If your office, living room, or bedroom furnishings seem relatively trivial or boring, then adding a barrel chair or two might just be all you need to help liven up the place. Not only do these make for tremendous accent pieces, but they can also be used as the centerpiece for your living room, dining room, bedroom, office, study, entrance way, etc.
Matching furniture sets can undoubtedly help bring uniformity to a room, but it can also make the entire place feel simply mundane. Another common problem people have when searching for quality furniture, is the ability to find one that is both comfortable, and affordable.
Which is why we’ve done some research, and come up with our own list of the 10 most comfortable barrel chairs on the market to help guide you through the process.
What is a Barrel Chair?
Though a relatively loose term, “Barrel Chairs” typically refers to a chair that is semicircular in shape, has a curved back, and armrests that form a winged-design. They are easily one of the most inviting and comfortable chairs on the market, offering a rounded design, and wraparound arms that hug everyone who falls into them.
The shape is specifically designed with comfort in mind, and can fit to match any interior space from classic to contemporary. That being said, they can also go by “Tub Chairs”, “Drum Chairs”, or even “Club Chairs” and were popularized primarily in the mid-20th century. Though it remains as one of the most recognized chair designs today for it’s relaxed yet refined aesthetic.
Are there Different Types of Barrel Chairs?
Certainly! There are numerous designs to choose from when it comes to barrel chairs. Some barrel chairs have completely round seat cushions, while others carry straight backs, and some are even slanted. Beyond that, you will find that certain barrel chairs have traditional legs, while others have pedestal bases, and some even swivel.
There are also ‘antique barrel chairs’ that are constructed with authentic barrels, using nail barrels rescued from hardware stores or pickle barrels from country style general stores. As well as numerous materials used for the upholstery, such as leather, fabric, wood and more. Regardless of which type of barrel chair you choose, they are undoubtedly classic pieces of furniture that carry a timeless appeal, and are a fan-favorite for lounges and casual social spaces.
When Were Barrel Chairs Invented?
While you probably already know that barrel chairs have been used for centuries, I bet you didn’t know that they can be traced all the way back to ancient Egyptian times. Though often a subject of debate, with historians pointing to a variety of diverse locations for the origin of the barrel chair. Such as the United Kingdom, the Virgin Islands, Italy, and France (to name a few).
It is well-known that the design was in use across the globe by the middle of the late 19th century, and widespread throughout Europe during the Renaissance era. With traces of the chair being used by Queen Elizabeth I, Leonardo da Vinci and other major historical figures. Before being more popularized in the United States during the middle of the 20th century.
Are Barrel Chairs a Comfortable Chair?
As previously stated, barrel chairs are specifically constructed to provide maximum comfort (so yes!). One of the shining features that barrel chairs carry is their ergonomic design, which offers next-level back support that optimally aligns your spine, improves posture, and even enhances blood flow.
Beyond this, barrel chairs are also generally made with high-density foam material for increased comfort, as well as sleek leather (or fabric) finishes that are smooth to the touch. Simply put, comfort is typically not an issue with barrel chairs, as this is what they’re made for.
10 Most Comfortable Barrel Chairs
1. Modway Rogue Performance Velvet Barrel Back Accent Lounge Swivel Chair (Most Comfortable Option)
Without question, the most comfortable barrel chair on the market is the Modway Rogue Performance Velvet Barrel Back Accent Lounge Swivel Chair. This design has all the bells and whistles, with an organic barrel back style that masterfully blends beauty with comfort, without sacrificing durability. It’s upholstered with stain-resistant performance velvet polyester that covers dense foam padding, and a sturdy frame which can support up to 300 lbs.
Not only that, but the chair is secured on a 360-degree swivel base, carries beautiful exterior button tufting, and comes in three gorgeous color configurations (white, navy, and grey). Plus, this intricate design also features a unique nailhead trim helping to set it apart from the pack. Taking all of this into account, this isn’t just the most comfortable barrel chairs on the market, but arguably the most luxurious as well.
2. Corley Modern Upholstered Faux Leather Swivel Barrel Club Chair
Another spectacular choice for anyone looking for a (slightly) more affordable chair, with all of the same functions, is the Corley Modern Upholstered Faux Leather Swivel Barrel Club Chair. Available in four stylish colour options (turquoise, red, ivory, and black), this unique alternative carries a plethora of desirable features. Including a 360-degree swivel function, solid large wood frame, and a stunning faux leather exterior.
Above all else, the Corley Swivel Barrel Club Chair features incredibly deep and comfortable seating, making it an absolute no-brainer for our list. All in all, it’s a relatively minimalistic design that remains as one of the more durable yet exquisite barrel chairs on the market.
3. Edenbrook Combe Barrel Chair with Tapered Wood Legs (Best Modern Design)
For those in search of a more modern design with deep, low seating that’s specifically constructed for maximum relaxation and comfort. There’s no better choice than the Edenbrook Combe Barrel Chair with Tapered Wood Legs. The high, rounded back and ergonomic arms with deep circular cutout help to cradle your body, and relieve tension, without having to sacrifice the modern aesthetic.
This model also carries sturdy tapered wooden legs that are long-lasting, and sophisticated in appearance. Plus, this is one of the few barrel chairs on our list that comes in both faux leather finishes (camel and charcoal), as well as upholstered fabric (grey and navy). Don’t let the minimalist style fool you though, as this chair is built to last with incredibly durable construction, and a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds.
Thanks to it’s stunning appearance, and classy design, this is one of the most versatile barrel chairs available, and makes for the perfect addition to any office, study, living room, or dining room. It’s also one of the least expensive chairs on our list, an invaluable trait for any piece of home furniture.
4. Art Leon Modern Faux Leather Upholstered Swivel Barrel Chair (Luxury Pick)
The Art Leon Modern Faux Leather Upholstered Swivel Barrel Chair stands out as our most luxurious pick for those who like to enjoy the finer things in life. Beyond the fact that this exquisite design comes in three unique finishes (cognac, brown, and ebony), it also has both faux leather and genuine leather options available. Both of which are smooth, and soft to the touch, while the unique channel stitching pattern design offers a more elegant look than most barrel chairs.
As if this wasn’t already enough to convince you, the cushions are filled with an exceptionally comfortable memory foam material, and the base is made with plywood and hardwood for additional support. As well as a reliable and sturdy stainless steel swivel base. Simply put, the Art Leon Swivel Barrel Chair has all the necessary features to ensure peak support, while also introducing intricate channel stitching and genuine leather finish for additional style points.
5. eLuxurySupply Traditional Barrel Armchair with Swivel Base
Another amazing alternative is the eLuxurySupply Traditional Barrel Armchair and Swivel Base, a more conventional take on the modern barrel chair. This accent chair is engineered with comfort, versatility, and style in mind, and even features high density foam in the seating, and back to allow for optimal comfort.
Beyond this, it also comes available in six different colours (brown leather, black leather, cream, gray velvet, grey, and navy velvet), and is compact enough to fit into any indoor space. And if you don’t like the swivel base, each colour configuration comes with a different base, so you can adjust accordingly. All things considered, this astounding barrel chair easily presents one of the most versatile, compact, and comfortable alternatives on the market.
6. CHITA Swivel Barrel Accent Chair
The CHITA Swivel Barrel Accent Chair features a more modern design that can vibe with almost any interior space. It comes with the much-desired 360-degree swivel base, as well as firm yet comfortable seating that makes it perfect for both living room guests, and movie night ventures. Past this, you will also find this chair to be one of the most battle-tested designs on the market, with thousands of in-house tests conducted to ensure superior quality and longevity of the product.
Not only that, but the CHITA Swivel Barrel Accent Chair also features environmentally friendly foam that has been approved and certified by CertiPUR-US. Is made without ozone depleters, as well as PBDEs, TDCPP, or TCEP flame retardants, mercury, lead, and other heavy metals. It’s also made without formaldehyde, phthalates regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and has low VOC emissions for indoor air quality. All in all, the CHITA Swivel Barrel Accent Chair offers a contemporary look that still allows for a relaxing environment for you and your guests.
7. Signature Design by Ashley Deaza Tufted Barrel Accent
The Signature Design by Ashley Deaza Tufted Barrel Accent is undeniably one of the more aesthetically-pleasing barrel chairs on the market. While you won’t have the swivel base, you will be provided with a durable barrel chair that features a sturdy base, and beautiful polyester fabric finish. This unique design also features a magnificent silvertone nailhead trim and turned wood legs in a black finish to compliment the grey (or beige) polyester finish.
Beyond this, you will also notice that this statement-piece has scrolled armrests and button-tufted accents to complete this unparalleled design. Plus, this stunning barrel chair falls right in the middle of the pack in terms of price, so you won’t have to ‘break the bank’ to acquire it either.
8. Madison Park Fremont Accent Barrel Chair
The Madison Park Fremont Accent Barrel Chair is another exceptional choice for anyone in the market for a classic barrel chair that is built to last, and lounge around in with ease. The entire Fremont collection adopts a mid-century modern approach, with a more sophisticated touch due to the nailhead accents, swoop arm styling, and luxurious faux leather exterior.
The frame of the chair is made specifically with hardwood and plywood materials, while the solid wood legs help to ensure that the unit is stable and sturdy for years to come. The overall comfortability is not to be questioned either, however, as the padding is filled with high-density foam, and covered with a smooth polyester fabric. Also, since this model is relatively compact in size, it can brilliantly fit into any indoor living or office space. Making it one of the more versatile and most comfortable barrel chairs available.
9. Amazon Brand – Stone & Beam Elisabet Upholstered Swivel Chair
If you’re in need of a quality fabric barrel chair that has the swivel function, but don’t feel like paying a premium price to get one, then look no further than Amazon’s Stone & Beam Elisabet Upholstered Swivel Chair. This modern design makes for a wonderful addition to any living or office space, offering a sleek and contemporary build that masterfully combines style with comfort.
It’s also one of the more durable chairs on the market, as the base is made entirely of stainless-steel, the frame is made of solid wood, and the cushions are down-filled and covered in a stain-resistant material. Meaning that you will never have to question the longevity, or comfortability of the unit.
Also, if for whatever reason you’re still not satisfied after purchase, you can return it at any point within 30 days to receive your money back. Plus, there’s even a 3-year warranty included if anything does go wrong after those 30 days. Even while it’s a relatively minimalistic design, you’ll truly be getting your money’s worth with this purchase.
10. BELLEZE Modern Accent Barrel Chair (Affordable Option)
If you’re on a budget, but still want a reliable barrel chair that’s stylish and going to last, then look no further than the BELLEZE Modern Accent Barrel Chair. While you might be missing out on the swivel feature mentioned with other designs on our list, as well as certain upholstery options. You will be getting a barrel chair that is durable, versatile, and extremely comfortable.
Not only are there seven different colours to choose from (black, brown, caramel, white, butterfly print, white/brown, and white/grey), but each is covered with black faux leather upholstery for a truly luxurious finish. As well as thick yet soft padded cushions for increased support, and solid wooden legs to ensure that it’s durable and long-lasting (300lb weight capacity).
Thanks to it’s incredibly modern aesthetic, this accent chair is the perfect addition to any living room, bedroom, guest room, or social space. Plus, if for whatever reason you’re still unsatisfied after purchase, you have 100 days to return it for a full-refund. All in all, a more than worthy addition to our list of the 10 most comfortable barrel chairs on the market.
Jamie is the Founder of My Home Dwelling. He is a homeowner and enjoys sharing his homeowner tips with others. He has real estate experience working as a new home construction Realtor. Jamie has worked on numerous residential construction sites helping with interior and exterior renovations. He loves refinishing furniture, DIY home projects, and sharing his knowledge online.