20 Clever Repurpose Ottoman Ideas for Your Home

Last updated on February 19, 2024

Explore the world of repurposing furniture because ottomans can go beyond footrests, becoming dynamic and stylish home elements that can upgrade any room.

I’ve designed unique illustrations for these ideas. I hope you get inspired!

Fancy a fresh look for that beloved, but maybe worn-out, ottoman? An ottoman can be much more than just a footrest; it’s a versatile piece of furniture patiently waiting for its makeover day.

Dozens of repurposing ideas are widely available, and surely, there are great ones that have inspired countless decor transformations. But if you are seeking a bit of innovation, fresh perspectives are required.

This article aims to produce a wind of novelty with unique and inventive ways of breathing new life into your ottoman. And fear not, we also value the tried and true, thus a round-up of the creme de la creme of existing ideas will be linked at the end.

Task in hand? Unlocking the reimagined identity of your ottoman. Stay tuned!

Multipurpose Ottoman: Desk & Seating

Making clever use of space is key in contemporary homes where every square inch counts. A multipurpose ottoman that doubles as a desk and seating arrangement perfectly serves this purpose. Here’s the lowdown:

1. Compact Design: Sporting a compact structure, it can effortlessly fit into small corners of your living room or bedroom, ready to function as an additional seat or desk as needed.

2. Integrated Surface: Beneath the padded top, this ottoman often houses a sturdy surface that can be pulled out to act as a desk suitable for light activities like reading, using a laptop, or enjoying a coffee.

3. Extra Storage: Not to be overlooked is the storage potential these ottomans offer. The hollow interior can be used to hide away books, remotes, or miscellaneous items, keeping your room tidy.

4. Versatile Options: These ottomans come in various styles, materials, and finishes to blend seamlessly with your decor while offering functional convenience.

Remember, furniture should work for you, not the other way around. A multipurpose ottoman is a versatile choice that gives more than it takes – space, functionality, and style!

Hand-Print Design Ottoman

For a more personalized touch, consider making use of hand-prints. This technique can create a unique and sentimental piece of furniture. Whether it’s the tiny hands of your children, or a group project with different sized prints, this is a fun way to add charm to an otherwise dull ottoman.

First, gather paints safe for fabric in colors of your choice. Spread the paint on the chosen hand, ensuring it’s not too thick. Then, carefully press the painted hand onto the ottoman. You can leave space for each hand-print to stand alone or overlap the prints. After allowing it to dry, use a fabric sealer to make sure the prints stay vibrant and resistant to wear and tear.

This easy project not only revamps your ottoman but also preserves precious memories, making it an object of sentimental value in your home. It is, therefore, both an aesthetic and emotional enrichment to your living space.

Ottoman With Built-In Pet Bed

Adapting your ottoman as a haven for your pet is a clever and visually appealing way to save space. Transforming the base of your ottoman into a pet bed involves cutting a doorway into the side that’s large enough for your furry friend to easily access.

Installation of a comfy cushion or a soft pet bed inside ensures comfort. Hard-wearing, cozy, and washing machine-friendly fabrics, such as denim or canvas, are ideal for the cushion cover since they can withstand the wear and tear coming from active pets.

Layering the interior with a pet-friendly fabric helps resist odor buildup. Decorate the pet bed entrance simply for charm; mini curtains or paint are ideal choices. However, keep in mind to use pet-safe paint.

Optionally, to keep pet toys simultaneously out of sight yet accessible, add a small shelving unit or hanging baskets inside. This dual-function ottoman not only enhances your room’s aesthetics but also provides a cozy hideaway for your pet.

DIY Ottoman With Shoe Storage

Taking a practical approach to your décor, shoe storage ottomans are a fantastic solution for stowing away clutter while providing additional seating. The objective is to craft a multifunctional piece, highlighting convenience and aesthetics.

1. Identify a sturdy, unupholstered ottoman or a similar furniture piece, no need for a brand new buy.

2. Mind the dimensions: It should be wide enough to accommodate shoes without cramping.

3. Choose a removable or hinge-attached top for easy access. Consider a padded top for comfortable seating.

4. Personalize by painting an appealing hue matching your room’s theme or by using decorative contact paper.

5. Install dividers or customize with compartments to segregate shoes neatly.

6. If you’re up for an extra challenge, a fun idea is to incorporate a shoe rack inside the ottoman body itself.

Remember, this isn’t just about functionality; it’s about adding a stylish touch to your home simultaneously. Get creative with your designs! Go forth and banish those unseemly shoe piles strewn about the house with this DIY project.

Ottoman Upgraded With Luxury Materials

Luxury fabric, such as velvet or silk, can instantly elevate the appearance of an old ottoman, making it look almost new. A plush chenille or faux fur fabric also sparks visual interest and warmth. As well as designing for aesthetics, select high-quality foam for ultimate comfort.

Equally consider the finishing touches. High-end finishes such as decorative wooden legs, deep button tufting, or nailhead trim can add to the ottoman’s overall appeal. Keep in mind that a professional upholsterer can confidently manage these advanced touches, ensuring a high-quality, durable result.

Pattern choices can make a significant difference. If your room already has an array of patterns, choose a solid color for your ottoman. On the contrary, a bold pattern can turn your ottoman into a statement piece within a neutral space.

Complement these material upgrades with functionality. A removable lid allows your luxurious ottoman to double as storage space, balancing practicality alongside an aesthetically pleasing design.

Repurpose Ottoman As Plant Stand

Introducing greenery to your indoor spaces is a fantastic way to liven things up. Your well-loved ottoman can serve as an ingenious plant stand providing all the necessary support for your leafy friends. Here’s how you can start:

1. Secure Waterproofing: Make sure to create a waterproof layer on the ottoman surface, this could be achieved either by using water-resistant fabric or simply placing a clear plastic tray on the top.

2. Choose the Right Plants: Opt for plants that thrive in indoor conditions. Consider jade plants, aloe vera, or snake plants which require low maintenance and are visually appealing.

3. Arrange Plants: Do not overcrowd the ottoman. Place larger plants in the center while smaller ones can be arranged around the periphery for an aesthetic appeal.

4. Blend with Decor: Ensure the selection of the plants align with the overall decor themes of the room, this would maintain the cohesion and balance in the interior design.

5. Maintenance: Regular trimming and watering is vital to keep plants healthy. But remember to maintain the cleanliness of the ottoman as well, wipe any spills immediately to avoid staining.

Incorporating plants into living spaces using a repurposed ottoman is a refreshing design move, it adds unexpected dimensions and makes a statement about your personal style. Enjoy the green oasis right in the comfort of your home!

Outdoor Ottoman Using Water-Resistant Materials

Starting with a common piece of outdoor material such as treated lumber, teak, or even woven rattan, construction is simple. Choose a texture and color that complements your existing garden scheme.

Highly weatherproof and equally stylish waterproof upholstery fabrics are the perfect topping. Opt for marine-grade materials designed specifically to withstand the elements. Patterns ranging from nautical stripes to tropical prints are available to align with any design vision.

Consider padding with quick-dry foam. These specially engineered materials offer all the comfort of regular cushioning without the risk of water retention. They’re mold resistant and dry quickly after rain.

In terms of design, you could incorporate hidden storage beneath the ottoman’s lid, useful for stowing away outdoor throws, kids’ toys, or gardening tools. You may also design it with casters or wheels for easy movement around the patio or deck.

Remember, weather-resistant doesn’t mean infallible. Even with the sturdiest materials, some care will ensure longevity – invest in a good-quality cover for harsher weather conditions.

In this way, the ottoman not only provides extra seating and raises the comfort level but also contributes to the organization and aesthetics of the outdoor space.

Modular Ottoman for Flexible Seating

Modularity is at the heart of flexible seating arrangements at home. This concept allows ample room for experimentation and transformation according to changing needs. The key factors to consider when creating your modular ottoman include:

1. Size: Decide on the dimension that will best suit your space. Remember, the beauty of modularity is in easy manipulation, rearrangement, and scaling to fit available space.

2. Material: Prioritize comfort, durability, and ease of cleaning. Leather or microfiber fabrics are excellent choices due to their longevity and simplicity in maintenance.

3. Design: Opt for pieces that fit together seamlessly, hence creating a larger piece when needed, or serve as individual functional units for smaller gatherings.

4. Storage: Incorporate in-built storage compartments for added functionality. Books, throw blankets, or even game consoles can find a place here for a clean, clutter-free aesthetic.

5. Mobility: Add wheels or sliders for easy movement and arrangement. This brings a high level of versatility to your décor, adapting swiftly and effortlessly as per requirement.

6. Adaptability: Choose designs that can function as both seating and a coffee table. A tray on top can instantly make it a perfect surface for cocktails or snacks when entertaining.

Remember, no fixed rules apply when it comes to modular ottoman designs. Let your creativity run wild. Adapt and transform to best fit your changing needs and you’ll appreciate the versatility and practicality it offers.

Ottoman With In-Built Tray for Serving

Creating this practical design involves the integration of a solid, removable tray into the ottoman. It elegantly fuses aesthetic appeal with practical function and saves you the hassle of finding a table when serving snacks or drinks.

1. Choose a design: Contemplate opting for a reversible top, combining a soft, cushioned side for seating, and a firm, flat side as the tray. If versatility and variety is your style, consider multiple small trays.

2. Material selection: The tray should be durable and easy to clean. Ideal choices include wood, metal, or plastic. It’s also essential to match this with the ottoman aesthetic.

3. Size and placement: The tray’s size is dictated by the ottoman’s dimensions and the amount of usable surface needed. Settling on an appropriate size ensures balance when in use, preventing any accidental spills.

4. DIY or professional: Depending on skills and available resources, you can either convert your existing ottoman with a few modifications or seek professional assistance in custom design.

5. Maintenance: Regular cleaning and careful handling will preserve the integrity and longevity of the dual-purpose ottoman.

This clever twist on the classic ottoman serves a dual purpose in your living space, proving practical while adding a distinct touch of style.

Vintage Suitcase Turned Ottoman

Transforming a vintage suitcase into an ottoman presents both a functional and aesthetically appealing result. Here are a few key steps to consider in this creative upcycling process:

1. Selection: Choose a sturdy and good-sized suitcase for comfort and stability.

2. Preparation: Clean the suitcase thoroughly and remove any fixtures or elements that might interfere with its repurposing.

3. Padding: To achieve the plush comfort of an ottoman, add several layers of thick foam on the suitcase.

4. Upholstery: Select a fabric that complements your existing decor. Cut it to size and use it to wrap the foam, securing it tightly to create a smooth surface.

5. Legs: Attach four sturdy legs at the bottom of the suitcase. Ensure they are evenly spaced to avoid any imbalance. Recycled wooden or metal legs can enhance the vintage appeal.

6. Finishing: Coat any visible parts of the suitcase with a protective layer or paint to give it a fresh lease of life.

Remember, each suitcase will offer a unique character to the finished ottoman, making it a one-of-a-kind piece of furniture in your home. Keep the interior of the suitcase functional too, it can serve as hidden storage space!

Repurposed Wine Barrel As an Ottoman

Transforming a rustic wine barrel into a stylish ottoman is an excellent way to blend functionality and aesthetics. To start, split the wine barrel in half across the width, ensuring you have two curved portions. You will only need one half for this project.

The first step in this process is lining its inner area with a protective coating. A weather-resistant finish, like polyurethane, could work perfectly to maintain the longevity of the barrel’s wood.

The second step is to secure a cushion on top. Encasing a piece of foam with a fabric of choice creates a comfortable top surface. Remember to choose something durable and easy-to-clean, to ensure it is ready for multiple uses.

The placement of the ottoman becomes an essential factor. It fits well in spaces where a rustic charm is appreciated like living rooms, study spaces, or patios.

Another facet of this repurposed wine barrel ottoman is its storage capabilities. Utilizing the interior hollow for storage is a smart way to maximize space. Felt or fabric lining on the inner walls could be an add-on to give a neat, clean appearance.

There’s also the option of adding wheels at the bottom for easy movability. With these features combined, your wine barrel ottoman becomes a functional, versatile piece of home decor.

Heated Winter Ottoman

Transforming your ottoman into a cozy, heated fixture can be achieved with some essential tools and a heating pad. Opt for a heating pad designed for upholstery integration, offering adjustable temperature settings to maximize comfort.

Here’s how to make the “winter friendly” update:

1. Dismantle the ottoman; removing the top surface.
2. Position your chosen heating pad onto the upper surface.
3. Attach securely, ensuring flat even placement for optimal heat distribution.
4. Reassemble the ottoman, delicately nestling the power cord in a discrete manner.
5. Pick a warm, plush fabric for the final upholstery to enhance the snuggle factor.

An upgrade like this brings an element of warmth and comfort to cold winter nights. Plus, it’s a special touch your house guests will appreciate and remember. But remember, always observe safety precautions while operating any heated furniture.

Chenille Fabric Ottoman Makeover

Switching to a chenille fabric is a great idea if you’re considering an Ottoman makeover. This fabric, characterized by its softness and sheen, gives a luxuriously comfortable finish perfect for a glamorous living space.

Before you begin, make sure that the ottoman’s current upholstery is in good condition. You’ll be using the same pattern for the chenille.

Here are some key points to note:

1. Fabric Measurement: Measure the length, breadth, and height of the ottoman to determine the amount of chenille fabric required.
2. Disassembling: To avoid any damage to the ottoman, carefully remove the current fabric. Do not rip or tear it, as you will need it for the pattern.
3. Pattern Making: Lay the removed fabric on the chenille and trace around it, leaving an extra inch all around for seam allowances. Cut out the pattern.
4. Stapling: Attach the new fabric to the ottoman using a staple gun. Take care to pull the chenille tightly against the frame to avoid it appearing loose or saggy.
5. Trim Excess: If there’s any excess chenille, cut it off once all the stapling is completed.

This step-by-step guide should make your ottoman feel brand new, and with the plush appeal of the chenille fabric, it will add a touch of elegance to your room. Upgrading to chenille not only enhances the look but also increases your ottoman’s durability and longevity.

Flip-top Ottoman for Secret Storage

Getting crafty with a flip-top ottoman can result in a clever hiding spot for household items. This functional furniture essentially serves two purposes – comfortable seating and secret storage.

1. Selection: Start with a sturdy Ottoman that complements your room’s aesthetic. The flip-top type offers a mix of practicality and style.

2. Dual Functionality: The ottoman offers a comfortable place to sit or rest your feet, while the hidden compartment keeps clutter out of sight.

3. Storage Ideas: Ideal for storing blankets, board games, magazines, remote controls, or kids’ toys. It helps maintain a clean and tidy room by stealthy storage.

4. Accessibility: It’s quick and easy access while remaining discreet. Just lift the lid and retrieve what you need.

5. Customization: Depending on your interior design, you may opt for an ottoman in leather, fabric, or upholstered print to match your home’s style.

Incorporating a flip-top ottoman into your space seamlessly combines comfort, beauty, and practicality.

Bean Bag Ottoman for Kids Room

Revamping a bean bag into an ottoman is an attractive and kid-friendly idea. The simplicity of this project adds even more appeal.

Firstly, dense foam fillings make this ottoman sturdy, while maintaining the comfort synonymous with bean bags. Certainly, we’re aiming for something that can withstand hours of boisterous play while being gentle on those little knees.

A bean bag ottoman is often multi-functional too. You can use it as a footstool, extra seating space, and even a makeshift table during creative playtimes. Vibrant and easy-to-clean fabric coverings, like vinyl or duck cloth, are smart choices. They allow for quick clean-ups after inevitable spills and add a pop of color to the room.

Safety considerations are paramount when it comes to children’s furniture. Ensure secure closings to prevent small fingers from getting stuck. Heavy-duty Velcro or child-safe zippers would do the trick. For added safety, be sparing with foam filings to avoid the risk of the ottoman toppling over during kid-fueled hijinks.

So, there you have it. A cozy, playful, yet practical addition to liven up your child’s room. Come on, let’s get creative!

Ottoman Turned Pop-Up Coffee Table

Transforming an ottoman into a pop-up coffee table combines style and functionality, providing a unique focal point for your family room.

Begin by selecting a sturdy, flat-topped ottoman and fit it with a hydraulic lift mechanism available easily at hardware stores.

This allows the top to ‘pop-up’ and can easily support a wooden tray or light table-top material for your coffee, books, or decorative objects.

Remember to secure the lift mechanism properly, safety should be a priority.

As for the design, the world is your oyster – you could upholster the ottoman in matching fabric with your sofa or choose a contrasting color or pattern for a bold statement.

Finally, don’t forget about storage. Ottomans often come with ample storage space perfect for hiding away toys, blankets, or remote controls.

This update allows you to maintain your chic aesthetic while never sacrificing practicality.

Farmhouse Style Ottoman Using Thrifted Materials

A visually pleasing craft, the farmhouse-style ottoman harmonizes perfectly with a rustic or vintage décor. To master this task, you’ll need some thrifted materials such as an old coffee table or a sturdy wooden box. When selecting your base, remember the look you’re striving for is rustic charm, so visual imperfections can add value. You may want to sand and stain or paint your base to fit your color palette.

Choosing your cushioning is next. An old foam mattress or thick quilt can be repurposed as cushioning; the more worn, the better! Comfort should be the priority, cushion thickness can vary but ideally not less than two inches.

Finally, choose your covering fabric. Burlap, linen, or any distressed fabric works best to achieve the farmhouse look. Consider neutral tones with light, faded floral or plaid patterns. When fastening your fabric, using vintage-style buttons or brass upholstery tacks can add a lovely touch. Remember, the aim is to skillfully combine comfort with antiquity to achieve the perfect farmhouse style ottoman.

Home-Office Ottoman With File Storage

Maintaining organization is key in any home office, particularly in limited spaces. By using an ottoman with built-in file storage, you achieve a stylish design without compromising on practicality.

Process:

First, choose an ottoman large enough to accommodate your files, yet small enough to fit comfortably in your working space. Look for one with a flip-top lid, which can offer easy access to the interior.

Next, customize the ottoman’s interior to fit your file organization system. You can add tracks for hanging file folders or install sections for individual paperwork. If the ottoman has a deep interior, consider adding a sliding tray at the top to store frequently accessed documents or office supplies.

Materials:

Material choice should serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. A wooden ottoman can add class and sophistication, while choosing a sturdy fabric upholstery can create an easy-to-clean, inviting look. If longevity and spill-resistance are concerns, consider leather or faux leather.

Combining storage and style, an ottoman with file storage can bring a cozy, yet professional touch to the home office. Resistant to spills, versatile, and multi-functional, it offers a practical solution to home office needs.

Ottoman With Inbuilt Speakers

The integration of speakers into the design of an ottoman combines sound and seating in a room, offering a double dose of functionality. For music lovers, this clever twist allows you to enjoy your favorite tunes without additional equipment crowding the space.

Here’s a guide to get started:

1. First, choose an ottoman with a hollow inside for easy speaker installation. Ensure the selected size is large enough to accommodate the components without cramping them.
2. Procure high-quality speakers designed for small, enclosed spaces. Also, consider purchasing vibration-damping material to protect the speakers while ensuring a clear sound.
3. Plan a cut-out on the ottoman for the speaker. The location is up to you, but aim for a balance between the listening area and aesthetic appeal.
4. Install a wireless speaker system to avoid clutter from wires. However, remember to make allowance for the charging system within the ottoman.
5. Lastly, have an upholstery that’s sonically transparent to allow sound to pass through. Micro-perforated fabric or grilles can do the trick.

Remember safety first: Hire a professional to install wiring, especially if the ottoman is already in use. Do not compromise on the quality and safety of all materials used for this project.

Ottoman Turned Toy Box

Revamping an old ottoman into a toy storage unit is an ingenious way to keep children’s rooms tidy while adding a decorative touch. It requires little beyond a fun choice of fabric, hinges, and some DIY spirit.

Start by carefully removing the original top of your ottoman. You can then reupholster it with child-friendly fabric that complements the room’s decor. The original top will be replaced with a hinged lid, which offers easy access to toys.

Consider adding a soft-close feature to protect small fingers from being trapped. For an additional touch, a couple of pull-out or pop-out bins can be added to categorize and segregate toys. This not only provides practical storage space for toys, but also makes a charming, functional piece of furniture.

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