Christmas is fast approaching. And for those planning festive soirees, luxury interiors brand Olivia’s is urging hosts to sort their seating plans right away.
Faye Simons, Head of Interior Design at Olivia’s, said: “During the festive period, we often need to break out the ‘emergency chairs’ to ensure everyone has a seat around the dinner table. Office chairs, garden furniture and bar stools are often called upon, but actually, there is a more stylish solution.”
Faye believes the key to ‘emergency’ seating is to invest in versatile pieces, such as ottomans, pouffes and occasional chairs, that can be thoughtfully placed throughout the home and used all year round.
Ottomans and Pouffes
Ottomans and pouffes not only look great but are an incredibly functional addition to any home. Opt for one that is rich in texture, think leather, boucle or velvet, to add visual interest to everyday interior style.
Faye said: “Pouffes and ottomans not only look great but are really useful, especially in living areas. For everyday use, they can be styled with a statement tray to double as a coffee table, a relaxing footrest or tucked under a console.
“When guests arrive, pull them out for casual seating in the living room or around the dining table.”
Benches
The unsung heroes of the seating world, benches are ideal for dinner parties. But what do you do with them when not in use?
According to Faye, there are lots of options.
Faye said: “Benches can be placed at the end of a bed to be used as extra seating in the bedroom, or somewhere to sit when doing hair and make-up. They can also be used in an entryway or in a window to create a stunning reading nook or window seat. Add a throw and a selection of cushions to make it look intentional and not ‘spare’.
Occasional Chairs
Occasional chairs are perfect for seating additional guests at dinner parties, but choose the right one and it will command attention when not in use.
Faye said: “Opt for chairs with plenty of character, think woven backs, beautifully upholstered seats, and they will look great wherever they are placed, whether that’s a corner of a bedroom, flanking a console or in a hallway to soften corners.”
Olivia’s has statement seating available for any occasion, with experts on hand to offer personal advice for every home. Discover the full collection at Olivia’s.
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