Who doesn’t love a good rocker? They’re super nostalgic — you probably had one in your childhood nursery or at a grandparent’s house. And they’re so relaxing — softly swinging back and forth really does something for the soul. You might have all but forgotten about them, until now that is. Modern rocking chairs are finally giving this classic design the facelift it deserves.
Blending fashion and function, they make for great accent chairs for your living room (no relegating to the basement!). I had my work cut out for me: finding rocking chairs that don’t look like your typical rockers. Naturally, I spent hours entrenched in the task.
I did the research — reading reviews and product descriptions down to the last detail, being ridiculously picky and saying no to hundreds of even the best accent chairs. Only the top modern rocking chairs made the cut, and in the end, I found 12. Maintaining the nostalgic feel we love — but with a twist — these modern rocking chairs are the perfect blend of cozy and cool.
On-trend Modern Rocking Chairs We Love
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‘Many modern rocking chairs still have a wooden frame, which means they retain a rustic yet modern feel,’ says interior designer Evelina Juzėnaitė. But they're not just popular for their good looks. They’re ergonomic and softer than ordinary chairs, she adds, so you can kick back and relax for longer. ‘They can be used in any room — the living room, the nursery, the veranda, etc,’ continues Evelina. ‘Often their design is such that they can be easily combined with other furniture in the room.’
Price: $109.99
Was: $156.99
Material: Solid & Manufactured Wood
When I mentioned that these chairs don’t look like regular rockers, I wasn’t lying! This mid-century accent chair has relaxing written all over it with its low-slung silhouette and reclining capabilities. It has a 4.8/5 star rating on Wayfair, which is remarkable given that this chair currently costs less than $110. One reviewer raves, ‘This is a really nice looking chair, especially for the price,’ adding, ‘It was relatively simple to put together and when placed alongside a particularly expensive piece of furniture, it fits right in.'
Price: $113.35
Was: $127.18
Material: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene , Stainless Steel, & Wood
Okay, so a yellow accent chair isn’t for everyone, but if you love ultra-modern designs, then hopefully you see where I’m going with this. It’s so sleek, so bright, and so unique that it looks like it could be in the MoMA. Its Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) seat might not look it, but it’s molded for comfortable sitting. If you want to up the cushiness or add a little texture, consider adding a shaggy throw pillow.
Price: $266.99
Material: Faux Leather & Oak Wood
This might be the most versatile modern rocking chair on this list with its sophisticated lines and sturdy construction. As one might guess looking at its low price tag, this isn’t real leather, though it looks like one of the more realistic faux upholsteries I’ve come across in a while. This would be especially great if you’re downsizing or looking to free up a little floor space — you won’t miss your bulky armchair one bit with this gem.
Price: $1,039.20
Was: $1,2999
Material: Moore & Giles Italian Leather & Walnut Veneer
I came across this modern rocking chair on CB2’s website some time ago and have not been able to get it out of my head ever since. As you can see, this silhouette is quite special with its dramatic curves, all done in sleek satin metal and Italian leather upholstery. It’s got so much character and natural variation, thanks to its hand shading. A unique artisanal piece that could hold its own in any living room. I suggest keeping the styling to a minimum — let this design do the talking.
Price: $898
Material: Linen & Birch Wood
Inspired by Danish mid-century modern designs, this rocker is elevated as ever. I love the juxtaposition between its breezy oatmeal linen upholstery and rich brass accents. It’s a great callback to traditional styles, but its sleek shape most definitely offers something new. Pair with a side table, plant, and rug for a cozy and calming setup that you’ll admire for ages.
Price: $340
Was: $390
Material: Teak Wood & Leather
Proving that great things fit into tiny packages is this laid-back dining chair. Yes, you read that right: a rocking dining chair. Of course, its woven genuine leather seat could definitely sit pretty in a living room or bedroom, but if you do choose to add a set of these to your table, let’s just say mealtime is about to get a whole lot more fun. Its backless design takes up little visual space, which feels light and airy and perfect for sunny rooms.
Price: $549
Material: Powder Coated Aluminum & Synthetic Wicker
This versatile pick is just as happy indoors as it is outside. So if you want to maximize your furniture, look no further. Definitely modern but with a boho twist, its faux wicker construction makes this chair cheerful despite its dramatic dark hue. With an impressive 4.8/5 star rating, it's comfortable on its own, but consider adding a solid or patterned cushion for extra interest.
Price: $699.97
Was: $999
Material: FSC ®-certified Oak, FSC ®-certified Plywood & Polyester
Crate & Barrel’s Polie rocking chair is intended for nurseries, but this contemporary design could grace almost any area of the home. The warm marigold velvet feels cheerful and delightfully luxe. It also features a unique organic arm, almost ovular, which looks more like art than furniture. Given that it’s currently on clearance, snag this find while you can. Pair Polie with an ottoman for a complete setup.
Price: $869.99
Was: $959.99
Material: Plastic
If this isn't a modern rocking chair, I don't know what is. It looks like a high-end art sculpture but is surprisingly comfortable according to reviews (4.8/5 stars). Available in a rainbow of eye-catching hues, from brownish red to yellow, I envision it paired with modern living room furniture, perhaps with a rug of the same hue for added texture. Note the weight capacity is 220 lbs.
Price: $173.99
Was: $399.99
Material: Solid Rubber Wood, Lamellae, & Linen
It's hard to imagine an interior this white accent chair wouldn't complement. It maintains a nostalgic feel while still being fun and fresh. I'm smitten with the drama of its exaggerated back and the little side pouch for holding accessories like books or remotes. Pair with a side table and floor lamp, and place it near a TV or fireplace, and you might never need to leave. Currently 57% off, run, don't walk.
Price: $1,299
Was: $3,248
Material: Solid Ash Wood & Danish Cashmere Wool
Unwind in this ergonomic wood accent chair inspired by 1980s design. Its woven back feels fashionable and incredibly versatile, suitable for offices and living rooms alike. It costs a pretty penny, but the stellar reviews and 10-year warranty provide peace of mind. Soon to become the best seat in the house.
Price: $83.99
Was: $219.99
Material: Plywood, Metal, & Faux Fur
This might not be to everyone's taste, but for the right person, I couldn't think of anything more perfect. Ultra-shaggy textures like this were everywhere at Design Week and don’t show any signs of fading anytime soon. The luxurious-looking, voluminous faux fur makes a lovely juxtaposition to the petite, nearly-there chair frame underneath. It’s yet to be reviewed, but it comes from Target, which in my experience only carries quality furniture. At under $85, it's a risk that could potentially have a massive reward.
FAQs
How should modern rocking chairs be styled?
Modern rocking chairs can sit happily anywhere you’d place any other chair, but two popular homes for them are in the living room and the nursery. Principal interior designer Evelina Juzėnaitė offers a few pointers.
‘In a living room, create a cozy corner with a modern rocking chair,’ she suggests. ‘Place the chair near a bookshelf or by the fireplace, add a small table for a cup of tea or a book, and enjoy the atmosphere.’ Evelina adds, ‘A pillow or blanket draped across the chair can enhance the coziness, and a rug underneath can tie the space together.’
For nurseries, Evelina advises placing a rocking chair next to the crib, changing table, or near a window for convenience. ‘Ensure there is enough space to rock comfortably. Soft colors can help create a soothing atmosphere in the baby's room.’ So, while that bright yellow Walmart number might not be the best choice, the light beige pick from Anthropologie might be just the ticket.
What are the best modern rocking chair materials?
The best rocking chair materials are those you’ll find in this edit — naturally. But if you want to know the specifics or search elsewhere, principal interior designer Evelina Juzėnaitė shares what to look for.
The most common material you’ll see is wood, and it’s popular for good reason. Still, not all woods are created equal. ‘It’s important to choose a chair made of quality wood for durability; otherwise, the chair could squeak while rocking,’ she explains.
Although cold, hard metal doesn’t always scream cozy and comfy, ‘Metal is very durable if you want a very high-quality chair,’ says Evelina. This material certainly makes for a less traditional rocker look, but if you’re after something really modern, it’s a fabulous choice.
Fabric and upholsteries such as cotton, linen, or leather are winners in the comfort department, with the added bonus of wiggle room to ‘choose any color or texture’ (plain wood offers far fewer options). ‘Also,’ adds the designer, 'many modern fabrics are treated to be resistant to stains, so they are easy to clean’ — perfect for busy households.
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