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Armchair Buying Guide

Choosing a new armchair is an exciting step towards creating a space that's uniquely yours, whether you're looking for a stylish addition to your living room or a cosy nook for reading. With our armchair buyers guide, we'll help you find the perfect piece that fits your lifestyle and brings you lasting comfort.

Girl patting dog on top of the La-Z-Boy Alva Swivel Armchair

What you will find in this guide

  • Why an Armchair is Essential for Every Home
  • How to Choose the Perfect Armchair
  • LA-Z-Boy’s Top Armchairs
  • How to Maintain and Care for Your Armchair
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Written by La-Z-Boy

Why an Armchair is Essential for Every Home

More than just a piece of furniture, an armchair is an invitation to relax and unwind. Whether it’s for a cosy nook or taking centre stage as a living room focal point, a well-chosen armchair can instantly elevate the ambience of your home.

Different Uses of an Armchair in Your Home

The true value of an armchair lies in its versatility and practicality. They’re small in stature, but they’re definitely not short on style. Here are a few ways this humble piece of furniture can transform your home:

  • Accent Chair: An armchair can be a stand-out statement piece, adding a pop of colour or texture to any space.
  • Lounge Chair: It’s also a comfortable place to relax, providing the perfect spot to curl up with a good book or enjoy a cuppa.
  • Extra Seating: An armchair offers a practical solution for when you need extra seats for guests, ensuring everyone has a comfortable place to sit.
  • Multi-Purpose Piece: Armchairs are incredibly versatile. Use it in your home office for a quick break or even in your entryway to create a welcoming atmosphere.

How to Choose the Perfect Armchair

Deciding on the perfect armchair involves more than just picking something that looks good. It’s about finding a piece that fits your lifestyle, complements your living space, and provides lasting comfort.

Understanding Your Needs and Preferences

Your armchair should reflect your unique tastes and needs. Start by considering what matters most to you. Do you prioritise comfort above all else, or are you seeking a stylish armchair to complement your interior design?

Perhaps you need a specific type of armchair to suit your home decor. Understanding your needs and preferences is the first step towards finding your perfect match.

Selecting the Right Size and Shape

The size and shape of your armchair play an important role in how well it fits into your home. For smaller rooms, a compact armchair can be a great option. Consider the height of your armchair in relation to other furniture like side tables and coffee tables.

If you have a spacious living area, you might opt for a larger, more imposing armchair that makes a statement. Remember, the goal is to choose a size and shape that complements your existing furniture and enhances the overall flow of your space.

Evaluating Key Features

For a durable and comfortable armchair, prioritize lumbar support, a sturdy frame, and high-quality foam cushions that retain their shape. Choose armrests and backrests that suit your comfort needs, and select materials like fabric or leather that match your lifestyle.

Features like reclining or swivel functions can add extra flexibility, making relaxation even easier. La-Z-Boy offers a range of stylish armchairs to fit any preference.

La-Z-Boy’s Top Armchairs

At La-Z-Boy, we understand that everyone has different tastes and needs. That’s why we offer a diverse range of armchair styles, from classic to contemporary. Here’s a look at some of our top picks:

  • Demi: With its classic rolled arms, plush cushioning, and stylish timber feet, the Demi has timeless comfort and style ready for your living room. It’s perfect for family living and entertaining, and it’s available in a vast range of custom options.
  • Dover: The Dover is the swivel armchair you need to give your space some energy, flexibility and style. With its soft gentle curves and comfortable seat, it brings casual comfort to any space.
  • Prague: The Prague armchair features a contemporary style with the same iconic La-Z-Boy comfort you can rely on. The Prague will be right at home in any modern-day family house or a vibrant inner city apartment.

How to Maintain and Care for Your Armchair

A little TLC goes a long way in keeping your armchair looking and feeling its best for years to come.

La-Z-Boy Tampa Recliner and Footstool

Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

Regular cleaning is key. Vacuum your armchair regularly with a soft brush attachment to remove dust and debris. For spills, blot the area immediately with a clean cloth and follow the care instructions for your specific fabric or leather. If needed, you can use a mild soap solution for spot cleaning but always test it on a hidden area first.

Girl spinning round on La-Z-Boy Alva Swivel Armchair

Protecting Your Armchair from Wear and Tear

Here are some tips on how to maintain your investment:

  • Rotate Cushions: Regularly rotating your cushions helps distribute wear evenly and prevents them from becoming misshapen.
  • Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can fade and damage fabrics and leather, so position your armchair away from direct sunlight.
  • Use Arm Caps or Throws: Arm caps and throws protect high-wear areas like armrests and headrests from dirt and oils.
  • Keep Pets Off: While we love our furry friends, their claws can scratch and damage upholstery. We recommend keeping their armchair time to a minimum, or maybe buying their own comfy armchair.

FAQs

How high do I want the backrest of the armchair to be?

High-back armchairs offer excellent head and neck support, perfect for lounging and relaxing, while low-back armchairs provide a more upright seating position, often preferred for tasks like reading or working. La-Z-Boy showrooms offer a variety of styles with different backrest heights so you can find the perfect fit for your needs.

How do I choose an armchair for my couch?

Consider the existing colour palette of your living space and choose an armchair that either blends seamlessly or creates an eye-catching contrast. If you’re unsure, bring home some fabric swatches from any La-Z-Boy showroom to see how different colours and textures look in your home’s natural lighting.

What is the best fabric for an armchair in a busy living room?

For busy living rooms, consider upholstery fabrics that are stain-resistant and easy to clean, such as tightly woven microfibre or performance fabrics designed to withstand everyday wear and tear. Contact our knowledgeable staff to guide you through our selection to find the perfect fabric for your busy household.

Settle In and Relax with a La-Z-Boy Armchair

Your dream armchair is waiting. With a wide range of styles, fabrics, and features to choose from, we’re confident you’ll find the perfect fit for your home.

Explore our collection online to discover the endless possibilities, or visit one of our showrooms to experience the comfort and craftsmanship of our armchairs firsthand. Our friendly La-Z-Boy team is always available to offer personalised advice and help you create a space you’ll love coming home to.