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What is an Ottoman Box?

What is an Ottoman Box?

Gemma HenryGemma Henry
January 16, 2025

An ottoman storage box, or – more simply – a storage ottoman, is a multifunctional piece of furniture that combines comfort and style. Traditionally, an ottoman offers practical, additional seating. And modern ottomans come equipped with a hidden built-in storage space.  

In this guide, we will explore the history, features, types and materials used to make ottoman boxes. Plus, we’ll give you some tips on how to effectively use an ottoman storage box in your home. 

History of the ottoman storage box 

The idea of the ottoman originates from the Ottoman Empire, where it was traditionally used as a low, upholstered seat (1).  

Over time, as furniture designs have evolved to meet the needs of more modern homes, the ottoman has been adapted to include storage. This gives us a solution for the clutter that is part and parcel of living in increasingly compact homes.  

The ottoman storage box became particularly popular in the 20th century, when multifunctional furniture began to gain traction. The boom in popularity of these multifunctional furniture pieces was due to a combination of smaller living spaces and a greater emphasis on minimalism and organisation. 

The features of an ottoman storage box 

Ottoman storage boxes have been designed to serve multiple purposes within a single piece of furniture. Here are some of the key features: 

  1. Storage compartment. The primary defining feature of an ottoman storage box is its hollow interior. This is usually accessible by lifting off the cushioned top or through a hinged lid. This compartment can be used for storing items such as blankets, pillows, magazines, toys, or any other household items you need to have handy but would prefer to keep out of sight. 

  1. Padded seat. The top of the ottoman is usually cushioned, providing some comfy, additional seating. As such, ottoman boxes are versatile pieces that can function as both seating and storage. 

  1. Variety of shapes and sizes. Ottoman toy or blanket boxes come in various shapes and sizes. These include square, rectangular, round, and even bench-like designs. This variety means that fitting them into different spaces – from small apartments through to large living rooms – is achievable. 

  1. Design and style. Storage ottomans are also available in a wide range of styles which enables you to choose one that complements your existing interior décor. 

  1. Mobility. Some ottoman blanket boxes come equipped with casters or wheels. This is a feature that can make it easier to move them around as needed. But, generally ottoman boxes are lightweight compared to other furniture staples (like sofas). So, regardless of whether yours has wheels or not, moving it from room to room is usually not difficult to do. 

Different types of ottoman storage boxes 

There are several types of ottoman storage boxes. And each is designed to meet different needs. Here’s a brief overview of the various different types of ottoman boxes that are available both here at Bensons for Beds, and in the wider markets: 

  • Standard storage ottomans. These are usually simple in design, typically square or rectangular, with a lift-up lid. The storage space inside standard ottomans is usually one large compartment. 

  • Bench ottomans. This type of ottoman is longer and can seat multiple people. They’re ideal for positioning at the foot of a bed or in an entryway. The main perks of bench ottomans are that they offer more storage space and can also be used as a seating bench. 

  • Cube ottomans. If you’re looking for something compact and versatile, cube ottomans are great. These small storage cubes can be used in pairs or multiples. And, despite their small size, they provide useful storage space for smaller items. 

  • Round ottomans. Circular ottomans can help to soften the aesthetic of any room. Again, they usually serve as both a decorative piece and a functional storage unit. 

  • Tray-top ottomans. These feature a reversible lid that can be flipped and used as a tray on which you can serve drinks, snacks, or even display decorative items. And all this while still providing storage underneath. 

  • Folding ottomans. A lightweight, collapsible ottoman that can be easily stored away when not in use is commonly known as a folding ottoman. This type tends to be made from fabric or faux leather and is great for small spaces or temporary use. 

  • Tufted ottomans. If you like the ottomans featuring decorative tufting on the cushioned top, a tufted ottoman is what you’re looking for. This ottoman design adds an element of luxury and sophistication while still giving you that all-important bonus of additional storage. 

Materials used in ottoman storage boxes 

Ottoman storage boxes can be made from a range of different materials. And each option comes with different benefits in terms of durability, comfort, and style. Here are some of the most common ottoman box materials: 

  1. Fabric: Common fabrics used to upholster ottomans include cotton and linen. Fabric ottomans are soft and comfortable to sit on. Plus, they’re available in a wide range of colours (as well as some funky patterns) enabling you to match yours to your design preferences with ease. 

  1. Leather or faux leather: Leather ottomans are durable and easy to clean. So, they’re an extremely popular choice for high-traffic areas in British homes. Faux leather offers a similar look to leather but at a lower cost, with the added benefit of being cruelty-free. 

  1. Velvet: Velvet ottomans provide a luxurious and plush texture. As such, they are often used in more formal or elegant settings. A green velvet ottoman – or a blue one – could work well as a statement piece in your bedroom, lounge or hallway. 

  1. Wood: Some ottoman storage boxes also used wooden elements, particularly in the frame or the base. This can add a rustic or traditional look while ensuring the ottoman is sturdy. 

  1. Rattan or wicker: Often used for outdoor or coastal-themed interiors, rattan or wicker ottomans can give your space a natural, airy feel while still offering some additional storage space to keep clutter out of sight. 

The benefits of using an ottoman storage box 

Ottoman storage boxes come with several benefits that make them a practical and stylish addition to any home. Here are the main reasons that we feel no home should be without one: 

  • Space-saving storage: In small spaces, multifunctional furniture – including ottoman storage boxes – help to maximise the storage space in our homes. And ottoman provides both seating and storage in one compact unit. 

  • Organisation: The hidden storage lets you declutter your living space by keeping items out of sight but easily accessible. 

  • Versatility: Whether you’re using yours as a footrest, a coffee table, some additional seating, or just for storage purposes, ottoman storage boxes can adapt to the needs of your household. 

  • Style: As they’re readily available in an abundance of styles and materials, an ottoman storage box can also be handy as a design tool. Whether it’s adding a pop of colour or tying a room together, ottomans add texture and colour, all while being practical. 

  • Comfort: The cushioned top of an ottoman provides a comfortable place to sit or rest your feet, making it a functional piece without sacrificing comfort. 

How to work an ottoman storage box in your home 

Here are some tips for using an ottoman storage box in the different rooms found in traditional British homes: 

  1. Living rooms or lounges. Why not pop a storage ottoman in front of the sofa as a coffee table substitute? Use it to store remotes, magazines, and blankets while giving yourself a dedicated place to rest your feet after a long day. 

  1. Bedrooms. A bench ottoman at the foot of your bed give you a place to stow away extra bedding or seasonal clothing. But it can also double up as a handy seat for getting dressed too. 

  1. Entrance hallways. A narrow bench ottoman in the entryway to your home will give you somewhere to sit while putting on shoes. And the storage compartment can be used for seasonal items like scarves and hats, or everyday items like bags and brollies. 

  1. Children’s bedrooms. An ottoman toy box can help keep toys, books, and other items organised while giving your little ones somewhere soft and safe to sit other than their bed. 

  1. Home offices. A small ottoman under the desk can store office supplies and serve as a footrest during long work sessions while a larger one offers additional seating for yourself or other family members. 

  1. Dining rooms. Swap two chairs out for an ottoman bench seat and you’ll have a place to store additional dining room essentials. If you’re a child-free household, this could come in handy for things like tablecloths, candles and large serving plates that don’t fit in your kitchen cupboards. And for those with kids, it provides somewhere out of sight to hide all their crafty essentials!  

  1. Outdoor spaces. If you’re shopping for your garden or yard, a weather-resistant ottoman storage box made of rattan or wicker is ideal. It can store outdoor cushions, gardening tools, or outdoor toys.

Ottoman storage boxes: our conclusion 

An ottoman storage box is a versatile, functional, and usually pretty stylish piece of furniture that can help you get organised while looking great at the same time. The combination of seating and storage makes ottomans an ideal solution for anyone looking to maximise space and minimise clutter.  

So, whether you're furnishing a small apartment or adding the finishing touch to a spacious living room or a generous master bedroom, an ottoman storage box could be a great investment. Explore our collection to find the right solution for you! 

 

Sources: 

  1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ottoman_(furniture) 

 

Gemma Henry - Content Lead

Gemma finds sleep fascinating and describes the discovery aspect of her role as eye-opening. Her keen eye for detail and dedication to thorough research ensures that Bensons customers get the informative sleep-based advice they're looking for.