We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more.
Accentuate your space with these functional and stylish pieces. Fold Chair Beach
Better Homes & Gardens / David Hattan
The best accent chairs are a great way to combine comfort, functionality, and style into one piece. While they provide extra seating in your bedroom, living room, den, or other areas, they also add an appealing focal point, complementing your overall design and aesthetic.
“Some small accent chairs may have narrower armrests or no armrests at all, contributing to their smaller size," says Vivianne Chow, interior decorator and owner of Viv and Tim Home.
To find the best small accent chairs, we researched top-rated options and considered several factors, including dimensions, weight capacity, and material. In addition to Chow, we also consulted Leigh Spicher, interior designer and national director of design studios at Ashton Woods, for expert insight on what to look for when choosing a small accent chair.
We evaluated 22 small accent chairs for the style, dimensions, weight capacity, and material.
The velvet fabric and gold legs offer a luxe look.
It doesn’t have arms, which may not suit all preferences.
Overall, the best small accent chair is the Etta Avenue Euclid Side Chair, which will add some retro glamour to any room of your home. The plush velvet chair has a simple yet elegant design. Plus, there’s a rounded back for added comfort.
The seat and back cushions are stuffed with foam and the 22-inch wide seat offers plenty of room to settle into that plush comfort. The gold metal legs are flared in the style of mid-century modern furniture and paired with the chair’s velvet material, this chair will add a luxe touch to your home.
The armless silhouette won’t take up much room, so it’s ideal for small spaces. There are 17 vibrant colors to choose from but if you’re looking for something more subdued, there are neutral options like ivory, tan, and black.
Although the seat sits pretty on its own, you could purchase it as a three-piece set with a second chair and matching loveseat.
Product Details: Dimensions: 26 x 29.5 x 31 | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds | Material: Velvet, wood
It’s offered either individually or as a set, so you can choose which suits your needs best.
If you’re looking for a chair that's less expensive than other options with a mid-century style, you might love the Novigo Accent Chair.
The chair is only offered in one color but we think the blue velvet covering adds texture and a bold pop of color to any room. Plus, the gold metal legs give it a luxurious touch. It’s also comfortable due to the high-density sponge on the wide seat.
This option has a weight capacity of 275 pounds, and its compact size can fit in the corner of your bedroom or as a small accent chair in your living room. We also like that it’s available on its own and in packs of two and four, which is ideal if you decide to use it as a dining chair.
Product Details: Dimensions: 24.8 x 30 x 24.4 inches | Weight: 14.3 pounds | Weight Capacity: 275 pounds
You’ll be able to choose the base finish and fabric type for a custom look that suits your style.
The made-to-order fabric options have at least a 12-week delivery time.
According to Spicher, accent chairs aren’t meant to be an afterthought, and this swoon-worthy style from Pottery Barn makes a good case. Unlike some other leather armchairs where you might feel swallowed up, the Wells Tufted Swivel Armchair is a much sleeker seat that won’t overwhelm your space.
The tufted cushion gives it a classic look, but the metal swivel base gives it a contemporary accent that’s perfect for your living room or any other cozy spot in your home. This is the epitome of an easy chair—in fact, the only hard part is choosing which of the dozens of colors you want for the leather upholstery. You can also choose the base in bronze, brass, or brushed nickel.
Depending on the combination you choose, you might have to wait weeks or even months for delivery. However, we think the style is worth the wait.
Product Details: Dimensions: 33.5 x 36.5 x 38 inches | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | Material: Leather, steel
There are four leather colors to choose from, so you’ll be able to pick which works best in your space.
You’ll have to wait at least five weeks for it to arrive.
If you think a leather armchair might be overwhelming for your space, this sleek model from West Elm is the best small accent chair to consider. The scooped curves of the Jonah Leather Chair offer plenty of support for your arms and back without taking up too much floor space.
The smooth leather adds sophisticated elegance to any room, especially your living room. But don’t let that stop you from getting into your pajamas or sweats and curling up in it to relax with a book or your favorite reality TV show. It’s got a roomy seat perfect for settling in and staying for a while.
The chair is offered in four classic colors: gray, black, blue, and nut (brown). If you’re not sure which color you prefer, you can always order free swatches to ensure you’ve picked a winner. Just keep in mind that once you choose a chair color, the chair may take at least five weeks to arrive.
Product Details: Dimensions: 28 x 33 x 28.5 inches | Weight Capacity: Not listed | Material: Leather with solid wood legs
It’s offered in over 50 colors and features a tall back seat cushion for added support.
It’s 83 pounds, which could make it difficult to move around your home if you need to.
If you’ve got an open floor plan, Spicher recommends a swivel seat to create more functional conversation areas. Take this custom Aaronsburg Swivel Armchair from Wayfair, for example, which features a tall back seat cushion for added support.
The stylish, sleek arms make this chair far less bulky than its more traditional counterparts, but it’s still a cozy and sophisticated seat. It’s a great option on its own as a reading chair, but it’ll also pair well with a sofa or loveseat. Part of what makes this one of the best small accent chairs, however, is that it’s offered in over 50 colors. You can even order free swatches to ensure the color fits your space before you commit.
The made-to-order piece will take about five weeks to be delivered. When it does arrive, keep in mind that it’s 83 pounds, so you’ll want to place it just where you want it as it can be difficult to move.
Product Details: Dimensions: 30 x 35 x 33 inches | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds | Material: Polyester, metal, and manufactured wood
It offers a more stylish look than traditional recliner chairs.
Some partial assembly is required.
“Recliner” and “small accent chair” are two furniture terms that don’t typically go hand in hand. But this compact chair Red barrel Studio style proves that not all recliners need to engulf a room whenever you feel like putting your feet up.
The Ruthie Upholstered Recliner has a midcentury modern look thanks to its wooden legs and overall silhouette, which is more stylish than typical recliners. It’s offered in a variety of colors as well, so you can choose which suits your home best.
The chair requires some partial assembly and it’s suggested that two people take on the job. When it’s assembled, however, you’ll appreciate the reclining back and footrest that makes for a great spot to unwind.
Product Details: Dimensions: 28 x 31.75 x 35 inches | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | Material: Polyester
It’s also available as an ottoman set.
It’s heavy and requires meticulous maintenance.
If you’re looking to splurge on a small accent chair to last you for years, we suggest the Article Otio Oak Lounge Chair. Constructed of solid wood, this chair has a sleek yet ergonomic design that’ll add a touch of style anywhere it’s placed.
We like that you can choose between two fabric colors or two leather colors, a walnut or oak wood stain, and you can add a matching ottoman for an additional price. The mid-century modern style provides a touch of elegance to any space, and although the wood frame makes it quite heavy, it’s a beautiful, functional, and comfortable piece.
It’s also important to keep in mind that this chair’s maintenance can be meticulous, requiring dry cleaning for the fabric upholstery, a soft and dry cloth for the wood, and leather oil for the leather upholstery. If you’re willing and able to keep up with this maintenance, this small accent chair will reward you with comfort and sophistication for years to come.
Product Details: Dimensions: 26 x 33 x 36 inches | Weight: 44 pounds | Weight Capacity: Not listed
The curved back offers additional support and comfort.
It’s only offered in two colors.
For an on-trend style, the best small accent chair is this Latitude Run style. The boucle swivel chair features a curved back that offers additional support and comfort while you lounge.
The compact curves of this small accent chair won’t be hard to fit into your space, but you might find yourself reconfiguring it so that this gorgeous chair scores a prime spot. It comes in cream or light gray so you can add neutral, sophisticated seating regardless of your room’s color palette.
Part of what makes this pick one of the best small accent chairs is that it works as well in a bedroom as it would in a living room or even as a vanity chair. Regardless, you’re sure to be comfortable thanks to the textured upholstery and foam-filled seat.
Product Details: Dimensions: 30 x 31.5 x 31.5 inches | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | Material: Polyester, manufactured wood frame, and metal base
The wide back and armrests provided added support and comfort.
The ottoman doesn’t feature any storage.
A small accent chair with a coordinating ottoman offers the best of both worlds: a comfortable footrest if you’d like to recline or a padded stool for additional seating. Whatever your preference, consider this stylish pair from Red Barrel Studio.
The Michaelson Upholstered Armchair and ottoman duo is offered in three classic colors: blue, gray, and wheat. The plush, button-tufted cushioning of this classic-style armchair gets a modern-day overhaul thanks to a nailhead trim. Plus, the wide back and armrests provided added support and comfort.
The lower chair back and recessed arms create a sleeker silhouette, so this chair won’t take up much space even with the ottoman close by. The ottoman, which doesn’t feature any storage, is wide enough to double as a small stool to sit on or a tiny table to place a tray of snacks when entertaining.
Product Details: Dimensions: 33 x 34.25 x 34.5 inches (chair), 25.25 x 20 x 18 inches (ottoman) | Weight Capacity: Not listed | Material: Polyester, metal base
It can be used indoors or in a covered outdoor area.
It may not be comfortable for long periods of time.
If you’re looking for the best rattan small accent chair that has dual indoor and outdoor use then you’ll love the Anthropologie Pari Rattan Chair. We love the durable woven rattan with a sealed lacquer, wide armrests, and easy maintenance.
It’s functional and stylish in both a covered patio and in your living room, and you can dress it up with a seat cushion, throw pillow, or throw blanket for a cozy and homey touch.
While we definitely love the look of this small accent chair, it’s important to keep in mind that there’s no cushion so it may not be too comfortable to sit in for long periods of time. However, it’s a compact style, so it can be paired with another along with a small table to create a mini bistro in a corner of your home.
Product Details: Dimensions: 25 x 30.25 x 21.5 inches | Weight: Not listed | Weight Capacity: Not listed
It’s less expensive than other options and the curved legs offer an additional decorative touch.
Can a small accent chair make a big statement? It can if it’s the Etta Avenue Grenier Side Chair. Although this design is compact enough to make a cozy spot to sit anywhere, it’s one of the best small accent chairs to consider for a bedroom.
The chair could sit in a bedroom corner as an additional place to rest or even curl up with a good book. Before you can use it, however, keep in mind that it will require some assembly once it’s delivered.
This small accent chair offers up plenty of vintage glamour thanks to the piping around the edge and the button-tufted cushioning. The chair is offered in either velvet or soft cotton depending on your choice of color, of which there are over 10 options.
Product Details: Dimensions: 25.1 x 26.7 x 30.3 inches | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds | Material: Velvet, manufactured wood
It has a charming seashell-shaped back.
It has a lower weight capacity than other options on this list.
If you have the space for a vanity in your room, then you know a vanity chair can add a dash of personality and style. We love the Bowthy Vanity Accent Chair for its elegant seashell-shaped back, glamorous gold metal legs, and soft fabric that’s available in pink, beige, or white.
We appreciate the adjustable foot pads that prevent wobbling and slipping, and it's lightweight, so you can move it around with ease. Some assembly is required, though we think the effort is worth it for this design. Keep in mind that this pick has a 250-pound weight capacity, which is lower than some other styles.
This small accent chair pairs well with just about any vanity and adds a visual point of interest to a bedroom, guest room, or living room. Whether you’re using it as a vanity chair, reading chair, or just as a decorative piece, this small accent chair is the eye-catching detail your home has been missing.
Product Details: Dimensions: 19.7 x 31.5 x 18.5 inches | Weight: 14.7 pounds | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
It has a sturdy base and high backrest. Plus, you can use the armrests to have a blanket or burp cloth handy.
The price varies by material and color.
A small accent chair for your nursery is a must for those quiet downtimes, which is why we recommend the NIOIIKIT Nursery Rocking Chair. We love the high ergonomic backrest, sturdy rocking base with a non-slip pad, and the 105-degree lift.
The high and wide curved armrests are ideal for staying comfortable as you hold your baby and can also be used as a place to keep a blanket or burp cloth. If you’re sitting in it by yourself, the seat is wide enough to sit comfortably in a crossed-leg position.
Although the prices vary based on the color or material, there’s not too much of a difference, and we think it’s well worth the price. Plus, you get to choose between teddy or velvet in 18 colors to go with the style of your nursery.
Product Details: Dimensions: 28 x 37 x 32 inches | Weight: 26 pounds | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
The hexagonal shape offers a unique look.
You can’t remove the cushion, which could make cleaning it more difficult.
For an alternative to couches and loveseats, consider the roomy Petrin Lounge Chair from Mercury Row. The stylish chair features a decorative tufted detail and is one of the best small accent chairs to consider for a living room.
The hexagonal style of this chair is a departure from the typical round and square options on our list. The chair is offered in seven colors, so you can choose which works in your home. Unlike other armchairs that feature straighter silhouettes, the angles on this chair turn it into a statement piece. The cushion isn’t removable, however, which could make cleaning it a bit difficult.
From the flared armrests to the splayed legs crafted from wood with a sophisticated beige finish, the mid-century modern vibes of this chair will transform your living room into your favorite room of the house. Drape a throw blanket or arrange a small pillow if you’d like, but this chair can indeed speak for itself in your living room.
Product Details: Dimensions: 31.5 x 27.5 x 32 inches | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds | Material: Polyester-cotton blend, plastic, and wood
It’s offered in eight colors and has a swivel feature. Plus, it arrives fully assembled.
The seat is on the firm side.
If you like the look of boucle texture, the Ivy Bronx Hadriel Swivel Accent Boucle Chair is one of the best small accent chairs to consider. We love that this chair has a 360-degree swivel feature, which makes it a great vanity, nursery, or kids’ room chair.
The boucle is soft yet durable and stain-resistant, and it comes fully assembled so you can get straight to enjoying your new armchair. We especially love that it’s offered in eight colors, so you can match it to any aesthetic.
While the seat is quite firm and may not be comfortable for those who want something plush, it’s definitely a great choice for anyone who wants a soft and contemporary small accent chair.
Though there is a curved back that’ll offer support, it’s worth noting that there are no armrests on this style.
Product Details: Dimensions: 29.6 x 27.2 x 27.6 inches | Weight: 35.28 pounds | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
It has vibrant and patterned upholstery.
It’s more expensive than other styles and white glove delivery would be an additional $149.
Wingback accent chairs are beneficial for those looking for a little extra width in the backrest of their small accent chair. We think the Anthropologie Izzy Petite Accent Chair is one of the best small accent chairs due to its beautiful and vibrant upholstery featuring lush florals and colorful birds.
We like the soft cotton-linen blend, hardwood frame and acacia wood legs, and the spring seat cushion for extra comfort. While Anthropologie offers similar petite accent chairs in other colors, patterns, and prices, we think this Izzy one is sure to stand out in any office, bedroom, or living room.
This pick is more expensive than some other options and white glove delivery would be an additional $149. However, if you want a bold piece for your space we still think this is one of the best small accent chairs to consider.
Product Details: Dimensions: 26 x 30 x 29.5 inches | Weight: Not listed | Weight Capacity: Not listed
It has a curved seat for extra comfort.
Some fabric options may take over a month to ship.
If you have a small study space or living room, an armless accent chair might be your best option. We love the West Elm Slope Leather Lounge Chair as the best armless accent chair because it’s customizable, sophisticated, and comfortable.
This chair is offered in real and vegan leather in various muted colors and can be purchased on its own or as a pair. Just keep in mind that several options may take over a month to ship, so it's not the best small accent chair if you're in need of seating quickly.
The wide stance and curved seat make it extra comfortable, even if you’re sitting in it for long periods, and the powder-coated steel frame makes it durable and sturdy.
This is also considered a contract-grade item, meaning it is manufactured to meet the long-lasting demands of both residential and commercial spaces. If you choose this chair with real leather upholstery, you’ll have to keep it away from liquids and direct sunlight, while periodically wiping it with a clean, dry cloth and a leather cleaner kit.
On the other hand, artificial, or vegan leather, only needs to be cleaned with a slightly damp cloth. Whichever you choose, we think the sleek design of this small accent chair is worth the price and maintenance.
Product Details: Dimensions: 26.4 x 28 x 28 inches | Weight: Not listed |Weight Capacity: Not listed
It has a stylish look and is offered in four wood finishes.
It needs to be kept out of direct sunlight and requires some light assembly.
Most small accent chairs cannot be folded up and stored away when you need the space, but the Lue Bona Grasse Folding Rope Woven Accent Chair does just that. Made of solid wood and a tightly woven yet flexible and durable paper cord, this chair has a stylish look that’ll fit in any space.
We like that it’s available in four wood finishes and two weave patterns to add texture and dimension to your home. Best of all, it folds up so you can store it and transport it with ease. While we think this option would be a great addition to a living room or sunroom, it’s important to note that it should be kept out of direct sunlight to protect the chair.
Product Details: Dimensions: 25.59 x 28.35 x 33.86 inches | Weight: Not listed | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
It’s stackable and can be used both indoors and outdoors.
It doesn’t have a cushion.
If you’re looking for a modern small accent chair that you can use both indoors and outdoors, we recommend the Blu Dot Hot Mesh Lounge Chair. With its powder-coated steel frame and bold geometric pattern, this chair will look great on your deck, under a pergola, or in your living room.
We especially love that it’s stackable, so it’s easy to store if you have more than one, and it’s available in eight colors so you can mix and match them for a contemporary look. While this chair is all metal and does not include a cushion, you can add your own if you want to keep it indoors as a comfortable seat or add a throw pillow with fade-resistant fabric for chilling on your sunny patio.
Product Details: Dimensions: 28 x 26 x 27 inches | Weight: 14 pounds | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
The seat cover is removable and machine washable.
The midcentury modern style is easily recognizable with its sleek, clean lines and wood materials. We love the Eluchang Mid-Century Modern Accent Chair for its durable solid wood handrail frame and wide backrest, plus, the seat cover is removable, so you can toss it in the washing machine.
We especially like that it has a non-pilling fabric, so you never have to worry about significant wear and tear. This small accent chair is less expensive than other styles, which is ideal if you need more than one. Plus, it’s available in 14 color and fabric options to fit your style and lifestyle needs.
Although this chair requires some assembly, we think its overall look and value are worth it. If you want a midcentury modern small accent chair without the vintage prices, then this is a must-have for your bedroom or living room.
Product Details: Dimensions: 31 x 25.6 x 30 inches | Weight: 33 pounds | Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
It’s offered in five colors and is less expensive than other styles.
If you’re looking for an accent chair that’ll make it easy to put your feet up and relax, we recommend the Latitude Run Upholstered Linen Barrel Chair with Ottoman. With solid wood legs, a comfortable linen blend material, and a small matching ottoman, this chair is an ideal option for sunrooms, living rooms, and guest rooms.
We like that this chair is available in five colors, and it has a weight capacity of 350 pounds. Plus, the two-piece set is less expensive than other options on the market. There is some assembly required, though it’s fairly simple. All you’ll have to do is screw the legs into each piece and the chair is ready for use.
Product Details: Dimensions: 27 x 28.5 x 25.5 inches | Weight: 26.84 pounds | Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
It’s available in over 26 colors and patterns.
It’s not a rocking option.
Although barrel accent chairs tend to take up more space because of their thick, round form, the Andover Mills Hansell Upholstered Swivel Barrel Chair is the perfect size for your bedroom corner, next to your living room fireplace, or in a cozy reading nook.
We love that it’s offered in over 26 colors and patterns, so it’s easy to find a style that suits your home best. If you’re not sure which option you prefer, however, you can also order fabric samples to try out first.
The chair is made with antimicrobial and stain-resistant fabric, so you can enjoy a cup of coffee or wine while you lounge. It also has a swivel feature and its classic barrel shape is cozy without feeling bulky, and the solid base is barely visible, so it doesn’t take away from the look of the chair.
This pick isn’t a rocking style, so it’s not ideal for a nursery. However, we still think you can pair this small accent chair with a textured throw pillow and a soft blanket to create the coziest, best seat in your house.
Product Details: Dimensions: 31 x 30 x 27.5 inches | Weight: 34 pounds | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Overall, the best small accent chair is the Etta Avenue Euclid Upholstered Side Chair because of its velvet fabric and gold legs that offer a luxe look. There’s also a rounded back for added comfort.
Accent chairs are measured from the highest point of the back to the bottom of the legs or base (height); from arm to arm or leg to leg, whichever is wider (width); and from the front to the back of the seat cushion to the back of the chair (depth).
Note that the depth of the seat is different—that’s the measurement of the cushion from the front to the back. While an accent chair should be easier to get into your home than a loveseat or a sofa, you should still measure your door frames to avoid surprises—though you can likely remove the legs of many chairs if needed.
Chow recommends a small accent chair without arms if your room is especially compact, and to consider its width and height so it doesn’t take up too much space.
“When shopping for a small accent chair, you’ll want to make note of the dimensions and make sure the seat height generally aligns with the seating area it will be paired with,” she says.
Accent chairs are not merely decorative; they’re meant to be used as practical seating. If you plan to spend quality time curled up in one of yours, you’ll want to choose a supportive one. Most of the selections on our best small accent chairs list have a weight capacity of 250 to 300 pounds, so you can literally rest assured that your chair will hold up.
Additionally, Chow says to always double-check that the capacity can hold the weight of an adult, as many small accent chairs are made for children and thus have a lesser weight capacity.
The selections on our best small accent chairs list run the gamut of color, material, and texture, so there’s something for everyone’s taste. Typically, the best small accent chairs are either polyester, leather, or velvet.
.Even if you prefer a more neutral palette, an accent chair can be as bold as you’d like it to be, says Spicher. “The accent chair gives us the opportunity to layer color, patterns, and even playful shapes into our spaces,” she says.
When choosing a material, Spicher and Chow suggest considering the level of care that’s involved, especially if you’ll be using it frequently or if you have children and/or pets. Leather may require more professional cleaning, while polyester can likely be spot-cleaned.
To avoid the dreaded sticker shock, Chow says you should prepare to spend anywhere from $100 to $700 on a small accent chair.
“Its price can depend on the brand, quality, material, and size,” she says. “If you’re on a tight budget, there are many beautiful and affordable accent chair options from Amazon, Target, and Walmart to choose from. Prices also vary by material. For example, if you want a leather accent you might spend more than $700 for genuine leather.”
Don’t just shove an accent chair in a corner and forget about it. “Accent chairs are a fundamental part of a well-designed space,” says Spicher. They provide balance to the room and create a focal point—notably, one that invites you to sit. So, where should one go in your space?
“Consider how [accent chairs] relate to the other furniture pieces in your space,” says Spicher. “As a rule, they can be placed at a 90-degree angle next to larger pieces, or if you have two accent chairs, they can be placed opposite one larger piece, like a sofa, desk, or bed.”
If you’ve got an open floor plan, accent chairs—especially ones that swivel— are ideal for creating different seating areas throughout the larger space, she explains.
According to Chow, a small accent chair offers increased seating and high-impact design without taking up too much space. Small accent chairs are versatile since they’re both functional and decorative. “They are a great solution to maximize seating without overwhelming the room,” she says.
Although the best small accent chairs are likely to make a statement on their own, there are ways to accessorize them to suit your space even better. Spicher suggests complementary lighting and decor to “layer the space” surrounding your accent chair—and a decorative pillow or throw is always a good choice. However, she also notes that not every chair necessarily needs to be styled.
“Accent chairs should be different from other furniture pieces in the room, so its style should stand alone,” she says.
Barbara Bellesi Zito is a freelance writer from Staten Island, New York, covering all things home and lifestyle for Better Homes & Gardens. To compile this list of the best small accent chairs, she researched dozens of options with an eye toward style, color, and comfort. She also consulted Leigh Spicher, interior designer and national director of design studios at Ashton Woods.
Foldable Camping Chair Folding Chairs This article was updated by L. Daniela Alvarez, a contributing writer for Better Homes & Gardens. She has three years of experience specifically writing lifestyle content and product reviews for a variety of publications. For this article, she spent several hours researching the best small accent chairs. She also consulted Vivianne Chow, interior decorator and owner of Viv and Tim Home.