded back and padded armrests evoke a sense of grandeur adored by Parisian royalty. This accent chair style brings the classic sensibility to a room and can create a space with a traditional feel. 

Pair two bergère chairs together to bring symmetry to your space, or use one chair to create an elegant corner or reading area. Some choose to position a bergère chair in an unexpected hallway or entryway, using it as a design element to introduce a unique silhouette and spark visual interest.

6. Stools

An unexpected accent chair that isn’t a chair at all– but a stool. “When stools are used as accent chairs, they’re often bright and unexpected, with bold patterns and fun colors,” says Jessica Harris. “This can be a great way to liven up your space and bring a smile to your guests’ faces.” 

Also, stools are a great way to add visual interest to even the smallest corner, as they tend to be compact and easy to move around if more seating is needed. They also contribute to a cohesive look by seamlessly blending with the rest of your furniture and decor.

7. Egg Chair

The modern egg chair evokes a playful feel in your space. “Named for the unique rounded shape that covers the head of the person in them, they’re typically partially or fully suspended, creating a modern and inviting look,” says Jessica Harris. 

Egg chairs are made from a variety of materials, from rattan to metal and plastic, and include seat cushions within the interior. Suspended egg chairs sway side to side, bringing an element of childlike glee to any space.

You know, even if an egg chair is designed as a piece of art and used as an occasional chair, it can shine alongside other furniture pieces. This can be the perfect piece to make a statement that draws the eye and adds a modern style to your space.

8. Mid-Century Modern Chair

Fun, retro, and classy, mid-century modern accent chairs “are typically a simple, classic design in a bright shade that adds a pop of color to your space,” says Jessica Harris. Mid-century modern chairs follow the mid-century design aesthetic that originated in the United States during the 1950s and 60s.

The design aesthetic emphasizes clean, simple lines that evoke a sense of calm. Adding a mid-century modern accent chair will surely add to that vibe. Pair the chair with a mid-century modern sofa in the living room or mid-century modern furniture in the bedroom to further cultivate the design aesthetic.

The above mid-century modern accent chair from Maiden Home features a minimalist, clean profile and elegant style. “Though the deep seat and generous recline deem it a casual lounge chair,” says Grace Hoffend. 

9. Recliner

A recliner is the perfect chair to create a sense of comfort in your space. “The right recliner can offer comfort and elegance,” says Jessica Harris. “While sophisticated recliners tend to be in neutral colors, their large and overly padded shape will catch people’s eye when looking for a comfortable spot to sit back and relax.” 

A recliner makes the perfect living room chair or accent chair in a reading nook. However, because they recline, they do need a bit more space. 

"Recliners are popular but tricky because they occupy much room space. Make sure if you get one, you leave plenty of walking space around it when it is reclined, and ensure you aren't going to bang it into the wall behind it," explains Lisa Modica. "If you are close to the wall, get a wall recliner that won't require much extra space behind it."

Read more: The 10 Best Reclining Sofas Online Right Now

10. Armchairs

A timeless accent chair is known for its comfy armrests. According to Karen Rohr, accent armchairs “are typically upholstered in fabric or leather and have exposed legs.” Accent armchairs are available in a variety of design aesthetics, from classic to modern. No matter the vibe of your space, you’re sure to find an armchair that’ll fit right in. 

11. Slipper chairs 

Originally designed in the 18th century as a practical bedroom chair to sit on while putting on slippers, slipper chairs have grown in popularity and are now placed throughout the home.

Slipper chairs are great in small, narrow spaces. They are low to the ground, have short legs, and feature a streamlined design. This type of chair is designed to be armless and is usually available in solid upholstery.

While slipper chairs have many advantages, they’re not the best choice if you’re looking to create a relaxed lounge space. Due to their small footprint, armless slipper chairs work well in the bedroom, as originally intended or in an entryway or foyer.

The above Petite Slipper Chair is best arranged as a pair and is the “quintessential accent to finish any living space,” according to Danielle Walish. 

12. Tuxedo Chairs

With a high back and arms, tuxedo chairs add glam to any space. They work well in pairs (or even as a loveseat!) and have a sleek, tailored frame. Many enjoy the unique shape tuxedo chairs bring to any space and choose to pair them with other living room furniture.

Additionally, tuxedo chairs are available with a variety of unique features, such as fun prints and patterns that add a pop of color. Some can even recline.

13. Chesterfield Chair

A Chesterfield chair is a distinctive and popular type of statement chair. "It's defined by deep button tufting and having the back be the same height or close to the same height as the arms. It usually also has a nailhead trim. The deeper the button tufting, the more likely it is a quality piece," explains Lisa Modica.

"The depth of the tuft indicates whether they simply sewed a button on the outside and pulled the upholstery in a bit to tuft, or if they actually took the time to sew the button tuft through the padding as it should be."

14. Chair-and-a-Half

A chair-and-a-half is an oversized chair — bigger than a normal accent chair but not quite as wide as a loveseat. They work well in larger living areas, reading nooks, or bedrooms.

"A chair-and-a-half only really works either in a large room or in a place where a lot of people might put a loveseat. They are BIG armchairs, but they are great for curling up in or for parents that cuddle on a chair with their kids or pets," says Lisa Modica.

Where Should You Use an Accent Chair?

When deciding where to place an accent chair, consider the size of the available space. The right accent chair can enhance a room's aesthetic and provide additional seating. Consider the proportions of your furniture and the room's flow to ensure the chair complements the overall design.

Here are some ideal places to use an accent chair to elevate your decor.

Bedrooms

“Bedrooms might not be the first space you think of for an accent chair, but you and I know that clothes will be tossed somewhere,” says Susann Eva Goerg. While accent chairs are not primarily designed as a drop-off zone, they keep stray clothing off the floor while working double duty as a seating area. 

Additionally, accent chairs are often the perfect choice for bedrooms with challenging layouts. They allow you to turn an awkward corner into a snug, dedicated place to zone out while making the room feel complete. 

“And if you have that extra space to create a rest-and-relaxation area in your bedroom, away from the noise, a set of comfortable accent chairs is an excellent choice,” says Goerg. 

Jameelah Watkins and Ebonee Clark added, “accent chairs in bedrooms are commonly used for getting dressed or reading,” as they give you an alternative to using your bed for everything. 

Living Room 

Living room accent chairs make for bonus seating when that extra guest comes over and often make a seating area feel complete. However, if you’re concerned about mixing and matching an accent chair with your sofa, “you can easily tie it in with other pieces of furniture by using matching throw pillows on both the chair and your other pieces,” says Jessica Harris. 

In addition to extra seating, accent chairs create a focal point in any living room. “They offer the opportunity to balance the furniture placement and a change of scenery while moving around the living room,” says Susann Eva Goerg. “And comfort is often vital when you wind down after a long day.” 

Dining Room

There are many options when placing an accent chair (or chairs!) in the dining room. “Perhaps the end chairs of your dining room table are accents creating more importance for the host or hostess,” suggests Mark Culter. 

Jessica Harris adds that “when incorporating an accent chair in your dining room, it’s helpful to purchase two similar or identical chairs and place them on opposite sides of the dining table. This will make your furniture set more unique, while keeping your table symmetrical.” 

Somewhere Unexpected 

A great way to utilize an accent chair in your home is by placing it somewhere unexpected. This uses corners, nooks, and crannies previously ignored or can create a bit of intrigue in areas walked right past. For example, the above accent chair, placed below a painting in a transitional area, makes use of a hard-to-use space while emphasizing the painting above it. The combination is also a bit ironic, as the woman in the painting is seated on a chair with a similar color palette.

“An accent chair may be placed in the most unexpected spaces to draw attention in any room. Look for unique characteristics that work with your aesthetic and think outside the box when placing one in a desired location,” says Lucinda Loya.

“A single chair can be quite alluring and can also be considered for nontraditional use, such as a side table.” 

Grace Hoffend recommends placing accent chairs in unexpected spots, such as the empty corner in an open-concept space. “Chairs create a welcoming feel and are the perfect way to spice up small spaces you might be wasting,” she says.

Where to Buy an Accent Chair: Interior Designer Picks

Interior Define

Interior Define offers a variety of accent chairs, and you can customize them to better fit your space. “I love that they offer many customized options for fabrics,” says Karen Rohr. You can choose from various colors and patterns to create the perfect look for your space.” Rohr also values the quality of their products and feels confident that they’ll stand the test of time. 

Maiden Home

From funky three-legged accent chairs and chairs with statement fabrics to classic armchairs, Maiden Home offers different types of chairs that fit a variety of styles. Choose from unique fabrics and leathers to customize your chair to suit your home, and get inspired by Maiden Home’s on-site styling. 

Burrow

For modern accent chairs, be sure to check out Burrow. “Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or a straightforward seat to complete your space, Burrow is an excellent source,” says Karen Rohr. 

Burrow offers great options that includes minimalist designs in a variety of solid colors, with the ability to pair multiple pieces together to create a set.

Industry West

Specializing in industrial and contemporary designs, Industry West offers a wide range of products perfect for any space in your home. “Best of all, the prices are unbeatable,” says Karen Rohr. 

Look to Industry West for good accent chairs in funky designs and styling. The brand designs chairs with unique shapes and silhouettes, ranging from overstuffed to chaise lounge chairs with dramatic lines.

Anthropologie

If you want to add the perfect accent chair with a funky or bold touch, look at Anthropologie. No, it’s not just a clothing store! 

“The chairs come in many colors, patterns, and fabrics, so you’re sure to find one that fits your taste and aesthetic,” says Karen Rohr. “So whether you’re looking for an eye-catching conversation piece or a comfortable place to relax, Anthropologie is the perfect place to start your search.” 

Additionally, Rohr recommends reading the comments and reviews before purchasing a piece. 

Wayfair

One of the most popular home furnishing online stores, Wayfair offers an enormous selection of accent chairs at competitive prices. You’ll also find different styles of pieces ready to ship so that you won’t wait long for a new side chair. 

“They have a huge range of styles to choose from, so you’re sure to find something that’ll suit your taste,” says Rohr.

Joss & Main

A great source of contemporary furniture and home decor, Joss & Main has a wide selection of accent chairs. “I love that they have a range of options, and their prices are very reasonable,” says Rohr.

Take a look at Joss & Main for styles in a variety of colors, from traditional to modern. The brand captures each iconic silhouette to create accent chairs in a range of colors and upholstery.

1stDibs and Chairish 

For unique vintage pieces, be sure to check out 1stDibs or Chairish. “The most unique and playful accent chairs can be found on these sites,” says Lucinda Loya, “as you may find a one-off or fixer-upper with loads of personality.”

Conclusion

Learning to pick accent chairs involves understanding the variety of styles and their unique contributions to your space. Each type brings its aesthetic and functionality, from swivel and club chairs to more distinctive options like the bergère or egg chair.

Whether aiming to add a pop of color, create a cozy reading nook, or introduce a statement piece, selecting the right accent chair requires thoughtful consideration of design elements, chair placement, and how it complements your existing decor.