Have you shopped for furniture recently? There are so many choices it can make your head spin. That’s part of why I often prefer to use what I already own — it reduces decision fatigue. I do enjoy finding secondhand pieces, but I’m cautious about upholstered items unless they’re in excellent condition.
Sometimes I wish I could go back and reclaim the furniture I once had so I could “shop my own house.” Moving so often meant I left things behind that would have been perfect here. I keep thinking about pieces I used to own that would fit beautifully in this space.
Knowing the couch will arrive in a couple of months has motivated me to make other decisions. In a small living room where family is constantly coming and going, I really need to get the room pulled together.
There are so many charming chair styles I’m considering for the living room. I’ve toyed with slipcovered chairs since my sofa has exposed legs, but many of the chairs I love also have legs. If I slipcover the ottoman, that opens up options like rattan, cane, wood, or upholstered chairs.
I shared my new striped couch choice in a previous post and I’m relieved to have that decision made (delivery is still pending). Of course one choice leads to another, so the process continues. If it were acceptable, I’d happily have everything striped — it’s my favorite pattern.
When I spotted a darling chair in the same striped fabric as my couch, I paused and wondered whether matching stripes would be too much — or exactly what I want. That particular chair, like many others I’m looking at, is available in multiple fabrics if I decide to change things up.
Typically I prefer furniture in solid neutrals so pillows and accessories can change the look seasonally. However, I have two built-in benches where I can vary patterns, so I’m more open to patterned upholstery for other pieces as long as I genuinely love the print.
I ordered a blue performance fabric sample for the couch before choosing the striped pattern, and the soft blue is lovely with the sofa. It’s an option for chairs, too — though I’m also considering a creamy off-white to complement the blue walls. Several shades of blue read softly in the room, so the sample could work well if I want a coordinated look.
Should I opt for two matching chairs or mix styles for a more collected feel? I often prefer a gathered look with varied pieces, but matching pairs can create a cohesive balance. Both approaches have their merits depending on the mood I want to create.
I still own two white rattan chairs that I adore, but they would need repainting and new cushions — which can be costly. I’m unsure whether rattan can be stripped without damage. I’m thinking of moving them to the bedroom and buying new chairs for the living room.
I also have a comfortable wingback chair that’s still available at its retailer. It would benefit from reupholstering; the back suffered damage in a move. It’s a great candidate for another room, so it doesn’t have to stay in the living room.
There are many chair styles I like and dozens more I’ve discovered in recent weeks. Now the challenge is narrowing the choices to the right chairs for our space and making a decision.
Which chairs would you choose? The comments are working again, so I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Below is a collage of a few pieces I’ve used or currently have in the living room. I’ll decide on accessories, pillows, and rugs after the furniture choices are final. Sources for these items are available through the link above.