After a long day, there is little better than sinking into a chair that is just for you. A well-chosen living room armchair isn't just another piece of furniture; it's a personal retreat for reading, relaxing or simply enjoying a quiet moment. But with so many styles, materials and features available, finding the right one can feel overwhelming.
This guide is designed to help you navigate the options. We will walk you through key considerations and share some of our top recommendations to help you find a comfortable and stylish armchair that perfectly suits your home and lifestyle.
Before you start browsing, a little planning can ensure you make a choice you will be happy with for years to come. Here are a few practical points to consider.
An armchair should complement your room, not dominate it. Before you fall in love with a design, measure the area where you plan to place it. Use masking tape on the floor to outline the chair's dimensions (width and depth). This helps you visualise its footprint and ensure there is enough space to walk around it comfortably. Remember to also check the chair's height, especially if you plan to place it under a window or near shelving. This is just as important for a main living room armchair as it is for a smaller bedroom chair.
The upholstery of your armchair affects its look, feel and durability.
Think about how you will use your chair most often. Do you dream of leaning back with your feet up? A recliner chair with an adjustable back and leg rest might be ideal. If you are an avid reader or experience back pain, a high back armchair provides crucial neck and shoulder support. For ultimate relaxation, an armchair with footstool allows you to stretch out completely. Some modern chairs even include convenient features like built-in USB ports for charging your devices.
Here are a few standout options that cater to different needs and styles.
Why It Stands Out This chair combines modern aesthetics with practical technology. Upholstered in soft pink velvet, it serves as a beautiful accent chair while offering features designed for today's lifestyle. The standout element is the inclusion of 2 USB ports built discreetly into the side, allowing you to charge your phone or tablet without leaving your seat. The backrest is adjustable for reclining, and it comes with a matching ottoman and pillow, creating a complete setup for a comfy reading chair.
Pros
Who is it for? This chair is well-suited for anyone wanting to add a stylish and functional piece to a living room, bedroom or reading nook. It is particularly good for those who appreciate modern conveniences.
Why It Stands Out For those who prioritise pure, uncomplicated relaxation, this recliner chair is a strong contender. It features a simple push-back mechanism that allows you to adjust between three positions: upright at 90°, relaxed at 120° or nearly flat at 160° for a quick nap. The PU brown leather is both comfortable and very easy to clean, and the chair includes practical touches like a side storage pocket and anti-slip foot pads. Its robust metal frame supports a weight capacity of up to 150kg.
Pros
Who is it for? This is an excellent choice for someone seeking a traditional, highly functional recliner for a living room or conservatory. Its durability and ease of maintenance make it a practical fit for everyday, heavy use.
Why It Stands Out The Monroe armchair is all about generous, enveloping comfort. Its oversized design features a deep seat, plush armrests and a supportive high back armchair structure with a distinct, extra-padded headrest. This makes it an exceptionally comfy reading chair, providing full support for your head and neck. The chair is upholstered in a sophisticated, thick-pile stone brown fabric armchair with a subtle texture, which is contrasted nicely by sleek chrome metal feet for a contemporary finish.
Pros
Who is it for? This armchair is perfect for individuals looking to create a dedicated relaxation corner. Its substantial size and focus on support make it an ideal long-term investment for anyone who loves to settle in with a good book or film.
Our recommendations cover a range of needs, but the world of armchairs is vast. If you have a specific colour or style in mind, such as a classic brown accent chair, you can explore a wider collection to find the perfect match for your decor.
How do I choose the right size armchair for my living room? Start by measuring the chair's width, depth and height and comparing these to your available space. A good rule of thumb is to leave at least 50cm of clearance around the chair to allow for comfortable movement. Visualising the footprint with masking tape on the floor is a helpful way to gauge its scale in the room.
What is the difference between an accent chair and a regular armchair? While the terms are often used interchangeably, an accent chair is typically chosen for its strong design element—be it a bold colour, unique shape or interesting pattern—to serve as a focal point in a room. A regular armchair may prioritise comfort and function over standout style, but many modern chairs successfully blend both roles.
Are recliner chairs difficult to maintain? Maintenance largely depends on the material. A recliner chair upholstered in PU leather is very easy to maintain and can be wiped clean with a damp cloth. Fabric recliners may require more attention, but many can be spot-cleaned effectively. The reclining mechanisms themselves are generally built for durability and require little to no maintenance.