When most of us start shopping for our bedroom and living room furniture, we think about the main pieces: couches, coffee tables, dressers, and beds. If that sounds like you, you’re not alone! But once you realize the benefits of designer large ottomans, you’ll want one in every room in your house.

The question isn’t if you need an ottoman. It’s how to choose the right one for your needs. Here, we’ll guide you through answering the question and finding the perfect solution in any room.

1. Which Room Are You Decorating?

Yes, it’s possible to keep an ottoman in every room, but since there are so many styles and designs, yours should be room-specific. For instance, an ottoman can replace a living room coffee table if you need some extra space. It’s not necessarily the choice if you use your coffee table as a dining room surface, but if you just want a spot to put your feet up and relax after a long day, an ottoman is much more comfy than the coffee table!

Consider how you’re decorating that room so you can invest in an ottoman that matches the size and decor. With all the options available, it should be relatively easy to find one that blends in seamlessly to make a beautiful space.

2. Do You Need Storage?

Ottomans come with and without storage functionality. If you decide you need storage, you’ll know which direction to look for your next furniture piece. But even then, you’ll need to narrow your search down a bit more by deciding if you want a large, spacious ottoman with plenty of hollow storage inside or if a minimalistic hidden opening is enough for what you intend to do with it.

3. How Much Room Do You Want to Use?

Notice the wording of our question. How much room do you want to use, not “how much room do you have”? It’s essential that you decide how much of your open space you want to keep open before you start filling the room with furniture.

You may have four feet between the couch and the wall, but if you get an ottoman that’s three feet by three feet, you leave yourself a very narrow space to walk. Determine how much room you’re going to need to comfortably move in that area, and look for an ottoman that fits your purpose without taking up too much space.

4. What Shape Do You Prefer?

Some people prefer their furniture to have the hard lines of a square or rectangle, while others are more attracted to the softer curves of an oval or circle. Look at the rest of your furniture and decide if curves or angles are going to complement the look better.

Many designers suggest using a mix of straight and round pieces because too many edges make a room feel cold and unwelcoming, while too many curves are distracting. If you haven’t considered this yet, your ottoman is a great way to create the balance you may be missing.

5. Which Ottomans Match Your Tastes?

Now that you’ve narrowed down your selection of ottomans to those that match your room, size, shape, and storage needs, the last question is a matter of taste. You’ll see the same ottomans in various colors, textures, and styles. You’ve made it this far. The last step is to pick the one that makes you smile!