Swivel Chairs

A barrel chair has a rounded, high-sided back that curves around you like a barrel cut in half; the swivel version adds a 360-degree rotating base. The shape supports your back from every angle, which is why it pairs so well with a spinning seat.

Yes - one swivel chair can face the sofa, the TV, or the window without being dragged around, doing the job of two fixed chairs. Compact barrel silhouettes fit footprints under 30 inches wide.

Allow the chair's full turning circle - its widest point plus 4-6 inches - so armrests never clip walls or side tables. For conversation areas, keep 3.5 feet between the chair and seating opposite.

Quality swivel bases rotate on an internal mechanism, so the base itself does not spin against the floor. On hardwood, add felt pads or a rug underneath as you would with any chair.

Vacuum weekly with low suction and a brush attachment, and blot spills immediately with a dry white cloth. Avoid rubbing boucle loops; for set-in stains, use dry-cleaning solvent rather than water, which can mat the texture.

Squeaks usually come from dust in the swivel mechanism or a loose seat bolt. Tighten the base screws first, then apply a silicone lubricant spray into the rotating joint and swivel through a few full turns.