An egg chair is more than just seating—it's a sculptural statement piece that can transform the entire character of a room. With their distinctive silhouette and commanding presence, egg chairs demand thoughtful placement and styling to reach their full potential. Done right, your egg chair becomes the anchor of your space, elevating everything around it. Done carelessly, even the most beautiful chair can look out of place.
This guide shares professional styling techniques that interior designers use to incorporate egg chairs into any aesthetic, from minimalist modern to bohemian eclectic. Whether you're styling an indoor living room or an outdoor entertaining area, these principles will help you create a cohesive, visually stunning space.
The Art of Placement
Where you position your egg chair dramatically affects both its visual impact and how well it functions as a seating option. The unique cocoon shape of egg chairs creates what designers call a "micro-environment"—a sense of enclosure and privacy even in an open space. Understanding how to leverage this quality is key to successful placement.
Creating Conversation Zones
In living rooms, egg chairs work beautifully as accent seating that complements a sofa. Position the chair at an angle to the main seating rather than directly facing it—a 45-degree angle creates a welcoming conversation arrangement while showcasing the chair's distinctive profile. Leave enough space for easy movement, typically at least 90cm between pieces.
The slightly enclosed nature of egg chairs makes them perfect for creating intimate conversation nooks within larger spaces. In an open-plan living area, an egg chair can help define a reading corner or quiet zone without requiring walls or dividers.
The Corner Technique
An egg chair positioned diagonally in a corner creates a cosy reading nook that maximises unused space. The corner walls naturally complement the chair's enclosed form, creating a sense of retreat without feeling cramped.
Outdoor Placement Strategies
Outdoor egg chairs have even more flexibility but require consideration of views, sun exposure, and traffic patterns. Position hanging chairs where the natural swing motion won't collide with walls, railings, or other furniture. Consider what you'll see from the chair—facing a garden, pool, or view maximises the relaxation potential.
For outdoor entertaining areas, egg chairs work wonderfully as conversation pieces alongside traditional outdoor seating. Their unique form draws the eye and often becomes guests' favourite spot.
Colour Coordination
The colour of your egg chair and its cushions should work harmoniously with your existing colour scheme, but that doesn't mean it should blend in. Egg chairs offer an opportunity for strategic colour use.
Statement Colours
In neutral-toned rooms, a bold egg chair colour creates an instant focal point. Mustard yellow, deep teal, or rich burgundy cushions against a natural rattan frame can energise a space dominated by whites, greys, or beiges. This approach works particularly well in minimalist spaces that benefit from a controlled pop of colour.
Tonal Harmony
For a more subtle approach, choose cushion colours that echo accent colours already present in the room. If you have blue throw pillows on your sofa, a blue egg chair cushion creates visual continuity. This technique makes the chair feel intentionally integrated rather than added as an afterthought.
Natural Tones
Natural rattan or wicker egg chairs with neutral cushions in cream, beige, or grey create a timeless look that works with virtually any colour scheme. This approach is ideal if you frequently update your decor or prefer flexibility in your design choices.
Cushion Swap Strategy
Choose an egg chair with neutral frame materials and invest in two sets of cushion covers—one for everyday use and one for special occasions or seasonal changes. Swapping cushion covers is an affordable way to dramatically change the chair's appearance.
Accessorising Your Egg Chair
The right accessories transform a beautiful chair into a complete, inviting vignette. Think beyond the chair itself to create an appealing ensemble.
Throw Blankets
A throw blanket draped over the arm or back of an egg chair adds warmth and texture while signalling that this is a place for relaxation. Choose materials appropriate to your climate and chair type—chunky knits for indoor chairs, lighter cotton or linen for outdoor settings.
Pillows and Bolsters
While egg chairs come with seat cushions, additional accent pillows can enhance both comfort and visual interest. A single statement pillow in a complementary pattern or colour adds personality without overwhelming the chair's distinctive shape.
Side Tables and Lighting
A small side table adjacent to your egg chair creates a functional reading or relaxation spot. Choose a table height that's accessible from the seated position—the arm height of the chair is usually a good guide. For indoor chairs, a floor lamp or adjustable reading light nearby extends the chair's usability into evening hours.
Rugs and Ground Cover
An area rug beneath your egg chair helps anchor it visually and defines its territory within the room. Choose a rug large enough that the chair's entire base (including any stand) sits fully on it. For outdoor spaces, outdoor rugs serve the same purpose while adding comfort underfoot.
Styling for Different Design Aesthetics
Modern Minimalist
In minimalist spaces, let the egg chair's sculptural form speak for itself. Choose clean-lined frames, solid-colour cushions, and minimal accessories. White, grey, or black colour schemes with natural rattan frames work exceptionally well. Keep the surrounding space relatively clear to emphasise the chair as a deliberate design element.
Bohemian and Eclectic
Bohemian styling embraces the organic nature of egg chairs. Natural rattan or macrame chairs pair beautifully with layered textiles, mixed patterns, and abundant plants. Add patterned cushions, textured throws, and position the chair among a collection of plants for a relaxed, global-inspired look.
Coastal and Hamptons
Egg chairs are natural fits for coastal aesthetics. White or natural rattan frames with blue and white striped or solid blue cushions evoke seaside relaxation. Rope details, weathered wood side tables, and nautical accessories complete the look.
Scandinavian
For Scandinavian-inspired spaces, focus on light woods, organic shapes, and functional beauty. A natural rattan egg chair with cream or soft grey cushions fits perfectly. Add a sheepskin throw and minimalist accessories to complete the hygge atmosphere.
Key Takeaway
The best-styled egg chair looks intentional, not incidental. Consider your chair's placement, colour, and accessories as carefully as you would any other design element. When done well, an egg chair elevates the entire room around it.
Common Styling Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding: Egg chairs need visual breathing room. Don't push them into tight corners or surround them with too many competing elements.
- Ignoring scale: Ensure your egg chair is proportionate to your space. A large double chair can overwhelm a small room, while a compact chair may look lost in a grand space.
- Competing focal points: If your room has another strong focal point (like a fireplace or statement artwork), position the egg chair to complement rather than compete with it.
- Mismatched styles: While eclectic mixing can work beautifully, ensure there's some connecting element between your egg chair and other furniture—whether material, colour, or era.
For more guidance on choosing the right chair for your space, see our beginner's guide. If you're working with limited space, check out our small space solutions guide.