Best Mission-Style Recliners

Best Mission-Style Recliners for Mid-Century Modern Interiors

Ian Mutuli
Updated on
Ian Mutuli

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
Get Smarter On Architecture and Design

Get the 3-minute weekly newsletter keeping 5K+ designers in the loop.

Enter your Email to Sign up

Side-bar-footer-forum

Mission style reclining chairs with open armrests made of wood are very attractive and will help to add timelessness to any home. Different kinds of woods and fabrics are available and you can be sure to find a mission-style recliner that is right for your comfort and relaxation needs. But finding the right mission-style recliner can be a challenging process. Thus, I have carefully studied the market and created a review of premium mission-style recliners.

My first choice is the BarcaLounger Mission 7-3323, which is made of materials that combine maximum durability, stability, and comfort like a warm hug. Its close competitor is Barcalounger Mission Recliner which will give your space a vintage look with a large seating area. But the seat cushions are a bit rigid and can be painful when the couch is still new. Thirdly, HULALA HOME Genuine Leather Manual Recliner is your best friend if you are searching for a mission-style recliner which expresses a modern appearance for a simple yet stylish appeal.

Therefore, let’s explore the trend of stylish mission-style recliners and find out which mission-style recliners are appropriate for the mid-century modern decor.

What is a Mission-Style Recliner?

The mission-style recliner was inspired by the Morris chair which is an early type of recliner that was first sold in 1866. A mission-style recliner is characterized by a bulky appearance with straight vertical or horizontal wooden paneling and a lower seat. The most striking difference is that the armrest is made of wood with no cushion or upholstery. Also, the armrests don’t adjust when the chair is reclined; therefore, you can place food or drinks on the armrests without worrying about spillage.

Image Source: macys.com

Mission recliners are usually lacquered to dark stained to complete the stylish design that is reminiscent to the old time craftsmen designs. Despite the fact that the old comfortable frames of mission-style recliner chairs are preferred by older people, these chairs have become popular among the modern generation. They can be combined with other more contemporary items to achieve a certain ambience and a particularly attractive place.

Best Mission-Style Recliners

1. BarcaLounger Mission 7-3323 (Craftsman) All Leather Push Back Manual Recliner Chair

BarcaLounger Mission 7-3323 (Craftsman) All Leather...
  • Barcalounger Mission 7-3323 Manual Push Back Recliner Chair in...
  • Characteristic of Art and Crafts period.
  • Mission recliner offers classic craftsman styling and boasts...
  • Leggett and Platt Mech Bullnose tight seat Pocketed coil with...
  • Beautifully hand carved Mahogany Stained Wood

Feel the uniqueness and quality of the materials which are kept at the heart of Arts and Crafts design with BarcaLounger Mission Recliner Chair. This chair pays tribute to the authentic mid-century style with leather upholstery, mahogany stained wooden frame, carved by hand, flat slatted sides, and large armrests.

The upholstery is soft and overstuffed so that you may always feel comfortable when you sit on it. The spacious seating area and broad armrests give you the freedom to recline as much as you wish. This mission-style recliner chair also has an adjustable headrest to provide you with maximum comfort as you lean your head on it.

Image Source: homethreads.com

While Morris chair does not have a footrest, the BarcaLounger mission recliner chair is a better choice for daytime napping. I also use it for reading and relaxing. It comprises of a manual push-back mechanism that reveals the hidden footrest. I use only a small amount of force (2. 5 pounds) to move it back.

In addition, it is offered in three colors, so you can pick the one that goes well with your home. The recliner is also easy to maintain and clean and if you want to increase its protection you can buy a recliner cover. Anticipate the highest stability and durability and a comfortable and warm welcome from the mahogany framework, genuine leather, and colors.

Pros:

  • Genuine leather
  • Sturdy wooden frame
  • Very comfortable to sit in
  • Footrest included

Cons:

  • High price

2. Barcalounger Mission Recliner - Wenlock-Fudge

Sale
Barcalounger Mission Recliner - Wenlock-Fudge
  • Barcalounger Mission Recliner - Wenlock-Fudge
  • Dimensions D 37.5" W 32.7" H 42" in
  • Seat Dimensions D 19" W 22.5" H 21" in
  • Leggett and Platt Mech Bullnose tight seat Pocketed coil with...

This leather recliner incorporates the traditional style of a classic design into a transitional setting. Worry free with the Wenlock fudge leather on this 32. 7 inches wide recliner. The seat and back are fully upholstered with genuine leather while the lower legs, solid wood frame and arms are finished in a warm mahogany.

Image Source: liftandmassagechairs.com

The bullnose seat with pocketed coils surrounded by high-quality foam, zippered semi-attached back pillows, and padded footrest ensure comfort for many years. I have children and animals, so I was searching for comfortable lounge chairs that are also pet-friendly. The leather upholstery is very easy to maintain; I only need to clean the spillage with a dry soft cloth. It’s also tear resistant and doesn’t show any claw marks.

Manual recliner with vintage look – 92 cm tall back for taller people. The seating is also wide enough allowing you to sit and relax after a tiresome day, watch television or even read your favorite book.

Pros:

  • Semi-attached pillow back
  • Pocketed coil springs
  • Genuine leather upholstery
  • Easy to assemble

Cons:

  • Firm cushions

3. HULALA HOME Genuine Leather Manual Recliner

HULALA HOME Genuine Leather Manual Recliner with Wood...
  • 【Mid Century Recliner Chair】Combining a clean-lined design...
  • 【Heavy-Duty and Durable Design】Thanks to its solid wood...
  • 【Multifunctional recliner】 Accent living room chair or...
  • 【Comfortable Single Sofa】The retractable footrest, curved...
  • 【Easy Assembly & Warranty】Recliner chair dimensions:...

This HULALA HOME Genuine Manual Recliner is ideal whether you want to amplify your living room style or complement the master bedroom. It is made of either a pure or composed wooden structure with its arched arms and genuine leather upholstery with a modern and sophisticated design to deliver a modern and fashionable style.

Image Source: hulalahome.ca

The frames are made of solid wood for proper support and the sinuous spring back and seat cushions are also included for added resilience and comfort. Also, the soft cushion padded back, foam filling, and polyester fiber upholstery emit relaxation and comfort when in the both up-right and recline modes.

Also, its ability to recline up to 140 degrees and the footrest that extends make me stretch and relax while watching, reading, or lounging. Due to its strong structure, this chair can accommodate up to 350 pounds which can also accommodate my partner who is 280 pounds.

Besides, this Hulala manual recliner comes in numerous neutral colors that complement any interior. And it is easy to assemble with the simple instruction that is given.

Pros:

  • Comfortable
  • Built-in sinuous wire back and seat cushions
  • The seat reclines up to 140 degrees

Cons:

  • None

4. Comfort Pointe Solaris Midnight Blue Faux Leather Wooden Arm Push Back Recliner Chair

Comfort Pointe Solaris Caramel Faux Leather Wooden Arm...
  • Modern contoured wood arms
  • Leather gel technology gives the look and feel of top grain...
  • Exposed wood arms in chestnut brown finish
  • Cushioned head rest
  • Drop in coil seating for comfort

Comfort Pointe Solaris Faux Leather Recliner Chair is another exceptional mission-style recliner that you can utilize at your home. It brings together the features of contemporary furniture and the classic design of recliner chairs to provide you with an original product that will fit a modernist or mid-century interior.

Image Source: amazon.com

Made of slim chestnut wood and tapered legs with gently curved armrests and innovative leather gel upholstery, this is a durable choice for any family room. This push-back chair also has cushions that are filled with drop-in coil and high-quality foam for maximum comfort. The headrest is also padded for extra comfort while relaxing.

This chair is smooth and compact and has three reclining positions of up to 150 degrees thus enabling me to lay back and have my afternoon naps. It is easy to assemble and its tall backrest and the weight capacity of 330 pounds are an added advantage because it has become everyone’s favourite at home.

Pros:

  • Stain resistant
  • 150-degree recline
  • Tall backrest, good for tall people

Cons:

  • Some customers reported quality issues

5. Christopher Knight Home Munro Recliner

Christopher Knight Home Munro Recliner, Sand + Teak
  • CONTEMPORARY DESIGN: Featuring smooth channel stitching and a...
  • PUSH-BACK RECLINER: This recliner is a push-back recliner that...
  • CHANNEL STITCHING: The channel stitching in the backrest offers...
  • RUBBERWOOD FRAME: Our environmentally-friendly wood not only...
  • DIMENSIONS: Choose an accessory that is the perfect size for you...

Enjoy the relaxation you deserve with this excellent recliner chair. The smooth channel stitching and rich solid wood frame gives this chair the look and feel of contemporary design with a mid-century flair. Its simple and elegant design is perfectly combined with the push-back mechanism and acts as a guarantee of maximum comfort with a minimum of interference.

Image Source: amazon.com

The smooth design with the rubberwood frame which has a gorgeous teak finish, curved armrest detail and a tall and slim upholstered seat offers a touch of sophistication. The channel stitch pattern gives a little texture but is not uncomfortable. This chair is my preferred place to relax and read. It is also available in three colors so that you pick the one that goes well with your décor.

This recliner is a beautiful piece of furniture for my living room. It has a weight limit of 300 pounds which enables it to support most of my family members. Additionally, the polyester fabric is ideal for my furry friends because it is easy to clean and stain-resistant. I only need to remove messes with a damp cloth.

Pros:

  • Easy to clean and maintain
  • Beautiful channel stitching

Cons:

  • It doesn't fully recline
  • Firm cushions

6. TRIPLE TREE Push Back Recliner 

Sale
TRIPLE TREE Push Back Recliner with Wooden Arms,...
  • [Modern Design]: Our push-back linen chaise lounge chair is...
  • [Adjustable Recliner]: The back of our recliner can be adjusted...
  • [Quality Materials]: The recliner stand is constructed of...
  • [Wood Arms]: Wood arm give the push-back chair a sense of design...
  • [Simple Assembly]: Easy to assemble in minutes using packaged...

Looking for the ultimate comfort while lounging around? This TRIPLE TREE Push Back Recliner – Mission Style – Wood – Metal Frame – Linen gives the perfect approach to mission style design. The light stained wood, lots of seating area, and the foam-back with dark gray linen create a sense of comfort, warmth, and modern elegant. It is also available in navy blue.

Image Source: amazon.com

It has a metal frame, solid and manufactured wood armrests and legs, as well as a metal reinforced footrest for durability. Additionally, the curved armrests of this push-back chair add a touch of style and extra comfort to keep you sitting comfortable for long hours. This lounge chair can hold up to 300 pounds making it ideal for any leisure place in your home.

As for comfort, you can raise this Triple Tree chair up to 160 degrees. I purchased it for my daughter as I gifted her a new house and she is happy that she can rest in it like a bed. She also enhances its comfort with the high-density soft sponge padding.

But she complains that the armrest is too thin to hold her hot chocolate mug or the popcorn bowl during movie nights.

Pros:

  • Sturdy and durable
  • 160-degree recline

Cons:

  • Not stain resistant
  • Slender armrest

7. Home Square 2 Piece Faux Leather Wooden Arm Recliner Chair

Home Square 2 Piece Faux Leather Wooden Arm Recliner...
  • Midnight Blue Faux Leather Wooden Arm Push Back Recliner Chair x...
  • Modern contoured wood arms
  • Leather gel technology gives the look and feel of top grain...
  • Exposed wood arms in chestnut brown finish
  • Cushioned head rest

When I was searching for the mission-style lounging seats for my partner and me, I found these push-back chairs, and the concept of twinning at a lower price was something I could not afford to miss.

Image Source: walmart.com

Home Square 2 Piece Faux Leather Wooden Arm Recliner Chair is the best Mission styles recliner for those who are on a budget. It has a low price tag almost the same as other single pieces in this list but it will look good when you put it in your room.

A mission-style recliner is what I received with these Midnight Blue wooden arm push-back chairs. The chestnut brown wood arms with tapered legs and faux leather upholstery combine to offer you comfortable casual style.

The seat is upholstered in leather gel which is a soft touch of top grain leather that is comfortable to sit in and easy to clean. It can hold up to 300 lbs and provides three different positions from upright to 150 degrees reclined. We prefer to use these seats while reading or watching TV.

Pros:

  • A set of 23-position recliner
  • Stain resistant
  • Budget-friendly

Cons:

  • Short footrest

8. BarcaLounger Artisan Electric Recliner Chair

BarcaLounger Artisan Electric Recliner Chair with Power...
  • Barcalounger Artisan Leather Power Electric Recliner Chair and...
  • Craftsman styled wood arm Artisan collection featuring power...
  • Split pub back design and boxed styled pad over chaise seating...
  • Genuine Wenlock Fudge Leather with a USB outlet for your device...
  • Recliner Overall Dimensions: D 37.8" W 33.5" H 41.75"

Relive the past by sitting in this BarcaLounger Artisan Leather Electric mission-style recliner with wooden arms. This craftsman-styled recliner has a power reclining mechanism with an electric power headrest that eliminates the manual push-back recliner. It is also available as a three-seater but at double the price.

Image Source: amazon.com

The solid wood frame, slatted armrest detail, split pub back design, and boxed upholstered seating create a sophisticated mix of Mission style and modern design.

The seating is pocketed coil and provides great comfort with electric recline having headrest function and revealing a footrest for relaxation. The dark chocolate brown genuine leather seating surfaces and wide wood armrests of warm chestnut finish accentuate a vintage design that never fails.

The controls of this chair are placed on the side and are quite accessible and user friendly. It also has a USB port that is always handy for charging my phone as I relax. The only problem I have with this recliner is that it is rather bulky and impossible to move around by one person. It also only has a maximum load weight of 285 pounds so my heavier housemates don’t stand a chance with it.

Pros:

Cons:

  • Weight capacity of 285 pounds

9. Mid-Century Modern Design Beige Living Room Accent Reclining Chair

Mid-Century Modern Design Beige Living Room Accent...
  • Mid-century Modern Design Beige Living Room Accent Reclining...
  • Seat: 21 inches High X 23 inches Wide X 23 inches Deep....
  • Chair: 42.5 inches High X 28.75 inches Wide X 37.75 inches Deep.

This Mid-Century Modern Design Beige Living Room Accent Reclining Chair will update your reading nook. This push-back recliner has a straight-arm and flared-leg design with solid and manufactured wood for a modern style.

Image Source: overstock.com

It is upholstered with beige fabric that is soft to the touch, durable, and easy to clean. And the cushions are padded for maximum comfort and relaxation. The simple recline mechanism need only a little push-back force and you are rid of unsightly levers and knobs.

It has a tall backrest, a cushioned headrest, and a padded footrest, which is perfect for my movie nights and reading marathons. It is comfortable, and the fabric is breathable, and I always feel fresh even after spending several hours sitting there.

Pros:

  • Wear and tear-resistant fabric
  • Beautiful walnut finish
  • Firm cushions

Cons:

  • Slender armrest

Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Mission-Style Recliner

Image Source: pinterest.com

1. Material

The framework is the last thing you would think of as you recline on a recliner and read your book yet it carries your weight and the other parts of the chair. Among other types of recliners, mission-style recliners are constructed with wooden frames. The following are the types of wood that are used to construct a mission-style recliner frame.

  • Kiln-dried wood: This is a durable type of framing as there is no moisture in the material and this often can lead to warping.
  • Softwood: It is not the most durable frame material but it is still a good choice as it is stronger than engineered wood. But it has knots that can weaken the fabric after a prolonged period.
  • Engineered wood: This is the most effective way to follow the new tendencies in interior designing. It is also the cheapest but not the strongest.
  • Solid wood: Frames made from solid wood are denser and stronger as compared to engineered wood and softwood frameworks. The frame and the armrests of most of the best mission-style recliners in this list are made of solid wood.

One should also pay attention to the quality of the upholstery material. Some of the available materials include faux leather, genuine leather, linen, and polyester. Make sure that the upholstery material is of high quality and is comfortable as well as easy to clean.

2. Reclining Mechanism

As with other recliner chairs, you may want to think about how far your mission-style recliner can recline. If you want to sleep on recliner then you should opt for mission style recliner with infinite position or recline of 160 or 180 degrees. However, if you only need it for reading a newspaper or watching TV, then any of the options above will be adequate for you.

3. Size

Your mission-style recliner should match the room that you have at home. Take the dimensions of your room and the recliner you are purchasing. Take the measurement of the chair when fully reclined to allow for sufficient space from the wall.

The strength of the recliner and the size of your body is another important consideration. Make sure that the chair is strong enough to hold your body weight and more. There are a few choices in our list that can hold up to 300 pounds. Also, the feet should be able to touch the floor while seated and the head should align with the headrest.

4. Design

Mission-style recliners are available in different styles to suit your home décor. So choose a design and colour that goes well with your existing décor.

Conclusion on Mission-Style Recliners

Image Source: sprintz.com

A mission style recliner chair is tempting to sit and relax in after a hectic day. It is so comfortable that once you sit on it you will not want to stand up.

The best mission-style recliners provide maximum comfort and relaxation. They include a traditional and retro style that gives a little antique to any room. Thus, keeping size and material in mind, one can obtain the optimal mission-style recliner that meets their requirements and financial capabilities and, perhaps, combine utility and beauty.

Ian Mutuli

About the author

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
Related Articles
best recliners for tall men

Best Recliners for Tall Men to Elevate Your Comfort

Furniture should prioritize comfort, especially for taller individuals. Often, tall men find it challenging to discover recliners that provide adequate ...

Best Outdoor Reclining Chair

A Comprehensive Guide on Best Outdoor Reclining Chair

There's something uniquely satisfying about relaxing outside, basking in the sunshine, and appreciating the splendor of nature. Enhancing this experience ...

Best Mission-Style Recliners

Best Mission-Style Recliners for Mid-Century Modern Interiors

Mission style reclining chairs with open armrests made of wood are very attractive and will help to add timelessness to ...