What to Do With an Oversized Ottoman?

Coffee Table

• A tufted, oversized ottoman placed in the central space adjacent to a sectional sofa or large couch makes an ideal coffee or display table. Position the ottoman so it can be reached by anyone sitting around it and place a decorative tray on top. Add books or magazines, a vase with silk flowers, and you have a fashionable and elegant addition to your room. Remove the objects if you are expecting a large number of people and use it as additional seating.

Foot Rest for Many

• A large and fluffy ottoman is a comfortable footrest for anyone sitting nearby. Its fabric invites relaxation and when pushed against the front of a sofa, it creates a lounger. An oversized ottoman placed in front of a sectional sofa can be used by many people at one time.

As a Continuation of a Sectional Sofa

• If your sofa has an armless end, as many sectional sofas do, an oversized ottoman can extend the seating area of the sofa by butting up against the side of the end piece. This configuration puts all parties together on one sofa and makes it useful as a bed when an additional sleeping area is needed.

Storage Ottomans

• Clever designers have created storage areas within ottomans. An oversized ottoman can hide children's toys, pillows and blankets, or any items that are not used daily. On a loggia or terrace, a storage ottoman is ideal for protecting upholstered cushions and storing towels and swimming toys.

Ottoman/Bed Combination

• A unique use of an oversized ottoman is to fold it out until it becomes a single bed. This is perfect for small rooms, children's rooms and apartments that have little space. An ottoman/bed is the latest incarnation and use of an oversized ottoman and adds to the diversity of this piece of furniture.