Ottomans

Yes, and it is a popular choice for family rooms. A flat tray on top gives you a stable surface for cups and remotes while keeping the soft top for putting your feet up. Pick an ottoman where the top sits 2-5 cm below the seat height of your sofa.

No. A contrasting ottoman in a complementary colour or texture is the easier choice - matching exactly requires the same fabric batch as the sofa, which is rarely possible if the pieces are bought at different times. Picking an ottoman that shares either the colour family or the leg style of the sofa usually reads as a deliberate pairing.

Yes. A storage ottoman holds throws, kids' toys or board games inside a piece of furniture that you would already have, freeing up shelf and cupboard space. Look for one with a hinged or fully removable lid depending on how often you need access.