One of the biggest (literally) purchases you can make for any home is a sofa. Hard not to notice, it's the first thing you lay your eyes on, so picking a timeless color that's unlikely to date couldn't be more important.

Taking up the most visual and physical space in a living room, the couch sets the tone of a scheme, so avoiding fleeting styles and staying up to date with sofa color trends for 2026 is the right way to ensure your purchase lasts for years.

'A sofa is one of the longest-standing investments in a room,' explains interior designer Jennifer Baxter of Baxter Hill Interiors. 'It will outlast the paint color, probably outlast the rug, and may outlast several rounds of redecorating. So choosing one based on what’s trending is exactly the thinking that leads to expensive regrets.'

1. Navy

'If I had to single out one couch shade that’s losing its footing, it’s cool, saturated navy,' explains interior designer Hannah Goldberg of Hannah Charlotte Interiors.

'For years, navy has been the default 'safe statement' – a way to bring in color without fully committing,' explains Hannah, 'or what I tend to think of as a non-neutral neutral. But that’s also exactly why it’s starting to feel a bit tired. The truest versions of navy – very clean and crisp and very blue – can come across a little rigid.'

'I also find it to be a surprisingly tricky color to work into a scheme in a way that feels natural. More often than not, it pulls a space slightly coastal,' she adds. 'If I’m bringing blue into a statement piece like a sofa, I almost always look to nature for direction. That’s where things feel the most timeless. I’m much more drawn to muted, nuanced colors – a soft blue-gray, something that feels a bit weathered, or a gentle sky blue that shifts throughout the day. They give you a sense of calm and depth, but in a way that feels more grounded and layers beautifully with almost every color palette imaginable.'

2. Gray

Gray isn't included in this year's sofa trends; instead, more playful, kitschy (yes) styles are taking over as designers continue to embrace character over clinical.

While cold-feeling gray is taking a backseat, patterned sofas are making their mark, bringing a whimsical dose of charm and eclecticism into living rooms. Mary Patton, of Mary Patton Design, says, 'Gray and pale neutrals are giving way to more expressive upholstery – think richly patterned fabrics, especially florals, as a fresh update for sofas, particularly when paired with clean, contemporary silhouettes.'

While there will always be room for neutrals (whether that's through paint color or smaller decorative touches), today's trends embrace quirks and charm, so going big with your sofa is the perfect way to assert your personality. While committing to a bold pattern might be daunting, see it as a way to keep the rest of your palette restrained and pared-back.

3. Brown

'Brown is having a really concentrated moment right now, with mocha, chocolate, cognac, caramel,' says Jennifer. 'The appetite for it is understandable as these are warm, complex tones that work well with the natural materials and aged finishes that are everywhere in interiors right now.'

While plenty of colors go with a brown couch, Jennifer says the obviously trendy mochas are the ones best avoided. 'The brown that has been showing up more and more from the Mocha Mousse color trend risks dating to 2025-26. It’s not the cognac leather Chesterfield that’s been around for decades. It’s not the tobacco-colored velvet sofa that looks like it came from a 1970s Parisian apartment.'

She adds, 'But if brown is genuinely your palette, and if your room has warm wood, aged brass, linen, stone, you’d probably have arrived there anyway, and it will serve you well.'

Shop On-Trend Sofa Colors

'The one caution I’d offer: be careful with very trend-specific colors', advises Jennifer. 'If you’re drawn to whatever shade is having a moment, make sure your room genuinely does it justice, because trend colors date faster than classic ones, and a sofa isn’t easy to replace. If you’re going bold (with color or pattern), just take a little time to reflect and if you love love love it, the chances are you will love it for a long time.'

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Don’t buy a new couch – I’m serious. I came to this conclusion while scrolling Anthropologie this week – admittedly, for couches. Whimsical ones. (It’s 2026; who isn’t?) But a $158 price tag, in lieu of the usual eye-watering three-to-five thousand, stopped me in my tracks.

I found myself distracted by a cream cotton sofa topper, trimmed with a ruffled border and scattered with technicolor antique florals. It’s essentially the romantic, slightly enchanted sofa trend I’ve always wanted – frilly, but not overly so – distilled into a single cushion that runs the length of the seat, instantly waking up whatever (probably sleepy) seating situation you already have.

One reviewer styled it on a deep berry sofa – coincidentally Anthropologie, though the topper works across brands – a color I’d typically brand as ‘fall,’ but takes on an entirely different, decidedly spring cadence here, softened an idyllic garden scene. It also solves a problem I hadn’t considered.

'We bought this sofa topper for our velvet Anthro sofa,' they write. 'Our cats love lolling on the sofa, but they leave a lot of fur (and unfortunately some scratch marks). I wish we had gotten this sofa topper from the very beginning! It really helps protect the sofa from damage and cat fur.’ For pet owners tired of unsightly furniture covers, take this as a chic alternative – a protective layer that, in some cases, is better than the original it sits on.

I tend to enter a mild but very real style crisis every spring – when everything reads to my style editor eye as a tad tired – and this sofa topper feels like a lower-lift way to indulge that new, new, new instinct without diving off the deep end.

If you’ve been feeling similarly restless, consider this before dropping thousands: you don’t need a new couch. You’re probably bored – and one very good cushion could be the cure.

More Anthropologie Sofa Toppers

Before you prematurely lug your three-seater out in a fit of frustration, consider something lighter with a few more non-ruffled, but equally lively options to shake up your seating.

Even the chicest couch-changing cushion is better with company. These throw pillows complete the look.

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Over the years, I’ve walked into countless small living rooms where the layout was thoughtful, the lighting layered, the furniture carefully chosen – and yet the space still felt tight. More often than not, the problem wasn’t the footprint. It was the sofa.

It’s an easy mistake to make. In a showroom, darker upholstery feels sophisticated and dramatic. It adds depth and contrast. But once it’s positioned in a compact space, that same depth can feel like visual weight – and suddenly the room feels smaller than it actually is.

If experience has taught me anything, it’s this: in a small living room, your sofa color does more heavy lifting than almost any other design choice, which is why it is so important when searching for the best couch for your space.

And time and again, designers return to one shade that rarely fails – a soft, warm greige. Not flat beige. Not cool, steely gray. But that gentle, balanced tone with just enough warmth to feel inviting and just enough gray to stay modern. It’s understated. But it’s incredibly effective.

Why Warm Greige Expands a Room Without Trying Too Hard

When readers ask, what color couch makes a room look bigger, there are a few nuanced answers depending on light, layout, and style. But if you want one dependable option that works in most small spaces, warm greige consistently comes out on top. The reason is simple: it doesn’t fight the room.

Small spaces struggle when there’s too much visual stop-and-start. A dark sofa against pale walls creates a strong block of contrast. Your eye lands there and lingers. In a larger room, that grounding effect can feel deliberate. In a compact one, it emphasizes boundaries. Warm greige softens that transition. Sitting comfortably between beige and gray, it allows the eye to move fluidly across walls, upholstery, and flooring. Everything feels connected rather than sharply segmented – and when the eye moves easily, the room feels larger.

Undertone is key. Cool grays can skew blue, especially in north-facing rooms, flattening the atmosphere. A greige with a subtle taupe or sandy base reflects light softly, giving the space a warmer, more layered feel. As

Becca Casey, founder of Becca Interiors, notes that greige has a unique ability to visually expand a room, particularly on a couch. 'A warm greige sofa creates calm continuity,' she says. 'It sits between beige and gray, so it avoids harsh contrast and lets the eye move freely around the room. That softness is what makes a space feel bigger.' She adds,

'Greige works beautifully as a visual anchor. It creates order without distraction and acts as a subtle foil for well-curated soft furnishings furniture. I gravitate toward natural, nuanced palettes and materials – they bring longevity and quiet luxury, and greige helps a room breathe.'

The Contrast Trap That Makes Small Rooms Feel Smaller

The issue isn’t necessarily choosing a dark sofa – it’s choosing one that contrasts too sharply with everything around it. When upholstery dramatically differs from wall color or flooring, it creates a hard visual boundary, almost like outlining the furniture in ink. In generous spaces, that kind of definition can add structure. In smaller ones, it exposes the room’s limits.

I’ve seen living rooms transform simply by swapping a deep charcoal sofa for a mid-tone greige. The layout didn’t change. The architecture stayed the same. But the atmosphere shifted immediately: the room felt calmer, more cohesive, and noticeably more open. It’s less about matching perfectly and more about staying within a close tonal family so the furnishings relate rather than compete.

‘Greige has become one of the most popular sofa choices for small living rooms,’ explains Jane Landino, Creative Head at Taylor Howes.

‘It’s sophisticated yet understated, and its versatility makes it incredibly livable. A warm, greige sofa blends effortlessly with walls, flooring, and textiles, allowing the eye to move around the space – and that visual flow instantly makes a small room feel larger. Get the tone right, and it’s a failsafe choice that feels stylish, practical, and timeless, working beautifully with bold accents or a more restrained, neutral scheme.’

A Quiet Choice That Makes a Confident Difference

In a showroom filled with dramatic velvets and inky leathers, warm greige can seem almost too subtle. It doesn’t shout for attention.

But in a real home – particularly a smaller one – that restraint is exactly what allows everything else to shine. Artwork stands out more. Wood tones feel richer. Even negative space reads as intentional rather than sparse.

Interior designer Henriette Von Stockhausen, creative director at VSP Interiors, explains why designers love using greige: ‘Greige is incredibly versatile and grounding,’ she says. ‘On a sofa, it allows the room to feel calm and cohesive while letting the architecture, furnishings, and artwork shine. Sometimes a classic interior is exactly what a space needs: calming colors, understated schemes, and timeless pieces. No clashing patterns, no bold accents of color – just comfort, elegance, and a space that feels effortlessly livable.’

Making a small living room look bigger rarely requires a dramatic overhaul. More often, it’s about reducing visual friction and softening contrast so the eye can move freely. A warm greige sofa may not be the boldest decision you’ll make. But in a small living room, it’s the one that quietly changes how the entire space feels – and that’s what truly creates the sense of more room to breathe.

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January is an odd month. Whatever climate you live in you're battling with some version of a post-holiday comedown. It might mean less spending, it might mean less going out, or it might mean finding ways to battle against the cold and dark.

Thankfully designers have found ways to beat January blues by employing these clever design tricks which make homes feel more inviting, warmer, and like somewhere you'll want to hunker down.

1. Add jewel-toned moments

A surefire way to warm a space – other than turning on the heating – is to layer in some jewel tones. Anything with a hint of red in it – this could range from orange-tinged yellows to brown-tinged blues – as long as it has fire in there somewhere.

And it can be as simple as changing the throw pillows or couch blanket. 'We use a lot of warm colors, to create jewel box moments,' says the Washington, D.C.-based designer Zoe Feldman of Zoe Feldman Design . 'It allows you to feel ensconced in a space, layering textiles, to make it cozy, upholstering pieces to cocoon you,' she adds.

2. Layer lighting

'Getting the light right is a huge part of creating perfect spaces,' says the interior designer Liz Hoekzema, co-founder of the Michigan-based studio KLH. 'It’s those little, quirkier, softer, and more ambient moments that make you want to settle in and stay a while, drawing you in and making you feel close to those you’re sharing your home with.' This is a mood that encapsulates how to survive January perfectly.

'So use your lighting ideas to highlight key artworks or objets, tuck lights into shelving and gather people around and into those corners which feel most cozy and inviting,' Liz continues.

This could be soft downlights over dining tables or simply a well-shrouded table lamp on a cocktail table next to your favorite chair. 'What you want from a home is for people to be able to wander in and feel comfortable enough and sit right down rather than simply to be impressed,' Liz says.

3. Think about your purchases

While we may live in an age of fast fashion and rampant consumerism, the New York-based designer Miles Redd of the studio Redd Kaihoi says now is the time to consider what you're buying. It's a reminder about sustainability, sure, but it also helps you edit what ends up in your home, rather than filling it with more stuff.

'It’s more that I am focused on desire – we ask ourselves: "Do you really want it?"' he says. 'If you don’t want it, it’s back to the drawing board. Every purchase, every choice, should be tested this rigorously. In decorating, there are so many options, but you don’t necessarily want them all when you really examine them, and this approach will lead to a more conscious home.'

4. Visit stores and showrooms

Following on from Miles' point about shopping with more consideration, Zoe Feldman thinks that if you stop scrolling and go out to the stores and showrooms you'll find yourself making better decisions this month, too.

'How a piece feels is an underrated aspect of design – online shopping has taken that element away,' she says. 'I’m very conscious, as we should all be, that a rug not just feels good underfoot, but when you lie on it too (I have dogs and am always lying down on the floor on with them!). So I wouldn’t choose sisal, but something softer. I’ve just bought a mohair rug by Jennifer Manners for my own home and I’m totally obsessed!'

5. Discover meaningful artwork

The Santa Fe-based designer Heather French of the studio French & French thinks that if there is one thing she'd like us to embrace it's folk art. That's art created locally by craftsmen that usually come from a specific cultural background.

'There is an unplanned aspect to folk art, coming straight from the heart or soul,' Heather says. It plays into the January mood of imbuing your home with work that gives it meaning. 'Folk art continually adds layers and makes spaces seem special,' Heather says. 'Often it has a naive aspect that gives your home real charm.'

5. Squeeze a sofa into your bedroom

If January is about anything, it should be about finding ways to connect with the people you love. And those people are going to need something to sit on. David Kaihoi, the other half of Redd Kaihoi, says that a couch in the bedroom is always a good idea, as it's the space in which people are the most relaxed, most ready to get cozy.

'A sofa is just a good place to lounge, and it's fun for the family to have sofa in the main bedroom,' David says. 'The kids all come in, you can chill, someone crawls into bed. It's a really comfortable way to live.' And comfort is a must-have for this time of year.

January definitely gets a bad rap. But it can be a wonderful month to reset after the holidays, both your home and your lifestyle. With all the busyness of the holidays out of the way, you inevitably have more time to spend tweaking and updating your home, making it a cozy, welcoming space to spend the rest of the winter months.

Entertainment rooms are the adult version of a playroom. However, this doesn't mean that the decor needs to be childish. Benny Blanco's luxe movie room is the perfect example of how to make an entertainment space simultaneously fun and elevated.

The producer's movie room idea was created by designer Keefe Butler of Studio Bad, inspired by Paris's Odeon Theater and Old Hollywood aesthetics. It's rich with sumptuous texture, from the redwood on the ceiling to the velvet on the walls to the patchwork sofas in front of the movie screen. A home bar has been converted into a full candy bar with dispensers for every type of sweet imaginable. Blanco's light wood ping pong table provides extra space for fun. Though the design is over-the-top, it never falls into the trap of feeling overwhelming. Instead, it's whimsical and kitschy in the best way possible.

Part of what makes Blanco's media room so appealing is that it is grounded by its supreme coziness. To add warmth to your own entertainment space, the experts at Sofology recommend a focus on lighting. They state: 'Create a sense of intimacy and elegance with carefully placed ambient lighting around the room and on small side tables within reach.'

For recreating Blanco's space, a focus on promoting actual comfort alongside the appearance of comfort will go far. In terms of cozy decorating ideas, the Sofology team recommends: 'Rugs, throws and cushions won't just elevate the space but will go some way in improving acoustics, restricting unwanted noise and reducing echo. Deep seats, wide arms, and reclined positions saved to memory add a sumptuous side of luxury to any homemade theatre space.'

Everyone knows that the snacks are the best part of going to the movies, so don't forget to build the capability for food into your entertainment space. You could modernize a home bar, as Blanco's team has done, or incorporate a popcorn cart for a fun, vintage feel.

Why go out to the movies when you can make a space that is so much more beautiful at home? Benny Blanco's entertainment space is the perfect inspiration.

The Substance actress Demi Moore may be accustomed to setting fashion trends across Hollywood – but her home is just as ahead of the curve. To celebrate Moore's Golden Globe victory, we revisited her Instagram account (a profile that's already served as a source of inspiration for the celebrity style team), and we almost missed a focal point sofa that was way ahead of current design trends.

This 2025, designers predict we'll get more daring with our furniture color choices – and arguably, no piece offers this opportunity quite like our living room sofa.

'A bold, patterned sofa is the ultimate focal piece that can transform a neutral room. Patterns – whether inspired by Kilim, Moroccan prints, vintage florals, or stripes – bring texture, depth, and a touch of worldly charm,' comments David Harris, the design director at Andrew Martin.

'These patterns are more than decorative; they tell stories of travel and discovery, adding layers of personality and warmth. In 2025, it's about blending cultural influences with modern design to create a space that feels both sophisticated and adventurous.'

Shop the patterned sofa edit

In Moore's living room, she exhibits a mosaic-style patterned sofa – comprising reds, oranges, turquoise, and navy hues. The honeycomb pattern is eclectic and, in many ways, risky, but it pays off against her otherwise neutral backdrop.

Since patterned sofas are among the expert's favorite design trends for the year ahead, knowing how to style them is vital. Following Moore's lead and pairing your sofa with a neutral-painted wall and wooden floor is a failsafe starting point. This will allow your room to breathe and consequently prevent it from feeling overwhelmed. Megan Holloway, the creative director at Maro Home, also recommends choosing your throw pillows wisely.

'Choosing to place a bold pattern on a sofa is a brilliant way of elevating and adding impact to a room with one unique piece. It creates a focal point and will add that all-important wow factor, especially in neutral spaces. It also allows you to show off your own unique style and personality in your home,' Holloway begins.

'If you do choose a bold, patterned sofa, then layering it with cushions in stripes, plains, or contrasting patterns will help to create a real 'lived-in' look without it feeling overdone, and this will also help to offset neutral walls beautifully. A good rule of thumb is one large scale print + a stripe + a small print for an effortlessly put together scheme. If a multi-print fabric feels too much, then opting for a large-scale print in a single color will help add interest while still feeling easy to style with other patterns or plains.'

Decorating with antique and vintage pieces is one of the simplest ways to bring character into a home. At their worst, an excess of older furnishings can make a space feel museum-like, cold, and dated. At their best, a combination of antiques with more modern pieces gives a home an eclectic, cozy, and interesting feel. Zooey Deschanel's living room embodies the latter.

Deschanel and her husband, Property Brother Johnathan Scott, have a classic – but interesting – living room idea. The couple's space starts with a velvet sofa in a modern moss color. It's the perfect complement to the rest of their dark wood space. Behind Zooey on the couch, a wooden sideboard is home to an orchid in a white pot and a vintage phonograph. On the wall, an oil painting in an antique frame gives the whole room an old-world luxe energy.

According to experts, the mix-and-match style of their space is right in line with interior design trends. Megan Slack, Head of Celebrity Style, states: 'For 2025, minimalism is out, and characterful interiors are in. People are increasingly interested in spaces guided by their personal interests, and Deschanel's take on the look is especially elevated because it also integrates vintage. It takes her interest in music and mixes it with the heirloom trend.'

What makes Deschanel and Scott's design impactful beyond trends is how it seamlessly blends decorating with vintage and contemporary pieces. For instance, the antique oil painting above the sofa in a trending shade keeps the painting from feeling too old-school, which keeping the sofa grounded in classic design. Together, each furniture piece makes the others feel more interesting. The same is true of the potted orchid, which is a small accessory that makes a big impact on the energy in the space.

The best interiors have a strong point of view, and Zooey Deschanel's living room is a great example of this. Integrating a collection of antiques with more modern pieces lets one easily take a point of view that is uniquely theirs.

Stepping into a well-done coastal design is like stepping onto the beach: breezy, inviting, and warm. Richard Branson's home features the perfect example.

The business magnate took to Instagram to share a shot of his indoor-outdoor living room idea, and it's full-on coastal chic. The space features tan stone floors and tan walls grounded with wooden furniture. A wicker sofa is the ideal place for sitting. Branson's range of blue and white decorative cushions bring visual interest, comfort, and a luxurious feel. Greenery from the outside in the background brings an open energy to the entire space.

What defines coastal decor? More than anything, it's the feeling you get when you walk into a space.'A coastal-inspired room should feel refreshing and relaxing in equal measure, serving as a happy reminder of warm, sunny days spent relaxing at the beach,' says design expert Shelley Cochrane.

Shop the Look

Luckily, this means that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to recreating Branson's look. Instead, it's a matter of bringing together different elements artfully. Cochrane advises: 'To style this look, combine a neutral color palette of light hues and sandy shades with warm tones of blues. Opt for whitewashed or light wooden furniture to add a nautical touch.' Wicker furniture and accessories are easy ways to accomplish this.

Accomplishing a coastal color scheme requires proper accessorizing. Decorative pillows are one of the simplest accessories that can be switched out quickly, depending on how you want to change the design over time. Classic coastal patterns include starfish, chevron, and seahorses, as seen on Branson's sofa. Or you can do as Cochrane advises and, 'Complete the look with a stripe - an essential addition to any coastal-inspired room. For a playful and contemporary spin, choose wider stripes in bold primary colors for a modern twist on classic coastal interiors.'

Though coastal designs seems difficult to nail, Richard Branson's living room design proves that it's just about selecting the right combination of colors and materials. You can't go wrong with a bit of wicker, warm neutrals, and a splash of blue.

A couch is essential for any seating area, but finding the right one for your room and needs can be challenging. There are many factors to consider: it should fit your budget, suit the room’s dimensions, and its design and color should enhance the space.

It also needs to be comfortable and durable and look chic now but also have longevity; trends may come and go, but a sofa should be able to last for years without looking dated. Far from an impulsive buy, a couch requires careful thought and planning.

You’ll also need to consider the sofa's size, its spacing within the room, and the right balance of accessories and surrounding furniture. To help, we consulted top designers on the most important dos and don’ts of selecting the best couches for your space. Here’s what they had to say.

Do consider your specific needs

Before choosing a living room sofa on a whim, experts suggest you take into account your needs and lifestyle. 'Think about how you plan to use your sofa, especially how you like to lounge on it,’ says Kellie Wyles, head of upholstery at DFS. ‘If you like to lie down then make sure there’s enough space to stretch out, or if there are two of you vying for ‘prime position’ consider a U-shaped or chaise-end sofa with footstool so no one has to sacrifice putting their feet up.’

Also, consider the number of people you regularly entertain or live with. ‘Whether you need a compact two-seater or a spacious corner sofa, sizing plays a critical role in comfort and functionality,’ adds Patricia Gibbons, head of design at sofa.com.

Do measure the space carefully

Make sure your sofa is proportionate to your living room. Interior designer Nishtha Vashist suggests you ‘measure like you’re planning a moon landing.’ She advises against just guessing the sofa’s fit. ‘Take precise measurements of not only the room but also your doorways, hallways, staircases, and elevator space,’ she adds. ‘A sofa that fits perfectly in the showroom might not survive the journey into your living room. Pro tip: Leave some breathing room for side tables and other furniture to keep your space looking balanced and airy.’

‘Ideally using painter's tape on your floor to mark off the outside corners of the new sofa will work,’ says Julia Mack, founder of Julia Mack Design. ‘Also, if your floors are wood, use the linear planks as a guide to be certain that your measurements are straight.’

Manually measuring aside, another way to check the right fit is by ‘cutting the sofa shape to scale out of newspaper and placing it on the floor,’ suggests Kellie. ‘This method will allow you to make sure you have plenty of space to move around and will give you a great sense of how the sofa will compare against the other pieces of furniture already in the room.'

Do think long term

A sofa is a big investment and you should want to get as much value out of it, as possible. While it's great to check on sofa trends to choose designs and colors that look eye-catching don’t miss out on checking the durability and longevity of the piece.

‘Keep in mind how easy it will be to clean and maintain the sofa,’ advises Patricia. ‘Families with children or pets should avoid fabrics that are hard to clean and choose options that can be professionally cleaned or are stain-resistant. Also, pick a sofa that blends with the rest of your decor. For traditional homes, classic styles work beautifully, while the sleek lines of modern sofas suit contemporary spaces.’

Do check the sofa fill

For a cozy living room that's always comfy to spend time in, check the sofa fills. ‘Different fillings offer different comfort levels – foam offers firm support, feathers provide softness, and memory foam gives you that “sink-in” luxury,’ says Nishtha. ‘Choose based on how you like to lounge!’

‘Opt for styles that offer deep cushions or added features like chaise sections for stretching out, especially for family movie nights or lazy Sundays,’ adds Patricia.

Do think about the shape and style

Measurements and needs aside, you should also choose the right sofa shape to avoid any living room layout mistakes. ‘L-shaped or sectional sofas tend to work well in large, open rooms, while standard sofas will suit most spaces,’ says Megan Holloway, founder and creative director of Maro Home. ‘Loveseats are ideal for rooms where space is at a premium and modular designs will offer you all the flexibility for different layouts. Classic shapes transcend trends and are easier to live with, which adds longevity and timelessness to a space.’

‘Sofas with a low back will help to make a room feel more open, while those with high backs will provide more support,’ adds Megan. ‘The leg height can also affect the overall feel, with higher legs making the room feel more airier, providing space for storage underneath. Remember that purpose is key, so if you love watching TV or relaxing with a good book then deep-seated styles with an arm to snuggle into work best. If it's a more formal sitting room, or playroom then armless styles with pelmets or fringing can bring a sense of fun and grandeur to your scheme.’

Don't buy without testing

'A sofa may look great, but always test it for comfort before committing,’ warns Patricia. ‘Visit a showroom if possible to feel the pillows and fabrics for yourself.’

‘Spend a good 15 minutes lounging on it the way you’d actually use it at home –legs up, snacks in hand, or sitting cross-legged,’ adds Nishtha. ‘It’ll help you decide if the firmness, seat depth, and cushions meet your comfort standards.’ While you’re at the store, you will be able to gather more information about living room trends and sofas from the experts around, so you can make a sound buying decision.

Also, testing out a sofa and seeing its size and dimensions in real-time will allow you to pick one that truly belongs in your home. While you may have set out to buy a standard three-seater, you may realize that it’s not ideal for smaller living room seating. ‘Look for providers offering two-and-a-half-seat options for those needing compact solutions without sacrificing comfort,’ avers Patricia.

Don't choose a sofa on looks alone

Wondering how to design a living room that’s built for the ages? A sofa is a big contributing factor to the room’s beauty. But just looks alone aren’t going to cut it. The piece needs to be easy to maintain and clean so it can last a long time.

‘It’s easy to fall for gorgeous, delicate-looking pieces covered in fabrics like silk, velvet, or linen, but they might not suit your lifestyle,’ shares Nishtha. ‘These materials can be high-maintenance – silk stains easily, linen wrinkles with just a glance, and traditional velvet can trap dust. If your sofa is going to be your main hangout zone (think movie marathons and wine nights), aim for something beautiful and practical. The goal? Strike the perfect balance between fashion and function.’

Megan agrees, saying that it’s a big mistake to choose style over functionality. ‘While the look of your sofa is important, most people often overlook elements like size, comfort, and durability; which is crucial for longevity,’ she adds. ‘Compromising on size can also really affect the feel of a room. You want your sofa to feel generous and/or purposeful.’

In terms of the sofa frame, ‘look for kiln-dried hardwood frames for durability, and if it’s modular or has removable pillows, even better...it makes cleaning and rearranging a breeze,’ says Nishtha.

Don't go for super ‘trendy’ colors and prints

Hear us out: there’s nothing wrong with following interior design trends. But if you want a space that never feels dated and can adapt to the changing design of your space (perhaps you may plan to paint the room a different color, add new artwork, or bring in fresh pillows) then it would be prudent to go in for a sofa that can survive all changes.

‘A big don’t when it comes to sofa prints is to select a pattern that is too trendy for such a dominant furniture,’ shares Julia. ‘Instead of a pattern which you may tire of, consider a texture in any color or tone that works with your space, saving patterns for smaller adjacent chairs or throw pillows.’

Similarly, for a timeless living room color scheme, choose sofa tones that are forever appealing. ‘A bright mustard yellow or electric blue sofa might seem like a bold design choice, but trends come and go – your sofa, however, is in it for the long haul,’ says Nishtha. ‘Instead of committing to a bold, trendy color that might feel outdated in a few years, stick to neutral tones like beige, gray, or soft taupe. These hues provide a timeless base and are easier to style around as your decor evolves.'

'If you’re craving color, think in layers! Introduce pops of personality with accent pillows, throws, or a statement rug. These accessories can easily be swapped out with changing seasons or moods, ensuring your space stays fresh without a complete makeover. Another tip: Pay attention to natural light – some colors shift drastically under different lighting, so bring fabric swatches home before you decide.'

Don't avoid a statement piece

However, while we advice against following fleeting trends, a sofa is the largest piece in the living room; it makes the maximum impact in the space. If you want your interiors to reflect your strong tastes and likes, or you wish to add a wow factor to your traditional living room then don’t be afraid to find a statement sofa that does that.

‘Don’t be afraid of finding your thing and expressing your style and personality,’ advises Kellie. ‘A sofa shouldn’t blend into the background, it should be a much-loved centerpiece and an investment that you will cherish for years to come. Don’t be afraid to be bold with your sofa choice whether that’s in the color, shape, or fabric choice, as it only takes a few extra pieces in the room such as a vase, rug, or lamp shade to tie the look together.’

Don't forget fabric durability

‘It’s tempting to choose a sofa based on appearance, but don’t overlook how well the fabric will wear,’ says Patricia. ‘For high-traffic areas, avoid delicate materials like silk and opt for hardier options like cotton or leather.’

That apart, if your home has pets, it might be a good idea to pet-proof your seaters. 'Opt for performance fabrics such as microfiber, leather, or stain-resistant upholstery that stand up to scratches, spills, and daily wear,’ says Nishtha. ‘Leather ages gracefully, gaining a beautiful patina over time, while performance fabrics are often water-resistant and easy to clean. Bonus tip: Look for fabrics with higher rub counts if you expect heavy use.’

Everyone wants a brand new, fresh-looking sofa but everyday life with its accidents, wear and tear will mean the sofa will never stay box-fresh. This is why it is important to choose a sofa that has a quality frame and upholstery, as both these contribute to the longevity of the furniture. Experts usually suggest a hardwood or steel frame.

Also, do your research on the sofa fillings. Usually, foam filling is best as it helps maintain your posture, and provides firmer support. However, if you really want to sink into the sofa, you could go for fiber or feather cushion filling. And finally, when buying a sofa, first consider where it will be placed. This will allow you to create a proportionate and well-designed living room. Do remember to take measurements of the space available so you choose a sofa that fits well.

Practicality is key for the living room, and the layout you select should not only be able to accommodate your lifestyle but also enhance it. Inspiration on how to master this layout comes from Anne Hathaway's conversational seating – the product of Pamela Shamshiri, the co-founder of Los Angeles-based Studio Shamshiri. The design firm first shared the room in 2019, but as we look toward 2025, the layout is just as impactful.

The Devil Wears Prada actress and her husband, jewelry designer Adam Shulman, have perfected a clever living room seating arrangement in their chalet-style residence in California. It epitomizes a 'conversational seating' method that, top designers say, is the perfect example of how to maximize your floorplan.

Design icon Nina Campbell is a champion of what she calls 'conversational seating.' Essentially, it's a living room layout designed entirely around your seating arrangement, best exhibited in Hathaway's space.

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Figuring out your floor plan is vital to ensure that your living room works from a practical and aesthetic standpoint. Start by working out the central point of the room; this will guide you as to where to place large pieces of furniture, such as sofas and chairs.

'For example, when designing a living room with a traditional fireplace, this will be a central point,' Campbell says. 'You can then either have the sofa to one side with a couple of chairs opposite. Alternatively, you can position the couch so it’s facing the fireplace and chairs on either side.'

It’s always good to throw off the symmetry of the room and add an extra dimension with mismatched furniture, color schemes, shapes, and styles to make the space feel more relaxed and encourage conversation.

But there is so much more to choosing a living room sofa or chair than just their appearance. The number of chairs you set out is an important consideration, too. Odd numbers are good for seating plans in general because they allow for some rotation of guests.

The interior designer Elsie de Wolfe wrote in 1913 that you must never place a chair on its own in a room; she was very shy herself and noted that it is always the shy person who arrives first, sits on the lone chair, and then is often rooted there for the whole party. But two next to each other does not always work, either. I find that two people sitting side by side do not always speak to each other, so having an occasional chair pulled in at a diagonal can create conversational triangles, similar to the seating placement in Anne Hathaway's home above.

Another way to arrange your seating is to place them within arm's reach of a side or coffee table. Can you imagine having to get up every time you – or your guest – wanted to reach the remote or sip their drink?

Perfecting the 'conversational seating' method is a good idea at every point of the calendar, but there is no time like the present – considering we're deep into hosting season.

This December, we suggest replacing art books and vases with small, tabletop Christmas trees while leaving room for a charcuterie board in the center of your social place. This way, your guests are all at an equal distance from the board – making it easy to eat, drink, and be merry long into the evening. I love how Hathaway's layout (with the coffee table in the middle) demonstrates this look perfectly.

Finally, you should never skimp on the most important piece of furniture in your living room: the sofa. 'The sofas and bigger pieces of furniture should be covered in a tough, strong, and relatively plain fabric so you don’t tire of it; they are expensive to recover. You can jazz them up with cushions and throws,' Campbell adds.

A new year is the perfect excuse to spruce up our homes and experiment with new pieces, and for 2025, we are thinking of ways to incorporate color into our spaces.

While some of us naturally gravitate towards neutrals, dopamine decor, and primary colors continue to be on trend. As such, we are taking cues from the always classy and sleek Victoria Beckham, who has managed to infuse a bold dose of color into her dressing room via a colorful sofa.

In a post shared to the designer and former Spice Girl's Instagram page, we can see a lime green couch making a subtle statement in the otherwise neutral space. It serves as a complementary piece against the reclaimed wood floors, navy blue rug, and crystal chandelier, adding just the right amount of vibrancy to the space. It turns out this color is right on trend for the coming year, in case you need further convincing.

While introducing a brightly colored sofa to a room is a statement, experts say that color infusions can be implemented in small doses for those who are used to neutrals.

'Experimenting with a bold color can feel like a daunting task, especially if it’s in a main room in your home and you haven’t played with color before,' says interiors expert Jade Crooks. 'You could start small, with colorful cushions or an eye-catching rug. However, to make a real statement, select a focal piece of furniture – like a sofa or an ornate armchair – and go all out.'

She continues, 'If you’re unsure where to begin, think with your heart rather than your décor. Bright colors are often more energizing than neutrals, bringing strong associations with them. Yellow, for example, adds a refreshing burst of energy to any room.'

Green is a particularly versatile color choice, fitting well into popular interior schemes such as Japandi and organic modern design trends.

'The color green is most commonly associated with nature, offering a sanctuary from everyday life stressors,' Crooks says. 'Like spending time in your garden on a sunny evening after a long day, sinking into a green sofa at the end of the day can bring about a sense of calm.'

Beckham's dressing room is certainly calming, with the wood floors adding a natural feel to the room.

'Pairing your green sofa with browns and textured neutrals can help to build upon those feelings of nature,' she states. 'To go one step further, try incorporating potted plants in your space.' Alternatively, you could pair it with a chandelier for the ultimate Victoria-Beckham-inspired look.

Shop H&G's statement green edit

The beauty of green is that there are so many different shades to choose from: sage is a forever classic, while emerald green feels regal, and lime green makes a bold statement.

If you're hosting overnight guests over the holiday period then a sleeper sofa is going to be prime real estate in your home as of next week.

Whether it’s close family or surprise guests, your multi-functional spaces often become the unsung heroes of the season. But knowing how to style a sleeper sofa to make it exude the same level of sophistication as the rest of your interiors – and your own bed – can be hard to master.

To help you create a home away from home for your loved ones we've sought the help of the experts to divulge their very best sleep-inducing tips.

How to style a sleeper sofa

'When hosting this Christmas, styling a sofa bed is all about blending comfort and functionality with subtle festive charm,' says Rhiannon Masters, head of brand at Piglet in Bed.

From selecting the right textiles to perfecting the art of accessorizing, these expert-backed tricks will make your sleeper sofa look more expensive while ensuring your guests feel like they’re staying at a boutique hotel. Sleepover season has never looked so chic.

1. Treat it like any sofa during the day

Your sleeper sofa doesn’t have to scream “guest bed” when it’s not in use. So treat the sleeper sofa as a permanent part of your design rather than a temporary fix to help you host guests without a guest room.

'A sleeper sofa should be treated and styled like any other sofa to ensure it feels intentional and cohesive within your space,' says interior designer Marie Flanigan.

'Pair it with side tables and lamps to create balance and provide practical surfaces for lighting and decor. Beautiful throw pillows in a mix of textures and patterns can soften the look and add personality,' she adds. A high-quality rug can also anchor the sofa in the room and help it feel like a more cohesive part of the design.

2. Choose bedding wisely

Investing in beautiful, well-made bedding rather than pulling something from the back of the linen cupboard shows your guests that their comfort isn’t an afterthought.

Start with breathable, high-thread-count sheets, and avoid old, mismatched bedding; instead, opt for a set that coordinates with your room’s decor – whether that room is your living room, office, or family room. And be sure to get them the best pillow and comforter you can afford.

'Scalloped detailing on bed linens and trimmings adds a charming touch that effortlessly elevates the overall aesthetic,' suggests designer Gray Walker. 'This design element strikes a perfect balance between whimsy and timeless elegance, creating an inviting atmosphere that feels both playful and sophisticated.'

3. Add layers of cozy textures

You don't want your guests to feel like they're staying on a makeshift bed but instead a guest room that feels inviting, cozy, and thoughtful.

'Start with layers of cozy textures,' adds Rhiannon from Piglet in Bed. 'Think luxury linen sheets, wool blankets in warm earthy tones paired with accent cushions that echo the feels of the season – rich greens, deep reds, and striped patterned accents.'

'For a truly inviting touch, drape a linen quilted throw or a knitted blanket of your choice across the foot of the bed,' she continues. 'This adds a cozy farmhouse feel with a modern twist and is also practical for those colder nights when your guests want to pull over an extra layer.'

4. Don't forget pattern and color

'People often set up a sofa bed with basic bedding, plain sheets, a duvet, and pillows, however, we’d suggest dressing your sofa bed in the same way you would any other bed,' Rhiannon continues.

'Texture paired with pattern adds depth and nostalgic charm which will make your guests feel a sense of homeliness.' Pattern and color bring personality and charm to your sofa, making it feel intentionally styled.

Even if the sleeper sofa itself is neutral, adding bold cushions or throws can completely change its vibe. Stripes, plaids, and florals are versatile prints that can fit a range of interior design styles while feeling festive enough for the holidays.

5. Finish with little luxuries

In order to be a really great host, try to predict their needs and mimic the experience of a luxury hotel with sleep-ready scents, a stack of books, and even fresh flowers.

'So your guests feel more special than ever, keep a small side table nearby with essentials like a carafe of water, a scented candle, and a phone charger to create that home-from-home experience,' suggests Rhiannon.

Not everyone likes to sleep at the same temperature so provide a basket of extra blankets and throw cushions. Blackout blinds are essential but often forgotten in rooms that aren't typically used for sleeping, like a home office that doubles as a guest room and dimmable lamps provide both ambiance and reading light.

'Don’t forget to layer in accents like a cozy throw, a nearby floor lamp, or a small piece of art to create a polished, inviting space,' Marie advices. 'These final, thoughtful touches help your sleeper sofa feel like a centerpiece rather than an afterthought.'

Whether you’re hosting for the holidays or just preparing for impromptu visitors, your guests will appreciate all the effort you’ve put into making their stay special.

Living room layouts can be tricky to navigate. They are often such hardworking spaces that wear a lot of hats and need to work for everyone who uses the space. And although not a piece of furniture, a rug is a main player in your layout and the positioning can make or break a room.

There's plenty to consider when choosing the best spot for your rug, but one of the main questions asked is 'Should your couch sit on top of the rug?' and then more specifically, how much of your couch should sit on top of the rug? Should it even be sitting on the rug at all?! There's lots to consider, so we asked designers to help you decide what's going to be best for your living room.

How much of your sofa should sit on the rug?

As is often the case with interior design conundrums, how much of your sofa should sit on the rug, if at all, depends on a multitude of factors; from the room size and configuration to the style of your couch and rug you have chosen. Focusing on living room seating, essentially, there is no right or wrong answer but many a guideline to follow...

1. Consider the scale of both room and rug

The size of your living room will impact your choice of couch and it is important to bear in mind when deciding how far the rug belongs under the sofa too. 'A well-placed rug can define a seating area, enhance cohesion, and improve balance and flow,' begins Lauren Lerner, CEO and Founder of interior design firm Living with Lolo. 'The rug's size is key; it should ideally fit at least the couch's front legs. This setup unites the furniture, preventing a fragmented look.'

Essentially the rug acts as a frame. If you are working with a couch for a small living room and have less room to work with, keep one third of the couch on the rug as a minimum. Los Angeles-based interior designer, Victoria Holly agrese with Lauren about this two front leg rule, since it 'helps unify the seating area while keeping in mind a sense of openness around the furniture,' says Victoria.

Should you have ample space to work with, you may want to anchor the couch in it furthermore, so that it does not fade into the background. Do this by going full hog. 'In larger rooms, I often place the entire sofa on the rug to define a well-scaled and grounded space,' continues Victoria.

2. Think about proportions and the 'relationship' between furnishings

As well as working to the scale of your room and of the rug, fine-tuning the space to balance the overall proportions of the different living room furniture will serve a cohesive and welcoming finish.

'Space planning is key here,' says Amy Pigliacampo, founder of Amy Pigliacampo Interiors. 'Sofa placement is really dependent on the overall proportions of the sofa relative to the rug and room size. We like to use rugs as our base to create the zone and then establish furniture placement based on those goals.'

And of course, the best position for the rug and sofa comes down to the style of both as well as the style and size of the room. 'It really has to do with the relationship between the rug, the room and the sofa; if we need the rug to accommodate a larger area, it's possible that the sofa might just come up to the rug with an intentional gap but these are very specific case by case circumstances,' continues Amy. 'The biggest mistake we see are rugs that are too small relative to a sofa.'

3. Keep a natural flow around the rug

Naturally, furniture directs the flow of traffic around a room and keeping walkways clear is one of the key things to consider when positioning your couch – and you need to keep this in mind when finalizing the placement of your rug too. 'Also, consider traffic flow; the rug should allow comfortable movement without blocking paths,' notes Lauren.

You may have a particularly long living room, or one with various alcoves to consider, so depending on the room shape and any surrounding furniture, this may mean you pull more of the rug underneath the couch or leave more on show. Either way, ensure the rug does not impede unnaturally on walkways. More generally speaking for the couch, you want to 'avoid placing it too close to walls to promote conversation and movement throughout the room,' echoes Victoria.

Victoria offers some specific measurements to keep in mind: 'To help determine the right size rug for your space, I recommend keeping in mind hardwood flooring space around your rug at 12” to 18” wide.'

4. Look to your room's style

Scale plays an important part in interior design not just from a measurement perspective, but also to design depth, and the finished look you are trying to create for your room will influence how much of your sofa sits on the rug too. For example, a living room that wants more energy might want to keep at least two-thirds of a colorful rug on show, whilst some shapes merit accentuating too.

'A sofa doesn’t need to rest on a rug if you have an abstract or unusual shaped rug where you want to appreciate the edges a bit more,' adds Victoria Holly. 'Or in some very small spaces where you want to appreciate the hardwood flooring details.'

As with anything in interior design, do not hesitate to bend the rules when styling a sofa, with your rug. Consider your personal interior design style and how polished or relaxed you want the space to appear at the core of your decision. 'For a formal look, a larger rug fully under the couch and seating gives a complete, sophisticated appearance,' adds Lauren. 'A smaller rug under just the coffee table can feel lighter but might lack cohesion.'

5. Check the overall balance, harmony and comfort

How all of these factors come into play will shape your final design movements. Consider visual and physical comfort, as well as style and practicality.

'Generally, a rug defines a space in a room,' says Amy Kalikow, founder of Amy Kalikow Design. 'Having all the furniture fit properly on the rug is a rule of thumb for our design. It makes the room feel cohesive and defined.' Depending on how your floors lie, it might be necessary to have either the full rug under all four sofa legs or no rug at all. 'Additionally, if a couch is part on and part off a rug, there could be balancing issues which makes comfy seating problematic,' continues Amy.

You might have multiple couches, for instance, in an open-plan living room. If this is the case, and they are spread out, be strategic with which seat you want to be more of the focus Victoria Holly shares. 'If you have more than one sofa, ideally both sofas have their front legs on the rug to help ground the room. But if for whatever reason given the layout and flow of the room, only one sofa can have its legs on the rug, then pick the larger and more dominant sofa.'

When tackling how much of your couch should sit on a rug, focus on how scale, proportion, flow, and feel of the space all come into play. When in doubt, consider the two front couch leg rule and see how it sits in your space, you will know when you have made the right design choice.

In 2021, Drew Barrymore developed a design ideology: to create the things she 'wanted to see in the world,' and that's exactly what she did. Cut to 2024, and her brand, Beautiful, stands as one of the most reputable homeware labels in the modern American home.

What started as kitchenware has developed to cover our entire home – spanning boucle accent chairs and sectional sofas (that are iconic in their own right), bathroom towels, and one of the most stylish air fryers we've ever seen. Currently, some of our favorite Beautiful by Drew Barrymore items are among the best Black Friday home deals we've spotted this week (and trust us, we've scouted through a lot).

Beautiful by Drew Barrymore deals – H&G's top picks

We've listed our curated pick of the most unmissable deals over the biggest sales event on the calendar. However, we recommend being quick, as we don't know when these reductions will end.

'Designing your home can be a lot of fun, and we wanted to bring items that consumers are excited about,' Barrymore says in an exclusive interview with H&G.

'It's a way to bring out your personality while creating a space for comfort for you, your family, and your friends. We hope our pieces, from our cookware to our couches or pillows, bring a bit of joy to your home and inspire you to get creative while designing or redesigning spaces within your home.' Today, they're even more accessible than normal, but these deals surely won't stay in stock for long. Happy shopping.

It's no secret that Dolly Parton takes a maximalist approach to life. From her bedazzled bodysuits to her signature up-do's, the singer-songwriter has a more is more attitude to her stage persona; her affinity for her interiors, however, takes a more muted approach.

In a recent post shared to her Instagram account, we can see Parton sitting on a cream boucle sofa accented by neutral throw pillows. In recent months, this 'outdated' material has divided designers, with some experts asking: What's replacing boucle? However, the singer's placement on the sofa reminds us that it's a classic look that's here to stay. The sofa is perfectly placed in a neutral room, reminding us that it's a staple in the organic modern design scheme – and it's enduringly popular for a reason.

The highly versatile neutral palette (as well as the beloved boucle sofa) can easily be customized to suit personal design preferences, making it a timeless trend in every sense of the phrase. Even though its status has been debated in recent months, the singer makes a case for its enduring appeal.

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According to experts, organic modern design favors neutral colors and natural textures, taking inspiration from the great outdoors.

'The organic modern trend is about blending natural textures with a contemporary feel,' says Monika Puccio, the head buyer at the Sofa Club. 'Neutrals are your best friend for this aesthetic, so focus on beiges, ivory, and soft greys to create an airy feel. Choose furniture which is made from linen, wool, boucle, and textured woven fabrics. These not only add a tactile quality to the space but also bring in the organic elements essential to this sophisticated style.'

She continues, 'Explore textures through accessories to keep the space stylish and give added depth. By incorporating items like woven, natural fiber rugs, chunky, knitted throws, and textured cushions, you can gain a contrast, giving the space interest while maintaining an organic, rustic charm.'

Parton's sofa and pillows capture the essence of this strategy perfectly, with a bit of texture coming through in the boucle fabric and woven cases.

Additionally, comfort is key with organic modern, so think about incorporating soft materials that are both practical and stylish into a living space.

'Modern organic is all about blending minimalism with coziness,' Puccio explains. 'This style focuses on furniture that maximizes comfort while steering clear of bold, overpowering designs. Look for designs that prioritize relaxation.'

Finally, Puccio recommends keeping decor to a minimum when it comes to an organic modern space, and avoid over-accessorizing (less is more).

'Prioritizing openness is key to achieving a modern organic look within your home,' she says. 'Maintaining an open, airy environment can make the space feel larger and more inviting. Also, ensure that the room is decorated to embrace natural light. This not only brightens your space and contributes to that minimalist feel but also highlights the natural textures and neutral tones that define this style.'

I recommend adding in textural details on the ground to further enhance visual interest while still keeping the space feeling open; for example, a woven or fluffy rug.

When it comes to living room decor, I typically prefer to keep furnishings simple and neutral. I tend to implement color and pattern with accessories such as rugs, hanging art, and candles.

However, Benny Blanco's showstopping sofa has me reconsidering my living room design ideas. His large, green patterned sofa, as seen in a snap shared by his interior designers, Dana Vitrano and Rachel Leigh Ward of bonVivant Interiors, is the perfect foil against his white walls. A piece of art hanging above serves as another focal point in the space.

The designer revealed that the living room sofa is custom upholstered with House of Hackney fabric, but many printed and patterned sofas on the market do not require a DIY. Whether you try to customize an existing sofa or purchase a pre-patterned one, styling is key to ensuring it looks sleek and appealing.

First and foremost, when incorporating a statement piece sofa in a space, it is paramount to consider the size of the room. While Blanco's sofa is considerably large, a couch of this size might look out of place in a room that just barely fits it. Ensure that there is ample empty space surrounding the sofa, so that it does not appear that it has been squeezed in.

Additionally, consider the existing styling of your living space. Are the walls painted a bright color, or an eggshell hue? Do you already have an eccentric coffee table, or a bold bookcase? If so, a statement sofa, like Blanco's, might look too busy in a space that is already favoring unique decor.

I recommend placing a statement sofa in a neutral (and modifiable) space. That's not to say that it has to be boring though; textured, natural materials such as rattan and linen pair beautifully with the softness of a sofa, and would look especially beautiful next to a deep green one like Blanco's.

It is also important to choose a pattern that speaks to you. Florals are a classic for a reason, but they are not for everyone. Plaid and stripes are also fantastic options, and can make a space feel preppy or coastal depending on the sofa's color palette.

We love Blanco's ornate, nature-inspired sofa, and the specks of gold can easily be paired with gold accents in a living space, such as a lamp, picture frame, or even coffee table legs.

Alternatively, for those who are not ready to embrace a fully patterned sofa, try experimenting with colors and textures instead. Velvet sofas are trendy yet timeless, while we have seen colors such as orange and pink pop up as part of the enduring dopamine decor trend.

Below, find a statement sofa and some neutral accessories to achieve the Benny Blanco look.

I also recommend keeping throw pillows and blankets to a minimum with a statement sofa, so that it remains a clear and uncluttered focal point in the living space.

No matter your decor style, a patterned sofa like Blanco's can give your home an elevated, design-led feel.

A sofa is (almost always) a must-have piece of living room furniture – or is that a couch? To the experts, they do mean different things and a comparison of couch vs sofa can help you determine which option is best for your room.

Whether you’re looking for living room sofa ideas or searching for seating to share in a den, understand the advantages of each and you can make family or guests comfortable, and help create exactly the right ambiance for the space.

We asked interior professionals to explain the characteristics and benefits on each side in the couch vs sofa head-to-head so you can choose with confidence, and their expertise is right here.

Couch vs sofa: a guide to their styles and benefits

Many of us simply have a preference for the word we use rather than having differences in mind when we’re talking about the best couch or sofa.

‘The terms couch and sofa are often used interchangeably, and in many contexts, they refer to the same piece of furniture – a seating piece designed to accommodate multiple people,’ agrees Wandra Cain of Wandra Cain Interior Design. ‘However, there are subtle distinctions,’ she says.

This expert guidance from interior designers and furniture experts will help you understand the plus points of couches and those of sofas to help you select.

Why are a couch and a sofa different?

Before we put couch vs sofa up against one another, it’s worth knowing why interior designers set them apart from one another.

‘Historically, the couch was a more casual piece, originally designed as a place to lie down or recline,’ says Colleen Bennett of CBB Design. ‘It often lacked armrests and was associated with relaxation and rest. In contrast, the sofa was a more formal, structured seating option with distinct arms and a full back, often used in formal living spaces for seating guests.’

The origins of the words are in different languages. ‘Couch evolved from the French word coucher, meaning to lie down, explains Stefano Sette, brand ambassador at CHITA LIVING. ‘Couches were informal, comfortable pieces. On the other hand, the term sofa has more formal connotations, originally an Arabic word that indicated an upholstered bench. Sofas were more structured and placed in formal settings.’

Couch vs sofa characteristics

Their historical origins mean there are typical characteristics associated with a couch or a sofa today by interiors experts and that are important to know in order to choose the right couch.

‘Couches are often more casual and versatile in design than sofas, with softer shapes and often lower backs and arms,’ says Stefano Sette. ‘They may be more relaxed than sofas, with a slouchier feel when you sit on them, encouraging a more informal lounging experience.’

A sofa has a slightly different look and feel. ‘A sofa tends to have a structured, polished appearance, often featuring a uniform back and arms with straight lines or gentle curves,’ says Stefano. ‘When sitting on a sofa, you’ll likely notice firm yet cozy support.’

Design differences of a couch vs sofa

As we’ve already seen certain features set couches and sofas apart, so consider how many you want to seat, and how you’re planning to use the seating.

‘Couches are generally smaller than sofas, usually seating two to three people,’ says Taylar Hoffman, director of merchandising and product designer at Dallas-based furniture company American Leather. ‘Sitting on a couch often feels cozier and softer due to overstuffed cushions, making them perfect for lounging, napping, or informal gatherings.’

Need to seat more? Size up to a sofa. ‘A sofa is typically larger than a couch, designed to seat three or more people,’ explains Taylar. ‘When sitting on a sofa, you usually experience a firmer feel, promoting a more upright posture. The cushions may be designed for support, contributing to a more formal seating experience.’

Couch and sofa construction

How the seating is made and perhaps its lifespan may be different depending on whether it is a couch or a sofa and should always be taken into consideration if you want to swerve couch buying mistakes.

‘Couches may have softer, more cushioned seats, sometimes with a slightly relaxed frame, as they prioritize comfort and lounging,’ says Colleen Bennett.

The construction of a sofa can be a little different. ‘Most sofas have a frame made of hardwood, such as oak, which provides durability and stability,’ notes Izabela Tokarski, founder and interior designer at Kabela & Co. ‘Sofa cushions are usually made with foam, feathers, down or a combination. High-density foam offers structure and support, while feather or down fills add a plush, luxurious feel.’

Which rooms suit a couch vs a sofa

Their design and style means the type of living space can make either a couch or a sofa a better choice.

‘Couches are often placed in family rooms, media rooms, or dens, where the focus is on comfort and relaxation,’ says Colleen Bennett. ‘Their casual feel makes them perfect for lounging, watching TV, or spending relaxed time with family. Couches provide a cozy, informal vibe that works well in these settings.’

A sofa can be a better choice for other living spaces. ‘Sofas are commonly found in living rooms, sitting rooms, or formal entertaining areas, where people are likely to sit upright and socialize,’ says Colleen. ‘Their structured design makes them ideal for spaces meant for conversation or hosting guests, adding a sense of sophistication and order to the room.’

Couch vs sofa as part of a room design

How the piece of furniture contributes to a room can also be different depending on whether it’s a couch or a sofa.

‘While both pieces offer seating, a sofa is generally chosen to anchor a room’s decor and to provide a comfortable gathering spot,’ says Stefano Sette. ‘A couch, on the other hand, brings a more casual, cozy vibe and is ideal for smaller spaces or rooms where informal seating is preferred.

‘Additionally, sofas often come with customizable options for sectional or modular layouts, adding to their versatility, which makes them ideal for larger living areas or open-plan spaces,’ he notes. ‘A couch might be a simpler, stand-alone piece designed for more straightforward, intimate use.’

Couch vs sofa: the verdict

Either a couch or a sofa might have the characteristics that suit the space you’re furnishing.

‘Sofas often feature classic or minimalist interior design styles, aiming for a look that complements a range of decors,’ says Izabela Tokarski. ‘Many high-end sofas come with tufting, clean lines, or tailored upholstery that reinforces a formal, elegant aesthetic.

‘Couches lean into softer, cozy looks and may be upholstered in more causal fabrics or styles that emphasize comfort over appearance. They may have oversized or pillow-top arms, creating a relaxed vibe.’

But when you’re buying, be aware that the name given to the particular piece of furniture by a retailer won’t necessarily identify its characteristics, and there’s been an evolution, too.

‘Today’s design details and variety of design and use further blur old definitions,’ explains Jenon Stroup, merchandising and design director at Room & Board.

‘Those more connected to the design industry lead towards using sofa vs couch. We use the term sofa at Room & Board, but a customer can call it whatever they prefer!’

The takeaway? Use your couch and sofa knowhow to think through all the characteristics of the piece you’re looking at. That way, your seating will fulfill the functions you need it to and have a style you love, too.

Think usage and the distinction couch vs sofa makes sense. ‘Because the world has become more casual most people interchangeably use the sofa and couch, but the truth is they are very different,’ says Tracy Metro, interior designer and host of House Doctor on Netflix. ‘Couches you sit IN while sofas you sit ON. On a couch you look at the TV. On a sofa you look at your guests.’

A leather sofa is a simple, versatile, and functional way to bring personality and warmth into your home. For instance, we've long admired the '90s-inspired coziness of Katie Holmes's living room. Despite the presence of a record player and natural wood, it's her fawn-colored leather couch that brings the entire look together.

Holmes's gorgeous living room sofa is situated at the center of her space to the left of a round coffee table. It's been given room to breathe from the wall making the whole room feel larger and brighter. The inviting furniture piece has a wide base and a low back, leaning into the era of the room and conversational seating tactics. It's caramel-leather looks soft, broken in and well taken care of. It simultaneously makes the room feel more elevated and lived in.

Are leather couches still in style? The natural material is a staple of timeless design. Though black leather sofas have faded slightly from popularity, warm neutrals like Holmes's are going strong.

Its enduring popularity is largely because the natural texture of a leather sofa fits in easily with the rustic modern interior design trend. Zlatka Dimitrova, home improvement expert, describes the trend stating: 'The rustic modern trend blends the warmth and charm of rustic, natural materials with the clean lines and minimalist aesthetic of modern design. It often combines features like reclaimed wood, stone, and organic textures with sleek finishes, neutral color palettes, and contemporary furnishings. The goal is to create a balanced environment that feels cozy yet sophisticated. It draws inspiration from nature while incorporating modern comforts and technologies.'

Where does leather fit in? Dimitrova says it's essential for adding texture in this design style. 'While rustic design leans towards more rugged textures, modern design incorporates sharp, clean lines. Textured elements like leather, wool, and linen add warmth and depth, and sleek, simple furniture contrasts the organic roughness of natural materials.'

Beyond their looks, leather sofas have emerged as a timeless classic because of how durable they are. Sam Deeble, Furniture Specialist, states, 'Leather sofas are favored for their easy-to-clean material.' Rather than removing an unwieldly slip cover and getting stains out in the washing machine, it only takes one step to clean a leather couch. Deeble recommends: 'Use a leather cleaner designed for leather sofas or a mixture of mild dish soap and water with a microfiber cloth to gently clean the upholstery. This will protect the leather while effectively cleaning the surface, ensuring your sofa remains in top condition.'

Shop The Look

If you love the look of a leather sofa but are stunned by the price point, vegan leather is a great alternative. These high-quality options are the best vegan leather sofas of the year, as chosen by H&G's shopping writers.

To emulate Holme's modern rustic styling, try pairing your new brown leather sofa with natural wood. The two textured materials pair beautifully for a lived-in and unique feel. This sofa choice would also pair beautifully with a textured or shag rug for an extra inviting feel.

Leather instantly makes a space feel more elevated, and Katie Holmes's living room is no exception. How will you be using the material in your own home?

The average person spends nearly a third of their life sleeping in bed. Thus, we are firm believers that quality linens are a worthwhile investment. Naomi Watts is too.

The King Kong and Mulholland Drive star has officially partnered with luxury designer bedding brand Coyuchi as its first celebrity ambassador. Founded in California in 1991, Coyuchi linens are made of sustainably sourced, organic materials and come in mostly calming, neutral shades. Watts has curated a selection of products called the Live Beautifully collection, including a down feather pillow, a classic linen sheet set, and an alpaca cotton throw. The common thread between the products is a sense of quiet luxury that is both beautiful in the home and gentle on the planet.

'Creating a home filled with beauty, comfort, and mindfulness is how I love to live,' states Watts of her choice to partner with the sustainable bedding brand. 'Coyuchi's unwavering commitment to sustainable, organic, and luxurious textiles speaks to the core of what I believe in. I've always felt that the most beautiful things in life are those that remain closest to their natural form—uncomplicated, authentic, and connected to the earth. Partnering with Coyuchi allows me to align with a brand that values conscious luxury, making our homes sanctuaries that feed us and our planet.'

According to industry experts, Coyuchi is a trustworthy (and crowd-pleasing brand). 'I've been in the luxury linens business for over 20 years, and over the last 5 years or so we've seen the largest increase in interest in sustainable textiles and natural fibers,' says Carlin Van Noppen, bedding expert and owner of Fig Linens and Home, retailer of Coyuchi. 'Coyuchi's bedding perfectly taps into this interior design trend. The GOTS-certified yarn creates a product that is not only sustainable but feels high quality and luxurious.

Further, Watts's favorite brand sells some of the bestselling, and best bed sheets of the year. 'The relaxed linen sheet set has become one of our best sellers,' Van Noppen tells Homes & Gardens. 'Clients especially love the relaxed look and the cooling feel. Their pricing is incredibly accessible compared to heritage luxury linen brands for the quality.'

Natural textiles are a surefire way to bring warmth and comfort into your bedroom. We love the look of layering to unite multiple textures for an extra cozy look. Try pairing the relaxed linen duvet set with an alpaca throw for an ultra-plush bed.

Naomi Watts knows a thing or two about luxury, and now it can be both sustainable and accessibly priced.

A stylish accent chair can completely transform a space. From color to fabric to silhouette, a statement seat is a powerful piece of furniture with the ability to draw visual interest to one corner of a room.

Having said all of this, when we got wind of a stunning accent chair at a great price point, we became very tempted. Why? Because it comes from one of our favorite Hollywood stars – and a stand-out celebrity line.

We are talking about the Teddy Accent Chair from Drew Barrymore's Beautiful line, which is only $249.00. Having established her homeware and accessories line in March 2021, we trust Barrymore's collection of stylish yet affordable products, and this new sofa may just be our new favorite. Its deep mustard hues and curvaceous shape tap into the retro style trend that has gained momentum over recent years – and with pieces this affordable, its a sign that this look isn't set to waver.

There is so much to love about this accent chair, but we can't help but re-emphasize its colorway. The butterscotch hue is evocative of '70s modern decor, but its proximity to brown makes it an incredibly versatile color shade. 'When I first saw this chair, I said it was my favorite furnishing I've seen from any celebrity range this fall – and as we continue through the season, it remains true,' comments our Head of Celebrity Style News, Megan Slack.

The shearling fabric is also a highlight, evoking a soft, contemporary feel that is also extremely comfortable to sit on. There is even a removable accent pillow to add dimension and extra softness to the seat. 'I am looking for an excuse to bring this piece into my home, and, rest assured, I will do so before the season is out,' Slack adds.

Reminiscent of cult-favorite cloud chairs, the Teddy Accent Chair features solid wood construction, ensuring that it is a highly durable piece of furniture.

However, with all that said, we can't be all that surprised by the beauty of this piece. Barrymore is synonymous with uber-chic (yet affordable) furniture – trailblazed by her iconic Modular Sectional Sofa, also available at Walmart. You can shop our favorites (including a versatile pillow for any chair) below.

Throw pillows are an addition to a sofa most of us just can’t resist. They may be more modestly sized elements of a room’s design, but they can make an impact all the same.

There definitely is an art to selecting the best throw pillows and arranging them, however. Style them well and they’ll elevate the living room rather than simply adding an accent of color.

And who better to ask for the best styling tips than interior designers who know all the secrets to making throw pillows look more expensive? We got into the specifics about choosing the right sizes, shapes, and fabrics, along with their knowledge of how to place them in order to make them look their best.

1. Always upgrade the cushions that come with the couch

Some sofas come with matching pillows, but to make a sofa look more expensive, upgrade.

‘The first thing I do if a sofa comes with throw pillows in the same fabric as the sofa is to remove the covers and replace them with new ones in complementary colors and textures,’ says Rebecca Ward of Sacramento-based Rebecca Ward Design.

Don’t feel you have to use the same number that were supplied. ‘Odd numbers are a designer’s secret,’ says Rebecca. ‘I like seven pillows on sectionals, five on sofas, and three on loveseats.’

2. Layer sizes and shapes

For a high-end look, don’t opt for a single size or shape of pillow. ‘Layer with varied sizes and shapes,’ says Colleen Bennett of CBB Designs.

‘Start with larger, square pillows (around 22 to 24 inches) at the back and layer in smaller lumbar or rectangular pillows in front. This creates a full, layered look that instantly feels curated and sophisticated.’

4. Factor in sofa depth

While we’re talking pillow size, be sure to take into account the depth of a sofa when choosing for an upscale look.

‘For a perfectly balanced look on a standard sofa, I love using a combination of 20 x 20 inches, 18 x 18 inches, and a lumbar pillow that’s 12 x 20 inches,’ says Tami O’Malley, owner and lead designer at Tami O’Malley Design.

‘If you’re working with an oversized or extra deep sofa or sectional, go for a combination of 22 x 22 inches, 20 x 20 inches, and a 14 x 20 inches lumbar pillow. This variety adds depth and visual interest, making your sofa feel more curated and inviting.’

5. Overstuff your inserts

The secret of a pillow that looks full and therefore more expensive? ‘We always like to select an overstuffed insert that’s 4 to 6 inches larger than your pillow cover size,’ says Victoria Holly of Los Angeles-based Victoria Holly Interiors.

‘For example, if your pillow cover is 20 x 20 inches, opt for a 24 x 24 inches or even 26 x 26 inches insert. This makes pillows look plush and fuller, especially if you're ordering inserts online where they can sometimes arrive less fluffy.’

6. Try the 'chop and fluff' technique

To make throw pillows look more expensive, follow the example of Tami O’Malley when getting pillows into their covers. ‘Make sure to pull the corners of the pillow into the cover snugly,’ she says. ‘Remove any tags that might show, and keep that zipper hidden for a seamless look.

‘Once you’ve got your pillow all fluffed and inserted, place it on the sofa and give the top a light karate chop. This creates a stylish indentation. Then, gently push back on the front face of the pillow for that perfect chop and fluff.’

7. Mix patterns confidently

Decorating with pattern when it comes to throw pillows demands a thoughtful approach. ‘Mix patterns of different scales,’ advises Janelle Patton, the lead designer at Lark Interiors. ‘When choosing patterns, incorporate a variety of sizes.’

But there’s more to putting together patterns on throw pillows than that. ‘Mix organic (free-form, softer) patterns with geometric patterns (stripes, plaids etc),’ says Janelle. ‘Combining different types of patterns can add depth to your space. Organic patterns, such as floral or abstract designs, can soften the look, while geometric patterns like stripes or plaids give a structured feel.’

8. Choose a tried and tested formula

For interior designer Julie Anne Burch pattern can provide a cue for a pillow color palette that has plenty of texture and interest.

‘On a sofa, start with a large solid pillow at the back, then a medium textured one, and finish with a smaller patterned pillow in front to add depth and interest,’ she suggests. ‘Begin with a favorite pattern and pull complementary colors from it to tie everything together beautifully.’

9. Pay close attention to undertones

There’s another dimension to pillow color that’s important to consider and that is the undertones. You don't want them to clash, even if you are keeping things simple and neutral.

‘When mixing patterns, pay close attention to the undertones, especially with whites and ivories,’ explains Victoria Holly. ‘A pillow with a white base will clash against one with an ivory base, so it’s essential to keep these tones consistent.’

10. Focus on fabric

To make throw pillows look better, there are some fabrics you should favor. Certain, more tactile fabrics will always make a set up look more expensive.

‘Choose materials that look and feel luxurious, like velvet, linen, silk, or faux fur,’ says Izabela Tokarski, founder and interior designer at Kabela & Co. ‘These textures tend to exude a high-end vibe. Natural fibers, like cotton-linen blends, can also add a touch of sophistication.’

11. Bring in texture and trims

Don’t overlook the details that can boost style. ‘Add texture like leather, a bouclé or a cool fringe trim,’ says Janelle Patton. ‘By using materials like leather or bouclé, or adding features such as fringe trims, you can enrich the overall aesthetic and make the space feel more dynamic and layered.’

Alex Bass, founder and CEO of art advisory and interior design studio Salon 21, agrees, ‘Pillows with trims have a luxe feel to them as another way to elevate your space.'

12. Don't ignore the small details

When you’re purchasing throw pillows, be sure of what you’re getting. There's a couple of small but significant things to look for to ensure your throw pillows look expensive.

As Victoria Holly notes, you usually want the same pattern to cover the whole pillow (unless it's a very obvious part of the design that front and back shouldn't match). She explains, ‘For a more cohesive and custom look, choose pillows with the same fabric on both sides, rather than a contrasting back. Additionally, hidden zippers at the base give a sleeker, more expensive look than buttons.’

On that note, arrange your throw pillows so you never see any zippers. This will be easier if you pick designers with the zipper running down the side of the pillow rather than along the back.

13. Give your inserts a refresh

Once you’ve selected throw pillows and arranged them, it’s important to keep them looking their best.

‘Ever notice how throw pillows become oddly shaped over time?’ asks Rebecca Ward. ‘Toss the poly insert into the dryer with a couple of tennis balls on the air-dry setting to fluff it back into shape. I always opt for down or faux-down fills to avoid this problem when possible.’

Making your throw pillows look more expensive can be the answer to making a whole living room look more expensive. And it's so simple to elevate these humble pieces of homeware. The designer tips focus on ensuring your pillows always look full and fluffy, layer up the textures and colors, and choose fabrics that are tactile.

In winter, there really is nothing more comforting than a warm home and a comfy couch to snuggle up and relax on.

But, did you know that cranking up your thermostat and placing your couch in front of the radiator could actually bring significant risk to your home? From affecting upholstery to posing serious fire hazards, it turns out that your heating could be impacting more than your home's temperature.

Here, experts reveal which home heating habit to avoid to protect your best couch, and what to do instead.

This home heating habit could be ruining your sofa

Joana Sadovskaja, sofa expert at Lovesofas, says, 'As the colder months approach, it’s inevitable that heating usage will increase. However, depending on where the sofa is placed, this winter habit could lead to damage.'

Here's how:

1. It may affect upholstery

While placing your couch directly in front of a radiator is ideal for staying warm in winter, sofa expert Sadovskaja warns that this could lead to upholstery damage.

She says, 'Prolonged exposure to heat can lead to color fading and deterioration. This exposure can make the upholstery vulnerable and prone to wear and tear.'

Excessive exposure to heat may also cause the upholstery to shrink over time, resulting in sagging couch cushions, and a worn-out appearance. Sadovskaja adds, 'Color fading can particularly affect leather sofas, hindering their appearance and leading to deterioration.'

If this has happened to yours, applying a care cream, such as the Weiman 3-1 Leather Cleaner & Conditioner available at Walmart can bring leather back to life, softening and moisturizing the leather to revive the appearance of your couch.

Importantly, the way your couch reacts to heat exposure may differ, depending on the material. While leather may crack and fade, synthetic fabrics, such as the best vegan leather couches, can melt or warp. 'Therefore, understanding how your upholstery reacts to prolonged heat is key to protecting its longevity,' explains Sadovskaja.

Another simple way to protect your couch is by adding a blanket or throw, which works to insulate the material of the sofa from the heat source. In winter, warm woolly throws create a cozy feel, while in summer, swap them out for lighter linens, for a decorative, breezy touch.

2. It may cause mold growth

As mold thrives in warm environments, positioning your couch too close to your radiator could leave you wondering how to remove mold from upholstery, or how to remove mold from leather.

Sadovskaja explains, 'Another risk to consider is condensation. In spaces with limited ventilation, positioning furniture too near a heat source can trap moisture and cause condensation behind the couch, which could result in mold growth.

'This can damage both your sofa and the surrounding walls.'

So, be sure to avoid any couch cleaning mistakes by not neglecting your sofa as part of your achievable cleaning routine. Always spot-test cleaning products, and never put off tackling stains – we recommend using the Resolve Upholstery & Multi Fabric Spot & Stain Remover available at Walmart, paired with a microfiber cloth, such as the HOMEXCEL Microfiber Cleaning Cloth available at Amazon.

If you do discover mold on your sofa, you can use vinegar to kill mold as a natural, eco-friendly alternative which shouldn't affect your couch material.

3. It may pose a fire risk

Finally, placing your couch too close to the radiator is also one of the most common fire risks in any home.

Sadovskaja warns, 'While heat exposure can damage your upholstery, it's also important to keep fire safety in mind.

'Certain fabrics or padding materials can become a fire hazard when placed too close to radiators, so ensuring a safe distance between your furniture and heat sources is about more than just preservation – it’s essential for protecting your home.'

Additionally, where a couch should go in a living room with a fireplace will depend on whether you use your fireplace, the size of your room, and whether you want your mantel to be the focal point of the space, all of which should also take fire safety into consideration.

In any case, adding a fire guard, such as the Gtongoko 3 Panel Fireplace Screen available at Amazon can help protect both your couch and home from harm.

What to do instead

As well as ruining your couch, placing yours directly in front of a radiator can also obstruct airflow, reducing the efficiency of your heating system – one of the common heating system mistakes which may also be driving up your energy bills. So, what should you do instead?

The first and most obvious place to start is simply by moving your couch away from any radiators or heat sources. However, if you are dealing with small living room ideas, this may be more complicated.

Sofa expert Sadovskaja suggests, 'If moving your sofa isn’t an option, consider using alternatives like heat shields, reflective panels, or radiator covers. These can help safeguard your furniture and improve heat distribution throughout the room, ensuring comfort and protection during the colder months.'

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

FAQs

How far should a sofa be from a radiator?

Ideally, position your couch, or couch alternatives, six to twelve inches away from any heat sources. This will protect any materials from damage, and ensure a better distribution of heat, helping to cut energy bills.

If you decide to re-arrange your living room, these are our top ten tips for arranging living room furniture.

We like to think we're pretty savvy shoppers here at H&G, but there is no one better at the job than interior designers whose mission is to curate products and pieces to make the most beautiful homes.

So, we thought it high time we spoke to some of our favorite designers to pick their brains on the pieces they've bought for their own homes or design projects that they'd buy time and time again.

Whether it’s a well-crafted sofa, an eye-catching light fixture, or a timeless rug, seasoned designers know what's up – what’s worth investing in and what brings some serious style to a room. From furniture to fixtures, here are their recommendations for items that are really worth their salt.

When shopping for your home, knowing which pieces to prioritize your budget or time to can be the key to creating a stylish home with longevity. So a few insights from interior designers should offer some invaluable guidance for anyone seeking to elevate their. Here are the pieces seven top designers swear by, and why they truly believe they're worth investing in time and time again.

1. Versatile Dining Chairs

For House of Hive co-founder and principal designer Kailee Blalock, her hero buy is a set of thrifted chairs for her dining room that allow for extra flexibility in her space.

'The one piece I’d buy again without hesitation is a set of fabulous dining chairs I found at a consignment store,' Kailee explains. 'What makes them so special is that they’re on castors, allowing me to easily wheel them into the family room for extra seating when needed.'

'When I first thrifted them, I replaced the old castors with new ones that roll on a ball, which has not only protected my floors but also enhanced the chairs’ functionality. I love the flexibility they bring to my home, and I’ve learned that investing in versatile pieces – things that work with how you actually live in your space – is something I would do over and over again.'

2. A Comfortable Couch

'I have a sage green velvet sofa (the Madeline Sofa from Kathy Kuo Home) that is not only one of the most beautiful pieces I own but also one of the most comfortable,' says renowned interior designer Kathy Kuo, who stresses the importance of choosing the right couch.

'I love how luxurious and polished it looks, but also that it's perfect for curling up with a great book,' she explains. A couch is one of the most-used pieces in the home, so it’s essential to invest in something you'll love for years to come.

'I would invest in this piece time and time again! Since your sofa is generally one of the largest and most expensive pieces you'll buy for your living room, it's worth it to make sure you love the look and feel and that you feel confident in its staying power.'

3. Natural Stone

With unique veining and rich tones, stone surfaces such as marble, travertine, and granite bring natural warmth to any space, making a one-of-a-kind statement in your home.

Designer Bethany Adams has never regretted purchasing a stone table. 'I have many a natural stone table in my home and I love them all and would never trade them and here's why. One: they look incredibly chic.'

'Two: the colors and patterns bring so much interest to a room without you having to layer on endless pillows or draperies in different fabric choices, and three, they are immovable and indestructible,' says Bethany. One of the best things about a natural stone table is its durability. '"Do I need a coaster?" No. "Mommy, watch me leap off of the coffee table!" No! (but the table will be fine),' she explains.

4. Timeless Lighting

Beloved interior designer Marie Flanigan emphasizes the importance of lighting ideas to tie a room together and anchor a space.

'Beautiful and thoughtfully considered lighting is truly the jewelry of any room, and I believe every space deserves stunning fixtures, from sconces to chandeliers and flush mounts,' Marie explains.

When carefully selected, lighting can make a room feel cozy, inviting, and well-designed. 'These elements not only provide illumination but also serve as statement pieces that elevate the entire design,' adds Marie.

5. A Really Good Rug

'Equally important are rugs underfoot,' Marie Flanigan continues. 'An essential layer that defines a room, adds texture and creates depth. A well-chosen rug anchors the space, making it feel more cohesive and inviting. Together, these elements bring a sense of refinement and warmth to your home, turning everyday rooms into thoughtfully curated spaces.'

Plus, a well-made durable rug will last for years, even in high-traffic areas.

'One of my favorite pieces in my home is a vintage Oushak rug from House of Seance that's been with me through several homes and many different rooms,' adds Molly Torres Portnof, founder of DATE Interiors. 'It's not only beautiful but durable, which is why I always source vintage rugs for clients.'

6. Quality Bathroom Fixtures

Designer Linda Hayslett, founder of LH.Designs favors focusing her attention on bathroom fixtures and hardware to enhance both the aesthetic and longevity of a space. With daily use, these pieces can endure significant wear, making durability and quality essential when sourcing.

'Kohler's fixtures, like the Purist Sink Faucet, offer a beautiful combination of precision, craftsmanship, and innovative design. The sleek lines and minimalist aesthetic fit effortlessly into a variety of styles, whether modern or classic,' she explains. 'I often recommend Kohler to clients for their balance of form and performance – once you've used their products, it’s clear why they’re a standout choice for any space.'

'Additionally, Kohler’s bathroom sinks have a way of transforming the entire bathroom vanity area with their clean lines and classic design,' she adds. 'The craftsmanship is exceptional, and the materials are built to last. They're products I return to because they add both beauty and comfort to a space.'

7. Boiling Hot Water Tap

'On a practical level, I could not live without my Quooker boiling water tap in my kitchen,' says Jane Lanindo, creative & design head of studio at Taylor Howes.

Whether you’re brewing tea or filling up a pot for the stove, a boiling hot water tap streamlines daily tasks and frees up counter space, reducing clutter and enhancing the overall look of the kitchen. It’s a small change with a big impact on efficiency.

'I recommend them to all my clients and would never go back to a kettle,' Taylor continues. 'Art and accessories are, I think, key to making my home a home - so definitely, the finishing touches are absolutely the items that I would buy time and time again. They are also the quickest way to update and change a room's look and feel, so I often swap things in and out and update them according to season.'

As you consider purchases for your own home, be sure to take inspiration from these must-haves that designers return to time and again. With quality materials and craftsmanship, certain pieces stand the test of time, evolving beautifully with you and your space. So it's worth putting some extra thought in so you'll be as happy as these interior design experts for years to come.

A sofa can be a centerpiece of a living space, and as such, color selection is crucial to determining ambiance. We are partial to a soft neutral – it serves as a blank slate for the rest of a room.

Olivia Munn's living area is a great example of how a cream sofa can be a soothing and stable fixture. The actor recently shared a photo of her plush, cream couch to her Instagram page, and it made us consider some neutral living room ideas.

While Munn has opted for minimal accessories (just a fuzzy, cream throw blanket), we got insight from an expert on how to style around a cream sofa, as well as the design trends that cream sofas fit into.

When it comes to the appeal of a cream sofa, experts say that these pieces are worthy investments thanks to their chameleonic tendencies, whether you opt for minimalism or maximalism.

'Cream sofas are a timeless, chic addition to the home,' says Monika Puccio, Head of Buying at Sofa Club. The neutral shade works well in all rooms of the home and its versatility allows it to sit against a variety of interior trends and colours.'

She continues, 'Due to the versatility of cream sofas, they sit perfectly within most design trends incorporated into the home. A cream couch is a great addition to a minimal or Scandinavian-style home, paired with other neutral shades to bring a subtle yet stylish look to the room. To fit with a more maximalist-designed home, the cream can work as the perfect base for bright pops of colour. Using lighting, accessories and other furniture in more statement colours can allow you to swap out trends more easily around a natural sofa base.'

Puccio says that there are endless color combinations, but there are a select few she recommends.

'Cream pairs perfectly with a wide range of shades, one of my favorite options would be a selection of natural shades such as mossy greens, light wood browns and greyish stone,' she suggests. 'These create a calm and warming environment and work well in living rooms, kitchens and bedrooms, wherever you prefer your sofa to sit. Adding statement citrus shades such as orange, yellow and pale limes against a cream sofa creates a subtle yet bold look in a more understated way.'

To maintain visual interest, Puccio says that decorating with plants in a living space is a fantastic way to enliven the room and ensure that there is some textural diversity.

'Cream sofas are versatile and can fit into various design styles allowing you to easily add character to your room,' she says. A neutral cream sofa is a great background for experimentation with your home style choices. A simple styling tip when working with a cream couch is to add greenery to the space with plants. Not only do these add to the look of the room they can also add a feeling of freshness and light within the room.

Alternatively, she says that floor and ceiling fixtures can also act as points of interest. 'Experimenting with lighting, rugs and furniture in a wide range of materials can be the perfect way to add visual comfort and interest to your living space. Think of a cream sofa as your base foundation, and build from there with different textures.'

One aspect to be mindful of with a cream sofa is that stains will be more visible than they would on a darker couch. Make sure to regularly spot clean a sofa so that it always looks good as new.

The sofa is easily the most important element of a living room. It's where you spend your time reading, cuddled up with your family watching movies, and napping on the weekends. Furthermore, it's the spot where your eyes are drawn when you walk into the room. Thus, sofa color is key to anchoring your space. Julia Louis-Dreyfus's burnt orange couch is the perfect example.

The Seinfeld actress shared an Instagram reel perched on her vibrant living room sofa. One glimpse and we're obsessed with how the warming, bright shade interacts with her neutral, textural rug. A green olive tree adds dimension in the background, and simple black and white lamps add a sense of modernity. The sofa is outfitted with a cozy collection of decorative pillows and a fur throw.

Experts swear by Julia Louis-Dreyfuss's living room sofa color trend. 'A burnt orange sofa adds warmth and character to a living room, serving as an inviting focal point,' says Elissa Hall, Portland-based interior designer. She continues, 'This shade, with its rich, earthy undertones, brings a sense of comfort and coziness that is perfect for spaces that aim to feel welcoming without being overwhelming. It can evoke feelings of autumnal warmth year-round, creating a natural link between indoor and outdoor environments. Moreover, the hue has a versatility that makes it easy to adapt to different styles—whether you’re leaning toward a mid-century modern look or something more contemporary.'

Furthermore, a burnt orange sofa is the perfect pairing with a textural living room rug. Hall states: 'The combination of a burnt orange sofa with a textured neutral rug works beautifully because it strikes a balance between contrast and cohesion. The neutral tones of the rug—whether it's a creamy wool, jute, or woven blend—act as a grounding element, allowing the sofa's vibrant color to take center stage without overwhelming the space. Textures add depth, preventing the room from feeling flat, and create a layered aesthetic that feels both luxurious and relaxed. It’s this play between the bold and the understated that creates a visually rich environment that remains approachable.'

Shop The Orange Edit

If you want to style the look in your own home, the key is an emphasis on cohesion. Hall says: 'Styling the burnt orange sofa trend is all about embracing its presence while adding complementary elements that tie the room together. Consider pairing it with cushions in shades of ochre, deep brown, or even blush to maintain a warm palette without competing with the sofa's vibrant tone. Adding metallic accents, like a brass floor lamp or a coffee table with subtle gold details, can elevate the space while bringing in a touch of refinement. For artwork, think abstract pieces with hints of terracotta or earth tones—these will help to create a cohesive flow between the sofa and the rest of the room. Ultimately, the key is to let the sofa lead the design while introducing elements that echo its warmth and energy.'

Burnt orange is one of the hottest colors of the season, and it's especially striking in Julia Louis-Dreyfus's home.

As the cooler seasons draw in, plans to socialize will likely revolve around the indoors, but that doesn't mean we can't still learn from exterior spaces – especially when they're as stylish as Ashley Graham's.

The model collaborated with Mikel Welch (also known as the in-house design expert on The Drew Barrymore Show) to create the backyard at her family home in New Jersey, and her outdoor living room is the crowning jewel of the space. The furniture choices, led by the statement L-shaped sofa, suggest that Graham designed it with socializing in mind. Its shape offers ample room for guests who can easily face one another while having a conversation, while the coffee table zones the social space, giving it a 'cozy corner' feeling – despite being outside.

The sociable benefits of an L-shaped sofa are certainly not limited to exterior spaces, meaning her style is similarly replicable inside the home. However, despite fall's inevitable chill, design experts say we don't necessarily need to retreat back to our interiors. With cleverly shaped seating, blankets, and (if possible) a firepit, we can keep the conversation going long into the winter, as experts explain.

'When it comes to outdoor living spaces, I think it’s all about creating a layout that brings people together,' comments Rachael Collins, Interior Designer at EZ Living Furniture.

'Try arranging your outdoor sofa and armchairs in a U-shape or semi-circle around a central focal point – whether that’s a fire pit, coffee table, or even an outdoor heater. This kind of arrangement is great for chatting and means no one has to crane their neck to be part of the conversation. The cozy corner setup is great for laid-back conversations, and the built-in fire pit is perfect for cooler evenings (and, of course, roasting marshmallows on crisp autumn evenings,' Collins adds.

However, when designing for the outdoors, we need to consider even more than a sociable layout. The materials we use are equally as important, especially if we expect them to withstand winter's elements. Graham has opted for wooden pieces, which compete with wicker accents that look consistently fashionable, both indoors and outdoors.

'Choosing outdoor furniture that requires minimal maintenance is crucial. Focus on furniture with proven durability that can withstand any wind and weather. Then, add warmth with soft furnishings, like weatherproof cushions, poufs, and rugs,' says Karl Lindqvist from Grythyttan, the Swedish outdoor specialists.

Plus, Lindqvist reminds us not to underestimate the power of a coffee table. Graham has styled hers with a wicker basket (in sync with her chairs) and a drink. However, he also recommends experimenting with decorative items, just as we would do indoors.

'To enhance the comfort and style of your outdoor space, consider incorporating a variety of seating options, such as armchairs, outdoor sofas, or even a bench. Add a coffee table or footstool for practicality, providing a surface for drinks, books, or decorative items,' Lindqvist says.

'For a more dynamic look, mix and match furniture styles or finishes while keeping the color palette cohesive. Modular pieces can offer versatility, allowing you to reconfigure the layout to suit different occasions. Finally, include a weather-resistant outdoor storage box to keep extra cushions, blankets, or accessories protected and organized when not in use.'

With all that said, it will come as no surprise that we'd say there's never a bad time to invest in new outdoor furniture. You can shop our Graham-inspired picks below.

Red, arguably the most debated color of all, has recently had its time in the spotlight. Thanks to TikTok's Unexpected Red Theory (suggesting that red accents can elevate a room, even if they appear out of place), the much-debated hue has enjoyed a revival, especially in the form of accent pieces – an example of which is Zoey Deutch's sofa, which she coincidently perfected before social media penned the trend.

The idea that red accents have a place in any style of home, even those that might have otherwise felt misplaced, is epitomized in the actress's rustic living room. In this space, the exposed stone architectural features take center stage – most notably through the statement fireplace but also through the mantelpiece and raw stone wall. The abundance of organic materials room a neutral room feel raw but timeless – and is, most likely, one of the last spaces we would initially imagine a red sofa. Despite this, Deutch's red fabric sofa works perfectly.

As Taylor Simon, the designer behind the Unexpected Red Theory, explains, adding one red piece (whether it's a sofa like Deutch's or something as simple as a scarlet-painted window trim) will instantly make a room look better. We're letting the actress's space reassure us it's true.

Naturally, decorating with red, especially via a sofa color, is not for the faint of heart. However, there are subtle ways to introduce the theory into our homes, one of which is through artwork, as Deutch also demonstrates. Alongside her sofa, she has framed a red painting that sits on the mantelpiece and complements her furniture choices perfectly. In rooms with a smoother wall, Helen Shaw, the UK Director at Benjamin Moore, recommends opting for red paint, a choice that's surprisingly beneficial for smaller living spaces.

'Incorporating a rich, bold paint color such as red is a fool-proof way to create an instant character, taking a small space from sterile to stylish,' Shaw begins.

'Some fear that adding a deep or bright color to a small space will make it appear claustrophobic, opting instead for light neutrals to keep the space open. However, dark colors cleverly absorb the light of a space, making the division between walls appear blurred. This 'blurred edges' effect adds depth and dimension to a room, making the space appear larger, rather than more cramped as some may fear.'

Plus, Shaw is not exclusive in her support for this hue. As an alternative to Deutch's neutral backdrop and red sofa, Jeffry Weisman, the founder of Fisher Weisman, recommends starting with a red paint base, allowing other furnishings to stand out against the daring base.

'Venetian Red is our current obsession because of the drama and warmth it gives a space. The glow of the color draws you in, and it is happy. As a background, so many colors and materials stand out against it,' he says. Previously, he used Umbria Red by Benjamin Moore in a dining room, and the results were beautiful. 'It’s classic and modern,' he says.

Alternatively, we can tap into the theory with these Deutch-inspired buys (including an almost-perfect sofa match) below.

Living room layout is about more than aesthetics; it's also about how you live in your home. The right seating arrangement can ensure you want to spend time in the space with your family, friends, and loved ones. If socialization is the goal, then Ashley Tisdale's home is a masterclass.

The actress's living room was designed with the indelible mark of her design firm, Frenshe Interiors. It's a calming, neutral space full of warmth and texture. On the left side of the room, she has arranged two armchairs facing a marble coffee table across from a plush, boucle sofa. Just looking at it, it's easy to imagine sitting around the table with loved ones. But Tisdale didn't stop there. On the right side of the room, there is a second vignette featuring two more chairs around a small table. It's perfect for a party where many people would be milling around.

'The designer's got this space down to a science – think of it as a social butterfly's dream come true!' exclaims interior designer Magda Callery of Tisdale's living room layout. She continues, 'The chairs and sofas are arranged so you're pretty much forced to make eye contact and talk to people (imagine that!). The strategic placement around the table creates these cozy little conversation hubs where no one can hide behind a phone screen. It's all about that face-to-face interaction, and the mix of seating styles makes it feel like a casual, "come as you are" party—just grab a seat and dive into the convo!'

Further, the look is slated to become a huge interior design trend in 2025. Why? Callery tells Homes & Gardens: 'Because let's face it, we've all had enough of sitting in straight lines staring at screens. People want to talk again, and conversational seating is like the comeback tour of socializing. It's all about creating spaces where you're more likely to swap stories than scrolling Instagram. Plus, this trend is perfect for those who love to host—setting up spaces like this ensures your guests will interact with each other rather than zoning out in front of the TV.'

Elissa Hall, Portland, Oregon-based interior designer, adds: 'The conversational living room seating trend is part of a broader shift towards intentionality in design. In the past few years, people have moved away from overly formal, rigid spaces and embraced environments that prioritize human connection. It’s a reflection of our collective desire for spaces that are not only visually pleasing but also foster deeper, more meaningful interactions. This layout style makes it easier for people to engage with each other rather than being distracted by screens or isolated by traditional room divisions. It’s less about perfection and more about flow—allowing spaces to serve as extensions of our desire to connect.'

If you want to recreate Tisdale's living room furniture design in your own space, her method is easy to follow. Callery advises, 'Start by ditching the traditional "sofa facing the TV" setup—it's time to get creative! Mix and match different seating options (think armchairs, loveseats, and maybe even a funky pouf or two) around a central table. Don't be afraid to play with textures—toss in some cosy throws and pillows to make it inviting. The goal is to make your space feel like it's saying, "Come sit here and tell me your life story!" And remember, nothing has to be matchy-matchy. The more eclectic, the better—it's about fostering conversation, not a museum display!'

Shop the Edit

Hall adds: 'To recreate this conversational layout at home, I would suggest starting with a focal point like a coffee table or a central rug that can anchor the seating arrangement. Opt for pieces that are comfortable yet versatile—like a mix of chairs and living room sofas that are easy to move around. The key is to create balance without strict symmetry, allowing for a dynamic flow between seating areas. Make sure that the furniture faces inward, promoting openness and inclusivity in the space. For smaller homes, try using smaller accent tables or ottomans that can double as seating when needed, ensuring that the room remains flexible but connected.'

The best homes facilitate connection. Ashley Tisdale's living room layout does just that, and it doesn't hurt that it's gorgeous.

With its ability to appear effortlessly cool yet always luxurious, it's no surprise that the classic New York design aesthetic is among the most revered. Designers far beyond the East Coast often draw from this city's quirkiness in their work, but it would seem that celebs are similarly not immune to its charm.

Kelly Clarkson is the latest figure to assocaite herself with NYC's quintessential allure via her new Wayfair collection that's 'inspired by her move to the city'. We've already penned a love letter to her conversational sofa (that's a standout piece from the collection in question), but we haven't delved into what exactly makes the range so New York-centric – until now.

'Capturing that classic ‘New York’ style living space is all about blending industrial chic with sophisticated comfort,' comments Joyce Huston, the lead interior designer and co-founder at Decorilla. 'In my experience, I’ve found that the key is to start with an open floor plan and embrace features like exposed brick walls or ductwork, real or faux.'

Naturally, we can't all live in a NYC loft (and, sometimes, recreating these architectural features is not so simple. This is where furniture like Clarkson's takes center stage.

'When it comes to furniture, I like to find pieces that are both sleek and multifunctional. A leather sofa [like this one from Kelly's Wayfair collection] and a glass coffee table [again, such as this one] are perfect to balance comfort with urban cool. I like to stick to a neutral color palette and complement it with statement lighting or bold artwork to add personality,' Huston says.

There's no better time to invest in these stand-out pieces, as they're enjoying reductions for Way Day now.

As Huston explains, the right furniture is key to achieving classic New York style beyond the Empire State. However, accessories are equally as crucial.

'Think of vintage New York maps, subway-themed decor, or even large-scale photography of city scenes. To complement the industrial aesthetic, I like to soften the space with area rugs and plants to create a livable urban space. The goal here is to create a space that reflects a sophisticated city lifestyle. It’s about striking the right balance between raw and refined, old and new.'

We love these three pieces, especially the beautiful mirror that has a place in even the smallest of living rooms (something that's likely welcome news in NY abodes).

Our couches embrace a lot of usage throughout their life. From cozy movie nights with all the family and being the pet's favorite sleep spot, to acting as a playground for younger family members, these workhorses are often taken for granted. So, how often should you clean a couch?

While we might think that quickly vacuuming up loose crumbs every once in a while is enough, they often need much more detailed attention to keep them looking and smelling their best.

Professional cleaners have already guided us through how to clean a couch, here, the pros reveal how often you should clean a couch to ensure your favorite seat space lasts for many more years to come – it may be more often than you think.

How often you should clean a couch?

Generally speaking, it is a good idea to run some light cleaning maintenance on your couch monthly, and deep clean your couch every six to 12 months, depending on if you have pets or children. For busier households with paws and sticky fingers, erring on more frequently than not is your best bet, particularly if you're keen to avoid any embarrassing things pro cleaners always notice about dirty couches.

When exploring how to clean upholstery, the process might sound like a mammoth task, but it is often quick and easy – especially if you do it often enough to avoid deep-set stains and odors. Sticking to a weekly, monthly, and deep cleaning schedule for your couch is the best way to stay on top of the biggest messes.

Weekly couch cleaning

Vacuuming furniture without damaging upholstery is one household chore you should be doing weekly, begins Tony Hoang, couch designer and owner of What a Room.

He suggests you should, ‘Vacuum your sofa at least twice a week. Once isn’t enough to prevent dust and allergens from settling deep into the fabric. Use a vacuum attachment with a soft brush to avoid damaging delicate upholstery. Don’t forget the crevices where crumbs and dirt accumulate, especially between cushions.'

‘Sofas can trap up to 80% of dust mites and bacteria in your home, so regular cleaning isn’t just about appearance,’ he continues. ‘It’s a health measure that impacts air quality, reduces allergens, and extends the life of your sofa by preventing fabric degradation caused by dirt particles. Skipping regular cleanings can lead to permanent discoloration and worn-down fabric that will require costly professional restoration or early replacement.’

There are plenty of ways to clean a sofa without a vacuum if you are left in a pinch, but there is nothing quite like the suction of the best vacuum cleaners to really draw out the dust and crumbs that become embedded over time.

Monthly couch cleaning

Regularly vacuuming a sofa is one of the best ways to stay on top of the mess, but it is not enough to tackle stains or remove odors from upholstery.

To do that, you need to clean them more rigorously at least once a month, says Marla Mock, cleaning expert and president at Molly Maid USA. ‘If you have couch cushion covers that can be zipped off, we recommend throwing those in the wash every month. It will keep your couch looking new and smelling fresh, and you’ll have a much more sanitary surface to lay your head on each time you settle down to watch a movie.’

If your couch covers are not machine washable, you can clean with baking soda instead. Start by mixing baking soda, such as Arm & Hammer Baking Soda, from Walmart, with a small amount of water to form a paste. This can then be rubbed into stains and left to dry to help brighten areas and remove residue. To remove odors, you can sprinkle your sofa with a fine, even layer of baking soda and leave it to sit for at least 30 minutes and up to overnight. Finish by brushing most of the baking soda away before vacuuming up the remaining debris.

Bi-annual deep cleaning

Monthly cleaning is usually more than enough to stay on top of the majority of messes and odors, but it can be beneficial to add a deep clean to your spring cleaning checklist or fall cleaning checklist. This is a good time to check your couch for wear and tear and steam clean a couch.

Tony Hoang, couch designer, says, ‘Deep cleaning should be done every six months, but a good rule of thumb is to schedule a deep clean seasonally. Rotate your cushions to distribute wear and tear evenly, and always test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first. For leather sofas, condition them twice a year to prevent cracking, but in high-humidity areas, you might need to clean them more often to prevent mold growth.’ We explore how to clean a leather sofa in our dedicated guide.

Robin Wilson, founder of Clean Design Home adds that this is also a good time to consider, ‘Drycleaning or washing the cushion covers that are unzippable.’ She also suggests that you, ‘Limit the use of spray cleaners that "limit odors" as they may have toxic chemicals. If needed, rent a steam cleaner and clean all upholstered surfaces.

‘Review the foam in the cushions to ensure the firmness. It may be time to replace the foam due to the tendency to hold onto odors. Buy foam replacements in the same size as your cushions or trim the larger size.'

Before diving headfirst into cleaning your couch, be sure to check the care label and brush up on the cleaning methods you should never use on a fabric couch to prevent lasting damage. If you are ever not sure about a cleaning tip, try it out on inconspicuous areas, such as the back or underside of the couch first so if it is damaging, it is not noticeable.

When boucle started trending in the mid-20s, I was obsessed with the look. I loved its wooly texture, its loopy appearance, and the curved furniture it upholstered. Almost ten years later, I've seen thousands of boucle chairs, sofas, and ottomans, and I'll admit, I started to grow a bit bored. That is until I saw Jane Fonda's take on the style.

The actress debuted her boucle living room sofa in a recent Instagram post, singing the praises of another controversial design trend, Sneex. She is sprawled across a rectangular, cream-colored boucle sofa with a gray decorative pillow behind her. A rounded wooden coffee table and circular wooden side table introduce a contrasting shape and rustic material. Behind the sofa, her blue-gray walls echo the green-gray accents in her geometric rug.

After analyzing the picture, I discovered the primary way Fonda refreshes the living room furniture trend is by pairing it with natural wood. Kanika Khurana, principal designer at San-Francisco-Bay-based Kanika Design, explains: 'For me, the magic of a boucle sofa paired with natural wood lies in the balance of textures. Boucle, with its soft, looped fabric, introduces a tactile warmth that feels luxurious yet approachable.'

We've also revisited Jane Fonda's living room a year later, and while her bouclé couch is still timeless, it's the blue walls that we are loving in 2025.

This pairing goes a long way in making the trendy material appear timeless. She continues, 'When combined with natural wood, which brings in an earthy, organic element, the result is a space that feels both cozy and sophisticated. This combination resonates with various design styles such as mid-century modern decor, Scandinavian, or even bohemian—making it a versatile choice that can evolve with changing trends without losing its charm.'

Fonda's deep blue walls also stand out to me. This living room color contrasts the cream of the sofa, making it look more modern and interesting. To recreate the look, Khurana recommends: ' To elevate a cream boucle sofa, I love the idea of bold, colorful walls. A deep burgundy or a rich mustard yellow can create a stunning backdrop that makes the sofa pop. These colors not only add vibrancy but also set an inviting tone for the space.'

She adds: 'If you're hesitant about going too bold, consider using a jewel tone. Think sapphire or emerald that can bring a sense of sophistication while allowing the boucle’s texture to shine. Adding art pieces or decorative mirrors can further enhance the visual interest and reflect the colors beautifully.' These pairings elevate the fabric trend for a fresh, original feel.

Shop the Look

If you're wondering 'what's replacing boucle?' the answer is boucle with more accessories. To create your own fresh spin on the look, Khurana advises: 'When it comes to styling your boucle sofa, start by considering the layers. I recommend incorporating a mix of pillows in various shapes and fabrics, such as silk, wool, or even a bit of leather for contrast. This layering not only adds depth but also invites comfort.'

The other furniture is just as important to remaking the style timeless. 'Next, think about your coffee table,' says Khurana. 'Choose one with clean lines and perhaps a natural wood finish to echo the sofa’s elegance. You can add a soft, textured table runner or a stack of art books to introduce personality. For additional charm, consider using an oversized throw blanket draped casually over the arm of the sofa. This adds both comfort and style, making the space feel lived-in.

She concludes: 'Lastly, don’t forget about lighting. A sculptural floor lamp or a pair of modern table lamps can highlight the sofa while providing ambient light that enhances the overall atmosphere.'

With the proper styling, boucle will always be a calming, timeless look.

Our list of the best air fryers is dominated by household names like Ninja, Philips, and Instant. Dreo is a relative newcomer. You might recognize the name from the best fans and air purifiers. Now, they've made a bold step into the kitchen with their new spin on the air fryer, and in my opinion, they've propelled themselves straight to the top with one of the best air fryers I have tested in a while.

The Dreo ChefMaker stands out in a crowded field, thanks to its clever algorithm. Once you choose a 'Chef Mode' recipe preset, the algorithm gets to work by combining celebrity chef techniques, food scientist-level precision and high-tech cooking elements to create delicious results. The best part? You don't have to lift a finger – you can send the cooking instructions from your phone and receive notifications via the app.

I was impressed from the start, but to make it into our list of best air fryers, there were more hoops to jump through. I made sure to ask all my usual questions: is it easy to use? Is it well-designed? Is it a nightmare to clean? You'll find all the answers below, but for now I'll just say this: if you’re skeptical about smart cooking technology, I defy you to give the Dreo Chef Maker a go.

Dreo ChefMaker Air Fryer: First impressions

The first thing I noticed about the Dreo ChefMaker was the sleek, premium design. It has a small footprint; slender enough to fit neatly under your kitchen cabinets.

The exterior is almost like a mirror – shiny and luxurious – with a transparent glass basket. I think it would suit modern, sleek countertops, but it's also compact enough to store away in a cupboard if you're maintaining that minimalist look.

Cooking performance

To test the best air fryers on the market, I focus on exceptional cooking performance. I rigorously test each model by air-frying frozen French fries, proteins, and roasted vegetables, before testing out all the special features, too.

Test 1: French Fries

There wasn't a clever, algorithm-based recipe preset for French fries on Chef Mode. Perhaps they're not considered 'cheffy' enough? Instead, I used the Classic Mode, selecting the Air Fry option to cook my fries at 190°C for 10 minutes.

As soon as I pressed the button, the fryer got to work, sizzling away without the need for preheating. In just 10 minutes, I had perfectly crispy, golden fries, and no shaking or flipping required.

I loved the viewing window on the basket and the interior light (which can be switched on and off to save energy). This cleverly allowed me to peek at the cooking progress and prevent overcooking. The fries turned out nicely golden, crispy and fluffy. I'll admit, they didn't quite top the restaurant-quality fries I made using the Ninja Double Stack – but I don't think I'll ever get over those.

Test 3: Roasted vegetables

There are tonnes of recipes for vegetables on Chef Mode, so I selected the asparagus preset. They roasted for 10 minutes (I switched on the light to see them sizzle) and they came out crisp, golden and perfectly tender.

Test 3: Steak

The Dreo Chef Maker is much more than a basic air fryer: it's renowned for cooking steak, which is where the Chef Mode really comes into its own.

Dreo automatically divides the cooking process into four perfectly timed stages. It begins by setting the optimum temperature for your ingredient, then introducing a fine mist for the juiciest textures. After a quick pre-sear, it releases a final burst of rapid heat for that golden brown finish.

I picked up a flank steak from my local butcher, cut it in half, and placed one portion in the Chef Maker. After seasoning the meat, filling the water tank and inserting the temperature probe, I sent over the cooking instructions from the app on my phone. I was shocked to see the estimated cooking time was a whopping 55 minutes – the longest time I've ever seen on a fryer – but at least I had time to relax and watch an episode of my show back on the sofa.

I cooked the other steak half in a frying pan, searing for 2-3 minutes on either side. When it came to the taste test, the results were surprising. The Dreo Chef Maker produced a perfectly caramelized, medium-rare steak. Both juicy and golden, thanks to the steam and sear combination.

I was amazed by how delicious it tasted. Although the pan-fried version took a fraction of the time, the Chef Maker’s steak was definitely more tender, richly-flavored, and worth the wait.

My partner and I agreed we wouldn't use this function all the time – it deprives you of the theatre and excitement of searing steak in the pan. However, the results were effortless, reliable, and if you're not confident in the kitchen, it's a total game-changer. Next, I want to try the lobster tail and salmon fillet functions (I've read rave reviews online).

Test 4: Toast

I wasn't a huge fan of the toast function. I used a slice of wholegrain sourdough (something I toast almost daily for my lunch) and after a slow five minutes, it came out rather pale and dry. If toast is really important to you, check out the KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry instead.

Test 5: Bake

I had a quick 20-minute lunch break – and since speed is really the aim of the game in air frying, I decided to put the Dreo to the test here.

I chose the bake function to make a rather sloppy but adorable, mini pizza pie. It took me 2 minutes to shape my pre-made dough and add toppings. The Dreo chef baked it to perfection in 8 minutes - no waiting for preheating. Lunch was delicious and complete in 10 minutes. My only criticism was that it could have been slightly crisper on the bottom.

Ease of use

The 4.3-inch display panel is sleek and user-friendly, with colorful ingredient illustrations that make the experience a joy (though I did smile at a small typo, 'sweek potatoes').

The screen provides helpful advice, reminding you to 'season your meat' or 'add oil' where needed. If you're ever in doubt, the Dreo app is packed with helpful recipe videos – no need to rifle through instruction booklets.

The app also lets you control the fryer remotely. You can prep the ingredients in the kitchen, put them into the basket, then send the cooking instructions and start command from my phone while lounging on the sofa. This level of convenience is a dream for anyone who values multitasking or simply wants to unwind while dinner cooks itself.

I was so impressed by the recipe presets. I’ve found that with other air fryers I've tested, I need to monitor the process and stop them short to prevent overcooking. Nearly everything I preset I tried on Chef Mode cooked exactly as promised.

It was easy to tip my fries and vegetables out the basket - the handle was comfortable and grippable. However, I did need to use a pair of silicone tongs to remove the scorching hot temperature probe and meat fillet. Thankfully, tongs are already in my collection of air fryer accessories I couldn't live without.

Capacity

With its 6-quart square basket, the Chef Maker is large enough to prepare family-sized portions of fries and veggies. For protein, it can accommodate four chicken thighs, four salmon fillets, two steaks, or one large joint of meat.

You can't prepare an entire meal in the 6-quart basket. If you're looking for this kind of capacity, I recommend choosing a dual-basket air fryer instead, which can cook your fries, veggies and proteins all at once.

Ease of Cleaning

If you're wondering how to clean the Dreo ChefMaker, the removable parts are dishwasher-safe and easy to hand-wash. You can't submerge the cooking probe in water, so you just need to give that a wipe with a damp cloth.

The shiny exterior and glass window attract fingerprints and dust. I'd recommend keeping a microfibre cloth nearby to keep it looking smart.

Design & Durability

The air fryer feels sturdy and reliable (the materials are certainly not cheap) and from what I’ve seen in user reviews, Dreo’s customer service is top-notch.

One reviewer shared a story about an issue with their temperature probe, which was swiftly resolved with a replacement unit. Such responsive and supportive service is a reassuring bonus for anyone considering an investment in this appliance.

Customer reviews

Customer reviews for the Dreo ChefMaker are generally very positive, with an impressive 4.5-star rating on Amazon. Customers rave about its ability to make anyone a gourmet cook. Most reviews mention the steak settings – it's a hit with meat-eaters and grill-fanatics.

How does it compare?

Dreo's combi fryer is definitely at the top of the range. It's the smartest air fryer I've ever tested and it's certainly one of the best-looking, too.

We also rate the Cosori Dual Blaze Air Fryer for its smart features and app connection, but its cooking performance is much slower and louder than the Dreo ChefMaker.

In terms of design, the Dreo is super sleek and the viewing window is a massive bonus. However, Dreo is not unique in this design feature. The Instant Vortex Plus (our favorite air fryer of all time) also benefits from a helpful 'ClearCook' window. In fact, if you don't need any fancy features and you're just looking for a basic air fryer for French fries and nuggets, you'd be better off with the Instant model - it's much more affordable.

Our Verdict

If you love eating delicious, perfectly-cooked meat and seafood, but you're not super confident in the kitchen, the Dreo Chef Maker's smart tech is worth every penny.

I quite often see it discounted in seasonal air fryer sales. I keep track of the prices here, in our guide to the best air fryer deals and you can view the best deals of the day below.

If you're specifically looking for a basic air fryer or a toaster/air fryer combination, I'd skip this one. The toast isn't as delicious as the lobster tail.

How we test the best air fryers

To test the best air fryers on the market, I focus on exceptional cooking performance. As a trained cook and kitchen appliances editor, I rigorously test each model by air-frying frozen French fries, chicken wings, and roasted vegetables. During our taste tests, we seek food that’s perfectly crispy on the outside and tender within. Our team has already tested the market leaders, so we know the industry benchmarks.

Ease of use is the best part of air frying, so my tests also evaluate the intuitiveness of the controls, basket design, instruction booklet and the accuracy of recipe presets. I also make sure to explore any special features, like grilling and dehydrating, to assess the versatility. While I'm cooking, I make notes on capacity – essential knowledge if you're looking for a family-sized air fryer.

Cleaning up can be a hassle, so I check if the removable parts are easy to wash, whether by hand or in the dishwasher. I also examine for non-toxic materials and durability. After testing, I scour the web for the best and worst customer reviews to assess the air fryer's reliability and overall customer satisfaction.

Finally, when you're making a kitchen investment, price really matters, so we weighed up the grill's features and performance to see if it offers good value for money. Ultimately, our goal is to ensure you choose an air fryer that looks stylish in your kitchen, as well as being reliable, efficient, and a joy to use.

Gathering with loved ones is what turns a house into a home, and good interior design facilitates these connections. Seating, therefore, is a huge part of elevating your home. Good seating layouts can encourage conversation and make it more likely that you will spend time in communal areas with friends and family. Kelly Clarkson's living room is the perfect example of how to do it right.

The singer's living room seating idea incorporates an age-old technique that allows five or more people to easily converse: a sofa facing two armchairs across a coffee table. Her space features a cream boucle sofa and two green chenille barrel armchairs perched opposite one another. On the right side of the sofa, a striped pouf acts as a side table that can dually function as another seat if more guests are over.

The majority of the furniture in the living room is from Clarkson's latest Kelly Clarkson Home collection at Wayfair, inspired by her recent move to New York City. This elevated collaboration features perfect for balancing the warmth of home with the chicness of the city. The pieces feature clean lines, sumptuous textures, and a mix of metals for an inviting and subtly luxurious effect.

Despite the city-inspired provenance of the collection, the living room layout feels like an escape from the city rather than a continuation of it. Clarkson tells Homes & Gardens, exclusively: 'I’m very into nature, and you’ll notice that with the things I’ve curated for the line. New York can feel like a concrete jungle, so I like to bring life into my home.'

Shop Clarkson's NYC Collection at Wayfair

An abundance of texture is principal to this feeling of warmth in the cozy living room that makes you want to sit down and have a conversation. In addition to the boucle of the sofa and the chenille of the barrel chairs, Clarkson has integrated an abundance of decorative cushions. A white shearling throw draped casually across the back of one of the chairs brings an inviting energy into the space. These pieces not only bring visual interest but make it more comfortable to spend time in the living room.

Finally, though seating is essential, a chic coffee table is also central to creating a similar scheme to Clarkson's. As shown in the photograph, the table allows visitors to sip drinks or eat snacks without having to hold them in their laps. In addition to the conversational element, this also helps to keep your living room cleaner over time.

Though the method sounds simple, far too many living rooms are centered on a television, with viewing, rather than conversing as their central aim. To overcome this living room layout mistake while still including a television in the room, you can try positioning the television in front of the large sofa with lots of decorative cushions. When it comes time for a family watch party, it's easy for everyone to squeeze onto the sofa, and throw cushions become easy floor seating for children.

No matter the layout of your living room, the goal should be, well, living. By carefully considering your needs and the needs of your family, you can plan a layout that facilitates your requirements. Kelly Clarkson's living room is a great jumping off point.

Dark wood is a classic feature of both American and British homes. It provides a feeling of history, luxury, and tradition. The classic look gets a new lease on life in Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne's home. They have paired it with textural furnishings for a cozy and inviting feel.

In the Osbournes' living room idea, dark wood defines the room's perimeter, stretching across all four walls. A recent Instagram post reveals the inviting space, with the family cuddling on the gray velvet couch. Leather armchairs and dark wood floors add to the space's traditional feel. A punky light fixture and red and white striped coffee table bring a bit of an edge. The built-in shelves in the wood walls are filled with books and decorative objects, adding to the lived-in, familiar ambiance of the space.

Jennifer Ebert, design expert and digital editor at Homes & Gardens states: 'The Osbourne's home is a perfect example of how to introduce natural materials into your home in a timeless way. Though biophilic design has been trending for some time now, I think people worry that lighter tones or unfinished wood of a modern farmhouse look might be more of a fad, but there are hundreds of ways to integrate wood.'

The color drenching of dark wood on both the walls and floors is an especially striking feature of this room. As darker brown and chocolate tones become more popular, this look is a great way to emulate the interior design trend in a manner that will last. 'When it comes to hardwood flooring, many people play it safe and choose traditional ‘light oak’ shades, but I say go bold with your flooring choice! From walnut to tobacco, darker shades of wood can really add warmth and unique character to a room in the same way that darker paint shades do,' says Carly Greening, Creative Product Manager at The Floor Room.

The texture of wide, herringbone flooring idea brings further visual interest to the Osbournes' space. Greening adds: 'To make a real style statement with your flooring, choose a darker colored wood in a patterned design, such as traditional parquet or intricate herringbone, to add beautiful texture and timeless charm to any space.'

The beauty of the style comes through in the contrast of materials throughout the room. Ebert states: 'I love the mix of velvet on the sofa with leather on the chairs and the intricate carvings on the walls in this living room. Using texture in interior design helps to draw the eye around the space, creating an alluring and stylish feel that doesn't fit neatly into just one style.'

Shop the Warm Wood Edit

If you hope to recreate the Osbournes' look, start small with a few dark wood pieces. A simple dark wood chair, side table, or shelving unit goes a long way in bringing a similar inviting ambiance into your home, without the huge commitment. Where there is dark wood, there is cozy, warming energy.

Your couch is probably one of the most used and loved pieces of furniture in your whole home – perfect for relaxing, watching movies and snuggling on. Because of this, your couch needs regular cleaning to keep it looking it's best.

When it comes to couch care, there are several ways to revamp and refresh yours but also some couch cleaning mistakes you really want to avoid. Our pros said these six mistakes will lead to 'serious upholstery heartbreak' and we have to say, we agree.

Our pro cleaners share their cleaning tips and insight on which couch-cleaning mistakes you might be making, and how to sidestep them in the future.

6 couch cleaning mistakes you might be making

'We see these blunders all the time, and they can lead to some serious upholstery heartbreak,' says Rocky Vuong, founder of Neatbrite.

1. Disregarding manufacturer care instructions

When it comes to cleaning your couch, the first place you should be looking for advice is the manufacturer's guide, specifically the one for your model.

Daniel Anderson, professional cleaner and CEO of GoRubbishGo says, 'Many homeowners have a poor habit of neglecting the instructions provided by the manufacturer for cleaning, which in turn causes inappropriate methods or materials to be used that can spoil the fabric.

'Never forget to look at the care label of your sofa. It gives a brief overview of what should and what should not be done when cleaning. For example, if the label is marked “W”, it means, “water-based” cleaners are allowed. If it is marked “S” then use solvent-based cleaners.'

We recommend the Resolve Liquid Multi-Fabric Cleaner and Upholstery Stain Remover available at Amazon, as it is safe to use on most household and couch fabrics, such as nylon, polyester and cotton blends.

2. Not spot-testing cleaning products

'I can't tell you how many times I've seen a beautiful couch ruined because someone didn't test their cleaner on a hidden spot first,' says Rinea Blanchard, owner of Superior Contract Cleaning.

Some products can lead to upholstery discoloration and damage, so always find a hidden part of your couch to test the cleaning product on first before getting stuck in.

For example, if you want to wash your couch cushion covers, remove them and test your cleaning product on a small spot which is hidden from view when the cushions are on the couch. On the couch itself, try it low down at the back if your usual placement is against a wall, or look underneath for a spot totally out of sight.

Blanchard recommends #1 bestselling Folex Carpet Spot Remover available at Amazon. 'This stuff is magic on fabric sofas,' she says.

3. Putting off tackling stains

We're all guilty of it, but if you spill a drink on your couch or notice a pet stain, it's important to deal with it there and then – it's one of the golden rules of stain removal.

'I've seen firsthand how a clean sofa can transform a living space, especially when staging homes for We Buy Houses in Metro Detroit,' says Harpreet Saini. 'Once, we almost lost a buyer because of a stubborn pet stain on a sofa that wasn't cleaned promptly.

'I always recommend to tackle stains immediately using products like the Bissell Pet Stain Eraser (available at Walmart) or a good microfiber cloth from Amazon,' such as the HOMEXCEL Microfiber Cleaning Cloths.

'Whenever there are pet stains in a fabric, they should be cleaned as soon as possible using an enzymatic cleaner,' warns Anderson.

4. Using too much water

'Another mistake people make is using too much water when cleaning,' says Anderson. 'Although it might appear reasonable to drench the fabric and get rid of the stains, doing so can create dampness in the furniture and encourage the growth of mold and mildew, especially in upholstered furniture.'

Instead, do not drench the fabric when cleaning a velvet, cotton or leather couch. Press a damp cloth onto the stained area and treat the stain like that, advises Anderson. Dabbing, rather than rubbing is preferred to avoid pushing a wet stain or cleaning solutions into the fabric, or spongey layers below.

'If you are looking for something deeper, try a suction steam cleaner, such as the Bissell SpotClean ProHeat Portable Spot Cleaner (available at Amazon) which uses less water and removes stains very well.'

5. Scrubbing too hard

While it might seem necessary to really scrub at your couch to clean it, this could be doing more harm than good.

'Gentle circular motions is what you should do,' advises Blanchard. 'Scrubbing like you're trying to start a fire will just push the stain deeper into the fabric.'

For cleaning leather couches, Blanchard recommends the #1 bestselling Leather Honey Leather Cleaner available at Amazon. 'It does wonders without damaging the leather,' she says. It's also non-toxic, and can be used on faux leather, car seats, purses, bags and shoes.

6. Neglecting regular maintenance

'Many home owners overlook that maintenance on a regular is the best way to enhance the lifespan of their couches,' says Anderson. 'Dirt, dust and pet hair can build up so quickly.'

Anderson advises using an upholstery attachment to vacuum the couch over once every week to get rid of dirt and deposits remaining. 'Also, you may apply a fabric protector such as Scotchgard Fabric & Upholstery Protector (available at Walmart) to help resist staining or spilling,' he adds.

FAQs

How often should you professionally clean your couch?

While cleaning your couch should be part of your achievable cleaning routine, it's advised to call in the professionals every 12-18 months to give it a really deep clean.

This will extend the lifespan of your couch, banish bacteria and make it look good as new. If you have pets, consider doing this every 6 months, to remove pet hair from the fabric.

Learn how to clean a couch without a vacuum and you'll never be caught short again.

If there's one central place for relaxation in the home, it's a nice, clean, comfortable couch. Ideal for snuggling up, but how do you know when its time to replace yours?

Experts say there are a number of telltale signs such as wear and tear, structural issues, and hard-to-shift odors. You may also find your home style or lifestyle has changed since you made your couch purchase, and your current one no longer fits your decor or needs.

I spoke to our interior design experts for their tips on when to start looking for new living room furniture ideas and splash out on a sumptuous new sofa.

5 signs you need a new couch

1. Your couch is no longer comfortable

One of the main purposes of your living room couch is relaxation, so if your couch is no longer comfortable, it's time to replace it.

'Your couch should be a place of rest, but once the comfort's gone, it is time to invest in something new,' says Bradley Montanez, owner and CEO of TableUps. 'Over time, the padding and springs begin to wear down, making your sofa less inviting and less supportive.'

When the cushions no longer provide support, or you find yourself gravitating to different seating options due to discomfort, that's a sign it's worth the time, effort and spend for a new one.

'After years of daily use, foam and padding break down, and you can feel the couch frame,' says Brayden Montgomery, contractor and owner of Vantage Builders. 'Your back will thank you for an upgrade.

If you decide it's time for a refresh, read up about how much you should spend on a new couch. You can also try some DIY repairs if you would prefer to, or have purchased a couch secondhand.

We recommend the GoTo Foam available at Amazon for this, which is ideal for furniture cushions, or you can hire a professional to get it reupholstered.

2. There are visible signs of wear and tear

Another sign that you need a couch is if yours looks visibly tired, worn and weathered.

The key signs to look out for, according to interior designer and CEO of Gorubbishgo Daniel Anderson are:

• Faded fabric due to sun exposure: which will make your couch look 'dingy and outdated'.
• Tears and holes: Not only does this look unpleasant, but can allow dirt and allergens to collect inside if left untreated
• Pilling: Little balls of fuzz on your couch are a sign that the material is wearing out, making it appear 'old and untidy'.
• Stains: Some stains are easy to clean on a couch but others like wax or grease can be stubborn, especially if you have a bright colored couch.

Need to know how to fix sagging couch cushions? 'If your couch has stains, frayed fabric, or rips that you can’t hide with a throw blanket anymore, it’s probably seen better days,' points out Rachel Stringer, professional real estate agent at Raleigh Realty.

'A little wear can add character, sure, but once it gets to the point where it’s making your space look tired and outdated, it’s time to move on. Plus, fabrics tend to wear unevenly, so you might notice one side of your couch looks more beat-up than the other, which throws off the balance of your whole room.'

Visible signs of wear and tear will be particularly likely if you have pets, as scratches and pet hair will accumulate to make your couch look less chic, more shabby.

'If you have a pet, your couch simply doesn’t hold up well because of that,' says Seamus Nally, CEO at TurboTenant. 'Many fabric materials suffer with pets because their claws can catch or their hair can get stuck in the fibers. Materials like leather or tightly-woven fabrics are usually the best choices when you have pets that use your couches.'

We recommend using a vacuum for pet hair regularly, or investing in an LG pet mini nozzle, available at LG, to lift hairs out of the fabric and off your couch.

3. There is a detectable odor

Larry Snider, VP of operations at Casago says, 'If your couch has a permanent odor that you just can’t get rid of, no matter how hard you try, that may be a sign that you need a new one.

'After years of use, from dogs laying on them to sitting on them with dirty clothes and sweaty skin, couches can simply get to the point where the odor is permanent regardless of how well you try to clean them. And, more often than not, the odor is more obvious to guests because we can get used to the smell of our own homes.'

While there are several ways to remove odors from upholstery, if your couch just needs a quick refresh, we recommend using the bestselling Febreze Heavy Duty FABRIC Refresher available at Walmart, which actively cleans the upholstery and banishes odors instead of just masking them.

4. Structural issues

Structural issues which make your couch uncomfortable, or even unsafe, to sit on, such as exposed springs or broken arms are also signs that it's time for a new one, leaving you in need of some living room couch ideas.

To check your couch for structural issues, keep an ear out for creaking or squeaking sounds when you sit down, and watch for wobbly legs.

'A weakened frame could start to impair both safety and stability,' says Anderson. 'A settee with wobbly legs is precarious and will spoil the general outlook of your living room, so requires an immediate solution.'

5. Your style or needs have changed

Finally, if your couch no longer fits your style or needs, for example, if your family has recently grown, or you have welcomed a furry friend into your home, it might be time for a new one.

Punteha van Terheyden, head of solved at Homes & Gardens adds, 'We needed a new sofa after having our baby as she had reflux and there was a lot of mess in that first year of feeding. We waiting till her symptoms had calmed down, and then invested in a darker sofa to survive her toddler years and two new cats. It was a really good move on our end and worked out brilliantly for us.'

Alternatively, you might want to upgrade, or try something different like a curved couch, which I love for their uniqueness.

'Finally, consider your evolving style or lifestyle needs,' says Anderson. 'You’ve refreshed your home and rearranged your furniture, or maybe your family circumstances have changed: a new pet or a baby has arrived. It may be quite a difference to upgrade to a couch that fits the space you have and your requirements; so it is important that your living space retains value as an expression of individualism.'

How much you should spend on a couch differs, but a couch that once felt chic and perfect for your home may now feel dated, or even clash with your home's evolving decor.

'Design trends evolve,' says Elissa Hall, lead designer at Awning, 'and so do personal tastes. Sometimes, a couch upgrade is simply about aligning your furniture with your vision for your space. I often advise that if you're consistently redecorating around your couch, trying to make it fit, it might be time to consider a replacement that better reflects your style.'

FAQs

How often should you replace a couch?

Generally speaking, you should aim to replace your couch every seven to 15 years, but your sofa's life may be extended or shortened by factors such as children and dogs, as well as the materials used to make it, and how well it was made.

For advice on how to buy the right couch, check out which factors to consider.

What type of couch lasts longest?

Couches aren't a cheap investment, so if you want one that will stand the test of time, opt for leather.

While it can be harder to repair a leather couch when ripped, they can be wiped clean easily and look better with age.

If you've decided it's time for an upgrade, our couch choosing tips can help guide you to your perfect purchase.

If you don't know where and how to store your board games, this is the perfect time to delve into some smart ideas.

With cooler weather coming and a season of indoor hosting upon us, those board games are going to get more use than any other time of year. We spoke to experts including interior designers and professional organizers to learn the best ways to organize and store your board games around the house, with rolling games carts and games nooks among their smart suggestions.

Good storage ideas for your collection of games will retain their integrity and pieces without compromising your decor, or taking up more room than you're willing to give them.

Organizing your board games

Joseph Passalcqua, CEO of cleaning company Maid Sailors, says, 'Before investing in bins, labels, and other organizing essentials, be clear on your immediate purpose. Are you storing board games to avoid clutter now, but want to access them easily on weekends and regular game nights or do you want to preserve it for special occasions?'

Knowing this will help you pick a strategic storage solution that's best for you, whether it's living room storage, bedroom, or elsewhere. There's no point picking an air tight container in the attic if you have games nights every weekend.

Interior designer Nina Lichtenstein adds, 'Organizing your board games doesn’t have to be a chore. It’s an opportunity to enhance your home’s functionality and style. By incorporating some of these storage solutions, you can keep your games accessible, well-organized, and perfectly in sync with your home’s aesthetic. Whether you’re a casual player or a serious collector, there’s a storage solution that will work for you, ensuring that game night is always just a grab away.'

1. Rolling games cart

Nina says, 'A rolling library cart can be a fun and functional way to store your games, especially if you like to move them from room to room. Organize the games on the cart and roll it out when it's game time. This method is particularly useful for small spaces, where versatility is key.'

She recommends the Vasagle Rolling Cart from Amazon, which is a slimline bar cart idea and has sturdy handles for easy rolling. It comes in two widths and colors.

If you have too many games to store all of them in a cart, storage solution expert and CEO of Juujbox, Ali Mirdamadi suggests creating a rotating game library. 'Select a few games at a time and keeping them on display in a designated area.'

This could be a rolling cart, or if that isn’t quite your style, a storage cube. Ali recommends the stackable Closetmaid from Amazon, which comes in nine colors and eight configurations.

He adds, 'You can rotate the games every few weeks or months to keep things interesting and prevent clutter from building up. This also allows for easier decision-making when it comes to choosing a game for family game night.

Daniel Brown, cleaning expert and CEO of handycleaners.com recommends making the most of your rolling cart by adding snacks and drinks, bringing the fun to whichever room you and your friends, family or loved ones are. Daniel recommends the Honey Can Do Rolling Utility Cart in chrome from Amazon for added mobility and ease.

2. Designate a shelf, cabinet or closet

Nina Lichtenstein, says, 'As an interior designer, I believe board game storage should be as stylish as it is practical, seamlessly blending into your home's aesthetic while keeping your collection accessible. You can do it by designating a shelf, cabinet or closet to keep your board games organized and easily accessible.'

She recommends choosing a piece that complements your home’s decor. 'Open shelving units, like the IKEA KALLAX, allow you to display games while keeping them within reach. For a more concealed look, opt for a closed cabinet with doors, such as the Sauder HomePlus Storage Cabinet available on Amazon.'

If you have a spare closet, you can turn it into a board game haven. Nina adds, 'Install adjustable shelving to accommodate different box sizes, and use the closet door for additional storage by hanging over-the-door organizers for smaller games and accessories. This approach keeps your collection neatly out of sight but easy to access.'

Nina likes the SimpleHouseware Over Door Organizer from Amazon which has handy clear windows to let you glimpse contents without having to remove anything.

I have used a sideboard in our living room for our most used games so our daughter, who is eight, can access and tidy them away easily, pictured above. It was a good decluttering exercise to, and I used my favorite 'didn't know' decluttering trick to quickly make space for these games.

Whichever space you allocate for your board games, Ashley Hines professional organizer and founder of Thee Tailored Life says, 'If you are keeping the games in their original boxes, determine a system, be it color-coordinated, size, or type of game (family, adult, cards, for example). If you keep them in open shelving, I recommend putting them in a large open-top bin for easy access.'

Ashley also notes filing the games makes them more accessible and easier to maintain than stacking them.

3. Utilize vertical space

Jim Christy, managing director of Midwest Cards, a sports trading card retailer says, 'In our home, we’re big on family game nights, so keeping board games organized is important. One effective way to manage board games is by storing them vertically in clear, labeled bins. This not only saves space but also makes it easy to see and access the games without creating a mess.'

Jim and his family also use a dedicated shelf in their living room as a display area for the games they play most often. He adds, 'For smaller pieces like dice or cards, consider using small plastic containers within the game box to keep everything together.

Going for vertical storage is a great space-saving hack, but also a fabulous fix if you are short on space in the room or area you wish to keep your games.

Designer Nina explains, 'Wall-mounted shelves or floating shelves such as the SONGMICS Floating Wall Shelves on Amazon can be a great way to store board games without taking up valuable floor space. Arrange games by size or theme to make the display both functional and visually appealing. This method also turns your game collection into a form of art, adding personality to your walls.

The product above which Nina recommends comes in three widths and colors, and has a small front lip to stop items falling off.

4. Label, categorize and organize

Wherever you decide to store your games, having an organized approach to your collection will be helpful. Nina recommends categorizing by type, such as family games, strategy games, or party games. 'Label the shelves or storage boxes accordingly,' Nina says. 'This method not only makes it easier to find a game but also helps maintain order after a game night.

Nina likes the Mantah Chalkboard Labels from Amazon which are reusable, and waterproof.

Amanada Schmitt, owner of Life As Mama, says, 'When working with clients, I often suggest using cabinets with dividers to keep each game separate. For example, in a pantry or linen closet, install shallow cabinets and use drawer dividers to create sections for each game. This keeps all of the pieces together in one spot. Be sure to label each section clearly. Using photos of the game boxes can also help in places where a label may not stick well.'

5. Stackable storage bins

Nina says, 'Stackable bins or baskets are perfect for smaller games, or those that come in non-standard boxes. These bins can be tucked away in closets, under beds, or even on bookshelves. Choose bins with lids to keep dust out and consider clear options so you can easily see what’s inside, such as the IRIS 19 Qt Stacklable Storage Bins With Lids from Amazon.

6. Unbox games

Ashley Hines, professional organizer, recommends unboxing games to save on the amount of storage space you will need. She says, 'We often feel guilty about removing items from their original packaging, but remember that the boxes are designed to transport the items to you. You don't need to keep things in their original packaging if it makes them harder to access or less efficient to store.'

Ashley likes using zipper mesh bags when organizing games in her clients homes. She says, 'These EOOUT Mesh Zipper bags from Amazon come in various sizes and colors, with labels and without. Once unboxed, store the bags.'

If the instructions or rules to the game are printed on the box, simply cut it out along with any warnings, age ratings or guidance information you'd like to keep and store that flattened piece of card inside the zipper bag.

7. Repurpose furniture

Nina is a big fan of re-purposing furniture you already have to create a space to store your board games. She says, 'If space is tight, look for multi-functional furniture that can double as storage. For example, a storage ottoman can house your board games while also serving as extra seating or a coffee table. Similarly, a bench with storage underneath is perfect for keeping games hidden but accessible. I like the Simpli Home Avalon Storage Ottoman available on Amazon.'

Nina's pick comes in 17 different colors as well as three sizing and feature configurations.

Ali Mirdamadi, CEO of Juujbox adds, 'Look for cabinets with adjustable shelves so you can customize the storage to fit different-sized boxes. I helped a client convert a vintage armoire into a board game cabinet. We added custom shelving to fit their game collection perfectly, transforming a piece of furniture into a functional and stylish storage solution. You can also use labeled storage bins or baskets inside the cabinet to keep smaller pieces organized.

8. Custom built-ins

Nina says custom built-ins, whilst pricey, are a great investment. She explains, 'For those who are serious about their board game collection, custom built-ins can be the ultimate solution. Design built-in shelving around your game collection, integrating it into your living space in a way that feels intentional and cohesive. This option is particularly useful for large collections or for homes with a dedicated game room.'

I had custom-built floor to ceiling closets built in our primary bedroom and the price wasn't all too different from freestanding furniture and it helped us immensely in making the most of our vertical space, and using up every inch of the chosen wall we could. We configured each of the single closets to have shelves, drawers, or hanging space to suit each purpose and now we have space we can dedicate to household items like games if we wish.

9. Game-specific storage solutions

You can also use very game specific organizers available via specialist sites. Nina recommend The Broken Token.

She says, 'Certain games come with many pieces, making it difficult to keep everything in one place. Invest in game-specific storage solutions, like custom inserts or containers that hold all the components neatly. This is especially helpful for games with lots of small parts, like Catan or Risk.'

You can also get your own by measuring up the space you need and ordering a set of matching storage boxes with windows for quick view or labeling.

10. Stylish baskets

Incorporate stylish baskets for a more casual approach, Nina recommends. She says, 'Use decorative baskets to store games. These can be placed on the floor next to a bookshelf, under a console table, or even as part of a room's decor. Wicker baskets or fabric storage bins add a cozy, homey feel while keeping your games contained.'

11. In kids’ rooms

Amanada Schmitt, mom of two young children and owner of Life As Mama has a lot of experience organizing board games. She says, 'For my own home, I store our board games on a bookshelf in our playroom so the kids can easily grab them. I separate the games by age appropriateness to make it easy for the kids to choose.'

She advises regularly going through your game collection to slim it down. Amanada explains, 'Purge any missing, damaged or unused games. Donating old games is a great way to make space for new favorites. Keeping your collection pared down will make organizing what’s left so much easier.

12. Themed games nook

Nathan Thorne, interior designer, professional organizer and CEO of Handy Flowers says, 'A nook for gaming will make a difference in the experience. In one such case, an unused closet was used to create a retro-themed nook for our client who loves to play older generation games. Built-in shelving and mood lighting were used, adding not only organization for neat storage of games but also a special corner in the home that was truly devoted to fun and relaxation.'

Daniel Brown, of Handy Cleaners prefers a game library with glass doors. He says, 'Turn your bookshelf into a game library with glass doors. This was the elegant solution I used with clients who have an extensive game collection. The glass doors can keep dust from the games, yet still show them off as if in some curated fashion. I would highly recommend the Sauder Barrister Lane Bookcase for both its style and functionality.

13. Over door storage

A smart storage space but especially for board game lovers who might access their collection daily, weekly or regularly enough to have them on hand in this way. Over the door storage options are plentiful, ranging from metal, wood to mesh and even fabric. Pick one that suits your aesthetic but make sure the dimensions work for your purposes.

I have over the door organizers in my bathrooms and inside closet doors and the only downside to them is the top of your door frame can become scratched over time. It will depend on the guage (thickness) of the handles, but it's good to keep in mind.

• Walmart over door organizers
• Target over door organizers
• Wayfair over door organizers
• Amazon over door organizers

14. Attic, shed, garage or basement

These areas are usually perfect for storing away board games not constantly in use so make the most of the space and free the rest of your home from common clutter you don't need many months of the year.

Whilst some basements have climate control like the rest of the house, many basements, attics, sheds and garages do not, so make sure to adequately store your board games in air tight containers.

Failing to do so may end with pest problems, damp, mold or other environmental damage.

15. Under beds and couches

Mom blogger Amanda says, 'Many of my readers struggle with finding space for board games in small homes. For them, I recommend using under-bed storage boxes that slide right under the bed. You can label each box by game type such as kid games, family games or party games. This keeps them out of the way but easily accessible when you want to play.'

You can also make use of dead space under couches and benches, too. We have wide, shallow, storage with lids from Amazon under each of our velvet sofas in the living room packed with items we've stored away but might readily access weekly including puzzles, board games, crafts, magazines, books and Lego.

Once your board games are neatly filed away, consider how to store all those blankets and throws around your home, or what to do with toys cluttering up your space.

Although the weather is still (thankfully) feeling like late summer, we have officially landed in September and I for one am getting very excited for fall. For me, the best thing about the cooler months is the excuse to bunker down and get cozy at home, surrounded by candlelight and bundled up in blankets.

There's just something very special about this time of year. But while the outdoors might be transitioning to orange and red hues, I'm looking to capture the essence of autumn in a more subtle way. Neutral fall decor ideas are a great way to achieve that cozy fall feeling without overwhelming your space.

Layering different textures in neutral tones can create an inviting yet sophisticated feel. Think chunky knit blankets, soft linen pillows, and warm wood accents. Whether you're planning to refresh your couch with plush throws or add a few statement pieces to your dining area ready for holiday hosting, there’s no better way to welcome the season than by incorporating some fall-inspired touches.

The best neutral fall decor to shop in September

If you're anything like me, you'll be already on the hunt for cozy, neutral fall decor that will seamlessly transition your space from summer vibes to autumn's warm and inviting embrace. But if you're feeling stuck, I've rounded up my top picks to help you with adding some fall touches to your spaces.

These are the items that have caught my eye and are sure to make your space feel like a cozy haven as the temperatures drop.

So, what should you be adding to your cart this season? From elegant, earth-toned pillows and throws to woven pumpkins and delicate table linens, these neutral fall decor picks are sure to inspire a little September shopping.

Sofas are big investment pieces. So learning how to choose the best couch color for you and your home is certainly worth the effort.

Whether it's a bright jewel shade or a soft neutral, picking the perfect sofa color is an important decision. And for many different reasons. For starters, the couch is very often the most hardworking piece of furniture in our living rooms. It’s the place to relax in front of a good movie and kick back at the end of the day. We use our sofas to sit and chat with family and friends or curl up with a good book.

Functionally then, the couch needs to be comfortable, welcoming, and big enough to seat everyone, all at the same time, if necessary. However, your sofa is also a key, decorating tool for your living room.

Should you make a statement with a bold statement hue? Or pick out a neutral that can adapt to different wall and floor treatments should you wish to re-decorate in the future?

To make sure you get the couch color that ticks every box, we headed straight to the interior designers for their top tips.

8 Interior Design Tips To Help You Choose A Couch Color

Whether you’re redecorating the entire living space or simply looking for a sofa upgrade, settling on a couch color can be one of the biggest challenges.

'Choosing a sofa color is more than just a design decision, it's about creating a space that reflects your personality and provides a place to unwind,' explains Claire Garner, director of Claire Garner Interiors.

'With any choice in interior design, you have to ask what the mood or vibe is that you're looking to achieve. Very broadly, do you want light and airy or moody and rich? Or something in between?' adds designer Lucie Ayres of Californian-based 22 Interiors. 'If you get an idea of the mood you want, how bright you want the sofa to be in the space, then you can drill down on color options.'

'For light and airy, that might mean a neutral cream, beige, or a hue that's more of a hint of color – very pale blue, grey, or green. For a more moody and colorful look, the palette I always gravitate towards is jewel tones like emerald green, navy blue, and burgundy.'

1. Pick out a vesatile neutral

A neutral palette is often associated with timeless interiors so choosing a neutral-colored couch is a failsafe option. With such a vast range of cool and warm neutrals on offer, you won't be stuck for choice.

It's easy to see why interior designers gravitate towards this classic color spectrum. They effortlessly complement their surroundings, making them a perennial favorite.

'A white or off-white sofa, especially if it's in a linen material, will always be timeless,' explains David Harris, design director at Andrew Martin. 'Incredibly versatile, this color integrates into a wide range of design schemes and aesthetics. Their understated beauty serves as a blank canvas, allowing for endless possibilities in terms of accessorizing and styling.'

'I often recommend neutrals for sofas,' agrees Claire Garner, 'They are sure to create a calming atmosphere in the home. Whether you opt for cool tones like stone and clay, or the understated elegance of taupe and beige, neutral sofas offer simplicity and flexibility, allowing you to introduce color through accessories.'

2. Commit to a bold couch color

If you adore bright shades, a neutral color for your couch might not suit your design tempo. Instead, pick out a bold hue and make an impact with colorful seating.

'I am generally inclined towards selecting a boldly colored sofa in a more neutral room,' explains Kentucky-based designer Bethany Adams. 'I think this makes more of an impact than the inverse because walls are easy to paint, but upholstering a sofa in a magnificent hue takes gumption. That kind of bravado does not go unnoticed by guests and you are sure to get compliments galore when you commit to a bold new sofa color.'

But how to choose the right bold hue? Adams suggests looking around the room as a good starting point. 'Is there anything existing that you can pull a color from? An artwork, stained glass, a lighter colored wall? And if you're really stuck, there's nothing wrong with starting from scratch with a color that delights you and work from there. Colors make us happy and we spend so much time on our sofas, I can think of no better piece of furniture to splash out on.'

3. Expand a room visually with the same couch and wall color

'To make a room feel larger and more spacious, opt for a sofa color that is similar to the color of the walls,' advises Californian designer Hayley English. 'The goal here was to create an intimate, cozy space that feels connected to nature – the deep green evokes a sense of tranquility and comfort.'

'Repeated use of similar colors will help the sofa feel harmonious, even when dealing with brighter shades,' agrees Alexander Shepel, founder of Shepel.

The rich green performance velvet on this bespoke sleeper sofa merges effortlessly with Farrow & Ball's Calke Green paint on the walls.

'The warm undertones of the rich green are complemented with warm neutrals such as a herringbone wool fabric, a camel beige cotton dhurrie rug and woven wood Roman shades,' adds Hayley. 'They provide a texture break from the plush fabrics.'

4. Consider the entire room's color palette

Given that sofas are typically the largest or one of the largest pieces of furniture in a room, there's one expert tip you should never ignore: look at the space as a whole before picking out a couch color. It's about establishing context for the color, whether that's with a carpet or printed fabric.

'It's crucial to consider the entire living room color scheme and evaluate the existing palette, including the walls, rugs, and existing furniture,' explains designer Audrey Scheck.

And the premise stays the same whether you're a color maximalist or into barely-there neutrals. 'If it's a light-filled room, you might want to bring in the outdoors with an earthy green,' adds Marea Clark. 'If it's a mostly neutral space, it gives you a chance to bring in a bit of color - maybe choose something that brings out the hues in the room's art.'

5. Find a medium-value couch color

William Cullum, senior designer at New York based Jayne Design Studio, is a big fan of using medium-value colors for the couch.

'Something too dark will show every bit of lint, something too light will show every little stain,' explains William. 'I also tend to choose fabrics with inherent variation so they are a bit more forgiving.'

Medium-value colors are not just practical though he is keen to add, they also create extra interest. 'The perennial question I hear when presenting upholstery options is: 'What happens if I get tired of the color?' and my response is always that it's just as easy to become tired of beige as it is to become tired of any other color (and in my personal opinion I would become instantly tired of seeing a large piece of beige upholstery!)'

6. Inject warmth with earthy tones

We all want to create an inviting atmosphere in our living rooms, right? And an easy way to do just that is with an earthy colored couch.

'Today's color palette for sofas is all about evoking a sense of warmth,' says David Harris. 'We're seeing a resurgence of rich and earthy tones. Think warm reds, deep browns, rustic bricks, lush greens, calming blues, and timeless naturals. These hues not only add a touch of sophistication to a space but also create an inviting atmosphere.'

7. Balance couch color and texture

Fabric and texture play significant roles when choosing a color for your couch too. As Audrey Scheck says: 'A velvet or leather sofa in a rich color can add sophistication and depth, while a linen or cotton sofa in a lighter shade offers a casual, airy feel.'

'Consider the durability of the fabric, especially for high-traffic areas, and choose materials or patterns that will withstand wear and tear. Balance the sofa's color and texture with other elements in the room to achieve a balanced and layered look.'

Whatever couch color you choose, in order for it to have longevity it should first and foremost reflect your own personal interior design style.

'When starting a decorating project from scratch, create your own signature!' says Nick Cryer of Berkeley Place. 'It's a perfect opportunity to choose an inspirational showpiece sofa in a luxury fabric and color that will set the creative tone for your living room.'

When thinking of a sofa, pictures of a conventional living room are likely to come to mind before all else. However, the beloved sofa has a life far beyond the most social room of the home – sometimes in a kitchen or bedroom, as we've observed in other celebrity homes. Then we laid eyes on Jeff Goldblum's closet, where the actor has taken things one step further.

At a glance, Goldblum's walk-in closet offers everything we can expect from a storage space. There are organized racks of shirts and jackets alongside rows of shoes and hooks holding his impressive tie collection. However, the left side of the space is slightly less orthodox. Goldblum has created a bite-size living room tucked in the corner of his space – complete with a deep red rug and a dark green patterned sofa.

While we're not suggesting we turn our closets into living rooms (even if the size allows), Goldblum's furniture choices serve as a reminder that even the most functional of rooms can be both calming and inviting. The addition of the sofa and rug suggests the actor (and his wife, Emilie Livingston) don't rush away from the space. Instead, it's an area to lounge while discussing and trying outfits – encouraging us to rethink how we view our own closets.

'When decorating a closet, a sofa and rug was never at the top of our essentials list, even if our space size allows. However, a look into Goldblum's cozy area has changed that,' comments Jennifer Ebert, a design expert and digital editor at Homes & Gardens. 'The addition of the sofa, in particular, turns a space that would otherwise go forgotten into a unique social space – perfect for days when collaborative outfit planning is essential. In the case of a Hollywood star, I expect this is more often than not.'

As Ebert hints, we don't all have the space to bring a full-size sofa into our closet; however, the lesson on how we rethink our space remains the same. Instead of simply using the room to store clothes, shoes, and accessories, Goldblum's decorative additions emphasize how it's a place that should feel as calming as it is functional. Plus, it's not the only lesson we can take from the room.

Alongside his bite-size living room, Goldblum turned some of his most iconic fashion pieces into decorative features – starting with the hats that adorn the wall. This is something we can all try (no matter the size of our closet), as the experts at Rimadesio explain.

'The fall fashion overhaul is an age-old ritual, but it’s also a great time to let some of the staples of your wardrobe shine, bringing out classic pieces that can be worn year-round instead of buying new ones. Think of your favorite well-fitted blazer, that perfectly worn-in pair of jeans, or that elegant trench coat – these classics have stood the test of time for a reason,' the experts at Rimadesio comment.

We can begin with these pieces, chosen to make showing some of our favorite clothes and accessories simple.

'While it’s rarely acknowledged, the real magic of a seasonal wardrobe transformation often unfolds within the hidden confines of our closets. Because closets are more than just storage space; they’re a vital part of our daily routines,' the experts add. It's time we celebrate our closet's true potential, safe in the knowledge that Goldblum would surely approve.

We love an unexpected mood-booster in a room. Whether through a colorful furnishing or a metallic accent, statement pieces in a room can immediately enhance a space.

Dopamine decor has made this strategy official, favoring bold colors and vibrant fixtures in the home. Mandy Moore, whose sophisticated, California home hit the market recently, just shared a snap from her living space, and needless to say, we are obsessed with her take on the trend.

The A Walk to Remember and This Is Us star's living space is backed by white paint, but this is where the neutral simplicity ends. We were instantly drawn to her bubble chandelier, which hangs from a black fixture, along with her velvet, mauve sofa and black-and-white checkered rug. Somehow, it all works together perfectly without overwhelming the space.

According to experts, dopamine decor has the same impact as a spa-like space; the difference being that instead of neutrals and muted fabrics, the trend capitalizes on colors and materials that energize and excite us.

'In an era where personal well-being and mental health have become paramount, a vibrant new trend has emerged in interior design, promising to infuse our living spaces with a burst of joy and positivity: dopamine decor,' designer Nina Lichtenstein states. 'This trend is all about curating environments that evoke happiness, stimulate the senses, and create a sense of playful exuberance. So what exactly does dopamine decor entail, what are some key pieces that define the trend, and how do you style a dopamine decor space for maximum impact?'

Well, this starts with selecting an assortment of objects and furnishings that don't quite match, but also complement each other in small ways to ensure some semblance of uniformity.

'Forget matching sets; dopamine decor embraces variety,' Lichtenstein says. 'Choose furniture pieces that make a statement on their own. A brightly colored velvet sofa, a retro-inspired armchair, or a quirky coffee table can all serve as focal points.'

We can see that Moore has opted for the former, with a retro infusion via the rug and the bubble chandelier adding some softness to the area.

Lichtenstein continues, 'Select one or two bold statement pieces as the focal points of your space,' she says. 'This could be a brightly colored sofa, an oversized piece of artwork, or a unique piece of furniture. Build the rest of your decor around these pieces to ensure a cohesive look.'

Additionally, mixing and matching is not only allowed but encouraged within dopamine decor; a win for any pattern enthusiasts out there.

'Don’t be afraid to layer multiple colors and patterns,' Lichtenstein states. 'For example, pair a striped rug with floral cushions and a polka dot throw. The key is to find a common color theme that ties everything together, preventing the space from feeling chaotic.'

Furthermore, dopamine decor encourages experimentation. Colorful sofas are automatic mood-boosters, but smaller accents are also fantastic additions to infuse a space with some positive energy.

Julianne Hough may have just written a book, but, based on the appearance of her living room, she could write a whole new one on how to decorate with brown. The actress's stunning space expertly combines varied textures and materials in shades of color from almost-white linen to deep chocolate. The result is a cozy, grounded oasis.

A recent Instagram post announcement of the book shows Hough perched on a settee in her brown living room. Behind her, layers of striped cushions and a chocolate brown throw blanket bring in warmth and visual interest. Her light, dark brown and white oriental rug adds texture to the floor, complemented by a leather ottoman. White walls brighten the space and keep the layers of brown from looking overwhelmingly dark.

Beyond just looking beautiful in her home, Hough's 'warming cocoa hues' are becoming a huge color trend for the year. 'Move over gray, brown is the new neutral,' says Lena Gierasinska, interior design, and color expert at Barker and Stonehouse. She continues: 'First seen on the SS24 catwalks, brown is now emerging as a key interior trend too. Warm, organic, and with more character and depth than grey, brown is the perfect neutral base layer for the home because it works well alongside so many different colors and materials.'

Further, the merits of decorating with brown aren't limited to one shade, it's popular largely because it is so versatile. 'Brown is a cozy, grounding, and versatile hue so its renaissance is unsurprising. From oak to hazelnut and from caramel to butterscotch, many shades of brown can be incorporated into the home to create a comforting retreat,' says Shelley Cochrane, design expert at Furniture Village. The variety of shades in Hough's living room demonstrates the beauty of layering the color.

Hough's living room follows the most important rule for decorating with brown: using texture in interior design. Gierasinska explains, 'As brown is a neutral shade, I’d suggest dialing up the texture to make a statement – combine mahogany and oak shades with lots of tactile textures, from rustic wooden furniture and shaggy rugs to supple leather armchairs and cozy velvet sofas.'

Thus, Hough's combination of a leather ottoman with linen throw pillows and a wooly throw is a perfect reference for decorating with the warming neutral.

Shop the Brown Living Room Edit

If you are hoping to decorate with this neutral palette that always works, Cochrane suggests a few jumping off points. She recommends, 'For those who wish to style brown in their home, but are unsure where to start, I recommend investing in a buttery soft leather sofa in a deep chocolate hue. This will only grow better with age as the leather becomes worn-in and well-loved. I’d also encourage you to see wood as a colorway, rather than just a material which means you can effortlessly work this trend into every inch of your home.'

Cochrane continues on placing the interior design trend around your home, stating: 'In the hallway, make a chic statement with a wooden sideboard in a deep walnut hue. Dress it with accessories in varying shapes to add dimension and height, including candlestick holders or a vase filled with branches – a visually striking addition to the home. In the kitchen, opt for open shelving to display your favorite cookware and ingredients – this would be a wholesome addition to any home.'

Layering shades of brown creates a cozy, inviting scheme that's right on trend for the coming year. Julianne Hough's living room is the blueprint for how to do it right.

Keeping a home neat is a never-ending chore, but it can be made much easier with the right essentials in each room.

But how do you work out which things every room should have to stay streamlined and tidy? Professional organizers suggest starting with six basics that fit into every space – big or small – will go a long way in setting up a successful organizing system.

These are the six pieces the pros will never skip in their rooms, and why each can fundamentally make or break your home organizing ideas.

Things every room should have to stay organized

Creating a good organizing system is one of the most important steps in stopping clutter before it starts. This, in turn, dramatically reduces how often you have to declutter and tidy up, and how long you spend doing so each time.

1. Trash cans

One of the leading causes of clutter is trash. We are not necessarily talking about empty drink bottles or food packets, but those bits of packaging from online deliveries, or the empty glass jar that forms a burnt-out candle.

To remedy this, Diane Quintana, ADHD organizing and hoarding specialist, and owner of DNQ Solutions suggests having a trash can in every room of the house (bar the dining room, she notes). ‘Almost every room needs a trash (or waste) basket.'

If organizing a home office, you might have three: one for recycling, one for trash, and one for shredding. It's important to have a trash basket in every bathroom and bedroom, too/

‘When organizing a kitchen, you can have a recycling bin (sometimes several if you want to separate plastics, glass, and tin as well as paper) and a trash can, and maybe a small compost bin if you have a composting space outside. The family room also needs a waste basket of some kind.’

2. Trays with handles

When we think of the storage products professional organizers can’t live without, trays are not something that often comes to mind. However, a tray (especially one with handles for easy portability) is a great way to help corral clutter without too much of it accumulating.

Diane Quintana, the expert home organizer, continues, ‘A tray is a great organizer to have in a variety of rooms. It can sit on a stool in the family room to provide a stable place for drinks or snacks. It's a good idea to have a tray in the kitchen (or wherever mail comes in) to corral the mail. A tray is a useful item to carry things back to where they belong while helping to make clutter look intentional and less random.

‘You can use a basket for this but the tendency is to let things collect in a basket,’ Diane explains. ‘If you use a tray, you can't put too many things there before it becomes necessary to deliver the items.’

Head of Solved at Homes & Gardens, Punteha van Terheyden loves this and uses this trick in all rooms of her home. She says, 'I use one with handles on our dining table so our napkins, candles and my small vase that lives on the dining table can be easily moved off for meal times without each item being scattered around.

'In the living room, I use one to house all my many candles and again, the tray there has handles to easily move it off when we have another use for the sideboard, for instance when my daughter has a playdate and I set up a little snacking station. It's really handy and looks nice too, visually reducing the sensation of clutter because the multiple items are house together in a uniform way.'

3. Multi-functional furniture

Multi-functional furniture is one of those tools professional organizers can’t do their job without and is something Audra George, professional home organizer and owner of Pretty Neat, Oklahoma, swears by for every room.

Audra explains, ‘Pieces of furniture that double as extra storage ideas, like storage ottomans, dressers, cabinets, and beds with storage are a must. There is always an option for every room to help make storage and clutter less noticeable for streamlined home organization.’

This is particularly helpful for smaller rooms, spaces or areas that have high traffic but need multiple functions at various points in the day, for instance a WFH corner, or play area for the kids.

4. Drawer dividers

Almost every room of the house will have a set of drawers. And wherever there are drawers there is a need for customizable drawer dividers to help organize drawers efficiently to prevent clutter.

Amanda Schmitt, home organizer and family blogger, founder of Life As Mama, says, ‘Drawer dividers keep spaces streamlined. Silverware trays, mesh organizers, and divider trays group similar items while maximizing space. An organized drawer means you can find what you need quickly without sorting through a jumble of items and you are less tempted to hide clutter away when it doesn't fit into an exact category. It’s a win-win.'

Try a stackable set of mesh organizers from Amazon in your office, or in deeper drawers. We like the varying sizes in that set.

5. Shelves

Diane Quintana, an expert home organizer, shares, ‘I'm a big fan of shelves. They come in many different sizes and are useful for more than books. The Container Store has a folding bookshelf unit that is easily folded and moved from one room to another. It is also stackable.

‘I use them in almost every room in the house for books, clothes, to display favorite items, and as storage,’ she reveals. ‘They are very versatile and are one of the best space-saving ways to use vertical storage.'

6. Baskets

It wouldn’t be an essential organizer round-up without mentioning storage baskets. The trick is to use storage baskets properly to prevent a build-up of hidden clutter.

Amanda Schmitt, a home organizer, says, ‘Baskets are my go-to for every room. They are versatile, stylish, and catch all sorts of clutter. In the living room, baskets store remote controls, cords, and kids’ toys. In the bedroom, baskets neatly contain accessories, hair ties, and socks. Labels also ensure everything has a spot and stop you from putting items away that don’t belong.’

If you have a spot in your home that fills up with clutter easily, such as the top, or bottom stairs, place a basket there instead and when it's full, clear away all the items in one go. This way you have a holding vessel for all the stuff, and a formula for when to clear it to stop it overflowing or becoming dysfunctional.

By setting up strong systems, you are more likely to put things away, rather than putting them down, preventing doom piles that lead to stress and anxiety. Ensuring every room has at least one of each of these six essentials is the simplest way to avoid common home organizing mistakes by helping you create these more positive habits to keep your home clutter-free.

Gray may be associated with decades past (hello, '80s), but we would like to think that the highly versatile neutral transcends trends. Coming in a wide variety of shades, this midway point between black and white looks just as fantastic on the walls as it does on furniture.

In the case of the latter, we are taking cues from Cynthia Nixon, AKA Miranda Hobbes on Sex and the City and its spinoff And Just Like That.... The actor recently shared a photo to her Instagram page of herself sitting on a smart, gray sofa next to her gray (and white) cat.

While the feline pairs perfectly with the sofa, as far as non-animal companions go, Nixon has opted to accessorize with a taupe throw blanket, a wood coffee table, and cork coasters, all of which contribute to a warm, nature-inspired ambiance. She proves that decorating with gray is very much still in.

Neutrals are a classic choice for a living space, and it's easy to see why. Calm and easily modifiable, soft shades are fantastic for communal spaces, especially ones that are used for lounging. Experts say that gray is an ideal color to incorporate in the home thanks to its serene properties.

'Gray, with its infinite shades and nuances, has become a cornerstone in modern interior design, offering a versatile and sophisticated backdrop for any room,' says designer Nina Lichtenstein. 'This neutral hue creates an atmosphere of calm and understated elegance, making it an ideal choice for those seeking tranquil spaces and timeless style.'

When it comes to compatible color pairings, the beauty of gray is that, much like other neutrals, it is extremely malleable in any scheme.

'One of the most compelling aspects of gray is its remarkable compatibility with a wide array of colors, allowing for endless design possibilities,' Lichtenstein explains.

However, there are a few colors in particular that work well as accents for gray.

She continues, 'For a crisp, clean look, pair gray with white. This combination is timeless and fresh, perfect for modern and minimalist aesthetics. White accents can include trim, furniture, and accessories, enhancing the clarity and brightness of the space.'

Alternatively, tap into an outdoor-inspired scheme, like Nixon's, with a color that is abundant in the wild.

'Gray and green together bring a natural, organic feel to a room,' Lichtenstein says. 'Sage or olive green complements gray’s muted tones, creating a harmonious and refreshing environment. This pairing works well in living rooms, home offices, and any space where you want to incorporate nature-inspired tranquility.'

We can envision green throw pillows on the gray sofa, or even some green glassware on the coffee table for a subtle pop of color.

Gray is far from uninteresting. In addition to pairing gray with other colors, it can work well as a monochrome scheme so long as there is textural diversity. Try pairing a gray sofa with a fully, gray rug and stone coffee table, for example.

Interior design does not always have to be ground-breaking or out there. Often, simplicity is best. This is certainly the case in Eva Mendes's neutral living room, which features splashes of the timeless color greige. The effect is stunning.

The actor and star of The Place Beyond the Pines and Hitch recently shared an Instagram video in her light and bright living space, featuring a greige living room sofa layered with neutral accent pillows and throw blankets. Greige, a portmanteau of 'gray' and 'beige' describes a color that is halfway between the two neutral shades. In contrast, in Mendes's space, darker greige curtains contrast the white-painted walls. There's also a touch of nature in the space, with a small tree adding some greenery to the area.

Though decorating with greige is a relatively common practice in interiors, it's for good reason. The light blend of gray and beige brings together warm and cool tones for a delightful combination that goes with practically any other neutral, as well as colors. 'Neutrals are incredibly versatile, harmonizing with a wide range of styles from modern and minimalist to traditional and rustic,' says designer Nina Lichtenstein of the colors' enduring appeal. 'They serve as a perfect backdrop for any personal touches or bold statement pieces you might want to incorporate.'

Another focal point in the living room is the potted tree that sits behind Mendes. It strongly contributes to the neutral color palette's association with nature. Lichtenstein asserts that introducing plants is one of the best ways to decorate with neutrals. 'Bring in elements from nature to add organic beauty and texture,' she states. 'Potted plants, wooden furniture, and stone accessories can create a harmonious and balanced look. Greenery, in particular, adds a fresh and lively touch to a neutral setting.'

While not the main element of decor, planning living room lighting is crucial to ensuring that neutrals are present in an appealing manner. 'Thoughtful lighting design can transform a neutral bedroom,' Lichtenstein says. 'Use a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Consider bedside lamps, wall sconces, and pendant lights to add both function and style.'

She continues, 'We can see that Mendes has utilized natural light to give the space an airy feel, with big windows featuring half-open curtains.

Finally, to recreate the look and use texture in a neutral space, consider adding reflective pieces for both function and style. 'Incorporate mirrors and other reflective surfaces to enhance the sense of space and light,' Lichtenstein suggests. 'A strategically placed mirror can make a room feel larger and more open while also adding an elegant touch.'

Shop the Neutral Living Room Edit

Overall, neutrals are a timeless palette that can work in any room within the home, and as Mendes proves, they look especially tasteful in the living area. We suggest layering textured pieces, such as a woven blanket or boucle sofa, to increase visual interest.

Decorator's Address Book is a monthly series in which our Interior Design team finds out where designers like to browse and shop for their projects. Each edition focuses on a different element of home decor to bring you the best expert-recommended stores.

The August edition of Decorator's Address Book is all about furniture, the backbone of every room of the house. From characterful console tables to cozy, cocooning sofas, the need for furniture is impossible to avoid, and knowing where to find the best of the best can be quite overwhelming. Whether you prefer vintage and well-loved, high-end and bespoke, or simple and streamlined, it's important to know where to look.

That's why we sat down with interior designers, who shared the best places to shop for furniture. With a wide range of local shops, national companies, and trade-specific sites, these are the top 23 places designers recommend for all your furniture shopping needs.

Amorph

Nicole Hirsch, founder and principal of Massachusetts-based Nicole Hirsch Interiors

'Amir [of Amorph] has such an incredible aesthetic to his pieces. Each piece is completely handmade and we work with him in detail to completely customize the wood finish of each piece. We have made consoles, counter stools, coffee tables and more and each piece arrives more gorgeous than the next.'

Auctions

Christiane Lemieux, interior designer and founder of Lemieux et Cie

'I never miss out on the important auctions, from Phillips to Rago where I can discover rare and exquisite items, at every price point, that make a statement and elevate the entire design. These destinations are essential in curating spaces that are as unique and inspiring as the clients I work with.'

Baker

Philip Thomas Vanderford, owner and lead designer of Dallas-based Studio Thomas James

'Baker offers exquisite craftsmanship and timeless elegance in a diverse range of furniture that combines classic design with modern sensibilities. Their pieces are not only beautiful but also meticulously constructed. Our clients appreciate Baker for its attention to detail, high-quality materials, and the style and comfort of the furniture. I think Baker's collections offer sophistication and luxury, which adds value to the homes they inhabit.'

Bernhardt

Jodi Peterman, interior designer and owner of Elizabeth Erin Designs

'A favorite of mine is Bernhardt Furniture for their stylish case goods. Bernhardt consistently delivers elegant and sophisticated pieces that elevate any space. Their designs are timeless yet modern, making them versatile enough to fit into various aesthetics, whether my client is looking for something classic or contemporary.'

'The quality of craftsmanship in Bernhardt's case goods is impeccable, ensuring that each piece is not only beautiful but also built to last. This reliability is essential when I am designing for high-traffic areas or spaces that require a touch of luxury without compromising on durability.'

Bradley

Lynn Berney, Alexa Evans, and Tracy Gould of Florida- and New York-based LTA Interiors

'Bradley is one of our number one go to's for luxury furnishings. This company offers a large variety of resources including furnishings. lighting, wallcoverings, textiles and accessories.'

'The style is diverse allowing us to source pieces for clients that are all different styles, including classic, transitional, and modern. Bradley also allows us to provide our clients with a unique level of customization which makes working with them ideal.'

CB2

Jamie Ivey, owner and creative director of Virginia-based Ivey Design Group

'For retail options, CB2 has been on their game lately. They have great pieces that are design-forward, but don’t break the bank. We use their mirrors in our projects all the time, and love their lighting.'

Cuff Studio

Lynn Berney, Alexa Evans, and Tracy Gould of Florida- and New York-based LTA Interiors

'Timeless, modern, and relaxed are three of the key elements in our designs. Cuff Studio, a Los Angeles based, female run boutique furniture and lighting company is one of our favorite “go-to's” when shopping for our projects. Their work is the perfect blend of simplicity and complexity with the use of natural materials such as woods and metals.'

'Cuff Studios designs furniture and lighting for any room in your home and can easily be customized to meet the dimensions of your space. Best yet, the owners are incredibly responsive, helpful and fun to work with on all your design needs.'

Daniel House Club

Margaret Carroll, founder and principal of Washington, D.C.-based Margaret Carroll Interiors

'As an architect and designer, Daniel House Club is my go-to! Having them as my partner simplifies so many aspects of my job. For example, I can source a wide range of trade vendors late at night (with no minimums!) – simply add the item to your cart and check out!'

'Drop-shipping and white glove delivery are available to residential homes – which is not something all vendors do. One of my favorite features is when they suggest alternative items when one is out of stock (with speed and friendliness). Finally, they act as my procurement agent – I love the weekly updates on deliveries and shipping!'

Victoria Armour, co-owner and CEO of Canada-based Stil James Home Interiors

'Daniel House Club is our go-to spot when sourcing for clients. They offer a wide range of styles and price points, making it easy to find just the right pieces for any project. What truly sets them apart is their dedication to constantly updating their catalog with new and trending products.'

'Their regular updates mean I can always find something new and inspiring, which keeps the creativity flowing within our team. Whether it's discovering a new vendor, the perfect fabric, or a beautiful sofa, Daniel House Club consistently provides me with the resources I need to bring my design visions to life.'

Gubi

Ginger Curtis, founder and CEO of Dallas-based Urbanology Designs

'I shop Gubi because of their designs are fresh and the quality is excellent.'

Hati Home

Katie Browning and Heather Lucas of Lucas Browning Design

'Hati Home’s console tables blend the charm of vintage finds with the elegance of heirloom treasures. The Wave Console, which we used in our Maroney project, is a standout. Inspired by French mid-century designs, it brought an elegant, sophisticated touch to the entryway, embodying both style and functionality.'

Holly Hunt

Philip Thomas Vanderford, owner and lead designer of Dallas-based Studio Thomas James

'Holly Hunt is synonymous with luxury and high-end design. We turn to the brand for its meticulous attention to detail, high-quality materials, and timeless designs and always find sophisticated pieces. Our clients appreciate Holly Hunt for its exceptional quality and the ability to create truly unique, customized pieces that enhance the overall aesthetic of their homes.'

'Holly Hunt's collections often feature bespoke pieces, allowing our clients to select from a variety of finishes, fabrics, and configurations to create furniture that perfectly complements their interiors.'

The Invisible Collection

James Lees, co-founder of London-based design firm Pirajean Lees

'For contemporary pieces, we create bespoke furniture to suit the clients’ needs and also introduce hand-crafted furniture sourced from the likes of The New Craftsmen and The Invisible Collection.'

Kathy Kuo Home

Kathy Kuo, interior designer and CEO of Kathy Kuo Home

'I may be biased but I do my furniture sourcing from the amazing assortment of products and vendors at my own company, Kathy Kuo Home! The advantage to having both a design services arm of our business and a retail arm of it is that our assortment is curated by design to serve interior designers and consumers alike.'

'I love that our KKH furniture and decor collections span a variety of popular design styles – like French country, coastal beach, and rustic lodge – as well as price points, but all at a very high level of quality design and craftsmanship.'

Lawson-Fenning

Paul Corrie, interior designer and founder of Washington, D.C.-based Paul Corrie Interiors

'For furniture, we like to spec. from Lawson-Fenning. Their furniture is well-made, customizable with COM options for all upholstery, and they offer a beautiful selection of wood finishes.'

Louise Bradley Interiors

Louise Bradley, founder and principal of Louise Bradley Interiors

'Often, we design and commission bespoke pieces specifically designed to fit the exact dimensions and requirements of a space. These custom pieces are created by skilled artisan craftsmen and specialist manufacturers to ensure they align perfectly with the aesthetic of the room and the designer's vision.'

'For one of our projects, we crafted the Marcello Cabinet. This bespoke piece of furniture is made from high lacquered dark walnut with bronze glazed doors, beautiful hammered detailing, fixed timber shelves and bronze tinted mirrors. We made this so our client would have a refined storage solution for elegant glassware that seamlessly blends into the architecture of the dining room.'

Madegoods

Allison Handler, founder and principal of New Jersey-based Allison Handler Design

'One of my favorite brands to source from, especially for bedroom furniture, is Made Goods. Their furniture is great quality, and the perfect mix of functional and aesthetically pleasing. The textures in each piece and the details (colors, hardware choices, and shapes) make them just different enough to be stand out pieces while still complementing an entire design scheme.'

Phillips Collection

Jennifer Press, founder and principal of New York City-based Press Interiors

'Phillips Collection has great, contemporary pieces that pack a lot of punch for their price point. I often source from them for projects of all different scopes with varying budgets.'

Powell & Bonnell

Nicole Hirsch, founder and principal of Massachusetts-based Nicole Hirsch Interiors

'We do a lot of kitchens at NHI and without fail our go-to for the most gorgeous, timeless and well made counter stools (and dining chairs) is always Powell & Bonnell. Each style is so comfortable and a good weight so you never have to worry about their stability. They have been wonderful about working with us to provide our own fabrics for upholstery. Just a very reliable brand who makes a gorgeous, meticulously crafted product.'

red egg

Kailee Blalock, co-founder and principal of San Diego-based House of Hive Design Co.

'We absolutely love red egg. They are a small to-the-trade vendor that specializes in one-of-a-kind rattan and bamboo pieces of furniture. We go to them when we are looking for a true statement piece.'

RH

Eugenia Triandos, principal designer of Montreal-based Hibou Design & Co.

'At Hibou Design & Co., our furniture sourcing process is all about tailoring it to fit each project perfectly. We take into account not only the project's scope but also the client's specific taste and preferences. That's why we love working with a variety of vendors. You'll often find us turning to well-known names like Restoration Hardware (RH), Maison Corbeil, and Design Within Reach for their impeccable quality and style. But we also enjoy exploring smaller boutiques like CB2 and our very own Hibou Home for those unique, personalized touches.'

Jennifer Press, founder and principal of New York City-based Press Interiors

'Restoration Hardware stands firmly behind their brand, which gives both designers and clients a lot of confidence in their items. It's very easy for a client to do a sit-test on a piece of upholstery from Restoration Hardware, which is crucial when shopping for staple pieces like a sofa. As more and more vendors are shifting to online-only, RH is one of the few left that a client can experience before purchasing in nearly any major US city.'

Rowe

Jodi Peterman, interior designer and owner of Elizabeth Erin Designs

'When sourcing for a client, I always have a few favorite brands I turn to, each offering unique qualities that meet the high standards my clients expect. What truly sets Rowe apart for me is their kid- and pet-friendly fabrics.'

'As a designer who adores light-colored furniture but has a cat with claws and a husband who loves eating spaghetti on the sofa when I’m not around, durability and ease of maintenance are crucial. I not only recommend Rowe to my clients, but I also have their pieces in my own home, which speaks volumes about my trust in their products.'

SUNPAN

Ayten Nadeau, founder and principal designer of North Carolina-based I-TEN DESIGNS

'When furnishing our projects, SUNPAN Furniture consistently ranks among our top choices because it seamlessly blends affordability with high-quality craftsmanship, offering luxury that accommodates many budgets! Their diverse array of materials – wood, concrete, limestone, marble, metal, and beyond – guarantees something to complement every taste, streamlining our design process.'

Visual Comfort

Jamie Ivey, owner and creative director of Virginia-based Ivey Design Group

'You can’t beat Visual Comfort’s lighting selection. We do modern, contemporary, and more classic spaces, and they have styles to match any interior taste.'

1stDibs

Clémence Pirajean, co-founder of London-based design firm Pirajean Lees

'When designing a home, we often mix contemporary furniture with vintage and antique pieces to add character and personality to a space. The interiors feel lived in and layered over time We source antiques from 1stDibs or directly with local dealers such as Dorian Antiques or Kempton Market which is not far from our studio in Chelsea.'

Christiane Lemieux, interior designer and founder of Lemieux et Cie

'As an interior designer, my favorite shopping destinations are a true reflection of my passion for finding unique, high-quality pieces. I always turn to 1st Dibs for its incredible selection of vintage and contemporary design pieces that add that perfect touch of character and layer to any space. My namesake brand Lemieux Et Cie is another go-to, offering beautifully crafted, artisanal pieces that bring warmth and texture into my projects.'

There's a wealth of high-end furniture brands to choose from, and it all depends on your preferences and interior design style. Whether you're on the hunt for the best dining tables, best outdoor furniture, best couches, or a piece that channels this year's biggest furniture trends, you'll be well on your way to design success in no time.

A gray couch is a popular choice. A classic neutral, gray is super flexible and can complement a whole host of other shades used for large areas such as the walls, or accents like pillows.

When you’re focusing on a rug color for the living room, though, whether to continue the neutral theme or create a contrast with a gray couch can make you pause.

The way to go? We called on interior designers to explain the rug color options that will work with gray sofa ideas and these are the shades they say will always look right.

The best rug color choices to go with a gray couch

Living room rugs are a must-have for all but the most committed minimalists or the owners of living room flooring too amazing to cover up. However, for comfort underfoot, noise reduction, added texture and a host of other reasons they’re a favorite.

They can be great for adding color, or pattern, or both, but they need to be thought of as part of the palette for the entire room, including when styling a gray sofa. When that’s the case, the pros have a few options to suggest.

Opt for tonal gray pattern

A sophisticated room color scheme can be achieved with a gray patterned rug, according to interior designer Justine Wolman.

‘When designing a room centered around a gray sofa, pairing the sofa with a tonal gray patterned rug is an excellent choice,’ she says. ‘By incorporating the same color scheme within the rug, the pattern helps enhance the room’s depth and harmony, resulting in a well-balanced space.

‘The cohesive color palette unifies the room while the pattern adds visual interest and texture, preventing the space from feeling too monochromatic. This approach creates a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere that is both stylish and comfortable.’

Try earthy tones with light gray

Consider an injection of warmth in a room with a light gray couch, suggests Malak Bellajdel, in-house interior design expert at Interior Moderna.

‘With a light gray couch, earthy tones like terracotta and deep orange work well because they create a nice contrast that isn’t too harsh.’

‘Think about the other elements in your room as well,’ she adds. ‘So if you have wooden floors, a rug with some warm tones can perfectly tie everything together.’

Consider an abstract rug

An abstract rug can be a great choice with a gray couch, says interior designer Jodi Peterman, owner at Elizabeth Erin Designs.

‘We often choose abstract rugs with varied colors and low pile heights to effectively anchor a space,’ she says. ‘A favorite combination is a light gray couch paired with a blue abstract rug.

‘When clients are hesitant about introducing accent colors, we recommend starting with neutral furniture and adding color through rugs and pillows,’ she adds. ‘This approach is practical since rugs and pillows are easier and more affordable to switch out compared to sofas.’

Don’t match grays

Neutral living room fans shouldn’t fall into the matching trap, according to Rebecca Ward, principal designer at Rebecca Ward Design.

‘Afraid of color?’ she asks. ‘Not to worry, a solid, a creamy textured rug is perfect for creating an approachable space. Or bring in contrast with a charcoal colored rug for your light gray sofa. Warning! Never have the gray sofa color match the value of gray in the rug. It will be nothing but a boring and blah space. Contrast is your friend when pairing sofas and rugs of the same color.’

Make it rich

Darker tone of upholstery? ‘If you have a dark gray couch, I think rugs in rich, bold colors like navy blue, emerald green, or deep burgundy can make a striking statement,’ says interior designer Vincent Larson of Coppersmith.

‘These colors provide a sophisticated look and help ground the space, adding depth and richness. A patterned rug with these hues can introduce texture and dimension, enhancing the overall aesthetic.’

We love the pop of red in this round living room rug as a further alternative, and it is complemented by the navy tones in the pillows and the deep green vase on the coffee table.

Think high contrast

With a neutral color for the couch, it’s important to create visual interest. ‘In our designs, we love using high-contrast finishes to create visual interest,’ says Jodi Peterman.

‘A light gray sofa pairs beautifully with a lighter rug, while pops of color from pillows can elevate the overall look. Additionally, a warmer gray sofa with a complementary lighter rug can brighten up a space, especially if the room has darker finishes. This method adds a touch of lightness and balance to the overall design.’

Go bold with blue

Going bolder underfoot when choosing a rug to go with a gray couch can create instant coziness, says Rebecca Ward.

‘Bring in all the color and pattern on a plush rug,’ she suggests. ‘Blues and turquoises are my go-to combo with gray to keep the relaxing vibes coming. Bonus points if you add texture like carved patterns or shaggy soft piles.’

Living room color ideas including that of the couch and rug need to make the space relaxing for family and welcoming when you’re entertaining, but you might want to weigh up the idea of a family room vs living room, and opt for both so you can keep the latter for guests and the former for relaxing. Think living room paint finishes however the room is used so they’ll stay looking their best.

Selena Gomez's pink sofa is setting interior trends on fire. The dusty rose furnishing, debuted in an Instagram post cuddling with boyfriend Benny Blanco, looks absolutely perfect against her textured white walls. Fans and interior design experts alike are in love with the look.

'A pink sofa isn’t just a piece of furniture; it’s a statement,' says Natane Boudreau, the founder and interior designer at Studio Boudreau of the pink room idea. She continues, 'It brings a fresh, vibrant energy into a room and can serve as a focal point around which the rest of the room can be styled. Pink, often associated with warmth and comfort, can make a living room feel more welcoming and lively.'

Furthermore, Selena's couch color is a huge sofa trend for 2024. 'I do see pink sofas becoming a trend, particularly in modern and eclectic interior styles. As more people embrace bold colors in their living spaces, pink can become a favored choice for those looking to express their personality and warmth through their decor,' Bourdreau tells Homes & Gardens.

However, despite its popularity, the pink couch color trend is more than a passing fad. Joyce Huston, Lead Interior Designer at Decorilla states: 'I think pink sofas are definitely having a moment, but they're also a timeless piece that can evolve with your style. So, if you're looking to add a pop of personality to your living room, I say go for it! Just make sure you choose a shade that makes you smile.'

The primary reason for the enduring popularity of the sofa color is its versatility. Huston says, 'A soft blush pink can create a really dreamy, romantic vibe, while a hot pink is pure, unapologetic fun.' As we can see in Selena Gomez's space, the look pairs well with a modern living room, but it would be just as effective in a diverse range of styles of space.

Shop the Pink Edit

Even if you aren't planning to purchase a pink sofa, you can get the pink living room look with smaller accessories that are easy to swap out. Pink decorative pillows can be layered on any sofa to bring the warmth of the color into your space. Meanwhile, pink candlesticks can be used in existing holders to bring a new color into the space.

If you are hoping to recreate this look in your own home, the good news is, it's highly versatile. There's no single 'right way' to do it. Huston states: 'I've paired pink sofas with everything from deep navy to olive green. It's amazing how versatile they are. And I also love to play around with different textures like velvet, linen, and boucle, they all look amazing in baby pink.'

As for living room styling with a pink sofa, Boudreau recommends: ' Incorporate different textures through throws or rugs to add depth and interest. Soft, plush fabrics can enhance the comfort factor, while smoother, shiny textures like leather or metal accents introduce modernity. Use wall art or cushions that include hints of pink to create a cohesive color story throughout the space. Wood and plants can soften the overall look and keep the room from feeling too saturated with color.'

Selena Gomez may not be the first celebrity to choose a pink sofa, but the look is the ultimate chic choice in her space. As the trend grows ever more popular, we can't wait to see more.

The color of your couch is an important decision to get right. Beyond practical considerations, your couch will go a long way in influencing the overall style of your living space, and it's likely something you'll aim to keep in situ for years.

Neutrals are some of the most popular colors for couches: they're timeless, versatile, and generally pair well with all design styles, avoiding an overly trend-led look. In 2024, there is one neutral couch color trend we're noticing plenty of demand for, and that's camel tones.

Reminiscent of retro living rooms, camel-colored couches are often associated with a vintage aesthetic, but they are indeed just as relevant for modern homes. To learn more about this interior design trend, we asked designers what they make of the retro couch color, and have rounded up our favorites for you to shop.

Designers weigh in on camel-colored couches for 2024

'Camel is a lovely and versatile color that can lend itself nicely to a number of design motifs – including a vintage-inspired look,' says interior designer Kathy Kuo.

From light, sandy camel colors to much darker and warmer camel tones, there's lots of variety to best suit your space, depending on if you want to keep your space light and airy or create a more vintage-inspired look.

While, of course, a camel-colored couch works in various rooms throughout the home, experts say they make an especially good choice for living rooms. 'Camel colors are very sophisticated and make the perfect grounding component to a living space,' says designer Diane Rath, owner and principal designer at The Rath Project.

Below, we've rounded up three ways designers recommend styling a camel-colored couch for 2024, from minimalist to maximalist; retro to contemporary.

1. Opt for a leather camel-colored couch

'When we hear camel-colored we think leather,' says interior designer Isy Runeswe of Isy's Interiors. 'We love a leather sofa, especially in an ever-stylish camel colorway.'

Opting for a retro camel couch will certainly enhance the vintage look, so it's an especially good material choice if your style leans towards mid-century modern. If you prefer a more contemporary look, opt for a similar style to the one above with a curved silhouette.

Be warned, however, that leather couches can often end up feeling cold and uninviting if they are styled too minimally. By incorporating plenty of soft textures through accent pillows and throws, you can ensure your camel leather couch is as cozy and comfortable as it is stylish.

2. Create a timeless look with layered warm neutrals

Since camel is a neutral color, it naturally pairs well with other neutrals, especially those with warm tones. To create a cozy and modern look with your camel-colored couch, layer tones like warm whites, beige, and taupe hues for an elevated take on decorating with neutrals.

'Camel is such a versatile color that works wonderfully with lighter and neutral tones such as creams and beiges and softer lighter brown tones,' says Jessica Cinnamon, Principal Designer and founder at Jessica Cinnamon Design.

From accent pillows to throw blankets; to rugs and even the color of the walls, there are lots of ways to incorporate lighter neutrals to complement a camel-colored couch, without overpowering the scheme with competing hues.

If you choose to incorporate darker neutrals, such as black, do so sparingly. Too many dark tones against a camel couch can appear drab, according to Jessica: 'Keep in mind to limit the amount of darker hues and use more mid-depth tones to keep the sofa from appearing dull.'

3. Layer textiles and prints for a maximalist look

Does your style embrace maximalist decor ideas? If so, then base your scheme around a warm camel-colored couch and layer it with plenty of textures and colorful prints to achieve a statement look, much like in this living room designed by Matthew Williamson.

Camel will pair well with most colors, but if you want to achieve a contrasting look, choose pillows and throw blankets in colors like dark blues and greens. 'While warm and more earthy tones such as taupe, beige, and brown pair nicely, consider styling it with various shades of blues, and greens, teals,' adds Jessica.

Additionally, decorate with patterns through these soft furnishings to add further interest to your camel couch, going as statement or subtle as you like.

'If you have a camel-colored sofa that you love and want to give some vintage flair to, add throw blankets and decorative pillows in an eclectic mix of colors and patterns,' says Kathy Kuo. 'You could also add an antique lamp to your side table next to the sofa, and vintage and thrifted treasures to your coffee table decor vignette.'

Camel-colored couches are a timeless choice, creating a neutral and sophisticated look while also being able to link to retro home decor, depending on how you style them. Whether your decor taste is neutral and pared back or bold and maximalist, a camel couch works well in many rooms and interior design styles.

Kate Hudson is always providing style inspiration, so it's no surprise that her home is awash with the biggest color trend of 2025: yellow.

The actress and singer's living room is a masterclass in decorating with a bright hue. First, Hudson's home has stark white walls adorned with beautiful solid yellow and red art pieces. The colors of her decorations are then reflected again in her retro-patterned red, pink, yellow, and green sofa. Overall, the look is fun, interesting, and mood-boosting. Though we can't see the whole space in her Instagram post, it's enough of a glimpse to know we want to recreate the look.

'Shades of yellow are increasingly becoming an interior design trend,' says Jennifer Ebert, digital editor at Homes & Gardens. She continues, 'Though once thought unfashionable, the use of the sunny color in homes like Kate Hudson's prove that it's on the rise. Yellow is popular because it inspires positive psychological effects and makes any room appear brighter.'

Though all shades of yellow are growing in popularity, butter yellow, the light yellow on the accents on Kate Hudson's sofa, is becoming especially trendy. 'Butter yellow is a versatile and inviting color that can bring a real sense of optimism and coziness to any space,' says Cassandra Leisz, Creative Director at Ruggable. 'It's much softer and muted than bright yellows, making it easier to incorporate into various design styles.'

She continues, 'Celebrities from Rihanna to Hailey Bieber have been sporting this hue lately, helping drive its popularity in fashion. We also saw a lot of butter-yellow tones in the latest season of Bridgerton, so it’s no surprise that this trend is just as popular in interior design.' It's the perfect choice for a yellow living room.

Shop H&G's Yellow Edit

A mix of yellow accessories is the perfect way to bring Kate Hudson's living room trend into your home without making any major accessories. We love this butter-yellow herringbone throw, which is ideal for incorporating texture into your living room. This bright yellow, monochromatic art piece is inspired by the print seen in Kate Hudson's living room. It would look especially striking on a brilliant white wall. Finally, we chose this matte, butter-yellow vase for its contemporary but classic shape.

Considering decorating with yellow in your own home? It's easy to add the brilliant shade to your existing decor. Leisz advises: 'You’ll want to consider the fixed elements in your room, like flooring, countertops, rugs and large furniture pieces. Butter yellow has warm undertones that pair beautifully with wooden floors, but pairing the right shade may take more time and consideration if you’re working with patterned carpets or tiles.'

She continues, 'Butter yellow as an anchor piece can serve as a focal point and a springboard for your color scheme, for example, a rug or piece of artwork. You can then pull out this exact shade in other accessories like lampshades, curtains, and blinds throughout the room for a harmonious look. Leisz concludes: 'The key is to use butter yellow accents strategically to create subtle connections that tie the room together.'

Whether you choose butter yellow or a brighter shade, creating a yellow room in your home is a wonderful, trending, choice. Kate Hudson's eclectic living room perfectly demonstrates why the shade is growing ever more popular.