What is an Ottoman? 6 Reasons Why You Need One

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: the little things make a room feel like your room. And few things pack as much quiet power as the humble ottoman.

You might know it as the soft landing for your tired feet — but that’s just the beginning. So if you’ve ever asked, “What is an ottoman used for?”, buckle in. 

We’re about to dive into exactly why ottomans should find their way into your living room. 

What is an ottoman?

An ottoman is a low, upholstered piece of furniture — typically armless, backless, and incredibly underrated. Its roots go all the way back to the Ottoman Empire (hence the name), where it was designed for sprawling out in style.

Today, it’s evolved into a stylish multitasker: part footrest, part coffee table, part extra seat, and part storage hero. 

In short, an ottoman is what you make of it. And when done right, it’s the unsung hero of a thoughtfully layered living room.

What are ottomans used for and why do I need them?

So glad you asked.

In modern homes, ottomans moonlight as storage bins, step-ins for tired pets, staging spots for your coffee or cocktails, and pedestals for your feet. 

With the simple addition of a tray, your ottoman becomes a makeshift coffee table. Lift the lid? Surprise blanket storage. Move it around? Instant extra seat.

They're the definition of “form meets function” in the coziest way possible.

We could go on forever, but here are six unmissable reasons to bring one into your space:

1. Adds seating without crowding the room

Need extra seating but can’t commit to another chair? Enter: The ottoman.

Compact and low-profile, it sneaks in seamlessly without overwhelming your layout. Place it opposite your sofa, between two armchairs, or tucked into a corner until duty calls.

Ottomans also bring a sense of casual flexibility. Hosting a larger group? Slide it over. Just want to prop up your feet and read? Done. It’s the extra seat you didn’t know you needed — until now.

2. It’s the MVP of multifunctionality

A living room with an ottoman is basically one that’s working smarter, not harder.

These pieces are shapeshifters. With a flat surface, they become a makeshift coffee table. Add a tray and your snacks, remotes, and candles all have a home. Flip the lid and there’s room to hide away throws, toys, or that stack of magazines you swear you’re going to read.

Some ottomans even come with matching armchairs and sofas — like our Auburn Performance Fabric Sofa and Ottoman Set or the Amber Bouclé Swivel Chair with Kit Bouclé Stool — designed so you can sink in and never get up.

3. Converts a sofa into a stretch-out-worthy chaise

Here’s a small-space trick that feels like a cheat code: add an ottoman to the end of your sofa.

You’ve now got a chaise lounge — without the footprint (or the commitment) of a full sectional. Perfect for renters. Perfect for stretchers. Perfect for anyone who loves a mid-afternoon nap spot that feels like a five-star upgrade.

And when guests arrive? Simply move the ottoman aside, and your living room is reset.

4. A small piece that makes a big design statement

Want to shake up your living room style without replacing everything? Ottomans are your shortcut to visual interest.

Play with contrast: Leather against boucle, velvet against linen. Go bold with patterns, or pick a rich color that echoes your throw pillows or rug. Use it to break up a monotone space, soften harsh lines, or simply add texture where it’s lacking.

Whether it’s matched with your sofa or deliberately mismatched, an ottoman adds depth and dimension to your space without saying a word.

5. Not just for the living room

We know we’re talking living rooms here. But let’s be real: Ottomans have no loyalty to a single room.

In the bedroom, they serve as stylish benches at the foot of the bed (and a place to sit while pulling on socks). In the entryway, they’re the hero you didn’t know you needed: A comfy place to take off your shoes or drop your bag after a long day.

Versatile? Understatement of the century.

6. Kid-friendly, pet-approved

If your living room doubles as a jungle gym or dog nap station, you already know the value of soft furniture.

Ottomans are all about rounded corners and plush surfaces. This means no sharp edges for kids to trip over or tails to knock into. Choose ottomans that are upholstered in durable fabrics so they’re more forgiving of paw prints, juice spills, and life.

At a glance: Why ottomans belong in your living room

An ottoman is never just an ottoman

Still thinking an ottoman is just a footrest? That’s like saying a Swiss Army knife is just a blade.

Ottomans do more than just “go” in a room. They solve space issues, soften hard layouts, and style up your furniture game. Whether you’re trying to create a more functional layout or simply want to bring a little texture and comfort into your setup, there’s an ottoman for that.

So if you’re designing your dream living room, don’t forget the piece that ties it all together.

Trust us. Your feet (and your living room) will thank you.

Frequently asked questions about living rooms with ottomans

Should an ottoman be higher or lower than a sofa?

Ideally, an ottoman should be the same height or slightly lower (within a few inches) than the sofa seat for comfort, especially if used as a footrest. If you’re planning to use the ottoman as a coffee table, factor in the height of the surface for easy snacking.

How do you pair an ottoman with a sofa?

Match your ottoman to the sofa's style or material for a cohesive look, or contrast it for a design accent. Ensure the size and shape are proportionate to the sofa.

Can you sit on all types of ottomans?

Yes, most ottomans are designed to support sitting, especially larger, more structured types. To be safe, check the product’s weight capacity in the manufacturer’s specifications.