The bleak midwinter can get everyone down at some point. Each time you are tempted to hit Instagram for an envy-filled scroll of influencers frolicking in hot places, though, we suggest you do this: light the fire and pick up a book instead.

You’ll be happier for it, we promise. But you’ll be happier still if you’ve sourced a comfortable new armchair to do it in.

The right armchair can be a lot more than just somewhere to sit. It can be a work of art, a haven, a statement. Depending on your mood, it can keep the outside world at bay or invite it warmly in. An armchair is worth investing in.

From delicate linen options to sumptuous armless ones, we’ve picked six of our very favourite chairs on the market.

The White Company


Sheepskin Chair, £1,100
Armchair Edit White Co Sheepskin

This cosy sheepskin armchair is super comfortable and perfect for reading the papers by the fire. The natural colour will complement any room and there's even a footstool to match. It's an investment buy, but the robust design makes the chair sturdy, ensuring that it has a long life ahead of it. Buy it.

Graham & Green


Ariel Shell Chair, £637.50
ARIEL SHELL CHAIR

This Art Deco-inspired chair from Graham and Green is so generously padded and luxuriously shaped that it envelops you from the moment you sink in. Just don’t expect to get out again any time soon. Buy it.


Loaf


Munchkin, £855
Munchkin

It is surprisingly difficult to buy new, small, neat armchairs these days, even though small and neat is what most modern homes require. This one by Loaf ticks all the boxes and can come covered in 141 different fabrics. Buy it.


John Lewis


Nkuku Elbu Linen Armchair, £750
Nkuku Elbu Linen Armchair, Stone

With its mango wood and linen combo, this chair is welcoming, stylish and excellent value.
Neutral enough to work in any scheme and handsome enough to get tongues wagging. Buy it.


Daals


Hemingford Moss Green Velvet Bobbin Armchair, £239.99
Hemingford Moss Green Velvet Bobbin Armchair

If the budget and space can stretch to two, there is nothing prettier than a pair of chairs either side of the fire. These ones from Daals are smart as paint, comfy to sit in and a very good price. Buy it.


The House Upstairs


Nikki Slipper Chair, £1,245
Bespoke Nikki Slipper Chair In Your Choice Of Fabric

There is something about armless easy chairs that screams elegance. This one, from The House Upstairs – a wonderful purveyor of special treasures for your home – comes covered in the fabric of your choice and will enhance any room forever. Buy it.

By Becky Ladenburg
January 2024