Armchair with Footstool: What Distance to the Ottoman Is Comfortable
You have chosen an armchair with a matching footstool and are now wondering how to position both pieces of furniture optimally in relation to each other. The distance between the seat and the footrest determines whether you can truly sit relaxed or whether your legs remain uncomfortably stretched or bent. The correct distance depends on your height, the seat height and the type of use. In this article you will learn which measurements have proven effective in practice and what you should pay attention to when positioning them.
Reference Values for the Distance Between Armchair and Footstool
As a rule of thumb: the footstool stands approximately 10 to 20 cm from the front edge of the seat. At this distance you can rest your legs slightly bent or almost stretched without the backs of your knees resting uncomfortably on the edge of the seat. Measure from the front edge of the armchair to the front edge of the footstool. If you are taller than 180 cm, 25 cm is also acceptable. Shorter people often manage better with 10 to 15 cm, as otherwise the thighs are stretched too much.
The Height of the Footstool in Relation to the Seat
In addition to the horizontal distance, the height difference plays an important role. Ideally, the top edge of the footstool is 5 to 10 cm below the seat of the armchair. This way your thighs form a slightly descending line, which promotes blood circulation and relieves pressure from the backs of the knees. If the footstool is too high, a bend forms in the knee which becomes uncomfortable over time. If it is too low, you have to lift your legs too much, which reduces relaxation.
Adaptation to Different Sitting Positions
Not everyone sits the same way all the time. Sometimes you lean back and stretch your legs far out, other times you sit more upright and bend your knees more. Therefore, do not fix the footstool in one position, but try out different distances. Many high-quality Armchairs are supplied with matching footstools that you can move flexibly. A distance of 15 cm covers most sitting habits and can be quickly adjusted if necessary.
Consider Space Requirements and Room Effect
Also think about the overall space requirement. An armchair with footstool requires at least 130 to 150 cm in depth when you position the footstool at a comfortable distance. In small rooms it may make sense to move the footstool to the side of the armchair when it is not in use. This keeps the passageway clear. Make sure that about 50 cm of movement space remains in front of the footstool so that you can stand up comfortably without bumping into anything.
Material and Upholstery Influence the Perception
The surface texture affects the sitting experience. A firmly upholstered footstool with a smooth leather surface allows the feet to slip off more easily than a model with fabric covering or softer upholstery. With smooth materials you can reduce the distance by 2 to 3 cm so that the heels find secure hold. Baroque armchairs and Chesterfield models often have generous upholstery that settles slightly over time. Adjust the distance again after a few weeks of use if necessary.
Practical Test for the Optimal Position
Sit down in your armchair and place your feet on the footstool. Your knees should be slightly bent without your thighs lifting off the seat. The heels rest comfortably on the upholstery, the toes point slightly upwards. If you can sit in this position for 10 minutes without your legs falling asleep or the backs of your knees hurting, you have found the right distance. Mark the position with a small piece of adhesive tape on the floor so that you can position the footstool exactly again after vacuuming.
Related items: Baroque and Art Nouveau Garden Furniture, Commodes, Consoles. baroque mirrors. The complete range: Baroque Furniture.
Related categories: Baroque and Art Nouveau Garden Furniture, Commodes, Consoles. The full range: Baroque Furniture.
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