8 Unique Accent Chairs to Brighten Your Living Room
- Lindsay Johnson
- Sep 18
- 4 min read
The best accent chairs are more than just simple seating. They shower a room in personality. No matter what the tone of the space may be, there’s a special seat to help define it. That said, there are an abundance of options out there. Below are our favorite accent chairs that fit modern trends.
This piece is a showstopper. Its olive-green, cotton-rich upholstery has subtle highs and lows depending on the nap. The frame is a sculptural parawood “hand” shape, low and deep — great for curling up.
Why it brightens a room: The olive tone is warm but grounded; paired with lighter neutrals (cream, tan, soft gray) it pops without feeling overly bold.
Styling tip: Go with a minimal side table in rattan or brass, a soft throw in a contrasting lighter shade (cream or blush), and overhead lighting that accentuates the texture of the fabric.
The Arrondi has a 70s influence: soft curves merging with sharper angles in the arms, plus a swivel base hidden by a wooden plinth.
Why this one stands out: Movement! The swivel element adds function and fun. Curves soften a room full of right angles.
Styling tip: Place it in a corner with a floor lamp so that you can rotate and capture different views; use it to break up sofas or sectionals with its rounded profile.
If swivel is what you are looking for - check out this curated collection of trending swivel accent chairs today.
Italian craftsmanship, bench wood frame, and luxe velvet upholstery. Deep, rich color.
Why you’ll love it: Luxurious textures + saturated color = instant drama. Works especially well in rooms that need a focal or a pop of color.
Styling tip: Let this one shine — avoid cluttering around it. Use accent pillows or throws in tones pulled from the velvet (maybe a warm gold or soft blush) so it doesn’t feel isolated.
Also check out velvet or mohair sofas that will play along well with this victorian armchair.
This is more of a lounge-chair-cum-sectional module, but in its “lounge chair” configuration it functions beautifully as an accent. It’s velvet cream or velvet tangerine, low profile, curved, plush cushioning with a soft silhouette.
Why it works: Its shape is forgiving and inviting — curves welcome you. The lighter velvet cream adds brightness; the tangerine version brings warmth.
Styling tip: Pair with low coffee tables or nesting tables so you don’t block its silhouette; balance the color in accessories like cushions or an area rug that picks up similarly warm tones.
Elegant and sculptural. Bentwood arms that flow into the base, a seat that “floats” between them, deep pile mohair upholstery in a soft limestone hue.
What’s special: The architecture of it is beautiful — light visual weight, but tactile richness. That mohair gives texture and a cozy luxe feel.
Styling tip: Because of its delicate lines, it’s best not crowded. Let it stand alone or pair with a side table that echoes its wood tone. Also, lighting that enhances the pile (soft, directional light) will make the fabric sparkle.
This one is more of a modernist minimal silhouette (replica of a known design). Very clean lines, likely wood or metal frame with thinner upholstery /buttress.
Why to pick this: If your living room is heavy on plush pieces, this adds contrast. Good visual breathing room. It can modernize a traditional space or streamline an eclectic mix.
Styling tip: Use it as a companion chair beside the main seating, perhaps with a throw or small cushion for warmth. Pair with angular or geometric accessories to echo its precision.
We are seeing many brands doing this retro futurist design with a vibe of minimalist 70s. For example, The Thea Chair from Maiden Home:
A cozy, boutique-feel armchair. This luxe single seat implies deep seating, plush upholstery and strong comfort focus.
Why this one charms: Sometimes all you need is one comfy seat that whispers “relax.” This chair works as a weekend-reading nook or as a contrast to more upright seating.
Styling tip: Surround with soft textures—blankets, sheepskin, perhaps a small ottoman. Use a floor lamp to highlight it; maybe tuck it into a corner with a plant or ladder shelf to bring softness and greenery.
High back, linen (cotton-linen blend), soft cushion. The black & gray tones give it a modern twist while linen keeps it breathable and casual.
Why put this in: The height draws the eye upward—good for rooms with tall ceilings. The neutral palette makes it very versatile.
Styling tip: Pair with warm woods or natural fibers to soften the monochrome. A throw in a warmer hue (ochre, rust, or muted yellow) can help bridge it with the rest of the space. Use behind it either a tall plant or framed art to accentuate its height.
Tips for Choosing / Positioning Accent Chairs
Scale & Proportion: Make sure the chair doesn’t overpower the room. Measure and leave space for flow around it.
Color & Contrast: Chairs offer a chance to introduce a new color or texture. For maximum brightness, use lighter upholstery or saturated hues in contrast to neutral walls or flooring.
Texture: Velvet, mohair, linen, boucle, wood arms — these textures catch light differently and can really lift a room visually.
Shape Variety: Round vs angular. Deep seats vs more upright. Mixing shapes keeps the eye moving.
Lighting: Accent chairs often benefit from dedicated light—floor lamp, spotlight, or window light—to show off their form and materials.
Related reading: How to Pair an Accent Chair with a Sofa.