Outdoor Ottomans, Stools + Poufs

Why We Love Outdoor Ottomans & Stools

Unlike indoor ottomans, outdoor ottomans are designed to withstand the outside elements. Though they are more durable than their indoor counterparts, that doesn't mean that they are any less beautiful or comfortable. You'll find a wide range of styles in this category, as well as in outdoor footstools, giving you and your guests a comfortable place to rest your feet. You can also use ottomans and stools as outdoor side tables to hold beverages, phones and any other items. Here's what you need to know to incorporate ottomans and footstools into your yard.

Where Exterior Ottomans Work Best

When it comes to deck and patio furniture, there is nothing quite as versatile as outdoor ottomans. These plush pieces of furniture can double as outdoor footstools, as well as outdoor side tables or coffee tables, depending on the size. Whereas outdoor footstools are simply designed for resting your feet while sitting in a chair or on a sofa, ottomans can serve this function while also providing additional seating when you have multiple guests visiting your home. This gives you greater flexibility over how to use your outdoor space. Start by placing them in front of your outdoor lounge seating, then move them around your yard as needed throughout the evening.

Outdoor Ottoman & Footstool Ideas for Every Style

In addition to the versatility of using outdoor ottomans, you'll also find great diversity in their design. Cane-Line, for example, creates outdoor footstools and ottomans that are simple and sleek, letting your garden and other decor take the spotlight. Oasiq's creations look like they belong poolside at a luxurious resort, while Loll's designs are simple and geometric with a bit of a Hamptons vibe. Kartell creates beautiful stone footstools that also make great outdoor side tables. Finally, Bend Goods offers designs that are bold and colorful, giving your outdoor space a playful look.

How to Choose the Best Outdoor Ottomans

To choose your outdoor footstools and ottomans, think first about what you are trying to accomplish with them. If you simply need a place to rest your feet or a single drink, a footstool will likely do the trick. If, on the other hand, you enjoy entertaining and have guests over frequently, you'll appreciate the larger size of outdoor ottomans, as they'll give you greater flexibility. If you already have outdoor coffee tables, ottomans will work well as seats around a fire pit or clustered together as a standalone seating arrangement.

Other Considerations

As great as outdoor ottomans are for providing extra seating when you need it, they shouldn't be your only seating options. Include other outdoor lounge furniture, like outdoor sofas and chairs as your main seating. This way, you can use outdoor footstools and ottomans to rest your feet while still having plenty of space for you and your guests to relax. Even if you plan to use ottomans and stools as outdoor side tables, it is still a good idea to have dedicated coffee tables and side tables in case you have to use the ottomans for additional seating, giving you maximum flexibility.