Summary:
Want to achieve next-level storage goals for your living room? You hang out there with your friends and family, and it can easily be a mess. Let’s solve this issue with a modern yet beautiful functional piece that doubles for seating. Ottoman storage boxes, the perfect combo you can ever ask for. Let’s explore how it acts as a game-changer in the living room.
Your living room is not just a place to host or relax with friends or family; it is a place that shows the best of your house's interiors. From style to colour coordination to comfort, you cannot miss anything. But nowadays, there is one more thing that has become important, that is storage. That’s where ottoman boxes come saving the day and our clutter-free goals.
An Ottoman storage box is one of the most underestimated but most useful items you can add to your space. Not only do they create a tasteful aesthetic touch to your surroundings, but they also offer a functional way of minimising cluttering. Whether it is stashing away remote controls and extra blankets or providing extra seating, you can easily adjust your lifestyle around it.
One thing that we absolutely love about these boxes is that they are super versatile. They come in different:
- Sizes
- Fabrics
- Colours
Moreover, they fit almost all interior themes, including:
- Boho
- Industrial
- Modern
- Rustic
- French Country
- Coastal
- Scandinavian
- Farmhouse
- Art deco
- Mediterranean
- Contemporary
What Is An Ottoman Storage Box?
The Ottoman storage box or bench is a multi-purpose piece of furniture that can be placed in bedrooms, living rooms, entryways, and children's rooms. The best part is that you get:
- Extra seating
- Storage space for items
- A beautiful addition to your room
You can get them nowadays in a variety of colours, sizes, and materials.
Benefits Of Ottoman Storage Boxes
Benefit |
Details |
|
Space-saving heroes |
You can use them as a seat or footrest, and they also feature amazing storage. |
|
Clutter control |
Store books, bedding, toys, and blankets. |
|
A style upgrade |
Bring luxury to your space. |
|
Comfort |
Upholstered storage boxes are ideal for additional seating. |
|
Easy To Move |
They don’t weigh a lot, so take them anywhere with you. |
How To Use An Ottoman Storage Box In A Living Room?
1. Size & Shape:
Before we start discussing how to use an ottoman storage box in a living room, the most important thing to consider is choosing the right size and shape.
You have 3 options, which you can easily find in the market:
- Square: Ideal for smaller spaces
- Rectangular: Can be used for extra seating
- Round: Can be used as the foot of a sofa
Important tip: Before buying your dream ottoman boxes, always check:
- Floor space
- Sofa height (Ottoman box should be lower 1-2 inches)
- Colours and fabrics
2. Material Matters More Than You Think
Material |
Best For |
Pros |
Cons |
|
Velvet |
Glam/Chic Interiors |
Luxurious feel, bold colour options |
Can stain easily |
|
Leather (or Faux) |
Contemporary/ Classic styles |
Easy to clean and durable |
Can look formal |
|
Linen or Fabric |
Casual/Country interiors |
Comfortable and cosy |
Might attract dust |
|
Wood-Top Hybrid |
Scandinavian/ Modern |
Doubles as a tray table |
Less soft for feet |
3. Placement
Ottoman storage box can be used as a:
-
Coffee table - You can always use a tray for balance and care of your storage box.
-
Extra seating - How often do you find that during holidays and gatherings, there is always a need for extra seating? It’s quite common, and this thing serves this purpose beautifully.
-
Hidden storage - Store books, throws, shoes, tech gadgets, and anything that seems like clutter, making your space look dull.
4. Colour & Coordination
Neutral Tones |
Bold Colours |
Patterns |
|
Beige |
Red |
Geometric |
|
Taupe |
Orange |
Floral |
|
Cream |
Gold |
Abstract |
|
Grey |
Teal |
Striped |
|
White |
Purple |
Plaid |
|
Brown |
Black |
Animal print |
|
Ivory |
Blue |
Botanical/Leafy |
5. Layering & Accessories
You can style your ottoman box by putting a decorative tray with:
- Candles
- Books
- Vase
- Magazines
You can also have a throw which is suitable for extreme weather conditions. It brings cosiness and makes your living room even cosier. And even if you purchase an ottoman box, you should still avoid cluttering your space. It definitely brings storage to the table, but you should have enough room for walking around easily.
Ottoman Boxes Styling Ideas
Interior Design Themes |
Style tips |
|
Scandinavian |
Use lighter and neutral-toned accessories and throws |
|
Industrial |
Go for leather ottoman boxes in darker hues |
|
Modern Minimalist |
Stick to black, white, or monochrome |
|
Boho Chic |
Go for patterned or tufted fabric ottomans |
|
Traditional/Classic |
Use velvet or tufted ottomans in jewel tones |
What Can You Store In These Ottoman Storage Boxes?
Here are some practical items to store in your ottoman box:
- Remote controls and tech accessories
- Books and magazines
- Board games or puzzles
- Blankets and throws
- Seasonal cushions
- Candles and small décor
- Children’s toys
- Pet accessories
Maintenance & Care Of Ottoman Boxes
1. For Fabric Ottomans:
- Vacuum regularly
- Spot clean stains
- Use a fabric protector spray.
2. For Leather:
- Wipe with a damp cloth.
- Condition with leather cream once every few months.
3. For Velvet Upholstered Boxes:
- Brush with a soft bristle brush.
- Use a handheld steamer for creases.
What To Look For When Buying An Ottoman Storage Box?
Feature |
Why It Matters |
|
Sturdy Hinges |
For long-term durability and smooth opening |
|
Padded Top |
Adds comfort for seating or resting feet |
|
Weight Capacity |
Especially if you plan to sit on it |
|
Size |
Match to room scale and needs |
|
Interior Lining |
Prevents stored items from damage |
|
Mobility |
Wheels or handles make moving easier |
Smart Styling Do’s & Don’ts
Do:
✅ Use ottomans as focal points.
✅ Keep accessories tidy on top.
✅ Align size with the furniture scale.
✅ Choose durable materials if you have kids/pets.
Don’t:
❌ Overcrowd the top with too many items.
❌ Use dark, bulky ottomans in tiny rooms.
❌ Ignore the overall colour balance.
❌ Forget to measure space before buying.
Transform Your Living Room With Ottoman Storage Boxes
Before |
After |
|
Remote controls on tables, toys scattered |
Everything is tucked inside the ottoman |
|
Bare centre space |
Ottoman with tray, candles, magazines |
|
No extra seating for guests |
Comfortable extra seat with padded top |
|
Cold, hard coffee table |
Soft, cosy central furniture piece |
Ottoman Boxes Beyond The Living Room
Ottoman storage boxes are not limited to the living room, but they have great functionality throughout your entire house. One can be used at the bottom of the bed in the bedroom to keep excess bedding, cushions, or shoes in an orderly manner, complementing the bed with a cool, chic touch.
In the entryway, it provides a place to put on shoes and store:
- Scarves
- Gloves
- Shoes
- Jackets
- Coats
- Bags
For a playroom, where you have less storage and floor space, you can use it to store away:
- Books
- Stationery
- Art and crafts
- Toys
- Cushions
- Throws
- & so much more.
They are definitely versatile and one of the most sensible investments in the home for pro-level organisation in every space.
Types of Ottoman Storage Boxes
1. Lift-Top Ottomans With Hinges
Design: The lid is attached with safety hinges
Best for: Homes with kids (safe lid control)
Benefit: Easy access and convenience
2. Tufted Ottoman Boxes
Design: Upholstered with button tufting
Best for: Traditional or luxury-themed interiors
3. Cube Ottomans
Design: Compact, cube-shaped
Best for: Small spaces
Usage: Stackable when not in use
4. Bench-Style Storage Ottomans
-
Design: Rectangular-shaped
-
Best for: Placing at the foot of a bed
- Benefit: Great for storing bulkier items
5. Round Ottoman Storage Boxes
- Design: Circular and can be tufted
- Best for: Acts as a centrepiece and for seating
- Visual Impact: Adds an elegant, cosy charm
6. Ottomans Boxes With Trays
Design: The top can be flipped to a hard tray surface
Best for: Coffee table replacement.
Functionality: Perfect for serving drinks
7. Foldable Ottoman Boxes
Design: Lightweight and foldable
Best for: Small apartments or renters
Storage Benefit: Easy to store when not in use
8. Wicker Or Rattan Storage Ottomans
Design: Natural and has a rustic charm
Best for: Coastal, country, or boho style
9. Modular Or Nested Ottomans
Design: Multiple pieces that fit together
Best for: Multi-functional setup
Smart Use: Great for compact homes
FAQs
Can an ottoman storage box be used as a bench?
Yes, you can absolutely use them as a:
- Bench
- Footstool
- Coffeetable
How much storage does an ottoman box have?
The storage of these boxes varies depending upon:
- Size
- Design
You can choose between these most common sizes and styles:
- Small cube ottomans
- Medium ottoman boxes
- Bench-style ottoman storage boxes
Is it safe to sit on a storage ottoman?
Yes, but always remember the following:
- Check the weight capacity
- Choose reinforced frames
- Go for designs that offer both benefits