16 Beanbag Chairs That Don’t Look Like They Belong to Your College Roommate

The humble beanbag chair has had a long history. The plush, amorphous offering can trace its origins back to 1968, when Italian designers Piero Gatti, Cesare Paolini, and Franco Teodoro came together to create an informal seat, dubbed Sacco, that molds to the body. In the years since, particularly in the new millennium, the beanbag has become closely associated with college dorm rooms and play areas for small children.

Its applications don’t always have to be for the younger set, though. A bevy of stylish beanbags for chic (and cozy) interiors are now on the market—ones that don’t evoke a varsity or pre-K vibe. “Beanbags come in more than the quintessential ‘blobby’ form,” says interior designer Kristen Rivoli. “Some have backs, a more tailored shape, or even look more like a lounge chair.” Here, some cushy, cozy offerings for those on a budget or for your next big splurge. Happy lounging!