With sleek lines and avant-garde designs, modern accent chairs are no ordinary pieces of furniture — they're art. For those of us craving style with substance, a modern accent chair never fails to impress.
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need a sleek, futuristic home to appreciate their contemporary beauty. Designers favor modern accent chairs for their ability to breathe new life into tired spaces, infusing otherwise classic rooms with a hint of cool. According to Leigh Ann Harris at Christopher Architecture & Interiors, 'An accent chair is an easy way to introduce drama and interest into a space.’ ‘The bonus is that, unlike artwork or sculpture, it doubles as a functional furniture piece,’ she says, adding, ‘The more unique and eclectic, the better!'
No shortage of that here! A well-chosen accent chair might just be the difference between a typical home and an art gallery caliber masterpiece. But of course, this requires a discerning pick — a chair that is architecturally brilliant, cutting-edge, and (since it is, of course, still a seat) comfortable. The process requires a fair bit of digging, but luckily, curating functional yet beautiful things is what I do for a living. Reap the fruits of my labor with the quickest update you’ll do all year.
I'll wager you've never seen boucle accent chairs look this good. Shop Livingetc's 12 favorite seats.
Best Modern Accent Chairs
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Price: $223.99
Was: $249.99
This impressive channeled tufted barrel chair effortlessly blends club room elegance with modern design. Choose from upholsteries ranging from deep apricot to ginger for a personalized touch.
Price: $135.99
This petite accent chair is the perfect small living room idea, boasting an organic shape and eye-catching powder-coated finish. Despite its barely-there look, its ergonomic design ensures surprising comfort.
Price: $316.99
I’ve been loving cobalt this spring — rom my clothes to my shoes, and now to my furniture. Add a pop of this dashing color with this open-backed lounge chair, which also surprises with its swiveling feature.
Price: $1,698
I never believed in love at first sight, but I think I'm falling for this chair. Its plush leather upholstery, artistic creases, and geometric wooden base have me absolutely floored. It practically begs you to sink right in.
Price: $519.99
Was: $610.08
A shiny stainless steel double bar encasing makes for the coolest accessory ever on this sleek straight-arm design chair. Not much else is needed in terms of living room ideas — this piece does all the talking.
Price: $895
I know I promised comfort earlier, and I’ll be honest — this chair doesn’t exactly scream ‘nap time.’ But who cares! Just look at those elemental shapes! It adds unmatched character to your home.
Price: $2,299
Shaggy materials and tactile textures are my favorite interior design ideas as of late, and this Mongolian sheepskin pick doesn’t disappoint. Complete with beautiful curving arms, it feels like a dream to sit in.
Price: $289.99
Was: $306.99
I'm shocked that this piece is less than $300 — it's a steal if I've ever seen one. Inspired by the ‘60s but unquestionably modern, it adds a unique element to any room. Oh, and it even has an adjustable reclining option. Need I say more?
Price: $359.99
Was: $489.99
This might just be my favorite Wayfair chair at the moment. So sleek, it’s practically just the silhouette of a chair. With its leather slung seat and details, it’s the perfect design-forward piece to elevate any space.
Price: $638.40
Was: $798
Plush velvet and a plump silhouette make sinking into this beautiful tangerine chair irresistible. Filled with down, it’s time to get acquainted with your new reading chair.
Price: $1,299
Admittedly not for everyone, but this modern take on a rocking chair is absolutely brilliant. Enchanting with sculptural curves and upholstered with Italian leather from a third-generation tannery, it promises to get softer and more supple over time.
Price: $1,399
Was: $3,498
Finishing us off is the Sesann — geometric and cinched to perfection, this armchair is pure elegance. Truly a piece to cherish forever. Considering this deep discount, I’d run to scoop up this deal.
How should I style a modern accent chair?
‘I like to use accent chairs that don’t need additional styling,’ says Leigh, and modern accent chairs certainly speak for themselves. You could end your lesson here — simply letting them shine. However, if you're inclined to elevate your chair further, interior designer Artem Kropovinsky offers some advice.
Artem suggests contrasting your modern accent chair with textured decor and contemporary art to complement its avant-garde look. Echoing Leigh's insight, ‘While bright colors highlight its design, subdued backgrounds ensure the chair stands out,’ notes Artem.
Essentially, less is more when it comes to styling modern accent chairs. Just as the iconic Coco Chanel advised to look in the mirror and remove one accessory, the same applies to your home.
Speaking of minimalism, these mid-century accent chairs more than fit the bill.
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