fodskammel

Fodskammel is a small, low-seated piece of furniture intended to support the feet when a person is seated. Its primary purpose is to provide comfort and to improve leg and lower back posture by elevating the feet. The term is used in Danish and Norwegian as fodskammel; the corresponding Swedish term is fotskammel.

The word combines fod or fot meaning "foot" with skammel meaning "stool" or "chair" in Scandinavian languages.

Footstools vary widely in size and form. They can be a simple wooden block, a padded upholstered stool, or an ottoman-style piece that may include fabric, leather, or textured coverings. Some models incorporate storage inside the hollow base; others have no legs, while many have short legs for stability.

In living room settings, fodskammel is a common accessory accompanying sofas and chairs; in Scandinavian interiors the design often emphasizes minimalism and natural materials, with footstools made from light wood and simple upholstery.

Related terms include ottoman, hassock, and footrest.