If you think a footstool is just a small piece of furniture for resting your legs, it’s time to rethink its place in the home. In 2025, footstools have taken on a new role in British households. They’ve transformed from being modest sidekicks in the living room to multifunctional stars that save space, add character, and bring a surprising amount of comfort and style. Whether you call it a footstool, an ottoman, or even a pouffe, this small piece of furniture can do a big job.

Why Footstools Are More Relevant Than Ever

With UK homes getting smaller and multifunctional furniture becoming a must, footstools are finally getting the recognition they deserve. Once considered an afterthought, they’re now celebrated for their adaptability. Think about it: a compact piece of furniture that can serve as a seat, a table, a storage solution, and a design accent. That’s not just convenience, that’s smart living.

Footstool Uses Beyond the Obvious

Let’s begin with the most practical side of things. What exactly can you do with a footstool other than resting your legs? Plenty. Here are a few of the smartest footstool uses that UK homeowners are embracing in 2025.

1. Extra Seating Furniture

Unexpected guests? Kids who like to sprawl on the floor? A multipurpose footstool works beautifully as extra seating. Unlike bulky chairs, they’re lightweight, portable, and easy to move wherever you need them. In small London flats or cosy cottages, they’re lifesavers when you need an extra perch.

2. A Footstool Side Table

Place a sturdy tray on top, and suddenly your footstool becomes a handy side table. Whether you need a spot for your coffee, books, or a glass of wine, it’s the kind of adaptability that makes footstools true multitaskers.

3. Footstool with Storage

Storage ottomans are nothing new, but the latest footstools with storage are designed to blend seamlessly into modern interiors. From hidden compartments to shelves tucked under the cushion, they’re perfect for tucking away throws, remote controls, or kids’ toys, a real compact furniture solution.

4. Step Stool vs Footstool

Although not officially designed as ladders, sturdy wooden or upholstered footstools can double up as stepstools when you need to grab something from the top shelf. They’re safer and more stylish than balancing on a wobbly chair.

Footstool Ideas for Every Room in the House

One of the most overlooked aspects of footstools is their ability to fit into any room, not just the lounge. Here are some stylish footstool ideas for making the most out of them in every corner of your home.

Bedroom Comfort

Add a decorative footstool at the end of your bed for a hotel-inspired look. It’s perfect for laying out tomorrow’s outfit or simply adding a touch of luxury. Upholstered designs in velvet or linen are especially on trend.

Hallway Helper

In narrow entryways, a small footstool is a godsend. Use it as a seat for pulling on boots, or as a discreet place to drop bags when you walk in.

Dressing Room Companion

Pair a compact, cushioned stool with a dressing table, and you’ll have a chic yet practical solution. Unlike bulky chairs, footstools slide neatly under the table when not in use.

Kids’ Room Furniture

Soft, pouffe-style footstools make fantastic additions to children’s bedrooms. They double as seating for storytime, play furniture, or even mini climbing frames (kids will always find a way to use them creatively!).

Home Office Addition

Need a break from sitting stiffly at your desk? A footstool under your work table can ease tension in your legs and improve circulation, making your workspace more comfortable.

Multipurpose Footstool: The Real Hero of Small Spaces

When it comes to multifunctional furniture pieces, the multipurpose footstool is one of the most practical investments you can make. It’s particularly useful in smaller UK homes where space comes at a premium.

• In studio apartments, a large storage ottoman can serve as a coffee table by day and a blanket chest by night.

• In guest rooms, a pair of footstools can replace bulky chairs and provide hidden storage for linens.

• In shared family spaces, they make easy seats for game nights or Netflix marathons.

What competitors often overlook is how much a multipurpose footstool contributes to both style and organisation. Unlike other furniture pieces that serve just one function, footstools can adapt to your lifestyle. They’re small in size but big in potential.

Creative Ways to Use a Footstool

Here’s where it gets fun. Let’s explore some truly creative ways to use a footstool, the kinds of ideas that not only make your home more practical but also add an element of surprise.

• As a Coffee Table Alternative: Add a chic tray on top, and your ottoman or footstool transforms into a beautiful coffee table.

• For Pets: Small dogs and cats often use footstools as stepping stones to hop onto beds or sofas. They’re soft, pet-friendly, and safe.

• Exercise Step: Believe it or not, a sturdy footstool doubles up as a mini platform for simple workouts like step-ups or stretches. It’s like sneaking a piece of gym equipment into your home décor.

• Statement Piece: Choose a bold fabric or an unusual design, such as a modern ottoman design with geometric patterns, and let the stool act as a decorative accent that ties your living room together.

These aren’t just practical hacks; they show the real versatility and creativity behind this underrated piece of furniture.

Footstool Benefits You Might Not Expect

Let’s talk about footstool benefits that go beyond the obvious. Sure, they’re great for resting your legs, but they also bring plenty of hidden perks:

• Health & Comfort: Sitting with your feet elevated improves blood circulation, reduces swelling, and can even help with posture. Perfect if you work long hours at a desk.

• Stress Relief: Having a cosy corner with a soft footstool to prop your legs on after a long day can be a simple but effective way to relax.

• Space Saving: Instead of buying multiple pieces of furniture, a multipurpose footstool does the job of a table, storage chest, and extra seat all in one.

• Design Versatility: From classic leather to bohemian pouffes, they adapt to any interior style, whether your home is Scandi, rustic, or modern.

Style Matters: Choosing the Right Footstool

If you’re shopping for a footstool, don’t just think about size; consider design, materials, and colours.

• Upholstered footstools in velvet or linen bring a touch of luxury.

• Wooden finishes work well for rustic, countryside homes.

• Compact, modern shapes are ideal for urban apartments.

• Neutral tones like beige, taupe, or grey never go out of fashion.

Similar item: [View our collection of upholstered footstools.]

Find the Perfect Footstool at BestBed

Looking for a footstool that combines style, comfort, and practicality? At BestBed, you can discover the perfect footstool to suit your home decor and lifestyle. From multipurpose footstools and ottoman alternatives to footstools with storage, there’s something for every room and need. Whether you want a compact solution for a small apartment or a decorative piece to enhance your living space, BestBed offers high-quality options that are both functional and stylish. Transform your home with a footstool that does more than just hold your feet; it elevates your entire space.

FAQs

1. What’s the difference between a footstool and an ottoman?
A footstool is usually smaller and designed mainly for leg support, while ottomans are larger, often with storage, and can double up as coffee tables.

2. Can footstools be used as seating?
Absolutely. Sturdy designs make excellent extra seats for guests, especially in small homes.

3. Are footstools worth buying if I already have a sofa?
Yes. A sofa is for sitting; a footstool makes the space more versatile. It can be a table, storage unit, or even a design accent.

4. Do footstools work in small apartments?
Definitely. They’re some of the best small space furniture hacks, since they’re compact but multifunctional.