Frequently Asked Questions About Accent Chairs
Nothing shows off your personal style better than a chic accent chair. And we have plenty of options! Accent chairs, sometimes called armchairs or occasional chairs, add a touch of style and comfort to any space in your home. They come in a wide variety of designs, offering flexibility to complement your existing furniture.
This buying guide answers all your questions about accent chairs. By the end of this FAQ, you’ll be ready to find the perfect accent chair to enhance your living room.
What is the purpose of an accent chair?
An accent chair is a single-seat chair designed to complement your decor. You can use one to provide extra seating for occasional guests, elevate your style, and turn an empty spot into a cozy nook. They commonly go in a living room or bedroom. Unlike typical chairs, accent chairs stand out due to their unique design, color, or material, making them a focal point in any space.
What are the different types of accent chairs?
Accent chairs come in a wide variety of styles, each offering a unique look and feel. Here's a breakdown of some popular types so you can find one that resonates with you:
- Swivel chairs: These chairs rotate, offering easy movement and versatility. Swivel chairs are perfect for living rooms or home offices where you need to turn between different focal points.
- Oversized chairs: They are also called chair-and-a-half." Oversized chairs are larger than standard chairs, providing ample space and comfort.
- Wingback chairs: These are characterized by their high backs and "wings" that extend down to the armrests. Wingback chairs add a touch of traditional elegance.
- Modern chairs: Modern accent chairs have clean lines, bold colors, and unexpected materials. They are perfect for adding a contemporary style to your space.
- Traditional chairs: Traditional accent chairs often feature rolled arms, cabriole legs, and richer fabrics. They lend a timeless elegance to your living room.
- Barrel chairs: Named for their barrel-like shape, these chairs have a rounded back and deep seat.
- Lounge chairs: Designed for relaxation, lounge chairs typically have a reclining back and an extended seat. Shop for recliners here.
- Club chairs: These are known for their deep seats, rolled arms, and leather upholstery. Club chairs offer a masculine and sophisticated look.
Style preferences are personal and options are vast. Consider your décor and the needs of the room. You can talk to a Slumberland employee for more help with deciding.
What size accent chair do I need?
The right-sized chair will add balance to your space. Here are some considerations:
- Height: Accent chairs can either be lower or taller than your couch, depending on the look you're going for. A chair with a similar height to your sofa creates a cohesive flow. A taller chair can add visual interest and act as a focal point.
- Depth: Generally, you'll want your accent chair to have a similar depth to your sofa, or slightly shallower. This ensures a comfortable conversational distance when placed opposite your sofa.
- Width: Ensure the chair's width fits your space without overwhelming it. Oversized chairs are great for spacious rooms but might crowd a smaller area. Measure the available space and other furniture to ensure a balanced look.
- Usage: Who will be using the chair and for what purpose? A larger, more cushioned chair is ideal for long periods of sitting. A smaller, more upright chair is better for occasional use or guests.
Generally, a standard-sized accent chair has a height of 30-34 inches and a depth of 30-36 inches. But, these are just guidelines. Measure your existing furniture and available space to narrow your options and ensure your choice fits.
How much does an accent chair cost?
Slumberland carries armchairs that range from $100 to over $1200. The cost varied depending on the material and features. Consider your budget to help narrow your decision.
What materials are most comfortable for accent chairs?
The most comfortable material depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle. Here are considerations for each material:
For Softness and Luxury:
- Fabric: A fabric chair, including cotton, linen, and more, provides a soft and inviting feel. It also comes in various colors, patterns, and textures.
- Faux Leather: Faux leather is a budget-friendly alternative to genuine leather. It offers a luxurious look and feel for a fraction of the cost. It is also easier to maintain and more stain-resistant.
- Microfiber: Microfiber is a very soft, synthetic material that is durable and stain-resistant. It fits best in high-traffic areas.
For Classic Durability
- Leather: A genuine leather chair offers elegance and durability. It develops a beautiful patina over time, is easy to clean, and is stain-resistant. Leather generally becomes softer over time.
For Support and Easy Care
- Vinyl: Vinyl is a cost-effective alternative to leather. It is known for its affordability, durability, and waterproofing. Vinyl can be quite comfortable, especially with ample cushioning. But, it is not as breathable as other materials and can feel cold to the touch.
We recommend you visit a Slumberland location near you to feel the difference in materials. To add to the comfort of an accent chair, you can always add a throw pillow, blanket, or ottoman.
Where should I place an accent chair?
Here are some tips for the most impact and comfort:
Living Room:
- Next to a sofa: This creates more seating, encourages conversation, and balances a space.
- In an empty corner: This transforms an unused space into a cozy reading nook with a side table and floor lamp.
- Across from another accent chair: With a coffee table between, this creates a cozy conversational area.
- Opposite a fireplace or window: This defines a separate space and focal point that invites you to relax.
Bedroom:
- At the foot of a bed: This adds a touch of elegance and provides a convenient spot to unwind.
- In a corner: Like the living room, a corner placement can create a quiet reading nook.
- Near a vanity or desk: This adds functionality to the space, providing a seat for grooming or work tasks.
Your goal with placement is to enhance both the look and functionality.
How do I choose an accent chair?
Choosing the perfect accent chair involves balancing style, comfort, and functionality. Here are some key considerations to make the best choice:
- Define your budget
- Set a budget for how much you want to spend on your new chair. It will reduce your options and prevent disappointment when you look at the price tag.
- Determine the purpose
- Decide how you plan to use the chair. Will it be for occasional seating, a reading nook, or purely decorative? What room will it go in? This will influence the size, shape, and material of the chair. Swivel chairs, for instance, add flexibility to open floor plans.
- Consider your style
- Do you want your accent chair to match or contrast your existing furniture? Choose a style that aligns with your overall décor theme, like modern, traditional, mid-century, or contemporary. But, don't be afraid to mix and match styles! A modern accent chair can add a touch of personality to a traditional living room, and vice versa.
- Test the comfort
- If you plan to use the chair for extra seating, test different depths, heights, and cushioning for comfort. A deeper seat is better for lounging. A shallower seat is better for sitting upright. High-back chairs like wingbacks provide more support. Lower-back chairs can be more casual. Armrests also offer more comfort and support.
- Choose the right material
- Fabric offers softness. Leather provides timeless elegance. Microfiber is known for its durability and ease of cleaning. Choose a material that suits your comfort preferences and lifestyle needs. Opt for easier-to-clean materials like vinyl for high-traffic areas and busy homes.
- Consider size and proportions
- Measure the area to determine the appropriate size. You want a proportionate chair that allows traffic to flow through the room.
- Try before you buy
- Visit your local Slumberland store and test your chair before purchasing. Consider the comfort, color, and fabric. When in doubt, you have a set period to return the chair if you change your mind once you bring it home.
Can I reupholster armchairs and accent chairs?
Yes, you can reupholster armchairs and accent chairs! Reupholstering is a great way to revive a tired-looking chair, update its style, and save money. But, reupholstering a chair can be a challenging task, especially for beginners. It requires specific tools, materials, and upholstery skills. If you're handy and enjoy DIY projects, reupholstering an accent chair can be a rewarding experience.
Does Slumberland Offer A Warranty On Accent Chairs?
Yes! We offer our Total Satisfaction Guarantee. All exchanged chairs must be in original condition to qualify for the guarantee. We reserve the right to inspect all merchandise before issuing credit. After you take possession, if you are unhappy with the size, shape, look, or fit, you have 30 days to change your mind. Learn more about our guarantees here.
We also offer a 5-Year Protection Plan. We want you to enjoy your chair worry-free from stains, tears, or other damage.
What Is Slumberland's Warranty Coverage For Accent Chairs?
Product warranties vary by the manufacturer. We will help with service based on the terms and conditions of the warranty. Please refer to any manufacturer's warranty documentation, care instructions, and terms for details. Or contact Slumberland Customer Service.
What Is Slumberland's Return Policy For Chairs?
We offer a full refund within the first five days of purchasing a chair from Slumberland. After that, up to 30 days, a one-time reselect is available. Learn more on our guarantees page.
If you find the same product at a lower price, we also have our Price Match Guarantee. For up to 30 days after purchase, we will match the difference. Learn more on the guarantees page linked above.
What Are The Shipping Options For Chairs?
We offer delivery options to simplify your shopping. You always have the option of in-store pickup at the Slumberland location near you. Inquire at the location near you for details about pickup.
Or choose from one of our two delivery options:
- No-Contact Delivery: We offer FREE no-contact, doorstep delivery in local delivery areas. If you choose this option, we deliver your furniture, per your instructions.
- Full-Service Delivery: For a fee, our professional delivery drivers bring your furniture inside and set it up in the room of your choosing. They will unpack and assemble your item. Our delivery drivers will also get rid of the packaging materials.
