Ready to spill the beans on how to style a couch and transform your living room into a magazine-worthy haven? Your couch is the centerpiece of your living room, the spot where you unwind, entertain, and make memories. So, why not give it the attention it deserves? I’ve spent years in the furniture world, and trust me, styling a couch can make all the difference in elevating your space.
I recently sat down with the incredibly talented interior designer Kyle Schuneman, and he shared all the great tips on how to make your couch the star of your space. Ready to dive in? We’ve distilled Kyle’s expert advice into 22 actionable couch styling tips that’ll have your friends asking for your decorator’s number. From pillows and throws to coffee tables and rugs, we’re covering it all, all based on Kyle’s expertise. By the end of this article, you’ll be a sofa styling pro, ready to create a living room that’s as stylish as it is comfortable.
Key Takeaways
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Couch styling is a holistic approach: Consider all elements – pillows, throws, tables, rugs, lighting, and furniture arrangement – for a harmonious and stylish look.
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Embrace your personal style: Experiment with colors, textures, and patterns to create a couch that reflects your unique taste and personality.
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Balance style and function: Ensure your couch and surrounding decor not only look great but also serve your lifestyle and comfort needs.
Sofa Styling Like a Pro With Throw Pillows
Pillows are your couch's best friends. They add comfort, personality, and a whole lot of style. I've seen Kyle style rooms with pillows that I never would have guessed would look great together with the sofa or with each other. But don't just throw any old pillows on there!
1. Layer Textures, Colors, and Sizes
Think of your pillows as a fashion statement for your couch. When choosing pillows, mix different textures – like a plush velvet with a chunky knit or a smooth linen. Vary the sizes too – a few large pillows at the back, some medium ones in the middle, and a small accent pillow in the front. Play with contrasting colors or patterns for a more dynamic look. Layering two cushions in front of each other, mixing different styles and textures, ensures the overall look remains cohesive and comfortable. A little bit of everything goes a long way in creating a visually appealing and inviting sofa. Wondering how to style pillows on a couch? This is the place to start!
2. Think Strategically About Placement
Start with your largest throw pillows (or even oversized pillows) at the back and layer smaller ones in front. This creates depth and visual interest, ensuring that everyone can sit comfortably while giving your couch a luxurious, well-curated feel. For an L-shaped sectional, consider placing larger pillows at the corner to anchor the space. A well-placed throw pillow can elevate the look of your entire living room decor.
3. Round Out Your Pillow Game
Round pillows are the perfect way to soften the edges of your couch and add a touch of whimsy. Tuck one in a corner or use it as a centerpiece on your coffee table. They're an unexpected detail that adds personality and a touch of fun to your couch styling. Remember, variety is key when it comes to pillow shapes and sizes.
4. Embrace the Eclectic Mix
Don't be afraid to experiment! The more eclectic your throw pillows are, the more personality your couch will have. Go wild with colors, patterns, and textures, and see what sparks joy. Try different shapes, and don't limit yourself to square pillows. Your couch should be a reflection of your unique style and taste, so don't be afraid to let your personality shine through your throw pillows.
Throw Blankets on the Couch? Yes, Please!
A cozy throw blanket adds warmth, texture, and a touch of luxury to your sofa. Same as the pillows, interior designers like Kyle just know how to make throws look pretty.
5. Master the Art of the Drape
Don't just fold your throw blanket neatly over the armrest – let it flow! Drape it casually over the back or arm of your couch for an effortlessly chic look. The more natural and relaxed it looks, the better. A well-placed throw blanket can instantly transform a simple sofa into a stylish focal point.
6. Feel Free to Swap Sofa Throws
Have a few different sofa throws on hand and swap them out with the seasons or your mood. A chunky knit for winter, a lightweight linen for summer – you get the idea. Have plains and have patterned throws. This keeps your couch feeling fresh and inviting all year round. A change of throw blankets can also revitalize your living room decor without a major overhaul.
Arranging Furniture for Maximum Impact
The way you arrange your furniture and lighting can make or break your living room's vibe. This is an area of expertise that interior designers have that normal furniture buyers like us just don't. They see the angles like a running back sees a lane on a football field in between linemen. It's a real thing!
7. Light Up Your Life (and Your Couch)
Place a floor lamp next to your couch to create an inviting atmosphere. It's perfect for reading or simply relaxing. Choose warm bulbs that will make your space feel even more cozy and inviting, adding another layer to your home decor.
8. Float Your Furniture for an Open Feel
Couch placement makes a lot of difference. For a minimalist and uncluttered appearance, style a two-seater sofa with simple, clean lines and avoid excessive decorative elements. Instead of pushing your couch against the wall, try floating it in the middle of the room. This can open up your space and create a more conversational atmosphere, perfect for entertaining guests. Floating your sofa in living rooms can also help to define different zones in a larger family room, adding functionality and style.
9. Find the Flow with L-Shaped Sofas
If you have an L-shaped sofa, think about the flow of your room. Place it in a way that defines the seating area and creates a natural traffic flow. Don't be afraid to experiment with different orientations to find what works best for your space. If you're struggling with furniture arrangement, consider sketching out a few different layouts to see what feels right.
Find A Coffee Table That Complements Your Couch
Your coffee table isn't just a place to rest your drink – it's an opportunity to add personality and style to your living room decor. There are rules to follow that any great designer like Kyle Schuneman will tell you:
10. Level Up with a Sofa Table
A sofa table behind your couch is a stylish and functional addition. Use it to display books, lamps, or decorative objects, adding a layer of visual interest to your space. When sofa styling, don't forget about the space behind it – a well-chosen sofa table can tie the whole room together.
11. Go Round for L-Shaped Sofas
Round coffee tables are a great choice for L-shaped sofas because they're easy to access from all sides. Plus, they add a softer touch to your seating area, balancing out the couch's angles. This tip is crucial when considering how to style an L-shaped couch, as the right coffee table can make all the difference in functionality and flow.
12. Keep Your Legs Happy
If you prefer a square or rectangular coffee table, make sure it has an open base so you don't bump your knees when you're sitting on the couch. Comfort is key! An open base also creates a sense of airiness and prevents your coffee table from feeling too bulky in the space.
13. Prioritize Function
Before buying a coffee table, consider how you'll use it. Do you need storage? A place to put your feet up? Once you know what you need, you can find a table or ottomans that complement your lifestyle and enhance your living room. Your coffee table should be both stylish and practical, contributing to the overall functionality of your living space.
Rugs Serve As Your Fifth Wall
This take from Kyle actually surprised me. I thought I had heard it all... but this literally changed my perspective on rugs and how to shop for them. To be honest, it influenced my recent rug purchase so much that I bought something from Ruggable that I really didn't like because it was too much like a picture or painting haha. Still, your rug is like a piece of art for your floor. It can add color, pattern, and texture to your space. And when it comes to couch styling, it plays a crucial role in defining your seating area.
14. Anchor Your Space with a Rug
A rug is the anchor of your seating area. It ties everything together and creates a cohesive look. Choose a rug that complements your couch and other furniture, but don't be afraid to experiment with patterns and textures. A rug can be a great way to introduce a pop of color or an interesting design element into your living room decor.
15. Rug Size Matters
Make sure your rug is big enough for the front legs of your couches and any accompanying chairs to rest on. This will help define the space and create a cozy feel, making your seating area feel more inviting. A rug that's too small can make your room feel disjointed, while a rug that's too large can overwhelm the space.
16. Don't Shy Away from Boldness
Don't be afraid to choose a rug with a bold pattern or color. It's a great way to add personality to your living room, especially if you have neutral walls. A statement rug can instantly elevate your space and become a conversation starter. If you're unsure about a bold pattern, consider a rug with a textured weave or a subtle geometric design.
The Finishing Touches: Style, Function, and Fun
Now that we've covered the basics, let's talk about those extra touches that will take your couch styling to the next level.
17. Embrace the Flexibility of Modular Sofas
Modular sofas are like a puzzle – you can rearrange them to fit your space and your mood. They're perfect for people who like to change things up or have multi-functional spaces. If you're constantly rearranging your furniture or have a small living room, a modular style might be the perfect couch for you.
18. Let Your Furniture Breathe
When choosing furniture, look for pieces with open bases or legs. This will help your space feel lighter and airier, preventing it from feeling cramped or cluttered. For example, a coffee table with hairpin legs or a sofa with raised legs can add a sense of airiness to your living room.
19. Experiment with Sofa Placement
In a large or uniquely shaped room, don't be afraid to experiment with the placement of your L-shaped sofa. Try different angles to see what works best for your space and optimizes the flow of traffic. You might be surprised at how a simple change in furniture arrangement can transform your living room.
20. Break the Rules and Have Fun
There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to couch styling. If you love something, go for it! The most important thing is to create a space that you love coming home to. Your personal style should shine through in every aspect of your home decor.
Bonus Tips: Because More is Always Merrier
21. Refresh Your Look with the Seasons
Change up your pillows and throws with the seasons. Use lighter fabrics and brighter colors in the spring and summer, and cozy textures and warmer tones in the fall and winter. This keeps your space feeling fresh and in tune with nature, and it's a fun way to experiment with different looks throughout the year.
22. Enjoy the Sofa Styling Process!
Couch styling should be fun! Don't take it too seriously – experiment, play around, and see what works for you. After all, your home should be a reflection of your unique personality and style. Embrace the process of self-expression through interior design. Remember, you are the interior designer! You're the creative director!
Elevate Your Home Décor with a Perfectly Styled Sofa
So, there you have it – 22 tried-and-true couch styling tips that'll transform your living room from drab to fab. With a little creativity and a dash of your personal flair, your couch can become the star of your space. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun with it and create a living room that feels like home.
Now, go ahead and put these couch styling tips to the test. Mix and match, experiment with different looks, and most importantly, enjoy the process! Whether you're going for a cozy and inviting vibe or a modern and chic aesthetic, your couch is your canvas. Happy sofa styling!
Official Transcript of The Top 5 Easiest Ways to Style a Couch
Meet Kyle
Introduction: Meet Kyle
0:00
[Music]
0:14
Alex: Hey everyone, it's Alex with couch.com, and I am here with my friend, the esteemed Kyle Schuneman. Hi Kyle.
0:21
Kyle: Hi couch.com.
0:23
Alex: Kyle is a highly regarded interior designer and an art director. He works with private clients all around the country, in Hollywood, Chicago, New York, and everywhere in between. He has also art-directed for various furniture photo shoots and brands in the furniture space, as well as some really cool TV shows and commercial shoots that we've probably all seen on TV. So, thank you for being with us, Kyle.
0:52
Kyle: Thanks, I'm happy to be here.
Making a Couch Look More Luxurious
0:56
Alex: Awesome. So we're going to talk about how to style different types of sofas and how to make certain couches look really great. The first question that people want to know, based on what we're seeing out there, is how do you make a couch look more luxurious? How do you gussy it up in a way that makes it look a little bit nicer or more expensive? Maybe you have some ideas that are outside of the normal, like we know we can put a couple of throw pillows on it, but what are some other things that we can do?
1:15
Kyle: Yeah, for sure. I mean, there are some classic things that you can build off of. So, for instance, yes, you should throw some throw pillows on them just because you're going to want them, but also that really adds another layer to it. But if you take that layering idea, then you really want to have different textures and shapes in those pillows.
The Power of Round Pillows and Layering Textures
1:35
Kyle: Let's say you have a bouclé pillow that's giving you a lot of texture. Maybe that's the bigger one, and then you have a striped pillow in front of that that's a bit smaller. Round pillows are actually really big now, so that becomes this interesting corner of your big blob sofa. Then you can pull that idea and maybe do two other pillows on the other side. You're layering your textures and making it cozy, because when you talk about luxurious and sumptuous, that's what you're alluding to.
2:29
Kyle: Another way is definitely throw blankets. I love having one draping at the end of an L-shaped sofa. You can have it really modern and straight, or draped if you want a more traditional, looser look. I think those are easy ways to make it look luxurious.
2:51
Kyle: You can add a floor lamp over it, making it a cozy reading nook. A couch is a base, and if you go with a more neutral couch, you can work it for any season, any feeling, any party.
3:19
Alex: I love that, and I especially love the brand new sofa coming soon to a city near you, the Big Blob sofa.
3:25
Kyle: You're welcome for that.
3:27
Alex: Yes, thank you. Trademark it. It's a water bed but a couch.
3:30
Kyle: It's not a bad idea.
Positioning L-Shaped Sofas and Sectionals
3:33
Alex: Okay, two other questions that I think are somewhat related to this but are very commonly asked. We've discussed L-shaped sofas and sectionals. Sometimes it's obvious where they need to go in a room, especially if the room's not huge. But with larger rooms or different shaped spaces, people don't really know where to place them.
4:01
Alex: Some people ask, should I put it in the middle of the room or against the wall? What are some general rules of thumb when you're styling a room that has an L-shaped piece of furniture?
4:12
Kyle: For the most part, I don't put couches on walls. They're almost always floating because they can create dimension in a bigger space.
4:31
Kyle: A mistake I see a lot is everything pushed to the sides. Bring everything closer; keep the TV on the wall and bring the couch closer. Have a sofa table on the back that can display things and give you another visual layer.
5:01
Kyle: Couples like to lie with one person on each side, so an L-shaped couch works well. Modular couches are great these days; you can move them around. I have one behind me where you can move the ottoman into the middle to make a bed for a Netflix night.
5:31
Kyle: Use your rug as an anchor. It's often your fifth wall. Put it in the center and draw the sofa around it. That's the best way to create a room within a room.
The Fifth Wall: Importance of Rugs
5:46
Alex: So just to recap a few big things: keep things away from the wall as much as possible. Everything doesn't have to be against the wall.
5:59
Kyle: You don't want the prisoners against the wall idea.
6:01
Alex: I love that. Another thing you just said that I liked was that the rug is like your fifth wall. Can you explain that a bit more?
6:12
Kyle: A lot of times people worry about putting color on their walls or can't because they're renting. So if you put a bold color or pattern on your rug, that becomes your fifth wall. It's a huge space, and not taking advantage of it is losing a big design opportunity.
Coffee Table Choices for L-Shaped Sofas
6:47
Alex: Last question for you. When you're talking about an L-shaped sofa or sectional, what kind of coffee table goes with it? We've all sat on those sectionals where the coffee table takes up the entire thing or you hit your legs when you get up. What are your rules of thumb?
7:10
Kyle: I like a round one because it softens the space. Stay away from ovals because they do a weird point thing that no one can use. A round piece gives access to both sides. If you go with a square or rectangle, I like it to be open underneath to give levity.
Wrapping Up
7:58
Alex: All good stuff. Thanks so much for being with us, Kyle.
8:00
Kyle: Thanks for having me.
8:02
[Music]
8:08
