Key Takeaway
It's not about hiding the comfort-oriented nature of the recliner but celebrating it with intelligent design decisions. Pillowing and throwing layers of texture over it, encircling it with a functional "comfort zone" created from a side table and reading lights, and placing it strategically in your room, you can turn your recliner into the most comfortable and stylish chair in the home.
The recliner is usually the best-loved piece of furniture in a home—a personal throne for rest. But it usually poses a design dilemma: how do you accessorize this king of relaxation without having it look bulky and stuck? Well, with some simple tips, you can smoothly incorporate your favorite chair into your decor, and have a room that's both super comfortable and fabulous-looking.
Layer with Textiles for Coziness and Color
Adding a few textiles is the fastest way to make your recliner look great.
A simple throw blanket instantly breaks up the chair's solid surface while adding color and texture. For a warm, cozy feel, go for a chunky knit or soft fleece. If you just want a splash of color, a lightweight cotton throw works perfectly. Instead of folding it neatly, drape it casually over an armrest or a corner of the back. This gives the chair a much more relaxed and inviting look.
Pillows add personality and can boost comfort. Even a modern power recliner with a supportive backrest can feel better with a small decorative pillow. A rectangular lumbar pillow is a great choice for both style and extra back support. Feel free to mix textures, like pairing a soft velvet pillow with a patterned linen one. This is also a smart way to tie the recliner's color to your curtains or other decor in the room, making everything feel connected.
The Modern Power Recliner features sleek electric reclining with Type-C & USB charging port, plush cushioning, and a supportive backrest, perfect for adding comfort and style to any living space while easily complementing your decor with textiles like throws and pillows.
Consider a Slipcover for a Total Transformation
If your recliner's fabric is worn out or has a dated pattern, a slipcover is a smart and affordable solution. It gives the chair a fresh look without the high cost of reupholstery.
This is a great option for fabric models. You wouldn't want to cover up a beautiful genuine leather power recliner, but a slipcover can save a fabric chair that looks tired. For the best result, find a stretch-fabric slipcover designed specifically for recliners. These often come in multiple pieces for the arms, back, and footrest, giving you a tight, custom-like fit. Choosing a solid, neutral color like gray, beige, or navy blue will instantly update the chair and make it fit easily into your room.
The Isaac Wall Hugger Power Recliner with Headrest combines space-saving design, power reclining, and Type-C & USB charging ports with Genuine Leather, making it ideal for a refresh with a stretch-fabric slipcover to easily update and protect your chair’s look.
Add a Convenient Side Table
Every recliner needs a good side table for your drink, book, and remote. Function comes first: choose a table that's level with the chair's armrest, so everything is easy to reach. Once you have the height right, pick a style that fits your room. A C-shaped table with a metal base is great for modern spaces, as it can slide right over the arm to save space. For a more traditional look, a small, solid wood table adds warmth. A decorative tray on top is a simple way to keep remotes and coasters from looking messy and cluttered.
Ground the Space with a Rug
A small area rug is a professional styling trick that makes a big difference. Tuck it just under the front feet of the recliner to visually anchor the chair and create a defined, cozy nook. This is especially nice on hardwood or tile floors, as it adds softness and warmth right where you need it. A rug also gives you another opportunity to bring in a new color, pattern, or texture. It helps connect your recliner's corner to the rest of the room's style, making the whole space feel more pulled together.
Light Up Your Life with Proper Lighting
Proper lighting can make your recliner corner both more useful and much more relaxing. For reading, you'll want a dedicated task light. An adjustable floor lamp that you can aim directly at your book or magazine works perfectly without creating glare. If you're short on space, a wall-mounted sconce is a smart alternative. For general relaxation, you need softer ambient light. A nearby window provides great natural light, but for the evenings, a small table lamp on a dimmer switch is ideal. It lets you create a soft glow for watching TV or just unwinding.
Move It Beyond the Lonely Corner
Don't banish your recliner to a lonely corner. Instead, pull it into the main seating area and make it part of the room. Angle it toward the sofa and other chairs to create a comfortable grouping for conversation. This simple move makes the entire space feel more connected and welcoming. A modern swivel model works perfectly here. A swivel recliner with power lumbar support or a swivel recliner with power headrest lets you easily turn to face the TV, join a discussion, or look out the window, all without shifting the chair.
The Vinca Modern Power Swivel Glider Recliner features a 270° swivel and smooth gliding motion, with independent power-adjustable headrest and lumbar support for personalized comfort, built-in USB & Type-C charging ports, ergonomic armrests, and a durable solid wood base.
Balance the Recliner's Visual Weight
Recliners are often big and can look heavy in a room. To balance this, pair them with lighter furniture. For example, next to a large oversized recliner with flared armrests, use a side table with thin legs or a glass top instead of a bulky, solid one. A slim floor lamp will also look better than a heavy, thick one. Just as important, leave enough clearance around the chair so it can fully recline without hitting a wall or coffee table. That bit of empty space is practical and helps the room feel less crowded.
The Mila Power Swivel Nursery Glider Recliner offers 270° swivel, smooth gliding, and quiet power reclining with a 90-135° recline range, featuring built-in USB & Type-C charging ports, supportive backrest, side storage pockets, and durable solid wood base—designed for ultimate comfort and convenience for moms.
Add Functional Finishing Touches
A couple of final details can complete your recliner corner. A stylish woven basket placed next to the chair is a perfect spot to store extra blankets, magazines, or a knitting project. It keeps clutter under control and adds a nice, warm texture to the space. You might also add a small pouf or ottoman nearby. It's a great spot to kick up your feet when you don't want to fully recline, and it can serve as an extra seat for guests when you need one.
FAQs about Recliner Styling
Q1: My recliner is old and has a dated pattern. What's the easiest way to update it?
A quality stretch-fabric slipcover is the fastest and most budget-friendly way to give your recliner a facelift. It's much cheaper than reupholstering. Choose a solid, neutral color like charcoal, beige, or cream to instantly modernize the chair and make it easier to style.
Q2: How can I make a big, puffy recliner work in a small living room?
To help a large recliner blend in, choose a model that is a similar color to your walls. This minimizes its visual impact. Also, pair it with furniture that feels light and airy—think side tables with thin metal legs or glass tops. This visual trick helps balance the recliner's bulk.
Q3: How do I keep my recliner corner from looking cluttered with remotes, books, and glasses?
Organization is key. Use a side table that has a small drawer or a lower shelf for storage. A decorative tray is perfect for corralling small items like remotes, coasters, and reading glasses. For larger items like magazines and blankets, place a stylish basket on the floor next to the chair.
Q4: What are the best kinds of pillows for a recliner?
A mix of support and style is ideal. A rectangular lumbar pillow is a fantastic choice because it provides targeted back support while adding a chic shape. You can pair it with a smaller square pillow in a different texture (like faux fur or linen) for added visual interest. Place the second pillow in the corner of the seat for a layered look.