Ottoman Decor Inspiration: What to Put on Top of an Ottoman

When it comes to home decor, an ottoman can be a versatile and functional piece of furniture. Not only can it provide additional seating, but it can also serve as a footrest, coffee table, or storage unit. However, one of the most common questions people ask when it comes to ottoman decor is: what to put on top of an ottoman? In this article, we’ll explore some creative and practical ideas for decorating the top of an ottoman.

Understanding the Purpose of Your Ottoman

Before we dive into the world of ottoman decor, it’s essential to understand the purpose of your ottoman. Are you using it as a footrest in your living room, or as a storage unit in your bedroom? Knowing the purpose of your ottoman will help you determine what type of decor to use on top of it.

For example, if you’re using your ottoman as a footrest in your living room, you may want to consider adding a tray or a small table on top of it to hold drinks or snacks. On the other hand, if you’re using your ottoman as a storage unit in your bedroom, you may want to consider adding a decorative basket or a small vase on top of it to add a touch of elegance.

Practical Ideas for Ottoman Decor

When it comes to ottoman decor, there are many practical ideas to consider. Here are a few:

  • Trays and Tables: Adding a tray or a small table on top of your ottoman can provide a convenient surface for holding drinks, snacks, or other items. You can choose from a variety of materials, such as wood, metal, or glass, to match your home decor style.
  • Decorative Baskets: A decorative basket can add a touch of elegance to your ottoman while providing a convenient place to store items such as throw blankets, pillows, or books.
  • Plants and Flowers: Adding a small plant or a vase of flowers on top of your ottoman can bring a touch of nature and beauty to your space.

Tips for Choosing the Right Decor

When choosing the right decor for your ottoman, there are a few things to consider:

  • Scale: Make sure the decor you choose is proportional to the size of your ottoman. A large vase or a big basket may overwhelm a small ottoman, while a small tray or a tiny plant may get lost on a large ottoman.
  • Style: Choose decor that matches your home decor style. For example, if you have a modern home, you may want to consider a sleek and minimalist tray or a geometric-shaped vase.
  • Functionality: Consider the functionality of the decor you choose. For example, if you’re using your ottoman as a footrest, you may want to choose a tray or a table that has a lip to prevent items from falling off.

Creative Ideas for Ottoman Decor

While practicality is essential, it’s also important to have fun with ottoman decor. Here are a few creative ideas to consider:

  • Art and Sculpture: Consider adding a small piece of art or a sculpture on top of your ottoman to add a touch of personality to your space.
  • Lighting: A table lamp or a floor lamp can add a warm and cozy glow to your space while providing a convenient source of light.
  • Textiles: A throw blanket or a few pillows can add a pop of color and texture to your ottoman while providing a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Seasonal Decor Ideas

One of the best things about ottoman decor is that you can change it up with the seasons. Here are a few seasonal decor ideas to consider:

  • Winter: Consider adding a few festive decorations, such as holly or mistletoe, to your ottoman during the winter months. You can also add a few cozy throw blankets and pillows to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
  • Spring: Spring is the perfect time to add a few fresh flowers or a small plant to your ottoman. You can also consider adding a few pastel-colored pillows or a lightweight throw blanket to create a bright and airy atmosphere.
  • Summer: Summer is the perfect time to add a few beachy decorations, such as seashells or driftwood, to your ottoman. You can also consider adding a few colorful pillows or a fun and playful throw blanket to create a lively and carefree atmosphere.
  • Fall: Fall is the perfect time to add a few warm and cozy decorations, such as pumpkins or leaves, to your ottoman. You can also consider adding a few richly colored pillows or a plush throw blanket to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Tips for Creating a Cohesive Look

When it comes to creating a cohesive look with your ottoman decor, there are a few things to consider:

  • Color Scheme: Choose a color scheme that matches your home decor style and stick to it. This will help create a cohesive look and prevent your space from feeling cluttered or overwhelming.
  • Texture and Pattern: Mix and match different textures and patterns to add depth and interest to your space. For example, you can pair a smooth and sleek tray with a few rough and chunky pillows.
  • Scale and Proportion: Make sure the decor you choose is proportional to the size of your ottoman and the rest of your furniture. This will help create a balanced and harmonious look.

Conclusion

When it comes to ottoman decor, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re looking for practical ideas or creative inspiration, there are many ways to decorate the top of an ottoman. By considering the purpose of your ottoman, choosing the right decor, and having fun with it, you can create a beautiful and functional space that reflects your personal style.

Remember to keep it simple, have fun, and don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things. With a little creativity and imagination, you can turn your ottoman into a stunning and functional piece of furniture that adds beauty and elegance to your home.

Decor Idea Description
Trays and Tables A tray or a small table can provide a convenient surface for holding drinks, snacks, or other items.
Decorative Baskets A decorative basket can add a touch of elegance to your ottoman while providing a convenient place to store items.
Plants and Flowers A small plant or a vase of flowers can bring a touch of nature and beauty to your space.

By following these tips and ideas, you can create a beautiful and functional ottoman that adds elegance and sophistication to your home.

What is the purpose of an ottoman in a room?

An ottoman is a versatile piece of furniture that can serve multiple purposes in a room. It can be used as a footrest, additional seating, or even as a coffee table. Ottomans can also be used to add storage to a room, as many of them come with hinged tops or removable trays that can be used to store items such as throw blankets, books, or magazines.

In addition to its functional purposes, an ottoman can also be used to add style and texture to a room. Ottomans come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and materials, making it easy to find one that fits with the existing decor of a room. They can be upholstered in a variety of fabrics, from leather to velvet, and can be adorned with decorative stitching, tufting, or other embellishments.

What are some popular items to put on top of an ottoman?

There are many popular items that can be placed on top of an ottoman, depending on the desired look and function. Some popular items include decorative trays, vases, candles, and books. A decorative tray can be used to corral small items such as coasters, remotes, or keys, while a vase can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the room.

Other popular items to put on top of an ottoman include plants, sculptures, and decorative boxes. A small potted plant can add a touch of greenery to the room, while a sculpture or decorative box can add visual interest and personality to the space. Ultimately, the items placed on top of an ottoman will depend on the individual’s personal style and the overall aesthetic of the room.

How can I style an ottoman in a living room?

Styling an ottoman in a living room can be done in a variety of ways, depending on the desired look and function. One popular way to style an ottoman is to use it as a coffee table, placing a decorative tray or vase on top of it to add visual interest. Another way to style an ottoman is to use it as a footrest, placing it in front of a sofa or armchair and adding a few throw pillows on top of it.

To add some personality to the space, consider adding a few decorative items on top of the ottoman, such as a few favorite books, a small sculpture, or a decorative box. You can also add some greenery to the space by placing a small potted plant on top of the ottoman. Ultimately, the key to styling an ottoman in a living room is to keep the look simple and uncluttered, while still adding some visual interest and personality to the space.

Can I use an ottoman as a coffee table?

Yes, an ottoman can be used as a coffee table, especially if it has a flat top or a removable tray. This can be a great option for small spaces, as it allows for a multi-functional piece of furniture that can serve as both a footrest and a surface for placing drinks and snacks.

When using an ottoman as a coffee table, consider adding a decorative tray or vase on top of it to add some visual interest and personality to the space. You can also add a few coasters or a small bowl to corral small items such as keys or remotes. Just be sure to choose an ottoman that is sturdy and stable, and that has a surface that is easy to clean and maintain.

What are some creative ways to use an ottoman?

There are many creative ways to use an ottoman, depending on the desired look and function. One creative way to use an ottoman is to use it as a storage unit, placing baskets or bins on top of it to store items such as throw blankets, books, or magazines.

Another creative way to use an ottoman is to use it as a desk or workspace, placing a laptop or tablet on top of it and adding a few decorative items such as a vase or a small sculpture. You can also use an ottoman as a bench or additional seating, placing it in a hallway or entryway and adding a few throw pillows on top of it.

How can I choose the right ottoman for my space?

Choosing the right ottoman for your space can depend on a variety of factors, including the size and shape of the room, the existing decor, and the desired function. Consider the size of the room and the space where the ottoman will be placed, choosing an ottoman that is proportional to the space.

Also, consider the existing decor of the room, choosing an ottoman that fits with the overall aesthetic. For example, if the room has a modern and sleek look, choose an ottoman with clean lines and a simple design. If the room has a more traditional or ornate look, choose an ottoman with more decorative details such as tufting or stitching.

Can I use an ottoman in a bedroom?

Yes, an ottoman can be used in a bedroom, especially if it has a storage compartment or a removable tray. This can be a great option for storing items such as linens, out-of-season clothes, or personal items.

When using an ottoman in a bedroom, consider placing it at the foot of the bed or in a corner of the room. You can also use it as a bench or additional seating, placing it in front of a dresser or vanity and adding a few throw pillows on top of it. Just be sure to choose an ottoman that fits with the overall aesthetic of the room, and that has a surface that is easy to clean and maintain.

Leave a Comment