Poufny

Poufny is a neologism that has appeared in interior design discourse and online communities to describe a small, portable pouf used for seating, footrests, or decorative accents. The term seems to have emerged in informal discussions in the early 2020s and has since circulated in design blogs, social media captions, and product listings. It is not part of formal design lexica and its meaning can vary by speaker.

Definition and features: A poufny typically refers to a compact, lightweight pouf with a soft, rounded form. Materials vary, but common combinations include a fabric cover such as velvet, linen, or cotton, and an inner fill consisting of foam, shredded foam, or polyester fibers. Its size is generally smaller than standard ottomans, prioritizing portability and easy rearrangement in living spaces. Some variants are designed with removable covers and may be stackable for storage.

Usage and reception: In practice, poufny serves as a casual seating option or decorative accent. Its use is popular in contemporary, minimalist, and Scandinavian-inspired interiors where flexibility and a tactile aesthetic are valued. The term remains informal and is most often encountered in consumer media rather than scholarly texts; some critics view it as a playful branding trend rather than a distinct product category.

See also: Pouf, Ottoman, Bean bag chair, Furniture design terminology.