SOFA STYLING TIPS - /DESIGNNS/

There is something addictive about cushions – no matter how many you already own, there always seems to be room for more. Cushions are the perfect finishing touch and the low maintenance solution to creating that coveted ‘cosy feel’ in your living room. By switching out a couple of cushions you can create a fresh new season look for your home.
Is your sofa a blank canvas waiting for a few cushions to bring it to the spotlight? Or you need a few new cushions to give your sofa a refresh and new life? Here are some quick ideas to get you started with sofa styling. Gorgeous cushions featured are from Zanders & Co / www.zandersandco.co.nz

View their fabulous collections here

✖️TIP #1: KNOW YOUR STYLE✖️

Knowing your style is the first step to creating a cohesive space you’ll love to be in. When planning to change cushions on your sofa make sure you start with this in mind. Once you’ve got the look firmly confirmed, selecting and buying cushions will become easy and enjoyable. Think about COLOURS you like to be around, SHAPES you find pleasing to look at and maybe what ERA inspires you the most.

✖️TIP #2: SELECT THE RIGHT SIZE

When selecting cushions for your sofa, size is a big consideration. Going too big, it will ‘eat’ your sofa – remember cushions are accents to the piece, not the piece itself. On the other hand, cushion that is too small will get lost and will look like an afterthought. With all different sofas, what is a good size for a cushion? Start with your largest cushion at the back and if you are using different sizes work your way down to the smallest layering for that cozy look. For a standard size sofa consider 50x50cm size cover. I prefer my cushions on the bigger side, so would sometime start with 55x55cm, again depends on the sofa’s height and style. You can mix and match different sizes and shapes or use one size and shape, but for a more traditional setting consider matching cushion sizes on both sides.

✖️Tip #3: PATTERN AND TEXTURE

The first thing to do is choose a color story. Look for something that picks up the the hues of the room. Your rug, wall colour, or wall art is a great place to start. If you choose a variety of pillows in different patterns, but they at least share the same color, the look will be cohesive.
You can also mix and match three different patterns, as long as each pattern incorporates at least one of the colors that are in the same family.
For example – one floral + one geometric + one solid color.
It’s important to think of the scale of your patterns when following the ‘Rule of Three’ because you don’t want your patterns to compete with each other. Instead, choose patterns in three different scales, allowing one pattern to dominate.

Pattern and color mixing is important, but texture should not be overlooked, especially if you are not a fan of patterns and you like minimalistic and simple look. Choose and mix different materials and textures to add interest, for example a velvet with satin.

✖️Tip #4: CUSHION INNERS ✖️

Consider duck feather inners to replace your old and worn inserts to create a plumper cushion and more luxurious look. Definitely worth the extra dollars as they not only bring the look, but they will also add to the comfort of your sofa, as they are much more comfortable to lean on.
I always recommend feather inners for leather sofas – your cushions won’t slide and will stay upright!

Happy styling!

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Styling: Designns Interior Design

Cushions: Zanders & Co / www.zandersandco.co.nz

View their fabulous collections here .