Whether you're styling an empty corner, creating a cosy reading nook or squeezing in extra seating for guests, a small armchair is one of the easiest ways to make the most of a compact space. Despite their smaller footprint, these designs don't compromise on style. From tactile bouclé and classic stripes to sleek metal frames, we've rounded up the best small armchairs to shop now.
Beyond providing an extra seat, a small armchair can transform an awkward, unused corner into a functional feature. They're just as useful in bedrooms as they are in living rooms, creating a quiet spot to read, somewhere to perch while getting ready, or— even if you'd rather not admit it — the perfect 'chairdrobe'. They're also an effortless way to showcase your favourite cushions and throws.
Gone are the days when compact armchairs meant bulky, old-fashioned designs. Our edit proves you can have comfort, style and a space-saving silhouette all at once.
Whether your home leans contemporary, minimalist or classic, these highly rated armchairs from Dusk, Wayfair and Dunelm are compact enough for smaller rooms without sacrificing comfort or character.
This small armchair and footstool combo is the perfect small-space solution. The footstool tucks neatly under the chair when not in use and pulls out for feet-up lounging. Finished in an all-over squidgy upholstery in a rich anthracite grey, the seamless curves feel a little retro and a lot inviting.
Its contemporary design and solid wood frame make this armchair a real eye-catcher without sacrificing comfort. The plush padded seat and backrest will make you want to sit on this chair all day long, while its curved arms make for a cosy seat to sip your tea and catch up on your favourite TV show.
Thanks to those arms, it would also make a great bedroom chair – you know, the one that you use as a chairdrobe for six out of seven days of the week...
If you're looking for comfort and can go a little bit bigger, then this is the armchair to choose! It's armless, so it takes up less space than your regular bulky armchair, while it sits low to the ground, to give the illusion that it's smaller than it really is. It has a cosy buttoned seat and back, and comes in three colourways, including a stunning rust.
Though its base is wider than the other small armchairs in our edit, you can push this one flush against a wall to sit comfortably in a corner. Place a small side table next to it and you've got a cosy nook!
This characterful accent chair from Dunelm is all about shape and pattern. It has a few clever design details that promote comfort, namely its wraparound back and armrests that create a sense of enclosure, and plump, low-set seat that feels relaxed.
It's a good option for adding personality to quieter corners or breaking up more uniform seating arrangements.
You'll appreciate the deep seat on this armchair – not to mention its gorgeous curved arms. Speaking of which, the hardwood dark-stained frame contrasts wonderfully with the nubby off-white upholstery.
It's the ideal extra seat for when guests come over, and when not in use, use it to display your favourite fancy cushion (the one that you don't really want people to use!).
Stripes are so in, and this chair is giving vintage vibes thanks to its wooden tapered legs and buttoned back detailing. We think that it looks double its price tag, and it'll work well in all different room styles – from neutral to traditional.
Comfort is key thanks to its high back, while its thin arms mean it doesn't take up quite as much space in your home as your traditional-style armchair. The best part? Other matching furniture is available for you to upgrade your sofa and more, too.
The understated design of this boucle accent chair makes it a versatile piece that'll suit just about any contemporary interior. It'll work in a bedroom, a nursery, a hallway and even a living room, and you can style it with a blanket to add some colour, if you like.
This design from Dusk sits on angled black legs, and its rounded back makes it structured yet comfortable. It's available in two other colours – green chevron or cow print – if off white boucle is too risky in your home.
This is a unique take on the classic swivel chair from Made. The curvy arms and sloped silhouette adds some visual interest, while the fully upholstered form feels compact and self-contained – indeed, at just 80cm in depth, it's the perfect choice for small corners. And never underestimate the soothing effect of a swivel base, or the enveloping feeling of a wraparound back.
Inspired by mid-century design and drawing inspiration from the charm and heritage of Jack Wills, this small armchair features smooth lines, smart button detailing, and sleek, tapered legs. Its velvet seat will add more texture to a room, while its orange seat adds colour and will draw attention – in a good way.
We love its chunky arms for a warm, cosy feel. It'd especially work well as an extra seat in your living room, as there's a matching sofa and footstool available.
Add a pop of green to your space with this Skye armchair from Urban Outfitters. With a pretty velvet finish and a soft foam-filled seat, this tub-style chair is as impactful as it is comfortable. Truly, it's as cosy as it looks thanks to its thick, curved arms and its chunky seat cushion. Even better? Its eucalyptus wood frame makes it eco-conscious. An easy way to brighten up a dark room that might need a new lease of life, we think.
Size
L71cm x W74cm x H77cm
Made from
Eucalyptus frame, foam, fabric
Colours
Green
Seat height
42cm
Warranty
None
Where to place a small armchair
Rooms where you either relax or entertain (or both) will always benefit from additional seating, especially when it's as unobtrusive as a petite chair. Vicki Foster, in-house stylist at ScS, explains: 'A small armchair can be used to create a mini focal point in the living room. Positioning it in a corner opposite the sofa ensures the two items aren't competing for attention.'
Bedrooms are also a great place for a small armchair, as their size means they won't consume too much of the room and fight with the bed for space. It also helps transform the bedroom from a room for sleeping into somewhere you can sit and relax in dedicated seating.
Small armchairs also suit home offices particularly well. Place at the opposite end of your working desk, and it becomes a comfortable spot to sit and unwind after wrapping up work at the end of each day.
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How to style your new armchair
Despite their use as accent pieces, you can elevate the appeal of your armchair with the addition of soft furnishings.
'Blankets are great for draping over the edge of an armchair,' say the design experts at TBCo. 'For example, if you have a plain coloured chair, add a pop of colour or bold design with checks or gingham. Or, if you've gone for a patterned chair, balance it with a plain blanket that adds softness to your room. A knee or small blanket is the perfect size for subtle armchair decor – and for curling up under with a good book and a brew, of course.'