The ottoman has its roots in 18^th century Turkey, at a time when the country was part of the Ottoman Empire.  These versatile pieces of furniture eventually made their way into European parlors and eventually to America.  The word “ottoman” can different images depending on the time and place, but it generally conveys a picture of a footstool or padded bench that is often used with a chair.

Today’s ottomans can be used for a wide variety of purposes and England Furniture invites you to consider our line of England Furniture ottomans, as well as some creative ways you can use ottomans in your favorite rooms.

Rest Your Weary Feet

Beginning with the obvious, ottomans are a great way to sit back and relax.  You can pair an ottoman with a comfy chair and use it as a place to rest your feet.  Be certain the ottoman your purchase not only matches the style and design of your chair, but is the right dimensions to be used by various people in the house for relaxation.

Extra Seating

Ottomans can be used as extra seating when the sofa and loveseats are filled up, and the rest of the chairs are already occupied.  Because ottomans are often quite small, they’re easy to tuck them away when you don’t need extra seats.

Extra Storage

Almost every living room or family room needs extra places to store items such as remote controls, toys, reading glasses and books, notepads, movies or games, etc.  Today’s ottomans include beautiful ottomans with a hinged top that provides a handy way to store items while also being able to disguise its storage abilities.

Coffee Table or End Table

Many people use ottomans as a primary or secondary table in the living room or family room.  Flat-topped ottomans are best suited for this purpose, but you can utilize most ottomans by placing a serving tray (or even a beautiful piece of wood) on the top of your ottoman.

Children’s Area

In relation with the “ottoman as table” idea above, some people use ottomans as a kind of kid’s table or deck.  This allows your child to have their own special area to play or study.  Storage ottomans can allow them to keep their favorite toys nearby.  If you plan to use your ottoman for this purpose, make sure you consider kid-friendly fabrics that can be easily cleaned.

Pet Beds

Some individuals, particularly those who may live in a small space, place a blanket on their ottoman and use it as a resting place for their cats or dogs.  Spot and Mrs. Kitty Boo-Boo need a place to rest too!

Show off Your Style

Finally, ottomans are increasingly becoming the centerpieces of some living room designs.  They’re a great way to add a clear indicator of the design, style, or colors you’re seeking to use in your living room or family room.  Ottomans can look casual in a rustic room, playful in a modern family room, or extravagant in a formal sitting room. The choice is yours!