As the old English proverb so eloquently puts it, ‘’Worrying is like sitting in a rocking chair. It gives you something to do but it doesn’t get you anywhere.’’ But if you replaced that rocking chair with an armchair, would your worries slip away? We certainly think so.
An often underrated part of the home, a well-placed armchair can work in a multitude of rooms outside of the conventional living room, providing comfort for tired legs, support for bottoms done with perching on stools all day, and a space for family members to ponder life’s bigger questions.
Before investing in a new armchair, it’s a good idea to ponder some big questions, too; here are 5 armchair buying tips for the discerning homeowner.
How Is The Armchair Going To Be Used?
First, things first, you need to decide on the chair’s purpose. Consider where the chair will be placed and how it will be used. This will in turn narrow down the type of chair you need.
Are you simply looking for an accent chair to add a new style element to your interior and use as a decorative piece? Or perhaps you’re after a chair to place in the hallway as an inviting statement of just how loose and relaxed your values are. In both these cases, consider an occasional chair where style can be prioritised over comfort.
Maybe you’re after a chair to create a reading corner? Then a cushy chair is essential. For a reading corner, we suggest an Eames chair which is just as iconic as it is comfortable.
Designed by Charles and Ray Eames, as Medium explains “They wanted to create a high-end, luxury chair. It needed to be stylish, chic, modern, and, most of all, comfortable’’. The result was an ergonomically designed chair that didn’t compromise on style.
If that doesn’t cushion your tush’n, how about the Lawson chair, which many consider to be the true reading chair, as the armrests sit at the perfect height for resting your elbows on while you hold your book,
Think outside the living room. Is it an armchair for the home office that you need? Once known as the world’s most comfortable chair and featured in many iconic 1960’s films, the Sixty-Two’ Swivel chair, which features a distinctive winged design, soft foam cushioning and a deeply buttoned back, could be the one you’re looking for.
Or, perhaps you’re after a chair for your bedroom, for winding down before going to sleep. In this case you’ll want a chair that prioritises comfort over style.
Different Armchair Styles
Journalist Evan Davis once said, “A chair’s function is not just to provide a place to sit; it is to provide a medium for self-expression.” We couldn’t agree more.
We’ve already touched on some of the different armchair styles, but here are a few more, for you to ponder while you sit on your sofa…
- Classic Recliner Chair – Ideal for reclining (duh)
- Club Chair – Ideal for adding some laid back sophistication to your room
- Wingback Chair – The ideal timeless addition
- Barrel Chair – Ideal for adding softening your interiors by adding some curves
- Slipper Chair – The ideal accent chair
- Chesterfield Chair – Ideal for adding a timeless British design classic to your home
These are but a few of the different types of armchairs available. Wikipedia has made a comprehensive list of pretty much every design available under the sun. We suggest you head to their page and take a look at all the options available here.
Size Matters
A rookie error made by so many homeowners investing in a new armchair is to miscalculate the size of their front door or underestimate the size of the chair they’ve bought. This can lead to issues with access, and an armchair that finds a new home in the garden rather than in the, erm, home.
As such, it’s vital that you check if the sofa will fit through the door prior to purchase, as well as if it fits in the room itself, physically and stylistically.
What Is ‘Comfortable’ To You?
Everyone’s definition of comfort is different. Before you buy your new armchair, you should try to define yours.
Is comfortable, to you, a deeply cushioned chair or one with firm cushioning that supports you? Is comfortable having your feet touching the floor or having them up on an Ottoman? Does comfort require a high back for you to rest your head on?
Understanding what comfortable means to you will help narrow down your search in an online world full of endless armchair designs, all trying to flag you down and grab your attention (arms…geddit). This will hopefully make the decision making easier.
If you are looking for a more occasional chair, then you can, of course, compromise on the comfort of the design, but generally speaking, an armchair should be the definition of comfortable, first and foremost.
Is There A Certain Upholstery I Need?
Now to narrow your search for a new chair even further. Do you have pets or young children that require a more hard wearing upholstery? Or can your options be open?
A lot of fabrics, including leathers, are affected by sunlight and heat, so to avoid fading and damage from these sources, we recommend keeping your sofa away from direct light and heat sources – this includes radiators.
Leather is a great option for more hardwearing chairs. The material can easily be cleaned and isn’t stained easily. Light colour fabrics may want to be avoided with children or pets. The upholstery and colour of the chair can transform the space, so is definitely something that wants careful consideration.
Reflect On Maintenance & Care Requirements
We love a sustainable king/queen, so before making your armchair investment, consider the maintenance it will require to keep it looking as inviting as the day you bought it. Different materials and finishes require different levels of care.
For instance, while leather may be more durable and easier to clean, it might need regular conditioning to prevent cracking. Fabric chairs, on the other hand, might need professional cleaning services to maintain their appearance, especially if they’re made from delicate materials. If you’re opting for a classic recliner chair, consider the added benefit of recliner chair covers, which can protect your investment from wear and tear and make cleaning a breeze. Assess whether you’re prepared for the upkeep before deciding on the upholstery of your armchair.
Consider The Armchair’s Longevity & Sustainability
When selecting the perfect armchair, it’s not just about the immediate gratification of comfort and style. One should also ponder the longevity and sustainability of the piece. Is the armchair constructed from durable materials that will stand the test of time? Are the materials sourced responsibly, and is the armchair produced in a way that minimises its environmental impact? Opting for a chair that boasts a timeless design and is made from high-quality, sustainable materials can ensure that your purchase remains both a responsible and a cherished part of your home for years to come.
And with that, we’re off for a well-earned sit down…