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
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 the colours you like to be around, shapes you find pleasing to look at and maybe what era inspires you the most. Consider the décor immediately surrounding it and pick complementing décor to create a harmonious and unified space.
TIP #2: SELECT THE RIGHT SIZE AND NUMBER
When selecting cushions for your sofa, size is a big consideration. Going too big 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.
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. I prefer my cushions on the bigger side, so would start with 55x55cm. This all 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.
Utilising symmetry through an even placement of cushions and throws will produce a more formal and traditional setting, whereas uneven number will give you a more informal and relaxed look and feel.
Tip #3: PATTERN AND TEXTURE
The first thing to do is choose a colour story. Look for something that picks up the the hues of the room. Your rug, wall colour, or art is a great place to start. If you choose a variety of cushions in different patterns ensure they share the same colour, and 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 colours that are in the same family.
For example – one floral + one geometric + one solid colour.
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 colour 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 ethically sourced duck feather inners to replace your old and worn inserts. Chosen for their softer quill and unique curvature, Zanders & Co New Zealand duck feathers create a plumper, more luxurious cushion. Definitely worth a few extra dollars as they not only bring the look, but they will also add to the comfort of your sofa, they are much more comfortable and will last the test of time.
For more inspiration and help with selecting the perfect combos go to the Collections page https://zandersandco.co.nz/pages/our-collections
Happy Styling!
Cushions: Zanders & Co
Styling and text: Natasha Bozic, Designns Interior Design, https://designns.co.nz/