Stools & Ottomans

A stool is a kind of seat without a back or armrests and can be made of different materials such as wood, metal or plastic. It can have different shapes and sizes and is usually used as a seat at a table, desk or counter. A bar stool, on the other hand, is a type of stool specifically designed for use at a bar or high counter. It is usually higher than a regular stool, with a seat height of about 12 inches, allowing you to sit comfortably on a higher surface.

When buying crutches it is important to take into account the intended use and the height of the surface where the crutches will be placed. For example, if you're looking for seating for a kitchen island, consider bar stools with a higher seat height. If, on the other hand, you are buying stools for a dining table, regular stools with a lower seat height may be more suitable. Also pay attention to the material and design of the stools to ensure they match the overall style and decor of the room.

Chances are you've heard of an accent chair, but have you ever heard of accent stools? Not the ones you have at the counter or dining room table - accent stools tend to be shorter, made in different shapes, and made of different materials. Accent stools are that versatile decorative item you never knew you needed in your home.

Accent stools are the design element that keeps on giving. You want your furniture to be flexible and adapt to your needs, especially since the taste of a design tends to change over time. Decorative wooden stools, or stools made of metal, are just that - a piece of furniture that will evolve timelessly with you and your interior. These decorative little pieces of furniture fill a space whenever and however you want, just like the wooden cube pictured above for painting supplies.

"A wonderful thing about stools is that they can be any design and they are very flexible," interior designer Fawn Galli told 1stDibs. “I normally buy different styles and move them around the house as needed.Try decorating with a stool in a few different places or, if you've succumbed to having more than one, place a few in a few different spots. Wherever you find it most convenient or stylish, you just move it. How much furniture do you currently have that allows you to do that?

On the side of a chair

If you currently have accent chairs in your home, you know that the chances are pretty good that they are the furthest seat from a table (if there is one). Typically, an accent chair is tucked away in a corner, placed on the edge of a bed, or placed in the living room. These areas are often used for lounging, but where do you put a drink? A book? Don't worry - the interior decorators for today's homes have found a solution to problems like these of the 21st century.

When a bigger table just isn't enough, there's always a stool. The simple design solution is to place a stool like the trendy antique stools on Etsy next to the chair. Any stool with a flat surface is just what you need to pose as the perfect little table. You could nest it next to a lonely chair, or place it between a set of chairs for the perfect combination. This piece is the ideal small table for one or two guests to share.

In front of the fireplace

The fireplace has long been a space for families and friends to gather. It is often a focal point in the living room, drawing the attention of the eye to anchor a design. Its presence begs for decor that can take the heat, so whatever your style, grab a stool. One or two stools placed here can be the ideal seat to cozy up to the warm fire.

Instead of crawling on the floor in front of the fireplace, take a seat on a stool. Fireplace décor allows you to mix and match textures to give the room visual appeal. You can keep this place ultra-comfortable and consider upholstered stools for a traditional seating option, a contemporary style like the one pictured above, or a stump stool from that Pottery Barn fit a rustic aesthetic right in front of the burning logs. Accessorize your fireplace with fireside stools to create a visual moment and increase functionality in your space. It will be the best place in the house to roast marshmallows and stay warm.

In the bathroom

Increase the functionality in your bathroom by adding some furniture. Yes, you read that right, but it's not quite what you think - add something slightly smaller than the sofa or bookshelf you envisioned. Transform your bathroom space by adding a stool just like the wooden one in the picture above. Stools can be the ideal compact decorative piece for bathrooms, as long as you choose a shape and material that suits your space.

You could use a wood accent stool as seen on Wayfair as an extra perch for belongings in your bathroom. Place it right next to the bath for a sleek table while you relax in a bubble bath, or as a place to sit when bathing the little ones. Pick an empty corner of the bathroom and style the stool with a small candle and some rolled towels for a spa-like vibe. You could even put one in the shower to act as a ledge. There are limitless possibilities when it comes to styling a stool in this indoor space.

Use them to hold your flowers

Decorating requires knowing when to use furniture for creative moments. Not all design ideas are completely focused on functionality - some are purely for show. Consider using a stool as a base for a vase of flowers. A ceramic stool as seen on Anthropologie would accompany a vase of flowers tucked beautifully in a corner, on the side of a sofa or around the edge of a bed.

Choose to keep the look fresh longer by choosing flowers that will never lose their shine. "Not everyone can afford fresh flowers on their bed, so adding a bowl of artificial peonies or roses is a cost-effective way to brighten up the space all year round. Artificial flowers are a favorite for those who don't necessarily have a green thumb, but still want to introduce natural beauty into their space.Place this vase or bowl of flowers on your favorite decorative stool for an organic touch of beauty in your home.

Style it like a table

When it comes to versatile interior furniture, it's nice to have a few stools on hand to add your style take it to the next level in an effortless way. If you have an area in your home where a regular-sized side table won't fit, try working in an accent stool or two. A sturdy oval stool like the wooden one can act as the perfect side table next to an accent chair or sectional couch. The ones made of metal or ceramic are also ideal, as these materials can withstand everyday use. For softer materials, place a tray as pictured above for a sturdier base to place drinks and trinkets on.

When selecting a stool to be placed next to your furniture, there are several important elements that go into the design. Material is important, but height is also important. The height of the stool should be high enough to comfortably reach what you need. Consider the height of the sofa or chair before completing your stool purchase.

They are an interior designer's 'secret weapon', as this little piece of furniture can be tucked away in virtually any part of the home. Not only does it fit almost anywhere, it goes with almost anything - any style preference, other furniture and in any room. Accent stool style varies, but whichever one you choose, make sure it matches the flow of the space (via Studio McGee). Used as a footstool, additional seating option, side table or art form, stools are an excellent addition to increase functionality and visual texture in a home.