Extended Answer

Start with what you need it to do

It’s tempting to think that adding storage automatically makes an ottoman more useful. But if you already have plenty of storage – or simply don’t have anything you particularly want to hide inside it – there’s no reason for it to influence your choice.

Instead, think about the job your ottoman will actually do. If it’s mainly somewhere to put your feet, hold a tray or add colour and pattern to a room, a non-storage design may be all you need.

Put the design first

Removing the need for an internal storage compartment can give you more freedom to choose an ottoman for its shape, proportions and upholstery.

This can be particularly useful if you’re drawn to a more decorative design or want the ottoman itself to be a feature in the room.

Sometime simpler really is better

Every additional function asks something of a piece of furniture. If you don’t need hidden storage, there’s nothing wrong with choosing an ottoman that does fewer jobs, and does the ones you actually need beautifully.

A non-storage ottoman can still be enormously useful as extra seating, a footstool or a coffee-table alternative, while giving you all the comfort and visual impact you wanted in the first place.

Expert Tip

If you’re undecided, ask yourself what you would put inside it today. If you can immediately name the things that need a home, storage is probably worth considering. If you’re struggling to think of anything, you probably don’t need it.

Key Takeaways

• You don’t need storage just because it’s an available option.
• Start with how you’ll actually use your ottoman.
• A non-storage design can give you greater freedom over shape, proportion and detailing.
• Ottomans can still work as footstools, occasional seating or coffee tables without storage.
• Don’t compromise on a design you love for storage you won’t use.
• Useful doesn’t always mean multifunctional.