At a Glance:
What to Look for in a Recliner
Modern Recliner Picks to Upgrade Your Living Room
Furnishing your modern living room with recliners infuses an element of comfort into your favorite lounging space. A recliner or two provides extra seating for guests, and they might just become your favorite spot to unwind with the ability to stretch out and take a nap or curl up and read a book, you can easily adjust your chair to the perfect position. Recliners of the past have been clunky or overstuffed, but the that’s not the story these days. Today, shoppers can find modern seats for living room that recline and help you carry out your modern design vision with tailored silhouettes, wood accents, and neutral colors.
In this guide to modern living room recliners, we’ll discuss the factors to consider when shopping for a recliner and what characteristics define the modern aesthetic. Then we’ll recommend our top modern recliners from our style specialist, so you can find one that’s perfect for your space.
Discover the Best Recliner Deals
Colder's has a wide selection of recliners for every style and comfort level.
Shop NowWhat to Look for in a Recliner
If you’re on the search for a modern recliner for a sleek and calming living room, there are some factors you need to consider. Most importantly, you need to decide whether you want a power or manual modern recliner and an upholstered or leather modern recliner. You also need to consider the type of modern recliner you want to find updated recliners that suit your modern aesthetic and stay within your budget.
Power vs Manual Recliners
Some trendy recliner chairs have power reclining mechanisms that allow you to adjust your position at the touch of a button. Other trendy recliners feature manual reclining mechanisms, like a lever or handle that requires you to use your weight to change the position of your chair. Power recliners are more convenient, but manual recliners don’t add too much of a hassle for most buyers, and since they don’t require a plug, owners can install them in more places than power models.
However, power recliners come with additional features, including models with built-in massage functions and USB charging ports, enhancing comfort and functionality. Of course, that usually means a higher price tag as well.
On the other hand, manual recliners are generally more affordable and aren’t dependent on an outlet. And there’s no real difference in durability since manual recliners require minimal maintenance and have fewer moving parts that could potentially break. However, manual recliners require physical effort to operate, which may be challenging for individuals with limited mobility or strength, and they lack the added features and customization options available in power recliners.
Ultimately, the choice between power and manual recliners depends on your preferences, budget, and specific needs. Both offer great options when it comes to searching for recliners that look good.
Upholstered vs Leather Recliners
When it comes to modern chairs for living room settings, upholstered and leather recliners both fit well with a modern aesthetic.
Upholstered recliners offer a wide range of fabric options, allowing for greater flexibility for matching with different decor styles and color schemes in a modern living room. And don’t forget, fabric recliners are more budget-friendly compared to leather chairs. The only caveat is that upholstered recliners require more frequent cleaning and maintenance to keep them looking fresh and free from stains, which can be a concern in high-traffic areas.
Leather is the one of the most popular upholstery choices for recliner chairs. Leather recliners exude sophistication and luxury, adding a touch of elegance to a modern living room. They are highly durable and resistant to stains, making them easier to clean and maintain over time. Of course, manufacturers recommend practicing safe pet habits to avoid damage to leather surfaces. Nevertheless, leather recliners tend to be more expensive upfront and may not offer as many color options as upholstered recliners, limiting design versatility in some cases. Additionally, leather can feel colder to the touch in cooler climates, which may be a consideration for comfort.
Learn More: Top Leather TV Recliners in Milwaukee
Type of Recliners
There is a wide variety of recliner styles from some that only recline to others rock or glide. Let’s take a look at popular types of recliners and their suited users:
| Type of Recliner | Features |
|---|---|
| Glider Recliner | A glider recliner is designed with a smooth gliding motion, moving back and forth on a fixed track. It provides a gentle, soothing motion similar to a rocking chair but with a more controlled and linear movement. |
| Swivel Recliner | Swivel recliners have a base that allows the entire chair to rotate 360 degrees. This type of recliner offers flexibility and convenience, allowing the user to easily turn in any direction without having to move the chair. |
| Lift Recliner | A lift recliner, also known as a power lift recliner or lift chair, is equipped with a mechanism that lifts the entire chair from its base to assist users in standing up or sitting down. This type of recliner is particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility issues or seniors who may have difficulty getting in and out of chairs. |
| Wall-Hugger Recliner | Wall-hugger recliners are designed to save space by allowing the chair to recline without needing much clearance from the wall behind it. The wall-hugger moves the chair forward as it reclines, preventing it from hitting the wall. |
| Massage Recliner | Massage recliners are equipped with built-in massage features that provide therapeutic benefits such as muscle relaxation and improved circulation. These recliners typically come with various massage settings and intensity levels for a customizable experience. |
| Rocker Recliner | Similar to glider recliners, rocker recliners combine the functions of a rocking chair and a recliner. These chairs feature a rocking base that allows the chair to rock back and forth while also offering the option to recline for added comfort. |
Budget
Generally, recliners range from $250 to $5,000, depending on their size, added features, and the quality of materials used to make them. At Colder’s, our Special Buys, clearance items, promotions and rebates are all geared toward helping you find the best deals on recliners Milwaukee shoppers can find in the area.
The Look of a Modern Recliner
When you picture a recliner, you might picture an overstuffed or lumpy plaid or peeling pleather recliner that has seen better days. It lived in the far reaches of your grandparents’ basement, and that’s where it’s meant to stay. You want to find a recliner that isn’t ugly. Luckily, there are plenty of modern and stylish recliners on the market.
What is Modern Design?
The modern design aesthetic is characterized by simplicity, clean lines, and functionality. Minimalism is often emphasized, with a focus on open spaces and an absence of clutter. Neutral color palettes—such as whites, grays, and blacks—are commonly used, along with materials like metal, glass, and concrete, contributing to a sleek and contemporary feel.
Form follows function in modern design, with an emphasis on practicality and efficiency. Additionally, modern design incorporates elements of innovation and technology, integrating smart features and sustainable materials to create a harmonious balance between aesthetics and functionality.
For example, the arms of a modern recliner chair might be sleek and streamlined, possibly featuring gentle curves or geometric shapes for visual interest. Backrests could be low-profile and tailored, offering ergonomic support while maintaining a minimalist appearance. Materials such as metal or wood may be used for the armrests and back supports, adding texture and contrast to the stylish recliner chair.
Overall, the design of a stylish modern recliner chair prioritizes comfort without sacrificing style, creating a contemporary piece that seamlessly integrates into your modern living space while offering the latest in comfort and technology.
Learn More: Best Swivel Recliner Styles for Comfortable Movement
Modern Recliner Picks to Upgrade Your Living Room
There are plenty of modern recliners for living room settings, and these are just a few of the great designs you can find at Colder’s. Take a look at the exciting looks of these recliners from top brands in our lineup.
Flexsteel Catalina Power Recliner with Power Headrest
This upholstered modern power recliner has just the right amount of padding to sink into while still maintaining a tailored look. This neutral upholstery adds texture and easily works with a variety of color palettes, but you can also customize it to the fabric or leather of your choice. This is a power recliner through and through with a USB charging port and dual power buttons, so you can separately adjust the headrest and recliner.
Palliser Furniture Customizable Buena Vista II Power Swivel Glider Recliner
Shop This Palliser Furniture Recliner
This modern leather power recliner features a sleek silhouette for a beautifully tailored effect. Subtle and sophisticated with an espresso base, this customizable recliner is the perfect balance of contrast to feel refined but never boring. You can recline, swivel, and glide in this chair all while adding modern style to your living room.
Flexsteel Walter Coal Power Recliner with Power Headrest
Shop This Flexsteel Power Recliner
Make a statement with this modern power recliner chair in Coal or Honey leather options. Either way, this chair will stand out in your space. While most recliners have a centered base, this one has four legs that give it the sophisticated look of an accent chair. White stitching adds contrast, whichever color you choose, ultimately delivering a new approach to the classic club chair.
Best Home Furnishings Costilla Leather Rocker Recliner
Shop This Best Home Furnishings Recliner
For those who love the look of leather, this modern recliner comes available in hundreds of finishes, including over 40 top grain leather choices. It’s a quality choice that will last for years to come. The power reclining mechanism allows you to easily find your most comfortable position while the rocking motion of this modern rocker recliner is soothing and relaxing. And we also love that this recliner is made right here in U.S.A. by local craftsman.
Palliser Furniture Oakley Wallhugger Power Recliner with Power Headrest
Shop This Palliser Furniture Power Recliner
If you’re limited on space, this wallhugger power recliner is a stylish solution. It can be placed as little as 4” away from the wall to fit in even the coziest living spaces. This is great for small spaces or awkward layouts when you still want to include a recliner. Overall, this customizable recliner is sophisticated and simple with a handsome build perfect for a modern or midcentury modern living room design.
BenchMaster Power Line Connor Graphite Zero Gravity Power Recliner
Shop This BenchMaster Recliner
The silhouette of this chair is reminiscent of future design, infusing a modern and playful vibe into your space. It’s also soft to the touch, perfect for making your space cozier. The standout zero gravity reclining makes your body feel weightless, which is especially helpful for those with chronic pain.
Best Home Furnishings Kinetix Dark Walnut Rocker Recliner
Shop This Best Home Furnishings Rocker Recliner
This modern manual recliner combines upholstery and wood for a quintessentially modern look. It aligns with midcentury modern’s penchant for function and simplicity with manual reclining mechanisms and a minimal silhouette. Pair this chair with accents of wood and minimalist décor to make a big statement.
England Furniture EZ Motion Leather Swivel Gliding Recliner
Shop This England Furniture Recliner
This plush recliner is upholstered with 100% top grain leather, and you can choose from a wide variety of leather colors to suit your taste. It swivels, glides, and reclines, allowing you to choose what motion feels best at the moment. With a simple silhouette and sloping arms, this chair is perfect for a modern living room design.
Learn More: 10 Most Popular Rocker Recliners for Living Rooms
Modern living room recliners prove that recliners can be comfortable and stylish too. With sleek silhouettes, tailored upholstery, or leather finishes, you can find a modern recliner that suits your space and your budget. With a wide selection that you can customize to fit your design vision, Colder’s is the best place to shop for recliners in the Milwaukee area. Stop by one of our Wisconsin locations to browse modern recliners in person.
Why Trust Colder’s?
Since 1942, we at Colder's pride ourselves on offering value, selection, and service. Serving Southeastern Wisconsin with four showrooms that stock quality name-brand furniture, appliances, and mattresses, Colder’s is sure to house exactly what you are looking for. And if you can't find it on our floors, chances are, we can order it for you. As a local, family-owned company, we are always doing our best to provide the highest value at the lowest cost to everyone who walks through our doors.
Colder’s is committed not only to continuously offering can’t-miss sales but also to working with each customer, making sure that you take advantage of every possible markdown — that’s our best price guarantee. Still need help? We offer zero percent appliance and furniture financing for your home needs!
Shop Modern Recliners at Colder’s
Don’t put off happiness — and shop living room furniture online for unbeatable prices at Colder’s. Our friendly experts are always happy to help you explore our latest modern recliner selection, whether you call us at 414-476-1574 or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by one of our Colder’s locations in West Allis, Oak Creek, Delafield, and Grafton, Wisconsin to touch, see, feel, and experience home products that fulfill your dreams. Visit us today!
Learn More: What is a Double Recliner & Why You Need One