This is what I imagined the girls lay on when people say “paint me like one of your french girls”. Coincidentally enough, the chaise lounge actually originated from France during the 16th century. Now in 2024, you might associate ‘sexiness’ as well as ‘antiqueness’ with the chaise lounge but in the 16th century, it was actually a status symbol for French elites.
In this article, I’m gonna help you pick the perfect chaise lounge for your unique space so you can pose like one of those french girls or just lay down and watch Netflix.
Step 1: How big is your space? Is it bigger than 400 sq ft ?
I mean, this is obvious right? The standard exterior dimensions for a chaise lounge usually is somewhere between 73” – 80” for the length and around 42”- 48” for the depth. That’s why considering that the chaise lounge is usually an “add-on” to your space and not the main seating area, unless your room is at least above 400 square feet, I wouldn’t recommend you getting one. You should consider getting a main sofa set with a lounging option instead like this
Step 2: What’s the purpose?
Chaise lounge comes in a variety of styles and each of them catering to a specific purpose and relaxation style.
Are you using it to wind down and read books ? In that case a chaise with an adjustable backrest may be the best option
Or maybe you like to sit down on Wednesdays and rewatch The Notebook? A chaise with two armrests offers a more cocooned feel.
Step 3: Take out your measuring tape! (or the measure app on iPhone will do)
A rule of thumb is to leave at least 3 feet of space around your chaise so you can comfortably move within your space and avoid yourself from the legendary pain of “stubbed toe”.
If you’re planning to watch movies with it, place it somewhere in the centre of the TV and work from there
If you’re planning to read through the harry potter series, find a space with windows so you can get natural light
Step 4: Picking your style
Are you a minimalist or a maximalist ? Your room, your rolls but here’s a rule of thumb for you to pick the colors.
Follow the 60-30-10 Rule; 60% Dominant Color, 30% Secondary Color, 10% Accent Color.
- Dominant Color: Pick your favorite color. This is your main color and should be the most prominent one in the room. For a chaise lounge, this could be the upholstery fabric itself. Minimalists might choose a neutral color like beige, gray, or white for a clean and airy look. Maximalists can opt for a bolder color like emerald green, sapphire blue, or even a rich burgundy to make a statement.
- Secondary Color: This color complements the dominant color adding depth to your space. Minimalists might choose a slightly darker shade of the dominant color or a contrasting neutral like black or brown. Maximalists can introduce a contrasting color that complements their bold dominant choice. Or you can utilize this free complementary color calculator.
- Accent Color: Even though its the smallest color splash, I personally think it shines the most personality. Imagine a black or grey minimalistic room with bright orange accents, giving a techy feel to your space! The mood you desire sets the tone: energizing brights for vibrancy, calming pastels for serenity, or metallics for a touch of glamour. Explore the color wheel for complementary or analogous hues, or introduce textural accents for added depth. Experiment freely! Hold fabric swatches next to your dominant and secondary colors to visualize the interplay. Remember, the 10% rule is a flexible guide; adjust it to achieve your desired effect.
Step 5: Comfort is King (or Queen)
Consider driving down to a shop downtown and try laying down in different chaises. Figure out what type of materials you like touching your skin when you lay down. Sit, recline and see if its a perfect feet. Consider different fabrics, cushion firmness and arrest placements.
