Finding the perfect designer armchair for your living room can quickly become a headache. Not only must it elevate your interior design, but it also (and most importantly!) has to offer impeccable comfort for your moments of relaxation. Faced with the multitude of models available, it's easy to get lost.
This guide is here to light the way. As the Head of Product Recommendations at Joybuy, my mission is to give you concrete advice and a curated selection of standout armchairs, all in a straightforward manner. Together, we'll break down the criteria that truly matter and discover some hidden gems that could breathe new life into your home.
Before you take the plunge, a few key points need to be considered. The ideal armchair is always a careful balance between aesthetics, its intended use, and the space you have available.
First step, and a crucial one: get out your tape measure! Measure the exact spot where your future armchair will take pride of place. But don't just stop at its width and depth: also consider the circulation space needed all around it. A small designer armchair is often the perfect solution for creating a reading nook in a bedroom or to serve as an accent chair in a living room without visually cluttering the space. Don't forget the backrest height either—a critical detail if you plan to place it under a window or a shelf.
The upholstery sets the tone, both for style and maintenance. The velvet armchair remains a timeless classic, prized for its silky feel and warm look that brings an immediate touch of elegance. Other materials, like corduroy or the very trendy bouclé fabric, offer interesting textures and excellent durability.
In terms of style, a Scandinavian armchair with clean lines and light wood legs will naturally find its place in a modern, minimalist decor. If you're dreaming of a more intimate atmosphere, a modern take on the classic tub chair will bring that timeless, cosy charm.
Ask yourself what it will really be used for. For long hours of reading, a reading chair with a high back and armrests is essential for optimal comfort. If it's more of an accent chair for welcoming guests, a model with a more striking design and a firmer seat will do the job perfectly. The art lies in finding the right balance between a design statement piece and a truly inviting seat.
To help you envision the possibilities, we've selected three models that stand out for their style, comfort, and versatility.
Why it stands out?: This chair is a contemporary twist on the classic wingback. Its grey corduroy upholstery is both trendy and pleasant to the touch, while its black metal frame gives it a modern look and rock-solid durability. Its generous dimensions (65 x 62 x 83 cm) make it a centrepiece that is as comfortable as it is impressive.
Strong points?:
Who is it for?? For those looking for a spacious and enveloping reading chair that blends classic inspiration with a resolutely modern finish.
Why it stands out?: This armless model embodies understated elegance. Its beige velvet upholstery and solid wood legs are the signature of Scandinavian style. Its clean silhouette allows it to integrate easily into smaller areas without overwhelming the space.
Strong points?:
Who is it for?? For lovers of minimalist design looking for a chic and functional accent seat, ideal for apartments and small spaces.
Why it stands out?: With its petal-shaped backrest and slender gold metal legs, this armchair is a true style statement. The contrast between the deep black velvet and the shine of the gold metal gives it a glamorous and sophisticated, very Art Deco look.
Strong points?:
Who is it for?? For those who want to make their armchair the star of the room. It's perfect for injecting a dose of originality and a touch of luxury into a bedroom, dressing room, or lounge area.
Has velvet caught your eye, but you want to explore other options? This selection is just a taste. To discover a much wider range of colours, shapes, and styles, feel free to browse our complete collection.
Discover all our velvet armchairs
1. How do I integrate a designer armchair into a small living room?? Opt for a small designer armchair with clean lines, or even an armless one, to lighten its profile. Light colours and slender, high legs (in wood or metal) are also an excellent trick to visually enlarge the room, as they allow the eye to move freely and light to diffuse.
2. What colour should I choose for a living room armchair?? It all depends on the desired atmosphere. A neutral colour (grey, beige, taupe) is a safe bet that fits in anywhere and brings timeless elegance. Conversely, a bold colour (mustard yellow, teal, forest green) will act as a pop of colour to liven up a decor that's a bit too subdued.
3. Is a velvet armchair difficult to maintain?? Good news: today's velvet armchair often comes with stain-resistant treatments that make it much easier to live with. For daily care, a gentle brushing or regular vacuuming (with the brush attachment) is enough to maintain its softness and shine. In case of a spill, the secret is to act quickly: use a clean, damp cloth with a touch of neutral soap, dabbing the area gently—and most importantly, without rubbing.