Both ottomans and hassocks are pieces of furniture that are categorised as footstools. They are padded, upholstered seats that have no back or arms. The key difference between ottoman and hassock lies in their size and shape; hassocks are often smaller than ottomans and are typically round in shape. Their uses also differ according to these physical features.
What is an Ottoman?
An ottoman is a piece of furniture that consists of a padded, upholstered seat or bench. It has no back or arms and is often used as a stool or footstool. Ottomans can also be used as coffee tables. They are often hollow and have storage space under the cushion, making them convenient storage spaces. Many ottomans have wooden legs, which are not covered by fabric. They are typically sold as the corresponding furniture with gliders or armchairs. Ottomans can be used in any room including bedroom, living room, family room, gaming room, etc.
The history of the ottoman can be traced back to the Ottoman Empire where it was used as a low wooden platform that was intended to be covered with cushions. This style was eventually brought to Europe in the late 18th century.
What is a Hassock?
Hassocks are somewhat similar to ottomans, but they differ in size and shape. Hassocks are thick and hard cushions that are used as footstools or low seats, but they are smaller in size than ottomans and are typically round in shape. They can also be used as side tables in the living room. Unlike ottomans, hassocks are not hollow inside; therefore they cannot be used as storage spaces. Hassocks may have wooden legs to give it rigidity, but these legs are entirely covered in fabric. Thus, they appear as a large cushion from outside.
Since hassocks are very short and closer to the ground, you can kneel on them or recline against them. They are often used in churches where the congregation kneel on them while in prayer.
Hassock is also known as tuffet or pouffe although pouffes are known to be taller and larger than hassocks.
What is the difference between Ottoman and Hassock?
Size:
Ottomans are larger and taller than hassocks.
Hassocks are smaller and shorter than ottomans.
Shapes:
Ottomans may take different shapes, but they are often rectangular in shape.
Hassocks are often round in shape.
Storage:
Ottomans can be used as storage spaces since they are hollow.
Hassocks are not used for storage.
Uses:
Ottomans are always used to prop up someone’s feet or as low seats.
Hassocks can be knelt on or reclined against since they are very short.
Use as a Table:
Ottomans are used as coffee tables.
Hassocks can be used as side tables.
Special Uses:
Ottomans can be used in many rooms in the house.
Hassocks are used in churches.
Legs:
Ottomans have wooden legs which are not covered in fabric.
Hassocks may have legs, but they are always covered in fabric.
Image Courtesy:
“902360” by ErikaWittlieb (Public Domain) via Pixabay
“1437708” by vonmango (Public Domain) via Pixabay