Design armchairs – how to find the right model for your home
- Armchair vs. chair vs. lounge chair
- Design armchairs: frame types, shapes and extras
- Materials and upholstery fabrics
- Summary
1. Armchair vs. chair vs. lounge chair
Armchairs are softly upholstered seats for one person. They always have a backrest and usually armrests too. The amount of padding determines how comfortable they are. Chairs (such as the Ferm Living Herman chair) typically have a seat height of 45 cm, whereas the seat height of armchairs is usually a little lower. Armchairs (such as the Carl Hansen FH419 Heritage Chair) are also generally wider and have a greater angle between the seat and the backrest. Lounge chairs (such as the &Tradition Pavilion lounge chair) have an even lower seat height, which is why they are also known as low seaters. Unlike armchairs, lounge chairs don't have to be upholstered.
2. Design armchairs: frame types, shapes and extras
There is a huge range of armchair designs, and the two most important features are the frame type and the shape of the armrests. In both categories, there are four types that come in various combinations. The styles range from cantilever armchairs with armrests (4) and four-legged frames with suggested armrests (2) to four-star bases with upholstered armrests (1). There are also fully upholstered armchairs with no armrests or visible frame (3).
Wingback chairs, sleeper chairs or massage chairs – many design armchairs have extra functions and features that make them even more comfortable and adapt to how you use them. Reclining models, which are usually either cantilevered or have a movable joint, make particularly good relaxing chairs. Fold-out or swivelling designs also work very well as reading chairs. Armchairs with a headrest provide extra comfort – either as a high backrest (as with the Puik Lounge Chair) or as a visually separate element (as with the Eva Solo Laze High armchair). Armchairs with a footstool or ottoman let you put your feet up and are often available as a set (such as the Vitra Repos armchair and ottoman). Alongside modern swivel armchairs, ranges where you can put together the base and seat shell yourself (as with the HAY About A Lounge Chair High AAL 93) are particularly interesting if you want a personal touch.
"High-back armchairs are particularly good for relaxing and closing your eyes for a moment, while armchairs with a low backrest are a classic addition to your sofa area." – Viktoria, interior expert
3. Materials and upholstery fabrics
Grey, black or a bold colour – the choice of upholstery fabric is just as important for the look of your new armchair as its colour. Natural materials, such as rattan armchairs or models with sheepskin (1), radiate warmth and cosiness, while leather armchairs (2) are classic and elegant. With leather, bear in mind that untreated leather is more delicate than treated leather. There are also products with synthetic fibres, which are less delicate than natural fibres, although natural fibres are better at regulating temperature. That's why armchairs with blended fabrics, which combine the advantages of both, are particularly popular. Frames range from wood (3) and plastic (4) to metal.
"The most important factors when choosing a comfortable armchair are the padding and the upholstery fabric. The more padding, the softer it is and the longer you'll want to stay. And if the fabric also feels pleasant and is breathable, you won't want to get up at all." – Viktoria, interior expert
4. Summary – what to look for when buying an armchair
- Armchairs seat one person and are characterised by soft padding, a backrest and usually armrests. While chairs have a seat height of 45 cm, armchairs are lower than 45 cm. The seat height of lounge chairs is usually much lower still.
- The four common frame types for armchairs are cantilever, four-legged, four-star base and fully upholstered.
- Armchairs come not only with or without armrests, but also with suggested or upholstered armrests.
- Many armchairs have extra functions or features such as an ottoman or a headrest. There are also swivelling, reclining and fold-out models.
- Armchairs come in a wide variety of materials: upholstery fabrics include natural materials, leather, synthetic fibres and blends. For the frame, you can choose between wood, plastic and metal.
- High-back armchairs are particularly good for relaxing, whereas armchairs used as extra seating next to a sofa can be a little more compact and chair-like.
Buy design armchairs online at Connox – your benefits at a glance
- high-quality armchairs – originals from top design brands
- personal support from our customer service team
- fair delivery costs
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Shopping advice at Connox
Would you like to buy a design armchair online but need some help? Our customer service team is always happy to help. We'll support you with advice while you shop, make recommendations and answer your questions quickly. Then simply sit back and have your chosen item delivered straight to your door.
