Throws draped over the sofa, magazines piling up on the coffee table, kids' toys taking over the living room… Creating space without sacrificing your decor is a daily challenge. Fortunately, the storage ottoman is the secret weapon for a two-in-one solution?: a comfortable extra seat and a storage space that's as discreet as it is effective.
This guide is here to help you navigate the options. We've broken down the essential criteria and selected several models to help you find the perfect ottoman with storage for your home.
Before you fall for a particular model, let's review the key points to check to ensure you make the right choice.
It all starts with dimensions. Take the time to measure the area where you plan to place your new ottoman. A round model will soften the look of a living room with clean lines, while a square or rectangular ottoman can be easily tucked against a wall or at the foot of a sofa.
For larger spaces or specific needs, a storage bench is often a more practical choice. Placed in an entryway, it provides a place to sit while putting on shoes and stowing away scarves and hats. At the end of the bed, it becomes a valuable chest for household linens or extra pillows.
The upholstery of your ottoman is crucial?: it will set the tone for your room.
The goal is to create a sense of overall harmony. Your storage chest should complement your sofa and armchairs, not clash with them.
What will be its primary purpose? If it's meant to hide a few remote controls and magazines, a compact model will suffice. If you want to store thick blankets, board games, or toys, it's better to opt for a more spacious model.
Some models are foldable, which is a plus for seasonal storage. Others offer a reversible lid or an internal divider for better organisation. This dual functionality as a seat with storage makes it a true Swiss Army knife of furniture.
To give you a more concrete idea, here are three models that perfectly illustrate the range of possibilities.
What we loved?: This ottoman captivates with its Scandinavian-inspired design. The combination of the soft-touch brown bouclé fabric and natural wood feet gives it a look that is both warm and modern. Its compact size makes it easy to integrate into any room.
Key features?:
Who is it for?? For those looking for a stylish extra seat, whether in the living room or bedroom, with that extra touch of Nordic soul.
What we loved?: This model stands out for its great versatility and sturdiness. Designed as a bench, it offers generous seating and a substantial storage volume of 131 litres. Its foldable structure is a significant advantage for those who need modularity.
Key features?:
Who is it for?? Perfect for families or for use at the end of a bed or in an entryway. The ultimate spacious and robust storage solution, without compromising on comfort.
What we loved?: This ottoman focuses on simplicity and functionality. Its cubic design and sober black colour allow it to blend into almost any modern decor. Lightweight and requiring no assembly, it's ready to use right out of the box.
Key features?:
Who is it for?? The ultimate smart and accessible option. Ideal for a studio, a student's room, or as a first piece of furniture when you need a simple and effective solution.
Haven't found the one yet?? If these models don't check all your boxes (colour, shape, material), know that there are a myriad of other possibilities. A larger storage ottoman or one in a pop of colour might just be the missing piece in your decor.
Discover our complete collection of Living Room Ottomans to find the model that will perfectly complement your interior design.
For most fabrics (polyester, linen), spot cleaning is sufficient. Gently dab the stain with a damp cloth and a little mild soap. In any case, consult the manufacturer's instructions before you begin. Absolutely avoid abrasive products that could damage the upholstery.
The supported weight varies greatly from one model to another. A small accent ottoman can support around 100-120 kg, while a sturdy storage bench can hold up to 300 kg. This information is usually specified in the product's features, and it is crucial to respect it for obvious safety reasons.
Thanks to its versatility, the storage ottoman fits almost anywhere in the house. In the living room, it serves as a footrest, an impromptu coffee table, or extra seating. In the bedroom, it becomes a practical end-of-bed bench. In the entryway, it holds shoes and accessories. And in a child's room, it's the perfect toy box.