Beyond the Curve: How Aubrey Plaza’s Sculptural Living Room Masterfully Balances the 30% Rule for Ultimate Comfort

As the saying goes, 'if you've got it, flaunt it,' and that also applies to interior spaces. In the case of Aubrey Plaza's living room, we're talking curves. The design of the whole scheme draws on a key feature – a stunning, gently arched window – which sets the tone for a sculptural and cocooning space.

The secret to using curves in interior design lies in the balance, explains Catherine Shuman, interior designer and founder of The Intentional Design Studio in Georgia.

'The easiest way to embrace curves without overwhelming the room is through layering. Start with one statement piece, (such as the striking Hepburn Modular Sofa from Lulu & Georgia), and then support it with smaller curved accessories like round side tables, a sculptural coffee table, or table lamps,' she says.

Latest Videos From

Watch full video here:

'The key is balance – you want to create visual rhythm, not a theme park! I tell clients to aim for a mix where approximately 30% of the room’s silhouettes have curves, and the rest provide support through straight lines (such as the wooden accent chairs – find similar at Wayfair).'

Below, embrace Aubrey Plaza’s curve-driven style with our curated furniture and accessories that capture her organic aesthetic – and discover how to bring this sculptural detail into your own interiors.

Shop Sculptural Buys Inspired by Aubrey Plaza's Living Room

So, why do curves make for such a cozy living room idea? Catherine explains: We find curves calming because they mimic the natural organic shapes we find in nature. When we incorporate items like sculptural vases or curved furniture in our living rooms, we are softening the hard edges commonly found in modern architecture, and making the room feel more comfortable.'

For example, the position and shape of the curved leather sofa in Aubrey Plaza's living room softens the hard corners, gently framing the central space, while the natural stone of the table contrasts with its smooth edges, for an unexpectedly tactile finish.

'The same principle applies when the curves are part of the existing architectural elements,' adds Catherine. 'Whether through arched doorways, rounded windows, or barrel-vaulted ceilings, our minds and bodies respond positively to those curves – they set the tone for the entire room and generate a sense of flow and movement, which you want to echo in your furnishings and accessories.'

Similarly, introducing natural materials into your scheme, as demonstrated in Aubrey Plaza's living room – from the way the indoor plants mirror the greenery outside the curved window to the stone table, leather sofa, and wooden chairs – connects the room to the outside world. Choosing neutral tones and natural, organic silhouettes blurs the boundaries of indoors and out.

Texture is also used in a really considered way in Audrey Plaza's living room, both to enhance comfort and emphasise contrast. For example, the buttery leather of the sofa juxtaposes the soft boucle ottomans, while the smooth stone table feels cool and tactile against the heavily textured weave of the rug. This creates a balance and harmony in the space that not only feels comforting but also brings a sense of calm.

If your home already features curves, this is your sign to embrace them, by mirroring the existing architecture with sculptural pieces in tactile, natural materials. Even in homes without curves, it's easy to bring in this design detail for a truly soothing living room aesthetic.

If you enjoy our celebrity news and interior design advice, why not sign up to our newsletter so you never miss the latest features.