How to use curves in interior design to add flow and dynamism
The London-based interior designer explains how curved lines can transform room designs


Using curved lines within a home offers a wealth of benefits, including the potential to add both flow and dynamism.
Line is an important consideration in interior design in order to make a room well-balanced and visually pleasing, and here I examine how to introduce curves and the effect they will have.

Charu Gandhi is Founder & Director, Elicyon. Charu Gandhi is a qualified Architect, registered with RIBA and ARB, who studied and taught at the Architectural Association before joining the London offices of Allies & Morrison Architects in 2006, where she worked on exceptional residential and hospitality projects in Beirut, Kerala and Qatar. Her portfolio of commissions also included the Doha National Library and the London Olympics Masterplan. Now in its seventh year, Elicyon is creating luxury, bespoke interiors for private clients, residential developers and boutique hotels in some of London’s most illustrious addresses, as well as around the world. Elicyon’s recent projects include the first ever show apartment at Chelsea Barracks, private homes within Claridges, Mayfair Park Residences and boutique property development, Beaufort Gardens in Kensington. Elicyon is also currently working on a number of ambitious, large scale projects in the Middle East.
1. Contrast curves with formal lines
Curves work equally as well in a traditional setting as in a contemporary scheme, though I find the style works best when you include a mix of classic furniture alongside modern, curved elements. Hard, more formal lines juxtaposed with soft curves tend to work well in a space.
2. Exploit the benefits of curves in large and small rooms
For smaller spaces, curved furniture can really help to soften the room and extend the eyeline, whereas in larger spaces, big sweeping curves create cozy, cocooning, warm moments.
3. Create a focal point with curves
If you’re looking to subtly add curves to a space, mirrors or artwork with curved frames are a lovely way to add interest and create a focal point within a room without the need to redesign the entire layout.
4. Focus on pattern and edge
If curved furniture feels a step too far, it can be fun to experiment with accessories and furnishings that incorporate a curved edge or pattern. Scalloped trims on rugs and pillows are a great way to add some softer lines into a living space and also give you a chance to experiment with pops of colour or pattern on the trim.
5. Be aware of proportion
Getting the proportions right when using curved furnishings is essential. As with all pieces, you want to avoid couches or armchairs looking clunky and uncomfortable, so it’s important to carefully measure the base of the piece and back for maximum comfort. Don’t go for style over substance!
If possible when designing a bespoke curved piece, it’s useful to see the product in 3D before it is made; often seeing it on paper or on a plan does not give a true sense of the dimensions and overall aesthetic.
6. Select the right furniture fabrics
My favorite fabrics to use when working with curved furniture are textured woven fabrics and bouclé. It’s paramount to get the padding just right to avoid any puckering. If you are working with a furniture maker or upholsterer, they’ll be able to advise on the best fabrics for your piece.
7. Opt for plains with texture
Patterned fabric can look very effective on curved furniture, but it can also be a painfully fiddly to match and align along all the edges, so unless you’re really set on a very specific pattern, I’d advise using a plain fabric and having fun with the texture instead.
Sign up to the Homes & Gardens newsletter
Design expertise in your inbox – from inspiring decorating ideas and beautiful celebrity homes to practical gardening advice and shopping round-ups.

Charu Gandhi is Founder & Director, Elicyon. Charu Gandhi is a qualified Architect, registered with RIBA and ARB, who studied and taught at the Architectural Association before joining the London offices of Allies & Morrison Architects in 2006, where she worked on exceptional residential and hospitality projects in Beirut, Kerala and Qatar. Her portfolio of commissions also included the Doha National Library and the London Olympics Masterplan. Now in its eighth year, Elicyon is creating luxury, bespoke interiors for private clients, residential developers and boutique hotels in some of London’s most illustrious addresses, as well as around the world.
-
I tried the Mexican cleaning ritual of La Limpia and spiritually cleansed my new home with a pleasing effect
I'm sleeping better, and my home feels refreshed in multiple ways
-
Zooey Deschanel and Johnathan Scott's California casual backyard is a minimalist's dream – their relaxed look is on trend for summer 2025
Goodbye, country gardens, hello, relaxed and serene outdoor spaces – this backyard is setting a minimalist trend for summer 2025
-
Shea McGee has just shared her top tips for an effortlessly chic yet cozy guest bedroom
Interior designer Shea McGee explains how she designs a timeless guest bedroom that's the perfect balance of cozy and chic
-
The best neutral paint colors for bathrooms that aren't white – 5 timeless shades designers always turn to
From earthy tones to soft pinks, these are designers' favorite neutral paints for bathrooms
-
Storage doesn't get more chic than this – 9 designers on how they made storage a design statement
These interior designer's projects are all brilliant examples of how to make storage more than just a place to hide things away
-
Joanna Gaines has given her Magnolia store a spring makeover – these are the 3 simple decor tips that are so easy to replicate
As spring draws near, interior designer Joanna Gaines has decorated her homeware store with farmhouse-style decor that's both elegant and uplifting
-
How to decorate a room with a high ceiling, according to interior designers
Take advantage of a high-ceilinged room with the techniques interior designers use
-
You've heard of color drenching but have you heard of stripe drenching? Here's how to bring this classic yet dramatic look into your home
We spoke with interior designers and uncovered their favorite ways to decorate with stripes in five iconic looks
-
Shea McGee uses this unpopular paint color in her home office – but color experts say it's actually the perfect shade for a calming working environment
Move over warm browns, this interior designer has chosen an unexpected cool-toned gray for her home office due to its soothing and sophisticated qualities
-
Want to know how to style a quilt to make your bed look more luxurious? Shea McGee has two simple methods
Shea uses a quilt to create a cohesive bed look that's so easy to style everyday