Choosing the perfect bedroom chair

Whether your personal style is old-world charm or new-world comfort, there's a bedroom chair just right for you.

Jean McAuliffe of Pfitzner Furniture says that choosing the right bedroom chair is not a matter of trends. "Many factors influence what people want in their bedrooms," she says. "This can range from French provincial styles to sleek modern, and everything in between."

The Louis XVI bedroom chair

Despite this, Jean says that a good Louis XVI chair works well in most bedrooms. "The Louis XVI bedroom chair is very pretty, especially when covered with a gorgeous fabric," she says. "People want something that looks good, they can toss their clothes on, but is also sturdy enough to sit on, and these do it all. You can also dress them up by painting them in gold leaf or creme or white, then rub back to achieve a distinctly period look."

The stressless bedroom chair

If you're after something more contemporary that is also great for snuggling into while reading a good book, then Jean suggests the 'Stressless' chair. "This is a range from Norway and they are lovely," she says. "They recline with the weight of the body on a swivel base and have a separate footstool. They are more commonly found in a living room, but quite a few people now like them in the bedroom."

The Albert bedroom chair

The 'Albert Chair' is a bedroom chair with a more old-world style. As it is smaller in frame, its bucket-like seat with high arm rests means it is also a charming reading chair when space is at a premium. "These can make quite a nice statement when covered in fabrics that are either complementary to the curtains and bedroom features, or when in contrast, such as a check fabric against floral curtains," says Jean.

When it comes to items such as the old-fashioned chaise lounge, Jean says that it is now most unusual for anyone to want one, but a large ottoman at the end of the bed that may also be used for storage, is becoming increasingly popular.