This Chic, Washable Ottoman Helps Me Lounge More Comfortably and Doubles as My Lap Desk
As I’ve moved around New York City for the past eight years, my apartments keep getting smaller. You would think it’d be the opposite, but hey, rent is expensive — I also have less roommates (just my boyfriend) and my location is optimal. I was spoiled space-wise with my first apartment, which could fit more furniture than my former roommate and I had (but it was mouse-infested). Ever since, I’ve been selling furniture, putting stuff out onto the curb, or giving it to friends. One of the biggest changes for me has been going from a huge (perhaps too large) sectional to a loveseat. My boyfriend and I watch TV together, so we’ve been bickering over someone (usually him) taking up too much space on the loveseat.
Well, those arguments ended when I got the opportunity to try Levity’s Mid-Century Tray Ottoman. After working at Apartment Therapy for nearly a year, I’ve grown to value dual-purpose products. This stylish ottoman’s cushion can be removed, and it’s instantly transformed into a lap desk. Our Tray Ottoman mostly functions as an ottoman. We can both put our feet up on it while watching TV, which feels better for our backs and just more comfy in general. If anything, we’ve been spending more time on the couch since we got this.
This ottoman can also serve as a much-needed extra seat if we have another party. We only had five places to sit comfortably in our apartment, and the ottoman brings it up to six. And I’m not worried about drink spills either, because Levity’s big selling point is that the furniture covers are washable. I opted for the dark denim and walnut finish, because it goes with my Jonathan Adler Ruggable rug. Levity is Ruggable’s sister site, so it felt apt that both are paired together in my living room. Levity also has a collection with Adler as well.
This was ridiculously easy to assemble. It took me under 10 minutes to make it functional in my living room. As for turning it into a lap desk, I can take the cushion off by un-Velcroing the strap underneath and taking it out of the loops. I’ve only worked with it for a few times so far, but it’s very sturdy. I’d say that it works better in my bed then my loveseat, because the cushions are a little soft to rest it on top of. I’m so confident in this lap desk, though, that I gave my old lap desk away. It freed up some much-needed desk space.
I’m obsessed with this ottoman. I know it’s a bit on the pricier side, but if you’re desperate, like I was, to make your loveseat or couch more conducive to lounging, this is the thing you should get. It’s definitely worth it. It’s a small-space find that can evolve with your decor style. If I decide to get a different rug and an ottoman cover to match, I can buy a new cover for $99.
Buy: The Mid-Century Tray Ottoman, $259