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Cocktail Ottoman by Alexa Hampton: luxurious and practical
Published Jun 4th, 2009 | Written by Minta Interiors | Photography by Hickory Chair
Alexa Hampton is known for her classical designs and the Alex Cocktail Ottoman and matching tray are no exception. Ottomans have been around since the early 19th century as additional seating or a footrest. Their use as a multi-functional coffee table became popular several years ago.
The Alex Ottoman combines simple straight lines and beautifully turned legs with a substantial size allowing it to be used as a coffee table, additional seating for a party or a footrest when watching television or just relaxing. It comes in a standard Oxford wood stain finish but can be customized with over 30 finishes available. In fact, you can choose to have the ottoman and the tray done in different finishes for a truly customized look. The legs have casters which allow for easy movement. These casters are standard in brass but nickel casters are available. 
As with all Hickory Chair furniture, this item is made to order using your measurements and choice of finish and fabrics.
In order to show off the beautiful legs and wood frame, this ottoman looks best in front of a skirted sofa such as the Stanton Skirted Sofa in the Alexa Hampton Collection. Add a couple of side chairs and you have the perfect conversation circle. Placing the matching tray on top allows you to serve drinks and food without worrying about spills. When you are not entertaining the tray can hold books and collectibles.
The 52 inch width makes it a good choice as a "shared" ottoman in front of two club chairs. What a lovely place to read a good book or share a glass of wine at the end of the day. 
However, Hickory Chair offers their Made to Measure option on this piece allowing you to create any size you need if your space cannot accommodate the 52 inch width.
This ottoman would be a nice addition to a master bedroom sitting area. It provides a spot to put your feet up and relax. The removable tray will keep your glasses and books close by. It can also be placed at the foot of your bed to hold your robe or a place to sit and tie your shoes. The ability to use your own fabric will allow you to coordinate with other fabrics in your room or you can choose one of the many fabrics offered by Hickory Chair.
Imagine this ottoman in a book filled library. Leather upholstery and brass casters would complement the wood shelving and other furniture often found in a home library or den.
While this piece works best in a traditional interior, changing the brass casters to nickel and upholstering in a modern fabric would allow you to use it in a more contemporary room. The wood frame will visually warm a space filled with glass and metal.
An ottoman and tray combination is one of the most flexible pieces of furniture you can own so consider this option the next time you are looking for the perfect coffee table.