There are some pieces of furniture that are simply workhorses in your room because they can be used in so many different ways.  Ottomans, footstools and hassocks fall into this category.  But is there a difference between these three pieces of furniture?  The simple answer is—not really.  They are all small pieces of furniture whose purpose is to provide a spot to rest your feet.  That being said, ottomans tend to be larger and are often used in lieu of a coffee table; a hassock is smaller and rounder and a footstool is usually a bit lower to the ground and smaller in size.  Let’s take a look at the various ways these furniture pieces can be put to work.

Ottomans

It is common to find an ottoman used as a coffee table.  They can be made into any shape including round, square and rectangular.  The legs can be fitted with casters allowing you to move it out of the way or around the room as necessary.  Placing a tray on top of the ottoman will provide a spot set a drink glass or to corral all those necessary items such as eyeglasses, books and the ever present remote.  The top can be removable, exposing lots of storage space for extra blankets, magazines etc.

This trend of using an ottoman in place of a coffee table will work in any interior.  A tufted velvet ottoman with brass casters is lovely in a traditional setting.  For a contemporary space, a sleek black leather ottoman on polished chrome legs fits the bill.  In a country, eclectic or transitional interior, choose a fabric that coordinates with other fabrics and colors in the room for a coordinated look.

Hassocks

Really just another term for an ottoman, a hassock is generally a bit smaller in size and is often round in shape.  These, too could be used as an end table by placing a piece of glass on top.  You may consider sliding two hassocks under a console table for use as extra seating when needed.  Placing one in front of a fireplace provides a nice spot to warm your toes without taking up too much space.  Like ottomans, they can be upholstered in any fabric of your choice.

Footstools

A footstool’s sole purpose is to provide a spot to rest your weary feet.  They sit low to the ground, ranging from 9-12″ in height and 12-15″ deep.  They can be placed directly in front of a chair, sitting between two occasional chairs or up against a wall holding books until they are needed.  Since they are so small you can upholster them in a fabric that you would not want to use in large volume such as an animal print, a bright color, a custom needlepoint etc.  Have fun with these.

Tassel trim, braid, gimp and nailheads can all be used to embellish your footstool, ottoman or hassock to add a unique look to your home.