Wing back chairs were designed over a century ago with the idea to block cold drafts or excessive fireplace heat from whoever sat in the chair. The name Wing back comes from the design of the chair, which appears to have "wings" that continue from the back of the chair and generally meet up with the armrest. Wing back chairs can be seen as a general piece or as an accent in just about any room, regardless of whether you're decorating in a funky eclectic style, country cottage comfortable or formal Victorian.
To help you get the look with your wing back chair read the following points:
Purchase your wing back chair in a colour and pattern that compliments the room or sets the tone for the colour scheme you wish to use. For example, if you're designing the room around the chair, opt for a colour, pattern and style of chair that suits your plans. If you're placing the chair in an established blue and white room, don't use a pink fabric.
Arrange your furniture so that the chair is prominent, or blends in with the room, depending on your preference. If you want the chair to be the focus group matching wing back chairs away from the wall with a matching ottoman or coffee table in front of them. Or, place one chair in the corner of the living room if you want the chair to serve as an accent.
Use the same fabric on a wing back chair as the cushions on the sofa. Or, use two wing back chairs in a formal dining room to sit on either end of a long table or to either side of a buffet.
Use a wing back chair as a decorative accessory, the same way you would use a large indoor plant or vase. Use the chair next to a bookcase and standing lamp to create a cosy reading corner or in a hallway with a coat rack. Drape a matching throw across the arm of the wing back chair to fill an empty corner in a bedroom. Or, position matching wing back chairs across from your desk for an inviting, professional home office.
