Monday, October 25, 2010

Finding the Perfect Accent Chair




Is anyone else head over heels with the Spool Chair (pictured above) from Hickory Chair? When I saw it on the cover of House Beautiful my heart went a pitter-patter. It fulfilled everyone of the must-have's on my check list of the makings of the perfect accent chair. It was stylish, looked comfortable, didn't look too trendy, etc...I tore through the pages of HB, getting several paper cuts along the way, to get to the resources section in the back of the magazine. I had to know who made the chair and, more importantly, if I could afford one. Alas, my beloved spool chair was a little (a lot!) outside of my budget. My hunt for the perfect accent chair continued.

What makes up the ideal accent chair for you? Is there some quality it must have in order for you to pull out the credit card? What are your deal breakers?


A classic style that can be reupholstered in the future for a new look?



A fun fabric?






Interesting detailing?





A style that is of the moment?





Tufting?




A unique shape?


Above Images Via Hickory Chair




While I was prowling for my perfect chair my checklist looked something like this:

1. Must be extremely comfortable

2. Must be sturdy and have quality construction

3. Interesting design, not too run of the mill

4. Upholstered in a fun pattern that isn't too trendy

5. Wouldn't be too expensive to reupholster in the future

6. Husband must be in agreement

and most importantly!

7. Within our budget



I'm happy to announce that last weekend we ordered our perfect chairs. The floor model at the store was upholstered in a light color that allows the detail of the chair to be highlighted, we choose a different fabric with a geometric pattern. There was a pretty stiff upcharge for the fabric (big shocker, right?) But we hope to keep these chairs for a long time. Of course I took pictures in the show room. (I think the salesman thought I was a caaa-raaazzzy!)


Side view



Rear view




The chairs are tres comfortable and, with only two upholstered cushions, would be fairly affordable to have recovered in the future or even have a second set of covers made if I wanted to switch out the look seasonally. I'm glad the hunt is finally over. We should have them in time for Christmas, yea!

How about you, what do you look for
when buying a piece of furniture?

18 comments:

  1. Beautiful!! I love em! I am with you - a chair has to be comfy first for me to even consider it!

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  2. Love the chairs!! And it's so worth it to spend a little more on a fabric that you like. I just love the detailing on the side and back. I think these chairs will stand the test of time (and I'm glad they will be in before Christmas!).

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  3. Love the detail on the back of the chair! I think a lot of times this side is forgotten, but often chairs are placed with the back facing out of the room and what is seen most. Great looking chair...
    Janell

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  4. I love your new chair! Can't wait to see it in your fabric! I have been looking for the "perfect" chairs for our living room too.

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  5. Gorgeous chairs. Love the detail on the sides and back. I can't wait to see them in your room. Hugs, Marty

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  6. Wow Karen, those are gorgeous. For me comfort and price are tops in the list!

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  7. Those are really pretty. The detail on the back is great. I have got to get out and look for a new chair for hubby as his is worn out and needs to retire up in the game room!

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  8. That chair is so pretty the back looks amazing!!

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  9. What a wonderful pick! It's a lovely chair especially that you can change it from season to season. Enjoy a beautiful day, Kellie xx

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  10. Karen, your chairs are beautiful - love the detailing of the hard wood. Can't wait to see what geometric print you've selected.

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  11. I love these chairs!! Great choice!

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  12. I would love a tufted chair for my bedroom! xo

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  13. I love, love the spool chair! Actually, I love most any accent chair. And since price usually tops the list of determining factors, our basement currently houses five chairs, an ottoman and a chaise lounge. All are hand me downs, Craigslist, Goodwill, and garage sale finds waiting for me to take the time to spiff them up.

    The most recent addition is a plain little slipper chair found at Goodwill for $40. It just needs some bolts tightened and a slipcover!

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  14. Love your choice of new chairs, but my absolute faves are the Hickory chairs you show first. Always have been! Maybe when I win the lottery...
    Karin

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  15. These chairs are so pretty. The detailing is very unique. I can't wait to see them. I am glad they will be delivered for the holidays.

    Amy R.

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  16. I love your new chairs! So beautiful and unique. I also really like the spool chair, but actually prefer the ones you got!

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  17. What a great find! How exciting to have new chairs for the holidays..I mean Christmas!!

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  18. Love the new chairs- please post a shot of them in their new home with their new fabric when you get them. I'm on the hunt for sitting room furniture- same criteria as yours for the chair- comfort and cost top the list...

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