Ottomans originated in Turkey in the 18th century (when it was the Ottoman Empire) and were used to provide extra seating in large households. Nowadays they are ideal for seating, storage or even used as a coffee table in the living room. Sharing most of the characteristics of the humble footstool, an ottoman can come in all shapes and sizes - from button-backed versions with wooden legs to simple rectangular storage boxes. They are ideal placed at the foot of a bed (to house all your bedding and pillows) or in the centre of a living room (to act as a coffee table). Take a peek at our pick of the best ottomans around.
Upholstered in a stunningly intricate woven fabric, a pop of colour keeps this piece playful. With a monochrome block print and fuchshia pink tassle trim and carved wooden legs, this is a traditional ottoman with a twist.
Klein Ottoman, £575, Graham and Green
This large ottoman features tight, top-stitched saffron yellow upholstery for a clean, minimal aesthetic. Cover made from 100% polyester. Structure made from solid pine and particleboard frame.
Saffron Yellow Fabric Large Ottoman, £125, Habitat
Give your bedroom a vintage aesthetic with an elegant, velvet ottoman. Made with a limewashed frame and velvet upholstery giving it a pre-loved feel. Limewashed wood and fawn velvet.
Fawn Velvet Bedroom Bench, £399, The French Bedroom Company
Like any good classic, the Astor effortlessly teams style with functionality while proving its versatility as a coffee table or footstool. Made from Lime-washed wood and upholstered in 100% cotton in Putty Grey.
Astor Ottoman, £329, Swoon Editions
Inject sophistication into your living room or bedroom with the Eichholtz Barcelona Ottoman. Made from velvet & stainless steel.
Eichholtz Barcelona Ottoman, £822, Houseology
Stand this ottoman at the bottom of your bed. Sitting on charming wooden feet and upholstered in a muted, yet fresh grey linen, it will make a perfect place to store your bed linen. Made from wood and linen.
Croft Collection Skye Ottoman, £350, John Lewis
An elegant and romantic design for any bedroom or living space, the Bouji ottoman is the new classic - reminiscent of baroque-style. With beautiful buttons and hand studded for an authentic vintage look. Solid wood, lacquered legs add style. Clad in high quality fabric.
Bouji Oval Ottoman, £159, Made
This footstool is the perfect solution if you're looking for a small ottoman for your bedroom or living room. This stool features brass buttoned detailing.
Vintage Leather Footstool, £255, Rose & Grey
The Artisan Ottoman is great for use as a footstool, coffee table or can be used for additional seating. The ottoman is covered with a beautifully designed artisan soft cotton and has gold riviting detail.
Artisan Ottoman, £195, Rockett St George
Add a touch of decadence to a bedroom with this black velvet ottoman. This pretty piece is ideal for storing extra blankets and bedding at the foot of the bed.