Arm Chairs

Traditional armchairs have one straight, short leg at each of the four corners of the chair. Arms are round, and you find upholstered fabric or rich leather as the material. Button tufting creates a classic look while shoring up the cover material and fill. Nailhead trim adds an elegant touch as a counterpoint along the arms and front. Backs may be high, low, or standard heights for comfort. The shape of the back may be straight and plush, or it might be slightly curved for comfort. Stunning traditional pieces have oval backs, gorgeous paisley fabric and an open design containing carved wood.

Mid-century modern armchairs feature flared legs that jut out from the bottom a bit. Look for upholstered fabric, sleek lines, standard cushion thicknesses, and low backs. Mid-century pieces often work with solid, neutral hues that go with plenty of other elements in your existing decor. These armchairs may serve as a transition from one style in your room to the next.

Rustic-style armchairs typically make use of some kind of natural-looking element, such as raw wood or cowhide, as a material. Patterns on the fabric may display nature scenes, such as animals, forests, or a particular season of the year. Rustic armchairs make it seem as if you live near the deep woods, go on vacation at a lodge, or love the great outdoors. Placing a rustic armchair can draw attention to your living room ensemble or blend in with everything else.

Industrial armchairs feature metal somewhere in the legs and frame. This metal comes in a grey or black color, and you may find it has a weathered or distressed look as if the chair belongs in a working factory or workshop. Some industrial pieces have minimal materials in the seat for a sturdy look, while others have plenty of padding that counters the sturdy, thin metal elements of the legs. Plastic seats on top of metal legs appear as if they belong in a school or office setting.

Modern and contemporary armchairs use current trends and updated aesthetic tastes to create items that appeal to newer generations of furniture buyers. Pedestal-type legs, stainless steel elements, ergonomic seats, and sturdy materials allow manufacturers to make all kinds of chairs in varied colors. You may find a rich, leather piece with a high back done in purple with low arms, or a simple piece with nailhead trim, pastel fabric, and flared stainless steel legs.

Transitional armchairs serve two purposes. They blend more than one style in the same piece or serve as a transition from one part of the room to another. For example, a chair with elegant carved legs in a traditional style might employ a color pattern that shows big, bright flowers typically found in a contemporary piece. The carved legs would complement a hardwood floor, while the flower pattern might go well with a nearby window treatment that also has a floral pattern.

Upholstery materials run the gamut, so you have plenty of choices as to what suits your needs. Linen and fabric represent two traditional materials, while leather and faux leather add luster in traditional and modern styles. Velvet creates a shine and softness with a luxurious feel, and microfiber has a subdued shine and a sturdy weave. Cotton and polyester have similar traits while maintaining breathability and an easy-to-clean surface.

A wide range of colors, even in leather armchairs, let you complement, mix, or match whatever hues you find appropriate. Neutral hues complement other neutrals in your room, including white, beige, tan, navy, and grey. A bright color enlivens your room without redecorating the entire space, while a darker shade can tone-down a white wall or carpet. Pick out your favorite color and build an entire living room around it.

Patterns augment the colors of armchairs with an extra dimension of style. Floral patterns can make bright colors stand out, while geometric patterns, stripes, and chevrons denote a more traditional pattern for fabric. A certain pattern can complement a window treatment, lamp shade, or piece of art. Solid patterns have no shapes or designs whatsoever, and there is a single block of color.