Despite often being scrutinized by designers, neutrals are a failsafe decorating tool, especially when it comes to accent chairs. If anybody makes a case, it's Michelle Obama, whose cozy living room exemplifies the power of a classic neutral chair—better described as the focal point of the entire space.
Michelle opted for a cream accent chair hue, and there's no denying that this color is a safe bet. However, this doesn't necessarily mean it's boring. The former First Lady reminds us just how impactful cream can be – both in anchoring a room, and creating a soft base perfect for layering.
In Michelle's case, she has paired her chair with an intricately patterned red rug, a deep wooden coffee table, and flowers, all contributing to a cozy living room aesthetic. The chair allows these colors room to breathe, while the silhouette serves as a focal point. It's the perfect look for any living space, even in the smallest of homes.
Shop the neutral accent chair edit
When decorating your living room, a classic accent chair is the perfect starting point, as Michelle Obama reminds us. This chair has a wooden trim along the base, infusing natural warmth into the neutral upholstery. We love its barrel-shaped back wraps around you, while complementing the track arms that enhance the overall sitting experience.
Upholstered in soft beige-hued fabric, this accent chair showcases a simple design with track arms and a removable seat cushion that provides exceptional comfort. It embodies everything we love about Martha Stewart's collection – including its timeless style, versatile colorway, and longevity.
Comfort, quality, and customization all come together in this Obama-inspired arm chair. Offered in an array of fabrics from velvet to performance crypton and handcrafted with an alder wood frame, it will last for years to come.
The versatility of a cream accent chair has made it a favorite among homeowners (like Barack and Michelle, evidently) for decades. However, its appeal is not set to waver, as design experts emphasize.
'A neutral accent chair is an ideal piece for any interior design due to its versatile hue that complements other color schemes,' comments Paulina Wojas, Interior Designer at Stunning Chairs. 'Its soft, simple tone can create a calming and inviting space; however, a neutral chair can be enhanced by layering textures and vibrant hues for a bolder statement.'
Since Michelle is pictured in the chair, we can't see how she's styled the piece, but as Paulina explains, it's hard to go wrong.
'Opt for textured cushions and throws with colours and patterns to add visual interest,' she says. 'Placing a rug underneath the chair [like Michelle Obama] is a great way to add warmth and texture. Use the chair’s surroundings to enhance it; for example, hang a wall art near it and place a side table and lamp beside it. This creates a stylish and cosy aesthetic, emphasising the accent chair as the focal piece of the room.'
One last styling tip? Decorate with cushions and throws that play with your favorite colors and align with your interior taste. 'This elevates the accent chair while creating a space that feels authentic to you.'
