Armchairs

How to choose an armchair

Think about where the armchair will go and how you will use it. A reading chair needs good back support, an accent chair needs to look the part, and a bedroom chair should be compact.

Armchair styles compared

Style	Best for	Typical width
Accent chair	Adding colour and style to a room	65cm to 80cm
Wingback chair	Reading and traditional rooms	75cm to 85cm
Tub chair	Small spaces and bedrooms	60cm to 75cm
Oversized or cuddle chair	Curling up, or sharing	90cm to 120cm

Comfort and size

Check the seat height (around 45cm suits most people), the seat depth and the back height. Wingback chairs give the best head and shoulder support. Measure your space first using our guide on how to measure for a sofa.

Fabric, velvet or leather armchairs

Velvet armchairs bring rich colour, fabric armchairs are cosy and good value, and leather wipes clean. If you have pets or kids, read our guide to sofa fabrics for kids and pets.

Matching an armchair to your sofa

An armchair does not need to match your sofa exactly. A contrast colour often looks better. It pairs well with a 2 seater sofa or 3 seater sofa, and if you want an easier way to stand, look at riser recliner chairs.

Armchairs for small spaces

Short on room? A compact tub chair or slim accent chair fits into a bedroom, hallway or the corner of a living room without blocking the way. Choose raised legs and a light colour to keep the space feeling open, and check the depth as well as the width. A small footstool tucks underneath when you are not using it.

Armchairs for reading and relaxing

For long reading sessions, look for a high back, firm arms and a supportive seat cushion. Wingback chairs and deep cuddle chairs are the comfiest choice, and a recliner chair lets you lean back further. Add a sofa throw and a cushion and you have a perfect cosy corner. Keep it looking fresh with a fitted armchair cover, and match it with Chesterfield sofas for a classic look.

Quick checks before you buy

Check the seat height, the width between the arms and the depth, then sit in a similar chair if you can. Read the reviews for comments on firmness and how well the cushions hold their shape over time.