Ottoman and Pouffe Buying Guide: Size, Height and Material

Quick answer

Choose an ottoman or pouffe that matches your primary use: a height of 16–18 inches works as a footrest for most sofas, while 18–20 inches suits extra seating. For a round pouffe in a living room, aim for a diameter of 20–24 inches to avoid crowding walkways. Leather resists spills and pets; fabric offers more warmth and color variety.

Ottoman vs pouffe: what's the difference?

The terms are often used interchangeably, but traditionally an ottoman is a padded, backless piece that can have a frame, legs, or storage. A pouffe is typically smaller, softer, and sometimes lacks a rigid frame—think a round, stuffed footstool. In practice, the line blurs: many modern pouffes have sturdy bases, and many ottomans are round and compact. Focus on dimensions and function rather than the label.

Size and shape: fit your floor plan first

Measure your available floor space before shopping. For a living room, leave at least 18 inches of walkway around the ottoman or pouffe. A round pouffe with a 20–24 inch diameter fits well beside an armchair or as a solo accent. Rectangular ottomans work better as coffee table substitutes; choose one that is about two-thirds the length of your sofa. If you plan to use it as extra seating, allow 24 inches of width per person.

Height: match your sofa and your purpose

For a footrest, the ottoman top should be within 1–2 inches of your sofa seat height—typically 16–18 inches. If you want a surface for trays or laptops, look for 18–20 inches. For extra seating, a height of 18–20 inches is comfortable for most adults. Always measure your sofa seat height from the floor to the top of the cushion, not the frame.

Material matters: leather vs fabric and beyond

Leather is durable, easy to wipe clean, and develops a patina, but it can feel cold and is prone to scratches from pets. Fabric—cotton, linen, velvet, or wool—offers warmth and endless colors, though it stains more easily. Performance fabrics resist spills. For high-traffic homes with kids or pets, consider leather or a tight-weave performance fabric. For a cozy, layered look, velvet or boucle adds texture.

Storage and multifunctionality

If you need to hide throws or magazines, a storage ottoman with a lift-off lid is practical. But storage models are often heavier and less portable. A simple pouffe without storage is lighter and easier to move when you need extra floor space. Decide whether you value concealment or flexibility more.

Style and placement tips

A round pouffe can soften angular furniture and works well in small living rooms because it has no sharp corners. Place it at a 45-degree angle to your sofa for a relaxed look. For a cohesive feel, repeat a color or texture from your rug or cushions. If you choose a bold pattern, keep other elements calm.

Decision rules for buying an ottoman or pouffe

• Measure your sofa seat height: Use a tape measure from floor to top of seat cushion. Choose an ottoman within 1–2 inches of that number for a footrest. If your sofa is 17 inches high, look for a 16–18 inch ottoman.
• Decide primary use: footrest, seat, or table: Footrest: prioritize height match. Extra seat: choose 18–20 inches and a firm cushion. Table: pick a flat, stable top at 18–20 inches. One ottoman rarely excels at all three; pick the main job.
• Choose material based on household: Leather for easy cleaning and durability; fabric for warmth and variety. Performance fabric if you want both. With pets or kids, leather or performance fabric saves stress.
• Check walkway clearance: Leave at least 18 inches between the ottoman and other furniture or walls for comfortable movement. In tight rooms, a round pouffe with a smaller diameter works better than a large rectangular ottoman.

Product facts to consider

• Cushion | accessory for Curious bar stool, counter stool, and dining chair: Cushion for Curious bar stool, counter stool, and dining chair; available in a variety of colours and textiles. A seat cushion can add comfort to hard seating, but it is not a standalone ottoman or pouffe. Use this if you already own Curious seating and want to soften it.
• Omni | wall lamp: Omni wall lamp rotates 360 degrees and can be mounted horizontally or vertically. Good lighting near an ottoman or pouffe helps you read or relax. The adjustable beam lets you direct light without adding a floor lamp.

Is an ottoman or pouffe right for you?

Best for

• Small living rooms where a round pouffe adds seating without blocking walkways.
• Homes with pets or kids that need easy-to-clean leather or performance fabric.
• People who want a footrest that matches their sofa height for ergonomic support.

Not for

• Rooms with less than 18 inches of clearance around the seating area—consider a slim side table instead.
• Anyone needing a large coffee table surface; a rectangular ottoman may still be too small for trays and laptops.
• Households that want hidden storage but are unwilling to lift a heavy lid; choose a storage coffee table instead.