The Armchair Buying Guide: Standard Dimensions & Types

You deserve a happy place that can cradle you in its arms after a long day. Somewhere to sink, sigh, and forget the outside world for a while. And if you ask us, a great armchair isn’t just a seat — it’s a ceremony.

But the right one? That chair you end up fighting your partner for? It takes more than good looks. From understanding standard chair dimensions to decoding the many types of chairs for living room setups, we’re here to help you find the one — your forever chair.

Step 1: Find the right size

Nobody wants an armchair that sticks out like a sore thumb or, worse, completely dominates their living room. So, before you do anything else, take a close look at the armchair’s measurements.

Let’s start with the basics — armchair dimensions standards to help you get the sizing just right:

• Width: 26 inches to 40 inches. 
  
  

• Depth: 26 inches to 40 inches. 
  
  

• Seat height: 16 inches to 19 inches. 

Consider how these dimensions interact with your room's layout, space, and existing furniture. They’re the difference between a chair that fits like a glove and one that causes layout chaos.

So, measure your space. Then measure it again. If you’ve got room to roam, a larger or wider armchair might be just the ticket. Working with a small living room? Compact or swivel styles keep things breezy and balanced in a space with precious square footage.

You’ll also want to keep in mind how you’ll interact with the chair — choose a depth that invites some serious sinking-in and factor in enough legroom for a good sprawl.

Step 2: Determine your style

Let’s talk personality — yours and your chair’s. Armchairs come in various types of styles from timeless classics to contemporary accent chair designs.

Take a moment to remain in your space and truly feel out the vibe. This is less about rules and more about instinct. You’ll know when it clicks — like love at first sit. Just ask yourself:

• Do I want this chair to blend in or stand out?
  
  

• Am I going for a modern, traditional, or transitional vibe?
  
  

• What feeling do I want this corner of my living room to evoke?

Now that you’ve got a mood in mind, let’s talk texture.

Step 3: Select materials and upholstery

When it comes to that perfect lounging experience, the material and upholstery are everything. They're the difference between “this looks nice” and “I never want to get up again.”

Leather armchairs

Smooth, structured, and aging like fine wine — that’s leather. If you crave elegance that only gets better with age, leather armchairs are an unparalleled choice. They're incredibly durable, developing a unique patina over time. 

With just a little TLC, these beauties will withstand every marathon movie night and unexpected juice box spill.

We recommend full-grain or top-grain leather for superior quality and buttery-soft comfort. Go classic with sophisticated brown or black, or add a modern twist with rich cognac.

Bouclé armchairs

That luxurious fabric you can't help but run your hand over? That’s bouclé. Bouclé is a soft, nubby texture that’s equal parts cloud and cocoon. It's a tactile delight that brings softness and contrast to structured interiors. 

Let it whisper in cream or grey — or shout in forest green, burnt orange, or even indigo. Because who said cozy couldn’t be bold?

Performance fabric armchairs

Spilled wine? Pet hair? Crayons? Clean up is no sweat if you’ve got performance fabric in your corner. Performance fabric gives upholstery its spill, fade, and life-proof properties. 

This makes performance fabric armchairs a dream for busy households. These types of armchairs are designed to be durable, easy to clean, and capable of withstanding various forms of wear and tear, seeing you through every chaotic moment that comes with living life.

Velvet armchairs

Velvet armchairs exude elegance, adding a lush vibe to any setting. It’s the tactile equivalent of a five-star hotel robe — indulgent, elegant, and a little bit dramatic (in a good way).

This fabric's soft and plush texture adds a feeling of pure opulence that suffuses your living room, making it an excellent choice if you're aiming for a luxurious and stylish interior.

Rattan armchairs

If your heart yearns for a look that’s effortlessly natural and relaxed, you'll find your soulmate in rattan armchairs. 

Naturally breathable and breezy, rattan chairs bring a grounded, organic element to your space. Their intricate weaves and earthy tones create a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels like a permanent vacation.

Step 4: Understand the types of chairs for living rooms 

So, you've narrowed down the look and feel, but wait — there's still the different types of armchairs to consider. Each brings a distinct kind of embrace and personality to your home.

• Wingback armchairs: These feature high backrests that curve into "wings" on each side. They provide excellent support for your upper body and create an enveloping feel, ideal for a nightly curl-up with a mystery novel. 
  
  

• Club armchairs: With a distinctive low-profile design with a wide and deep seat, these inviting chairs often feature plush cushioning and padded armrests, making them a go-to option for living rooms. 
  
  

• Bergère armchairs: Known for their exposed wooden frames, upholstered backs, and loose seat cushions, this type oozes grandeur. Paired with a matching pouf, it’ll instantly add a layer of old-world charm.
  
  

• Swivel armchairs: Offering 360-degree rotation, this chair allows you to pivot from watching TV to joining a conversation behind you without missing a beat.

Step 5: Consider the comfort factor

Comfort is the entire essence of a good armchair. Good looks don’t mean much if your back’s screaming ten minutes in. 

Look for features like ergonomic designs, ample cushioning, and proper lumbar support. Take it for a test drive if possible, feeling its embrace and assessing how well it suits your body type.

Remember, a comfortable armchair is not only a joy to sit in but also promotes relaxation and well-being.

Find your living room’s soulmate

The perfect armchair isn’t just furniture — it’s a feeling. It’s a well-sized, well-styled, well-loved seat that adapts to your life and elevates your everyday.

So whether you’re drawn to timeless leather, cozy bouclé, or a swivel that lets you keep one eye on the conversation and the other on your TV, you now have the tools to choose wisely.

This is your cue to find the one.

Frequently asked questions about armchairs

What is the standard size of an armchair?

Based on average chair dimensions, standard armchairs typically range from 26 to 40 inches in width and depth.

For comfortable sitting and standing, the standard seat height generally falls between 16 and 19 inches, while the overall height varies with design. These are the sweet spots for most spaces, but remember to tailor it to your personal height too!

How wide should an armchair seat be?

Your ideal seat width depends on you and how you love to lounge. A good rule of thumb is to ensure it’s wide enough to fit your hips comfortably and allows for slight movement without feeling confined, whether you prefer to curl up or sit more upright.

What makes a living room chair comfortable?

A comfortable living room chair boasts an ergonomic design that supports your body's curves. Look for ample, resilient cushioning that doesn't sag. Additionally, get the type of lumbar support that brings out a sigh of relief after a long day.