Three floors up, less than 500 square feet, and riddled with tight corners – from the day I signed the lease, I knew my pre-war New York apartment would be difficult to furnish. I managed to fit a queen-sized bedframe, and a slim armoire gave the space some semblance of a normal apartment. But as for a sofa – there was simply no way a standard pick would work. I needed something modular.

Since this would be my first time owning a sofa (all of my previous apartments came pre-furnished), I had research to do. Of course, I didn't want something so cheap that I'd have to throw it away in a year. Instead, I wanted the best sofa I could get. But with a slew of parameters for my open-plan living room, my search proved to be more challenging than I thought. After a few weeks of feeling like I'd never find the right sofa, I came across modular sofa experts, Cozey.

After narrowing down my options, I landed on the Gaia XL in Flax Haven – a two-seater modular sofa in a soft tan color. I took a leap of faith and ordered it online. Just under a week later, it arrived.

I vividly remember sitting on the floor of my hardly furnished studio, staring at the five boxes that supposedly contained my new sofa. Was this the right decision, or was ordering a sofa online a huge mistake? Spoiler alert: it was, without a doubt, the right call. Ahead, read about my experience receiving, assembling, and living with Cozey's Gaia Sofa.

Setting It Up

A few things surprised me about my Gaia sofa's delivery. First: the speed. The sofa arrived at my apartment less than a week after I'd ordered it – faster than some of my online clothing purchases. Not only that, but I couldn't believe how compact it was. Only five boxes held everything, along with a sixth that held the adjustable side table I had also ordered.

Though I recruited help for set up (shoutout to my generous mother and sister), I could've easily assembled the Gaia sofa on my own. Set up is very straightforward, with instructions available online and inside the box.

Since I ordered the two-seater sofa with an ottoman, I received three square-shaped base pieces (two for the seats, one for the ottoman), two flat back pieces, two armrests, and several cushions and covers. I was very surprised at how easy it was to assemble the sofa structure – just a few simple steps and assembly was nearly done.

Oddly enough, the hardest part of the setup wasn't putting any of the structural pieces together. In fact, it was stuffing the cushions into their fabric covers. Because the cushions themselves are so big and the fabric covers are designed with zipper openings that are slightly too small, squeezing the cushion into the cover was a two-person job – one that caused both my mother and I to break a sweat and laugh at how ridiculous we probably looked trying to do this.

The only other challenge that my mother, sister, and I encountered while assembling the Gaia sofa was connecting the base seats. Two plastic connectors are supposed to hook onto the hidden feet of the sofa, connecting the left seat with the right seat in the middle. It seems simple in theory, but this was rather challenging for us – we'd hook the back connector, then the front one would pop off, and vice versa. I blamed this on the fact that the floor of my pre-war apartment is egregiously uneven – causing the feet to not line up properly – and decided to not use the connectors. Thankfully, the sofa didn't slide apart without these connecting pieces.

Much to my surprise, the entire process – unboxing, assembling, cushion-covering, and pushing into place – took just under an hour. And though I had help, I definitely could've done this alone.

Living With the Gaia Sofa

I've lived with the Gaia sofa for a few months now. It has quickly become a fixture in my studio apartment – a spot where I work, read, and watch TV. I've even had a friend sleep on it while staying overnight at my place (they glowingly said it was more comfortable than their mattress at home).

As with any furnishing, the Gaia sofa comes with pros and cons. Here's what I've experienced so far:

Final Thoughts

Before the Cozey Gaia Sofa arrived at my apartment, I was so nervous that I'd made such a huge mistake. After all, ordering a sofa online without ever sitting on it is risky. However, I've been extremely pleased with my sofa so far. Its easy assembly and comfort have convinced me that I did, in fact, make the right decision.

Because I've only owned the sofa for a few months, I'm still unsure about its longevity. However, I'm pleased that because of its modular design, I can bring this sofa with me from apartment to apartment and get more pieces if I ever need to.

Aside from the Gaia, Cozey makes lots of other modular sofas that are just as practical for renters, small space dwellers, or those who like the convenience of furniture with several adjustable components. Below, find a few more of the options I considered before ordering the Gaia.

After you've found the perfect Cozey sofa for your home, be sure to check out the brand's other offerings – including tables, beds, pillows, and washable rugs. Soon enough, your entire house will be furnished by Cozey.

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Like many things, the value of an object depends heavily on its buyer. Some might walk straight past a well-loved piece of furniture, while others might only see its character and story. That said, there are some things always worth splurging on, no matter your tastes or style.

The beauty of decorating with antiques is that you never know what you'll uncover, but when you do stumble across something that speaks to you, it's handy to be aware of items worth the investment and the objects that aren't. From rare artwork to well-made cabinets, these are the items that experts say are worth the splurge – and the pieces you should always save on.

Splurge: Good Quality Storage Pieces

While not all vintage furniture trends are worth the investment (all-pine matching sets are a good example), the antique styles that only get better with age are undeniably worth spending a little more on.

High-quality storage pieces are a great place to start. 'I would splurge on a well-made antique case piece,' explains Lauren Sullivan, Founder and Curator of Well x Design and Well Found. 'A chest, cabinet, console, or bookcase. These pieces often anchor a room, and quality construction becomes more apparent over time. A great antique case piece can be used for generations and continue to adapt as a home evolves.'

Whether it's an aged trunk that shows all the best signs of patina or an armoire that's waiting to grace a farmhouse kitchen, sturdy wooden furniture that's remained timeless despite its years is always a safe bet. If it's remained classic for centuries, it'll continue to do so for as long as you own it.

Save: Decorative Trinkets

While meaningful keepsakes are priceless, decorative trinkets that can be found anywhere are always worth saving on. Unless they're rare artefacts or crafted by a notable hand, they're hardly vintage pieces that will add value to your home.

'Smaller decorative pieces are often where the best value can be found,' advises Lauren. 'Bowls, silver-plated candlesticks, planters, and other small objects don’t have to be expensive to make an impact. Some of my favorite pieces have been among the least expensive purchases, and it’s these items that often make a room memorable.'

While, of course, decorative trinkets are worth buying (a midcentury paperweight completes a coffee table, as does a brass candlestick stood on a mantel), you needn't spend hundreds on these pieces, as chances are you'll find them far cheaper elsewhere.

Splurge: Artwork

Art is always worth the investment. The beauty of vintage artwork is that it's a one-off, so you're unlikely to find the same piece again (unless it's a print or replica). If you spot a style that speaks to you (a classic still life of some flowers might be just what your entryway needs; alternatively, a striking abstract canvas woven with color might fill that empty spot above your mantel), buy it – even if it is a little expensive.

'There is nothing we love more than immediately understanding the story a room is conveying the moment we walk through it,' begins Sydney Hale, founder of antique and interiors store, Soul Fed Home. 'For us, good art does that and is always worth the splurge. We believe art tells a story of personal taste unlike any other category can.'

'Whether we’re discussing a painting, a personalized sketch or a curated gallery of engravings, these pieces instantly communicate the feeling of a home and the personality behind it,' says Sydney. 'Some of the very best spaces use layers of art to create a cohesive story to the space or the owners that simply can’t be replicated.'

Save: Generic Glassware

Vintage colored glassware has long been collectable, but the styles worth looking out for are typically the ones you don't often see.

'Resist the urge to overspend when it comes to mass-produced items,' says accredited appraiser Noralen Curl, from JustAnswer Fine Art and Antiques Expert. 'Vaseline Green and Pink Depression glass is lovely and makes a great table statement; however, there is so much of it available that bargain pricing can be had with patience.'

Instead of collecting mass-produced glassware, look out for handcrafted pieces you've not seen before. 'Same goes for recent fads, like Hen on Nest glass figurines,' adds Noralen. 'They are popular now among young collectors, and dealers are taking advantage by increasing the prices on their inventory that has sat unsold for a couple of decades.'

'In the end, though, if it is an item you really love, something that brings you joy, then whatever the piece is, it is worth the splurge.'

Splurge: Tapestries

'I will always splurge on good condition 16th-18th century verdure Flemish and later French Aubusson tapestries,' says Ambrice Miller, founder of Relic Interiors. 'These pieces have been coveted for hundreds of years, given their provenance. Originally commissioned in the “Low Countries,” in the 1500s, they broadened in popularity over the centuries, which reflected a major shift in European artistic leadership from the original great weaving centers to the royal manufactories of France.'

'These tapestries were more than decoration as they served as symbols of wealth,' explains Ambrice, 'political propaganda, and captured the shifts in artistic and religious tastes from the Middle Ages to the humanist and naturalist movement of the Renaissance. Unlike furniture of a similar period, which would have been made with extremely hard and precious woods to last, in order for tapestries (often made of silk and wool) to last 400-500 years, they would have been properly looked after. The pure cost of carry over that time gives insight into their expense now.'

Plenty of benefits come with tapestries. Ambrice explains, 'Though many items go in and out of trends and desire, quality antique tapestries will always represent a certain history, elegance, and craftsmanship that elevates any space and makes them worth every penny.'

Save: 'Trendy' Furniture

Midcentury modern furniture is very collectable, but not all pieces are worth the investment. Overly popular, trend-led styles that you see all over social media will likely have their moment and soon pass.

'It’s safe to say most antiques dealers are obsessed with their trade. That said, it means we scour books, the internet, and the knowledge of peers to create a mental catalogue or price index of most types of antiques that we find interesting,' says Ambrice. 'It also means you can identify trends before they filter down to the mainstream. I try to save on anything I feel does not have a strong record of sustained value or fluctuates dramatically quickly.'

'For instance, certain types of mid-century or vintage “trendy” furniture, such as rattan, bamboo, or hyper stylised pieces, which sometimes lack quality in their construction. I may include a few of those pieces in my collection if I genuinely like them, but I try to steer clear of anything too trendy. If you open social media and everyone’s homes begin to look the same with the same types of pieces, that’s probably an indicator that the aesthetic is on its way out, and maybe wait until you find a bargain to buy.'

Shop Timeless Antiques Worth the Splurge

Items worth splurging on are the ones you'll never see again and think about for years if you didn't pick them up. Whether it's a striking painting you can't take your eyes off or a quality armoire that'll only get better with age, invest in antiques that speak to you, and save on things you've seen a thousand times before.

'As for saving, we tend to stay conservative on pieces that aren’t as rare or that we come across often. We’ve noticed even in antiques, certain items naturally have their moment. We are always drawn to hunting for those one-of-a-kind items that give the home a unique twist,' says Sydney.

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It’s a lesser-known fact that acclaimed Romantic painter J.M.W. Turner, best known for his atmospheric studies of water and light, also had experience as an architectural draughtsman. That detail proved especially fascinating to Love Your Home founder Leigh Harmer, who, while researching the artist’s life and legacy, visited Sandycombe Lodge – the 1813 villa Turner not only lived in, but designed for himself.

The house clearly left an impression. It now serves as the blueprint for Love Your Home’s new collection: a sofa, armchair, and footstool inspired by Sandycombe’s architectural features and designed for modern life.

Each piece traces back to a specific detail from Sandycombe Lodge. ‘The Turner Sofa was conceived as a place for reflection and imagination, qualities that feel central to Turner’s work, and the leg design was inspired by the triglyph brick detailing on Sandycombe Lodge’s exterior,’ Leigh Harmer explains.

‘The Mallord Armchair,' meanwhile, 'draws on the story of Turner’s relationship with his father, who lived with him at Sandycombe Lodge and played an important role in both his personal and professional life. I can imagine him sitting by the kitchen fire in this armchair every night.'

'The shape and lines of the Sandy Footstool reference a distinctive glass ceiling light above the main staircase,' Leigh continues, 'a detail that caught my eye while spending time there.’

Down to the scale, even overarching elements were executed with the house in mind. Rather than subscribing to the increasingly oversized proportions dominating contemporary furniture, for instance, the pieces were designed to suit Sandycombe’s smaller, quainter rooms.

Appropriately, Love Your Home x Turner’s House has returned to Sandycombe Lodge for its official debut. ‘The collection began with time spent in the house, time spent studying Turner, so it felt important to bring the pieces back to that setting, showcasing them in the place that inspired them,' says Leigh.

‘Seeing pieces within the rooms that informed their design helps people understand the connection between the creative process and the finished furniture, completing the story in a meaningful way and helping to bring the house back to life.'

Turner treated Sandycombe Lodge as a sanctuary – somewhere to think, sketch, and escape the city. More than two centuries later, this aspiration hits even closer to home.

'What remains relevant is the idea of creating a home that supports creativity and reflection and offers a sense of calm, and that good design will last for hundreds of years,’ Leigh Harmer tells Homes & Gardens. ‘Turner built Sandycombe Lodge as an escape from the noise and activity of the city, and I think many people are still looking for that balance in their homes today.’

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Just over a month ago, IKEA announced the 10th rendition of its PS Collection with three playful yet functional home products: a bending lamp, a rocking bench, and an inflatable chair. The chair, designed in a deep green color and encased in a sleek metal frame, became an instant talking point for its surprisingly chic look. But at the same time, it left everyone wondering: is it actually comfortable?

I'll be honest, after first hearing about IKEA's inflatable accent chair, dubbed the 'Easy Chair', I was skeptical. I thought that if it's anything like the blow-up plastic furniture from my childhood, then there's no way it could be comfortable.

But that was before I had the chance to sit in it myself. Now, I'm convinced that this chair is more comfortable than most of the non-air-filled furniture I own.

Unlike the blow-up chairs you might have owned in the '90s or early '00s, this chair doesn't make that annoying, crinkling plastic noise when you sit on it, and it's not easily puncturable because of its thick fabric cover. Plus, you can move around on it, lean forward, sit backward, and relax for an extended period of time without feeling uncomfortable – something I can say with confidence after sitting on it myself. This IKEA air chair reimagines the blow-up chair from something childish to something so design-driven, you'd think it's a luxury designer find.

Like most IKEA furniture, the chair is incredibly easy to assemble. Just set up the frame, pump up the air chambers with the foot pump (sold with the chair), and zip each fabric cover shut. Once the cushions are in place, the chair is ready for use. If a spill ever occurs, the covers are conveniently machine-washable, and if the chair ever feels deflated, simply pump more air into each chamber.

Aside from providing extra seating in your living room or bedroom, this chair can become the talking point of your home – thanks to its chic, mid-century-inspired look and its borderline unbelievable means of assembly.

Nowadays, design trends are reminding us that the best furniture and decor can't just look good. It needs to be functional, comfortable, and practical for everyday life, too. Not only does IKEA's Easy Chair tap into that idea, but the brand's entire PS 2026 Collection was designed with the same intention. From height-adjustable stools to tables with hidden drawers, this PS Collection was designed to be stylish, versatile, and built for real life. The surprisingly chic and unbelievably comfortable air chair was just the start.

Shop More Playful and Functional Finds From IKEA's PS 2026 Collection

Though this collection has been available in stores for a few weeks, it just launched online today (28th May). If you've been dying to try the iconic Easy Chair or anything else from this limited-edition collection, now's your chance to shop it.

Clearly, the Easy Chair isn't the only surprising detail from IKEA's 10th PS Collection. These versatile and multifaceted furnishings can add a sense of playful style to your home, making it one that'll never feel short on personality.

Though the PS 2026 Collection has just launched online, it won't stay in stock long. Plus, it's a limited-edition collection, meaning if these pieces sell out, there is a chance they won't be restocked. So, if this collection is speaking to you, be sure to add to cart fast.

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The beauty of antique shopping is its unexpectedness; you never know what you'll uncover. While those of us who enjoy decorating with antiques could likely tell a tale or two about the gems we've unearthed, unsurprisingly, the best stories come from the dealers and design experts who are among antiques every day.

The most extraordinary finds are those that surprise us. From an ornate column capital salvaged from a scrap yard in India to an eight-foot high tapestry sourced from a French flea market, these are the favorite finds of dealers, experts, and designers who love antiques.

1. An 18th Century Oil Painting

'Last December I sourced a huge 18th-century French oil painting in the circle of Alexandre-François Desportes,' begins Ambrice Miller, founder of Relic Interiors. 'The painting depicts a dynamic stag hunt with its composition balancing the grace of the stag with the energy of the scene. I am always partial to a large painting depicting animals, but by coincidence, a dear friend (and fellow antiques dealer) was getting rid of some old Sotheby’s auction catalogues from the 90s-00s, so I grabbed a few as reference documents, as I love to flip through and learn about antiques that way.'

'When flipping through, I saw a piece by Desportes of a stag hunt and was captivated by the scale, energy, and execution of the painting. Weeks later, I was attending an auction in Paris and saw this piece was several lots before the piece I had intended to bid for; it felt like fate. The painting came from a chateau in Provence, and I had to have it. It was simply breathtaking and I was immediately taken by it.'

'I love this piece in large part because of how unexpected it was to find it,' explains Ambrice. 'Especially as I’d seen a catalogue write-up of the circle this artist would have been a part of. It’s difficult to find large-scale paintings in good condition with their original frame and without being relined or having undergone heavy restoration work. I felt like I hit the jackpot!'

'It is currently in our drawing room above the mantle, as we never use the fireplace in there. It’s in pride of place, and given its size, it is often the first piece that is noticed in the room. I feel like large paintings are having their moment again. For the past decade, interiors have been dominated by gallery walls and mixing and matching aesthetics. I love the conviction of having a statement piece and being unapologetic with the space it occupies. Now is a time to be bold with interiors.'

2. A Rare Midcentury Armchair

'During my adult life, I’ve been lucky to both acquire and inherit an array of antiques and vintage pieces, explains Anthony Barzilay Freund, antique specialist and editorial director at 1st Dibs. 'Each wonderful for a variety of reasons (none of which necessarily includes its value or price tag). My most recent acquisition was a mid-century modern armchair that adds the finishing touch to the much-used seating area in our kitchen.'

'Created by Finnish designer Ilmari Lappalainen in 1948, the lounge chair is from his Laila series, which he created for Asko, the iconic 20th-century furniture manufacturer. I found it on 1stDibs from one of my favorite dealers, Lawton Mull.'

'I’ve always been drawn to the gently enveloping curves of Scandinavian seating, but I’ve never owned a piece in that style. For the last decade, we’ve been slowly fitting out our kitchen with things we love – an 18th-century Swedish farm table here, a mod pair of chrome-based swivel chairs there, a banquette covered in a boldly graphic Madeline Weinrib textile – without a ton of thought about how they all fit together. Missing just one piece to finish the room, I chanced upon the Laila chair on the site, and we snapped it up immediately.'

'Thanks to the help of Cordelia Lawton and Patrick Mull, who reupholstered the cushions in a durable, dark blue Dedar fabric (Purple Flower), which picks up the medallion of the banquette, and stained the legs to better relate to the walnut top of our kitchen island, the chair miraculously completes the scattershot ensemble – and it’s incredibly comfortable to boot.'

3. An Antique Floor Covering

James Yarosh, interior designer and gallerist at James Yarosh Associates, explains the story behind a one-of-a-kind antique tapestry he sourced.

'This antique tapestry, used as a floor covering, became the defining element in a second-floor family atrium. Windows on two floors above allowed daylight to filter down into the atrium, casting a soft and shifting spotlight that animated the floor throughout the day.'

'In searching for the right foundation for the room, I collected antique furniture to create a visual dialogue between design and fine art. While sourcing rugs with Josh Nazmiyal at Rug & Kilim, I was drawn to tapestries, which are typically reserved for the wall. He encouraged me to pursue that instinct, to work outside the expected and open new possibilities. His no-limits approach to beauty met my vision seamlessly. The piece introduced a subtle wedding motif – signifying a poetic “marriage” within the space of fine art and design.'

'It proved to be my favorite solution for the floor,' says James. 'In this private setting, experienced only by family and close guests, it anchors the room, elevates the surrounding furnishings, and serves as an anchoring subplot worthy of connecting the carefully curated artworks surrounding it.'

4. An Indian Column Capital

Known for her love of antiques, Neha Gupta is an interior designer and founder of NU Curations. 'This is the most exceptional antique I have ever sourced and handled: a large 19th-century hand-carved red sandstone column capital, originating from a haveli (traditional mansion) in northern India.'

'During a business trip to conduct traceability work for construction and building material procurement, I encountered a sudden monsoon downpour at an open, cluttered storage yard for old construction materials,' explains Neha. 'While seeking shelter from the rain, I tripped over a massive concrete block. Rainwater washed away grime and coal soot that had accumulated over decades, revealing intricately carved lotus patterns and weathered geometric designs on the block’s sandstone surface. Long crushed beneath a rusted iron gate, the block had been completely forgotten.'

'This century-old stone carving is the most prized piece among all of my private collections. It integrates historical depth, sculptural art, and original inherent textures, and retains clear chisel marks left by craftsmen from a hundred years ago. The natural patina on its weathered terracotta-toned surface cannot be replicated by any modern craftsmanship, and it is fully capable of setting the atmosphere for the entire room.'

'To make architectural remnants compatible with contemporary residences, a high-contrast design logic must be adopted. The author transformed a large stone column capital into a sculptural cocktail table and placed it in a minimalist, well-lit living room,' says Neha. 'This original interior furnishing I created places a piece of rough red sandstone marked by erosion next to a low, ultra-modern custom white linen sofa; the contrast in texture between the two generates striking sensory tension.'

5. An 8ft High French Tapestry

'It's very difficult to decide which antique I have sourced is the most extraordinary as I have been doing this for a number of years,' explains owner and principal designer Debbie Mathews LeRoy of Debbie Mathews Antiques & Designs.

'If I had to pick just one, it would be an 18th-century French tapestry that I purchased more than thirty years ago. I found it at the Paris Flea Market and instantly fell in love with it. It was hanging in an outdoor booth and featured a pastoral scene in soft shades of green, terracotta, and brown. It measures eight feet tall and fourteen feet wide.'

'It was very expensive for me at the time,' explains Debbie, 'but I did my best to negotiate the price down. I was not successful, and I left the Paris Flea Market empty-handed. But I couldn't stop thinking about this magnificent piece, and I returned several days later. I was told by the vendor that he would take a lower price but that I would need to pay him in cash. My husband and I had to go to multiple banks all over Paris to collect the designated amount of cash since there was a maximum withdrawal amount at most banks. The vendor and I then made the exchange in our hotel lobby just hours before flying back to the United States. We transported this precious cargo in a large duffel bag so that it never left our possession once we acquired it.'

'It is my favorite find because of the story behind it! This piece has always been a focal point in our home because of its size and grandeur. It now resides in my living room right off the entrance hall. Most guests immediately notice it, which is an opportunity for me to tell the story and adventure of how it was purchased.'

Shop Timeless Antiques

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Since its first launch in the 1990s, IKEA's PS Collections have challenged the way we think about design. They've always been supplementary to the brand's standard range (hence the 'PS' or, 'post scriptum' title), and since the beginning, each collection has been intended to make good furniture accessible for all people, reflecting IKEA's core principle of democratic design.

Nearly 30 years and nine collections later, IKEA has continued to do just that, and its PS products have become cult favorites in the design scene for their simple yet innovative style. Now, as the 10th iteration of the PS Collection launches, IKEA continues to champion the democratization of high-end design. Only this time, playful functionality is at the forefront of its creations. The collection launches in-store today and is available to shop online from May 22nd.

Maria O'Brian, the Creative Leader of IKEA's PS 2026 Collection, says the series 'combines functionality with unexpected details, interactive elements, and a sense of discovery, turning ordinary objects into something joyful. 'The goal is to create objects that not only serve a purpose but also bring curiosity and something unexpected into the everyday.'

You might remember a few weeks ago when IKEA teased this iteration of its PS Collection at Milan Design Week with a bending lamp, a rocking bench, and a surprisingly chic inflatable chair. These pieces embody the notion of playful functionality – and the rest of the collection does, too.

IKEA enlisted the talents of twelve designers to bring PS 2026 to life – each asked to reinterpret Scandinavian design aesthetics through their eyes while blending innovation, practicality, and playfulness. From there, the imaginative, 44-piece collection was born – consisting of chairs, rugs, vases, lamps, and so many more pieces that are bound to become conversation starters within your home.

'The pieces you see in the collection invite people to touch, explore, and engage with them, revealing functions, surprises, or character beyond what first appears,' Maria muses. Like a reminder to embrace curiosity and the childlike sense of wonder that exists within all of us, these pieces are proof that good design doesn't have to be so serious all the time.

Aside from the inflatable green chair that became an instant fan-favorite, there's so much more to love from IKEA's 10th PS Collection. The woven wood cabinet, for instance, is a definite standout with its unique formation, its visual appeal, and its texturally rich style. As is the metal mirror with its abstract metal frame – a practical feature and an art piece. Even smaller decorations like the cheeky vases with ear-shaped handles and the portable lamps with colorful bases demonstrate the expressive nature of this collection.

These pieces have been made to help your home function more efficiently, but with their playful design elements, they'll turn it into a place that's filled with excitement around every corner.

IKEA's PS 2026 Collection couldn't come at a better time, especially as design trends are taking a turn away from rigidity to embrace personality and character in interior spaces. Though simple in form, each piece is built to bring joy into your home in one way or another – whether that be through the fun rocking feature on the rocking bench or the unique briefcase-style fold of the folding side table.

But the best part? It's all accessible. This collection's prices range from $4.99 to $499, with most products falling below $100 – further demonstrating IKEA's commitment to making high-end, well-made Scandinavian furniture and decor available for all.

Since PS 2026 is a limited edition collection, it won't be around forever. Shop it in stores now, or mark your calendars for its online drop on May 28th.

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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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As a perpetually space-conscious New Yorker whose outdoor space is, in reality, a fire escape, I’m acutely aware of (and deeply averse to) anything unnecessarily clunky. I love the whimsical wrought-iron bistro trend happening right now, but didn’t think those charming curves would make sense in my ‘backyard’ – until I found the answer not in France, as you might expect, but in Sweden.

IKEA’s LÄCKÖ outdoor chair, designed by house legend Jon Karlsson, pulls from the traditional wrought-iron styles I’ve admired on my travels, but – of chief importance – it stacks. You could buy twelve and only sacrifice the footprint of one in the off-season, or simply stack a few away for more intimate alfresco gatherings. Actually, that’s not even the best part about this small patio gem: it’s $55 – less than a decent steak au poivre pretty much anywhere in the city.

Which, of course, raised my eyebrows. The quality has to be questionable, I thought – but the reviews insist otherwise. This is one of IKEA’s more raved-about patio pieces (and I cover a lot of them).

With a 4.7-star rating across 150-plus reviews, people are gushing praises like ‘we love the way these chairs look and perform’ and ‘they look expensive.’ Most seem to be buying multiples to romanticize their suburban backyards – often paired with the matching bistro table, which keeps the Euro whimsy theme going with delicate cutouts that echo eyelet lace.

At this price, my small backyard is in for at least two of these slender seats. And yet, as far as my apartment is concerned, it’s still just one chair.

How I'd Style It

The mood is Euro summer. Here’s how I’d bring that where-we-all-wish-we-were feeling to your own backyard, starting with our new favorite patio seat.

You’re going to need some shade. My recent outdoor umbrella edit, quite literally, has your LÄCKÖ setup covered with cabana stripes and fringe.

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You've spent hours meticulously checking the measurements and layout details of your island, ensuring there is plenty of legroom for comfortable seating, so it's only right to introduce bar stools that do your design justice.

Getting your kitchen island seating ideas right requires more than picking a couple of stools and placing them in situ. The best designs balance unrivalled comfort with enduring style to create a place people actually want to spend time.

And the success really hinges on choosing the best bar or counter stools. From charming wooden designs with decorative details to fully upholstered seats and colorful styles, these are the best stools to make island dining all the more appealing.

Think of your island seating as a way to add personality to your design. A wavy back or a playful color brings a whole new level of style to your space without the same commitment as a cabinet detail or paint color. And when you mix in the added comfort, you'll wonder why you didn't upgrade your bar stools sooner.

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As someone who works from home fairly regularly, I understand firsthand the importance of having a designated at-home workspace. But more often than not, that workspace can feel like the focal point of a room – drawing unwanted attention to work-related matters and undermining the room's aesthetic with its utilitarian setup.

I noticed this exact scenario happening in my apartment. Despite my best efforts to position my WFH setup out of the way, it was starting to look like the statement piece of my small studio – the first thing you'd notice when you walked through the front door. Rather than a space for living, my studio was beginning to feel like a space I designed solely for work.

Instead of letting my dominant desk completely take over the aesthetic of my apartment, I decided to start looking for something that could help me create a work-focused zone that blurred into the room. The solution was IKEA's LÄNGDHOPP desk – an unassuming, multi-functional desk that acts as a workspace when needed and tucks away when it's time to log off.

Unlike most desks, IKEA's LÄNGDHOPP desk isn't large and bulky. Instead, this model is subtle and unobtrusive by design. Built with two tiers – the lower of which can slide out to provide an additional surface – this desk is highly versatile and can adapt to your needs throughout the day. During work hours, you can pull the lower tier out to create a full-sized desk, and once work is over, just push it back underneath and out of the way.

For those who don't want their WFH setups to become the focal point of their room, this desk is clearly the ideal candidate. But aesthetics aside, this desk is one of the most practical space-saving ideas I've ever seen. If you live in a studio apartment or work from a small bedroom, this desk will make sure your at-home workspace doesn't take up more floor space than it needs to. When work is over, simply push the lower tier away, and this full-size desk transforms into an unassuming credenza that'll sit flush against the wall to allow more space for moving around.

One of the things I like most about this desk is that it creates a clear boundary between work and life. Because of its movable lower tier, you can physically tuck work away at the end of the day and reframe your space for living. Sure, it's a small adjustment, but it's one that can make your home feel much more relaxed and designed for you – not your job.

With its multi-functional design and its undeniable versatility, this desk makes a strong case for reimagining what a WFH setup can look like in 2026. And since it's sold for just under $100 on IKEA's site, I'm certain that it's well worth a spot in your home.

Shop Desk Accessories from IKEA

Whether you use IKEA's LÄNGDHOPP desk as a part-time WFH setup or a daily desk, you'll need some accessories to help increase its functionality. Shop must-have desk accessories from IKEA, below.

With IKEA's LÄNGDHOPP desk, your at-home work setup won't overtake your room. Instead, it'll adapt to your daily needs and minimize the amount of space you dedicate to your job – making your home a place meant for living rather than working. Not only that, but it'll give you more floor space to work with, too.

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Just over 30 years ago, IKEA debuted its first PS Collection at the Milan furniture fair. It was a collection built to challenge exclusivity in the design industry with pieces that were not only well-made and stylish, but affordable, too. The PS Collection became a cult favorite, and IKEA continued to expand upon it over the years.

Now, back in Milan once again, IKEA has announced the 10th iteration of this collection – designed with the same intention, but underscored with a hint of playful flair – which is set to launch in stores and online on May 13th.

IKEA teased the launch of the collection at Milan Design Week with three standout products, including a blow-up (yes, blow-up) accent chair that looks as chic as a luxury find.

At first glance, you'd never guess that this chair is inflatable. But alas, it's filled with air, not foam or fiberfill. Created by IKEA designer Mikael Axellson, the 'Easy Chair' reimagines iconic inflatable furnishings from the '90s into something so sleek, you'd actually want to give it a dedicated spot in your home.

While blow-up furniture tends to have a short lifespan, this chair was built for longevity. It features a carbon steel frame for increased durability as well as a fabric cover that eliminates any squeaking or sliding. Plus, this fabric cover prevents damage to the inner air chamber, too.

Although the Easy Chair requires some manual labor with a foot pump for assembly, once blown up, it'll become the focal point of any room – not only for its stylish and slightly retro design, but for its unexpected assembly, too.

Along with the Easy Chair, IKEA unveiled two other products at Milan Design Week to tease its new PS Collection: the Floor Uplighter and the Bench.

Designer Lex Pott created the Floor Uplighter, a colorful floor lamp that bends every which way to cast its ambient glow wherever you need it to. Its form is sleek, and its shade looks trumpet-like, creating a lamp that's not only practical for your home, but statement-making, too.

As for the bench, that was designed by IKEA Designer Marta Krupińska. It features a slightly U-shaped base that gives it its rocking capability. And since it's made from solid pine, it's a highly durable piece that can handle the pressure of constant use.

Just as the first PS collection reflected the effortlessness of modern Scandinavian style and IKEA's principles of Democratic Design, this new collection does the same. Each piece has been made with form, function, quality, sustainability, and low price held to the same degree of importance, and it shows.

These three pieces are just a taste of what to expect from the rest of IKEA's PS 2026 Collection – highly functional furnishings that look good, are made well, and can go the distance in home design. Between their unique forms and playful capabilities, these three furnishings can become the multi-faceted personality pieces of your home, and I expect the rest of the collection will be just the same.

IKEA's PS Collection drops on May 13th, so be sure to mark your calendars for the launch of these exceptional designs.

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The BILLY Bookcase is undoubtedly an IKEA icon. First launched in the '70s, it has been a home decor staple for decades, keeping interiors organized with ease and looking stylish while doing so. But now, our old friend BILLY has a brand new, bright blue look.

IKEA's renowned BILLY Bookcase that's been everywhere from living rooms and home offices to school classrooms (my middle school homeroom had the BILLY Bookcase), is now, for a limited time, available in a bold and electrifying shade of blue. Nothing else about the bookcase has changed – it's just as spacious, just as easy to assemble, and just as well-priced as it's always been. The only difference is that now with this new color, BILLY commands attention, becoming a style statement in its own right.

In the past, the BILLY Bookcase used to be nothing more than a simple bookcase. Of course, it was a good one – reasonably priced, spacious, and long-lasting. But it was never a statement piece or a focal point – that is, until now.

With the launch of this new, bright blue colorway, BILLY has a whole new personality. No longer just a spot for books or decorative objects, this bookcase is a vibrant furnishing that can act as a dopamine decor idea to enhance the aesthetic of your home. BILLY is now an eye-catching feature piece, and perhaps even a conversation-starting furnishing.

One of the reasons why the BILLY Bookcase has been loved for so long is because of its versatility. It can be used in nearly any room, for any purpose, and it can be paired with more to create a larger bookshelf. This new model is still the same in that way, but in this shade of blue, it can make any room feel so much more exciting.

Use BILLY to make your living room more colorful while simultaneously organizing the space, or add it to your bedroom to store books while bringing color to the scene. You can even use it as an entryway idea – to keep clutter at bay while stylizing the busy space. The BILLY Bookcase is bound to enliven the atmosphere of any room in which you place it, all thanks to this vibrant color.

Since this blue shade is a limited edition colorway for the BILLY Bookcase, it's certain to sell out fast. So, if you're interested in getting your hands on this top-rated, iconic bookcase in this exceptionally exciting color, you better not wait.

How To Style IKEA's BILLY Bookcase

IKEA's BILLY Bookcase presents a styling opportunity like none other. With each of its five shelves boasting a weight capacity of 30lbs, BILLY can hold anything from old magazines and current reads to flower vases, picture frames, and small trinkets. Below, find some bookshelf styling ideas from IKEA to complete the shelves of your blue BILLY Bookcase.

IKEA's BILLY Bookcase has been a sought-after style for years, and now that it's available in the limited edition blue colorway, it's even more desirable. This is the type of furnishing that'll become a staple in your home for years to come – no longer just for its storage capabilities, but for its alluring style, too.

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There’s something about a rocking chair that changes the feel of a space straight away. Indoors, it brings a sense of ease – somewhere you naturally end up with a book, or a cup of my coffee that turns into a longer pause than you planned. I’ve always had a soft spot for one inside, so the idea of having that same feeling outdoors makes perfect sense.

And at the moment, ALDI has made that idea surprisingly accessible.

Their Belavi Folding Rocker is one of those pieces that feels like a bit of a find. It looks and feels more considered than you’d expect at this price point, yet it comes in at under $50. It’s a simple addition that will completely shift how you use your outdoor space.

Rocking chairs, of course, have been around for a long time. The original design dates back to the early 1700s and is often linked to Benjamin Franklin, who helped bring it into the mainstream. What’s interesting is how little the idea has changed since then. That gentle back-and-forth has always been tied to slowing down – whether it’s on a front porch, in a nursery, or tucked into a quiet corner of the house. Bringing that outdoors feels less like a trend and more like a natural extension of how we’re starting to use our gardens and outdoor living rooms now.

Because the reality is, when it comes to backyards, outdoor seating does a lot of the heavy lifting. You can invest in landscaping or lighting, but if there’s nowhere comfortable to sit, you’re less likely to spend time out there. A good chair draws you in. It gives the space a purpose.

That’s exactly where something like this works so well. A rocking chair, in particular, has a way of encouraging you to slow your pace without even thinking about it. Morning coffee feels a bit more intentional, and evenings stretch out a little longer.

This one also gets the practical side right, which matters just as much. The frame feels sturdy but not overly heavy, and the fabric is breathable enough to stay comfortable on warmer days. It doesn’t feel delicate or overly precious – it’s made to be used.

The folding design is another detail that makes a real difference. Even the best outdoor furniture can sometimes feel like a commitment, especially if space is limited. Being able to fold it down and store it away easily gives you a bit more flexibility, whether you’re working with a compact balcony or just prefer to keep things uncluttered.

In terms of style, it’s refreshingly straightforward. The neutral tones mean it blends in without much effort. It doesn’t dominate the space or demand attention – it just fits, which is often exactly what you want with garden furniture.

If you’ve picked up any of ALDI’s seasonal home pieces before, you’ll know how quickly they tend to go. Once they’re gone, that’s usually it. And this feels like the kind of piece people spot and immediately see a place for.

For me, it comes back to that same feeling I already love indoors. A rocking chair makes a space feel more settled, more inviting – like it’s somewhere you’re meant to spend time, not just pass through. Having that outside, even in a small way, changes how the space feels day to day.

And at this price, it’s an easy way to make your garden feel a bit more like a proper extension of your home – without overthinking it.

Shop Alternative Garden Rockers

ALDI’s Belavi Folding Rocker is currently available for just $49.99 while stocks last – a rare chance to pick up stylish garden seating at a genuinely accessible price.

If you can’t get to a store or it’s not available in your area, there are plenty of equally considered alternatives from trusted home and garden retailers, so you can still bring that relaxed, design-led seating moment into your outdoor space without compromise.

Once a home necessity, now a beacon of a bygone era, the telephone bench (also fondly known as the gossip bench) was designed for the sole act of sitting back, putting your feet up, and enjoying nothing more than a good old chit chat.

Like a sofa whose purpose is to cradle you after a long day, the telephone bench was created to fulfil one (important) need: gossip. Whether it was a sleek midcentury bench fitted with a handy shelf for a directory, or an upholstered armchair with a mahogany side table attached, past makers knew a thing or two about furniture with style and purpose.

From the now extinct IKEA SPARTA telephone table from the 1950s, 'ideal for people who liked a long chat on the phone', to Emma Chamberlain and West Elm's brand new gossip-aiding creation, here at Homes & Gardens, we're pining for a vessel for catching up with friends. While the gossip bench fell out of favor in recent decades (along with wired-in phones, which gave these benches their purpose) like all good things, this charming vintage furniture trend has officially come back around.

While we may not have a use for a gossip bench in quite the same way they did in decades past, adding a bench to perch on, with a bit of extra storage, is always a good idea in an entryway.

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Whether you're hunting for the perfect vintage armchair or simply looking to inject your home with a little more character, there is an impressive array of antique markets, happening across the country this April.

The beauty of decorating with antiques isn't just the charm it adds to a home; the journey of hunting down treasures is part of the fun. Spring (also known as antique-hunting season) is well and truly underway, meaning plenty of outdoor (and indoor) markets are getting started this month.

From the Antiques Extravaganza that takes place along a seven-mile strip across Adamstown, Pennsylvania, to the Alameda Point Antiques Faire, the largest antique show in Northern California, here are the best antique fairs and flea markets taking place throughout April.

The Best April Antique Sales to Add to Your Calendar

If you are looking for shows, markets, and sales in your local area, select your region below for a tailored list:

Antiques and vintage sales in the North

Antiques and vintage sales in the Northeast

Antiques and vintage sales in the Southeast

Antiques and vintage sales in the Midwest

Antiques and vintage sales in the Southwest

Antiques and vintage sales in the West

Antique and Vintage Sales in the North

1. Minnesota's Antique Spectacular

When: April 18th & 19th
Time: Sat 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Sun 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Where: 1265 Snelling Ave N, Falcon Heights, MN, United States, Minnesota
Entry Fee: Regular admission $10

With 250 dealers offering a range of antique furniture and antique collectables, Minnesota's Antique Spectacular is a real gem. It's open rain or shine, there's free parking, and a convenient drive-up and easy loading access.

2. Bull Yoke Flea Market, Michigan

When: April 16th-19th
Time: 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Where: The Bull Yoke Flea Market, 2034 9 Mile Road, Union City, MI, 49094
Entry Fee: Free

The Bull Yoke Flea Market offers a range of antique goods, tools, vintage clothing and more. With food trucks and craft stalls to enjoy in between shopping for antiques, it's the perfect day out for locals or visitors staying in the area. Parking is free.

Antique and Vintage Sales in the Northeast

1. Antiques Extravaganza, Pennsylvania

When: April 23rd – 27th
Time: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (hours vary per vendor)
Where: Renninger’s Antique Market, 272 Reading Road (Route 272), Adamstown/Denver, PA
Entry Fee: Free

Held three times a year, The Antiques Extravaganza takes place along a seven-mile strip of Antique Malls & Shops on a single road in northern Lancaster County. Home to some of the best antique sellers in the region, the market is impressive in size. With free parking and free entry, it's undeniably worth attending.

2. Vintage Bazaar, New England

When: April 10th – 12th
Time: Fri 1:00 pm-6:00 pm, Sat 10:00 am-4:00 pm, Sun: 10:00 am-3:00 pm
Where: 2064 Woodbury Ave, Newington, NH 03801
Entry Fee: $10 per adult, free admission for children under 18

Since 2011, Vintage Bazaar has attracted visitors from across the Northeastern region. Located in the former Savers store next to the Fox Run Mall, it's the perfect location for all to enjoy, no matter the weather. Expect to see over 100 vendors selling all kinds of vintage and handmade goods.

3. New York International Antiquarian Book Fair

When: April 30th- May 3rd
Time: Thurs 5:00 pm-9:00 pm, Fri 12:00 am-8:00 pm, Sat: 12:00 am-7:00 pm, Sun: 12:00 pm-5:00pm
Where: Park Avenue Armory, 643 Park Avenue, New York
Entry Fee: From $10-$75 (depending on attendance day)

The NY International Antiquarian Book Fair is 'the world's leading antiquarian book fair in its 60+ years of existence. Once a year, exhibitors from across the world convene at New York City's historic Park Avenue Armory, presenting a trove of materials including rare books, maps, illuminated manuscripts, fine bindings, illustrations, historical documents, photographs, prints, memorabilia, and ephemera.'

4. Elephant's Trunk Flea Market, Connecticut

When: April 12th
Time: 5:30 am-3:30 pm (depending on ticket)
Where: 490 Danbury Rd, New Milford, CT 06776
Entry Fee: $4 General Admission, $20 priority (cash or credit)

Elephant's Trunk Flea Market has been running since 1976. Stocking all things home-related, from antique art to rustic furniture, it's perfect for home enthusiasts looking for a specific piece. It's not just vintage homewares you can find at the market, expect to find plenty of vendors selling homemade gifts and food, too.

5. Stormville Airport Antique Show and Flea Market, NY

When: April 25th & 26th
Time: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Where: 428 NY-216, Stormville, NY 12582, United States
Entry Fee: Free

For over 56 years, the Stormville Airport Antique Show has offered a place for antique and vintage lovers to shop. Boasting hundreds of vendors, its size makes it the perfect day out for all to enjoy. With over fifteen food trucks, you'll be able to indulge whilst you shop. With free parking and entry, it's one worth attending.

Antique and Vintage Sales in the Midwest

1. Shipsewana Auction & Flea Market, Indiana

When: Every Tuesday & Wednesday in April
Time: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm
Where: 345 S Van Buren Street, Shipshewana, IN 46565
Entry Fee: Free

The Shipshewana Flea Market is a huge outdoor flea market. The size of thirty football fields, there is a range of antique and vintage stalls, as well as live auctions and food carts to enjoy. General admission parking is $5 for the whole day, and there are electric scooters to rent. Shopping carts and wagons are also available to rent.

2. Kane County Flea Market, Illinois

When: 11th & 12th April
Time: Saturday 11:00 am-4:00 pm & Sunday 7:00 am-3:00 pm
Where: 525 S. Randall Road, St. Charles, IL 60174
Entry Fee: $7 (children under 12 are free)

With up to 400 dealers each month, you're sure to leave with bags full of goodies at Kane County Flea Market. Located an hour West of Chicago, the Flea Market is held on the first Sunday of each month and the preceding Saturday (March-December). Parking is free.

3. The Springfield Antiques Show and Flea Market, Ohio

When: 18th & 19th April
Time: Saturday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, Sunday 9:00 a.m - 4:00 pm
Where: Clark County Fairgrounds, 4401 S Charleston Pike, Springfield, OH 45502
Entry fee: From $3-$12 depending on day and time. Tickets on sale at the gate. Cash Only

The Springfield Antique Show has been running for more than 40 years. Held at the Clark County Fairgrounds in Springfield, Ohio, it attracts collectors from neighbouring states and further afield. Known for its antiques and vintage goods, it's a long-established event that plenty attend. Parking is free.

4. Grayslake Illinois Antique Flea Market

When: 11th & 12th April
Time: Saturday 9 am to 4 pm and Sunday 9 am to 3 pm
Where: Lake County Fairgrounds, 1060 E Peterson Road, Grayslake, IL 60030 United States
Entry Fee: $9 (at the door), children under 12 free

Filled with an array of vendors selling vintage clothes, jewelry, antique decor, and collectables, the Grayslake, Illinois, Antique Flea Market is loved by locals. Held inside the Expo Hall, it's an event that everyone can attend, rain or shine, and with free parking, it's a no-brainer for vintage lovers.

Antique and Vintage Sales in the South

1. Liberty Antiques Festival, North Carolina

When: 24th & 25th April
Time: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm
Where: Pike Family Farm, 2855 Pike Farm Rd, Staley, NC
Entry Fee: Adults, $10; Children under 12, free

'Held just twice a year, 400 dealers from more than 25 states migrate to this 100-acre farm near downtown Liberty, North Carolina', says the Liberty Antiques Festival website. From real antique treasures dating as far back as the 18th century to more contemporary pottery and toys, there's an array of pieces waiting to be discovered. There's free parking, too!

2. Antique & Design Center of High Point, North Carolina

When: 23rd - 29th April
Time: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm (Thurs- Tues) 9:00 am - 2:00 pm (Wed)
Where: Ground level of Historic Market Square, 316 W Commerce Ave, High Point NC 27260
Entry Fee: High Point Market is open to the trade only

If you're an interior designer or work in the vintage or antique industry, High Point Market features more than seventy of the country's most talented and creative antiques dealers and has been running for 15 years.

3. Covington Antiques & Uniques Festival, Louisiana

When: 18th & 19th April
Time: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm (Thurs- Tues) 9:00 am - 2:00 pm (Wed)
Where: 419 N. New Hampshire Street, Covington, LA 70433
Entry Fee: Free

Covington Antiques and Uniques Festival features over fifty vendors selling fine art, antiques, vintage decor and more, meaning you're sure to leave with bags filled with treasures. With a live auction, appraisals by experts and walking tours and live music, it's an event you're guaranteed to enjoy.

4. Old Court House Spring Flea Market, Mississippi

When: 18th & 19th April
Time: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm (Thurs- Tues) 9:00 am - 2:00 pm (Wed)
Where: Old Court House Museum, 1008 Cherry Street, Vicksburg, MS
Entry Fee: Free

Known for its Arts & Crafts made by local artisans, the Old Court House Spring Flea Market is a charming little faire that's worth attending if you're in the local vicinity. While the market edges on the smaller side, there are food booths to enjoy, too, while you browse the stalls of gifts.

5. Ringgold Feed & Seed Antiques, Georgia

When: 17th & 18th April
Time: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Where: 403 High Street, Ringgold, GA 30736
Entry Fee: Free

The largest antique market in the Chattanooga area, Ringgold's Antique Event, attracts thousands of guests annually. The event is free, and parking is too, so there's every reason to visit them! Running for over ten years, it's now a market that spans over 7500 square feet, filled with antique and vintage stalls.

Antique and Vintage Sales in the Southeast

1. Braselton Antique & Artisan Festival, Georgia

When: 25th & 26th April
Time: Saturday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm, Sunday 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Where: Art-Tiques Vintage Market, 110 State St, Commerce, Ga
Entry Fee: Free

With over three hundred vendors, Braselton Antique & Artisan Festival is the perfect day out to enjoy with family and friends. Expect food trucks, handmade gifts, and an array of vintage stalls.

2. Scott Antique Market, Atlanta

When: 9th-12th April
Time: Saturday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm, Sunday 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Where: Atlanta Expo Center, 3650 & 3850 Jonesboro Road, Atlanta, GA
Entry Fee: $5 at the door (cash only)

Since 1987, the Scott Antique Market has attracted buyers across the region for its unique vintage and antique pieces. Known for its homeware and interior pieces, it's perfect for homeowners looking to revamp their home. Free parking.

3. West Palm Beach Antiques Festival, Florida

When: 24th-26th April
Time: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Friday and Saturday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm Sunday
Where: 9067 Southern Boulevard, West Palm Beach, FL 33411
Entry fee: $11-$25

Florida’s largest monthly antique market, the West Palm Beach Antiques Festival, hosts hundreds of vendors every month, offering a diverse mix of antique and vintage furniture, retro finds, artwork, clothing, jewelry, and more. Spanning three days, the March event is just around the corner. Beat the queues by purchasing tickets online in advance.

Antique and Vintage Sales in the Southwest

1. Alameda Point Antiques Faire, California

When: 5th April (the first Sunday of every month)
Time: 6:00 am to 3:00 pm
Where: 3900 Main Street, Alameda, CA 94501
Entry Fee: $20 for VIP shopping (6:00 am-7:30 am), $15 Early Buy (7:30 am-9:00 am), $10 Morning (9:00 am-12:00 pm), $5 Afternoon (12 pm-3:00 pm)

The largest antique show in Northern California, the Alameda Point Antiques Faire boasts over 800 dealer booths. Remember, it's cash only at the Box Office. Parking is free, and a shuttle service operates between 8:30 am and 3:30 pm to shuttle customers from the parking lot to the Faire Entrance.

2. Junk In The Trunk Vintage Market, Arizona

When: 24th-26th April
Time: Friday VIP - April 24th: 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm, Saturday Early Entry - April 25th: 9:00 am to 11:00 am, Saturday General Admission - April 25th: 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, Sunday General Admission - April 26th: 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Where: WestWorld of Scottsdale - North Hall 16601 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Entry Fee: $10-$50 depending on admission date and time

With over 160 vendors to shop and 120,000 square feet in size, Junk In The Trunk Vintage Market is worth a visit if you're located in the Arizona region. With live music, DJS, and food trucks, you can shop to your heart's content and enjoy a beverage or snack while you're at it. Remember, it's $10 to park in the WestWorld car park. Bring cash, but most vendors do accept cards.

3. Sweet Salvage Vintage Market, Phoenix, Arizona

When: 16th-19th April
Time: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Where: 4648 N 7th Ave, Phoenix, AZ
Entry Fee: Free

Parking & Entry is FREE. Located in the Melrose District, the Sweet Salvage Vintage Market is open just four days a month. Each event is themed (this month is 'Down to Earth') and filled with vintage and antique picks and seasonal treasures.

4. Melrose Vintage Market, Phoenix, Arizona

When: 19th April
Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Where: Melrose Vintage Market, 700 West Campbell Avenue, Phoenix, AZ, 85013
Entry Fee: Free

Enjoy the sun and shop for your favorite vintage pieces at Melrose Vintage Market. From vintage clothes to home decor, the market is the perfect way to spend a morning or afternoon. Note, it's dog-friendly, and there's free parking behind Campbell Place Plaza and additional street parking nearby.

5. The Duce, Melrose, Phoenix, Arizona

When: 12th April
Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Where: 525 South Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ, 85004
Entry Fee: Free

The perfect way to spend a Sunday, The Duce is the hot-spot for vintage lovers, where live music and food make shopping feel even more fun. Shop pre-loved designer clothes or home decor with ease. It's free to attend, but dogs are only allowed out on the patio. There's free street parking available. Valley Metro Rail – Buckeye/Central Ave Station. Valet available.

6. Thieves Market, Arizona

When: 4th April
Time: 7:00 am - 1:00 pm
Where: 1601 W Main St, Mesa, AZ 85201
Entry Fee: General admission: $5 (8:00 am – 2:00 pm), Kids 12 and under are free

Described as 'an old school flea market', Thieves Market is a popular spot with locals, occurring every first Saturday of the month. Expect yummy food, coffee trucks, and an array of vendors selling antique, vintage, and handmade treasures. There's tree parking, too!

7. The Rose Bowl Flea Market, Pasadena, CA

When: 12th April (the second Sunday of every month)
Time: Early Bird Admission Tickets allow entry from 5:00 AM to 8:45 AM, General Admission Tickets allow entry from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Where: Rose Bowl Stadium, 1001 Rose Bowl Drive, Pasadena, CA 91103
Entry Fee: Regular Admission: $15, Early Bird ($22), Children under 12 are free

With over 2,500 vendors to peruse, the Rose Bowl Flea Market is iconic for a reason. Described as 'the most well-attended and vendor-profitable flea market in the entire country. The market is known all over the world because of its uniqueness, the quality of vendors, and great shoppers of all ages.' Remember, no pets allowed, and buy your tickets online before! There's free parking, too.

Antique and Vintage Sales in the West

1. Junk-tiquen in the Burg, Washington

When: 18th April
Time: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Where: Kittitas County Event Center, 901 E. 7th Avenue, Ellensburg, WA
Entry Fee: $5 admission at the door

A smaller-scale vintage market that's perfect for vintage lovers looking to peruse stalls without committing to a whole day of shopping, Junk-tiquen in the Burg is open to the public only twice a year, so if you're a Washington local, you might want to keep the 18th April free. With free parking and fair-priced admission, it's a visit worth making.

2. Rusty & Dusty Vintage Market, Washington

When: 18th & 19th April
Time: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Where: 615 Arrowhead Ranch, Camano Island, WA, 98282
Entry Fee: Free

Filled with antique and vintage vendors and plenty of food and beverage stalls, Rusty & Dusty Vintage Market is an event many flock to. Best known for its vintage decor, it's perfect for homeowners looking for the right piece for their schemes.

3. The Great Junk Hunt, Puyallup, WA

When: 24th & 25th April
Time: Fri: 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm, Sat: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Where: Washington State Fairgrounds, 110 9th Avenue, Southwest Puyallup, WA, 98371
Entry Fee: Fri: $16-$21 (online, depending on entry) Sat: $11-$13 (online, depending on entry)

An award-winning flea market that boasts an array of vintage and antique sellers, The Great Junk Hunt is a highly anticipated event that plenty attend. With wine and beer to drink, delicious food, and music to enjoy, it's more than just a shopping site. Free parking is located in the Blue lot, and kids under 12 go free.

4. The Great Junk Hunt, Salem, Oregon

When: 10th & 11th April
Time: Fri: 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm, Sat: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Where: Oregon State Fair & Exposition Center, 2330 17th St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Entry Fee: Fri: $16-$21 (online, depending on entry) Sat: $11-$13 (online, depending on entry)

An award-winning flea market that boasts an array of vintage and antique sellers, The Great Junk Hunt is one worth attending. With wine and beer to drink, delicious food, and music to enjoy, it's more than just a shopping site. Free parking and kids under 12 go free.

Antique and Vintage Fair Shopping Tips

A vintage-lover's paradise, whether you're attending a flea market known for its impressive selection of archive clothing or you're spending the day, wagon in hand (like Amazon's collapsible wagon cart), hunting for antique home decor exclusively, there are a few things worth knowing, no matter what you're shopping for.

Firstly, vendors at vintage markets often only accept cash, and the same goes for the entrance fee. While you might bump into a few sellers who take credit cards, it's always worth being prepared and carrying an ample amount of cash just in case you stumble across something you truly love (and simply can't pass up). If you can, purchase your ticket before you arrive online to beat the queues and get to the goods straight away.

Next, while it may seem obvious, come prepared. By that, we mean, make sure you've packed all the essentials. From a bottle of water to keep you hydrated in the April sun (Californians, we're looking at you) to a tape measure (Amazon Basics Self-Locking Tape Measure is a good place to start) to ensure the armchair you've fallen in love with fits in your living room nook, bringing these staples will make your visit all the more successful. Comfortable shoes, a notebook and pen to jot down vendors' names or pieces you're on the hunt for, and snacks (if you're planning to spend all day there) are worth considering, too.

As well as coming prepared physically, ensure you're clued up on exactly what to look for (and what to avoid buying at an estate sale) so you don't regret your purchase, or worse, end up paying more for an item than it's worth. When shopping for vintage furniture, pay attention to the surface of the piece (scratching, stains, or amateur handiwork) before making a purchase. If you're still considering the piece, ask the seller if they'd take a lower price. If it has potential, reupholstering or reinventing a piece with a lick of paint is more than possible, remember.

And, of course, look for all the markings of authenticity when browsing reputable goods like fine china, artwork, or ceramics to ensure you're not buying a knock-off version of an antique. Things like makers' marks, certain shapes, patterns, and glazes (when shopping for pottery and tableware), and signatures will help you identify the real deal from the unauthentic. Always buy from a trusted seller that's established, and if you can, look for provenance.

April is the best time of year to take part in antique shopping. With a variety of indoor and outdoor markets of all sizes happening across the country, it's more than possible to find preloved treasures you've long been on the hunt for.

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I, regrettably, never lived through the ’70s, but I do find myself nostalgic for its wild textures and low-slung seats. I imagine returning home from a long night at the disco, pushing past a curtain of beads, and sinking into something plush to watch the gooey ebbs and flows of a lava lamp. Whilst exploring what's new in at IKEA, the DYVLINGE corduroy chair seems to be scratching that itch, clichés and all.

Originally designed in 1967 by Gillis Lundgren (a name you might recognize, having also dreamt up the still-iconic BILLY bookcase), the chair was fairly avant-garde for its time. Debuting in IKEA’s catalog under the name ‘MILA,’ this button-tufted corduroy swivel was positioned as an ‘anti-stress armchair.’

Fifty-some-odd years later, it seems to have the same effect. ‘I don’t usually provide reviews for IKEA (though I love the products). BUT, I walked into the store for something else and tried this lounge chair,’ writes one reviewer. ‘It was so comfortable that I felt I was melting away in it, so I decided to get one, though I don’t need one… The installable took 2 mins, so extra points!’

Now revived in a brand-new beige colorway as part of the Nytillverkad collection, which has resurrected several IKEA classics, the retro style still reads as a total time capsule. It keeps that slightly reclined, TV-optimized posture and a surprising stability, thanks to its unusual five-leg base – perfect for The Brady Bunch (1969-1974) then, or a Heated Rivalry (2025)-adjacent miniseries now.

I imagine it back in similar company: a living room full of otherwise sensible seating, interrupted by one electric hit (orange, green, black, beige – whichever you prefer), somehow still cooler than the rest. Probably in some sort of ambery haze, too – then, it might have been tinted glass and cigarettes; now, color-changing light bulbs do the trick, recreating endless iterations of that same nostalgic glow.

They just don’t make ’em like they used to. Except, in this case, they actually do.

‘70s-Style Armchair Alternatives

IKEA’s DYVLINGE swivel chair is a classic, but for something with a similar retro sensibility, these are the alternatives I’m eyeing.

How I'd Style It

If a ’70s version of me got loose in IKEA after securing this unreasonably comfortable seat, here’s what I imagine I’d end up with.

If you like this low-slung seat, you’ll love the rest of IKEA’s Nytillverkad collection, which offers dozens more out-of-the-archive designs that feel surprisingly current.

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Decorator to the stars, Francesca Grace is no stranger to one-of-a-kind interiors. When your roster includes Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber, and Alicia Keys, it goes without saying: custom is the baseline.

So it’s particularly exciting for the rest of us that her latest project isn’t about dressing another celebrity home, or even creating something entirely new, but about reworking what already exists. In a first-of-its-kind luxury collaboration with Stockholm-based slipcover brand Bemz, Francesca channels her A-list sensibility into a more democratic canvas – IKEA frames, existing sofas, and other furniture you already own, but haven’t quite figured out how to love.

‘This collection was born out of a moment in Paris, drifting through La Puce market,’ she explains. ‘Everywhere I looked, there were layers of aged textiles, rich tapestries, and beautifully faded fabrics that told their own stories. I wanted to capture that feeling and reinterpret it in a way that feels modern yet earthy.'

You see those storied layers immediately in the fabrics, which, once set and styled, read less like ‘slipcovers’ and more like living room furniture you might have sourced abroad. Much of this outsized impact can be attributed to the new Mohair Velvet – Bemz’s most luxurious fabrication to date – introduced just for the occasion and rendered in a moody, botanical blend of muted pink and yellow.

Elsewhere, the palette settles into similarly rich, slightly aged hues: a verdant cotton velvet; the Vintage Forest pattern of stylized trees on Bemz’s more accessible Simply Linen; and Vintage Chenille Jacquard, a softened rose motif offered in two old-world colorways.

None of these frills or flounces look remotely practical, but – in keeping with Francesca's own California cool – all of it is machine-washable. Essentially, it's the fantasy version of vintage.

This dialogue between old-world reference and modern-day ease runs left, right, and center throughout this collection.

It's two focuses – antique tapestries and skirted furniture – may be among the most talked-about returns for living room furniture trends of 2026, but they tend to come with a level of preciousness that’s hard to live with. Here, Francesca removes that barrier, keeping the romance of the design trend revival while losing the rules.

‘Tapestry and furniture skirts both have deep roots in design history, but they feel incredibly fresh right now because people are craving warmth and texture after years of stark minimalism,’ she tells Homes & Gardens.

Across everything – from table and chair covers to bed frames – that maximalist Paris flea market feeling is completely apparent. Even the most cookie-cutter couch takes on something new, or maybe something older still: a sense of history, a sense of soul, and the sense that you may have just brought in one of Hollywood’s top interior designers to source it.

Ahead, a few of our favorite pieces from this characterful cover collab.

Patterns abound in this collection, but even so, ‘as a maximalist, I say layer freely,’ notes Francesca. Adding one of the collection’s chenille jacquard slipcovers to, say, an IKEA Hyltarp sofa already reads more bespoke than the bland white it came with, but according to her, it’s what comes next that makes it personal.

‘The slipcover is your foundation, but bespoke is all in the layering around it,’ she notes. ‘An intentionally draped throw, mismatched cushions in contrasting fabrics, a personal object or two nearby. The more considered the details, the more the slipcover reads as a design choice rather than a practical one.’

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From layered seating styles to maximalist floral sofas that exude kitschy charm, this year's living room furniture trends reflect the growing desire for homes to embody a rich, layered, and truly liveable feel.

The latest living room trends celebrate the art of eclecticism, so it is no surprise that the most coveted living room furniture pieces effortlessly blend character with function. Drawing inspiration from trending shapes, patterns, and colors, these five furniture styles strike a perfect balance between elegance and durability – designed to make your living room feel unmistakably and authentically yours.

Influenced by this year's top interior design trends, expect to see these five trending styles featured in all of your favorite living room projects in 2026.

1. Floral Sofas

They may have once been included in outdated furniture trends, but maximalist floral sofas are here to stay this year. Inspired by vintage interiors, floral sofas have a whimsical, deeply nostalgic feel, making them a firm favorite amongst designers looking to create a characterful living space.

A sofa trend with maximalist roots, floral sofas are more than just the kitschy styles from the 1980s; they're a stylish way to introduce pattern within a scheme and evoke a sense of playfulness.

Interior designer, Jessica Buckley says, 'I do hope that a floral sofa is a sofa for life, but of course, these trends tend to come and go. I think floral sofas are a perennial classic, especially in country homes.'

Jessica opted for a sofa upholstered in Lee Jofa's 'Althea' fabric in the above project. She explains, 'The sofa fabric was primarily selected to soften the look of the kitchen to be in keeping with the English country house feel: we wanted a floral but one with some character and presence. This particular floral fabric is such a classic, and the colors tie in nicely with the colours of the cabinetry (a dark green).'

2. Built-In Banquettes

Banquette seating may have traditionally been limited to kitchens, but in 2026, designers are taking the familiar style and adding it to living rooms.

Interior designer Blair Parkes of Parkes & Lamb Interiors says, 'We’re seeing more banquettes in design recently, which we're really excited about! It brings a big personality to an otherwise bare corner of a room by adding pattern and extending a welcoming invitation to play a fun game, read a book or have a cocktail and hang out with your friends!'

Anastasia Lewis, founder of Dwello Design, explains, 'There is a strong demand for individuality in residential design right now, which can feel intimidating when you are working with strict square meterage and functional limitations. The concept of bespoke built-in furniture and millwork is gaining a lot of appreciation, especially for smaller spaces. Banquettes offer huge benefits, both aesthetically and practically, making them a winning combination where functionality perfectly marries aesthetics.'

Referring to the pictured project, Anastasia explains, 'Since the property's square footage was slightly limited, but the client's lifestyle called for extra seating and storage, a built-in banquette was a no-brainer. We included hidden storage under the skirting. It was the most sensible tactic to maximize the actual metrage without sacrificing the client's needs, proving that highly functional spaces can, and absolutely should, showcase personality.'

3. More Than One Ottoman

A handy seating vessel that's long been featured in living rooms, it's not hard to find an ottoman of some kind in today's living rooms. While they're hardly a new 2026 furniture trend, designers are honoring the ottoman by featuring more than one in their projects.

In this transitional living room, interior designer Kelsey Leigh used a pair of ottomans to fuse comfort with practicality. She says, 'We layered multiple ottomans and side tables to give the room maximum flexibility. Ottomans function as extra seating, a place for people to put their feet up and relax, and extra tables make an easy spot to drop their phones. They’re intentionally multi-functional and help the space feel livable and adaptable.'

She adds, 'We will see layered ottomans trending into 2026. In this project, we covered them in plaid because we really love the pattern and believe plaid is gaining momentum as a forward design trend.'

4. Laid Back Seating

Daybeds are replacing sofas in 2026, and other relaxed seating options are receiving ample love, too. Historic chaise lounges are set to dominate living rooms this year, as we all crave more informal, laid-back spaces.

Interior designer Taylor Hill explains, 'Recently I've seen a refocus on finding comfort in design, so an uptick in the prevalence of chaise lounges could absolutely correlate.'

Referring to the project pictured above, she explains, 'This room is pretty massive, so we needed furniture that filled the space appropriately. The space's dimensions allowed us to pair two chaises where one would typically expect to see lounge chairs. We placed a more traditional pair of club chairs to balance the size of the chaise lounges on the other side of the room. A sofa anchors the space adjacent.'

Taylor adds, 'Because this home is a destination for the family to unwind at the beach, casual gatherings prevail. Even when hosting friends and family, a relaxing setup like this is perfect for reading a book, watching a movie, or having a conversation. If someone has more formal living room goals, I would probably recommend going in a different direction.'

5. Mixing and Matching Styles

While mixing eras and styles has long been a valued tool in interior design, layering living room seating is a trend to look out for this year. A way of creating a transitional, lived-in feel, it allows opposing shapes to sing beside one another.

Kristina Khersonsky, founder of Studio Keeta, says, 'Layering seating styles introduces dimension as well as tension to the room in a way that feels collected rather than matched. It creates visual depth. Mixing silhouettes and proportions prevents the room from falling flat but also is a perfect representation of our client’s taste and affinity to multiple genres and periods. There is a subtle color palette at play that holds the space together to evoke fluidity.'

Kristina adds, 'I think that layering, in general, has already arrived and will not be going anywhere any time soon. People have discovered that collecting pieces in an intentional way isn’t linear and is what contributes to a room feeling dynamic. Layering is visual interest.'

Hollie Velten, founder of SPACES by Hollie Velten, used various seating styles in the pictured living room. 'It can add substantial visual weight to a room, rather than working with proportions too small or slight. Textiles add coziness and personality, so layering is certainly something we do often. I think flexible, casual, and pattern are all things people seem more interested in, vs fixed and with little soul. Different heights and placements allow a sort of kinetic rhythm, some interplay and places for the eye (and people!) to roam while fabric pattern play gives some movement and interest and can surprisingly feel less stark than a large solid piece of color.'

From vintage-inspired floral sofas to built-in banquettes, this year's living room furniture trends favor character and comfort, designed to make any lounge feel liveable and stylish.

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While its formality was once deemed dated, like plenty of past-loved trends making their way back into the world of interiors, daybeds are being quietly revived, slotting into rooms across the globe.

They might be called daybeds for their low-slung bed-like shape, but the traditional sofa-like seat has a surprisingly preppy feel that lends itself to the current craving for all things characterful and charming. A historic seating style that falls somewhere between a bench and a sofa, daybeds may have slipped under the radar for a while, but for 2026 interior design trends, designers are bringing back the once-loved seating staple.

While it might be hard to believe, designers are skipping sofa trends entirely by opting for romantic daybeds for their projects.

The perfect size for small rooms, daybeds are far more mobile than sofas tend to be, making them a clever addition to spaces tight on square footage. Unlike an oversized sectional, daybeds can slot into a narrow space without compromising on comfort.

Interior designer Hollie Velten, founder of SPACES by Hollie Velten, opted for a daybed instead of a sofa for its relaxed, communal feel. She explains, 'This daybed was designed to house workday naps for a busy executive in her office, which could also host lazy reading visits from her tween daughter if she wanted to hang out in there. We wanted her office to feel elevated but comfortable and cozy.'

Hollie adds, 'I’d not overstyle daybeds. Bolster pillows add volume, maybe a throw pillow or blanket. But keep it pared down for risk of feeling cluttered.'

While they're fitting in small home offices or rooms with multiple functions, sofas are still a living room staple, explains Hollie. 'We have used daybeds in living rooms as a secondary seating option. The longer length but often slimmer profile of a daybed can pair well with another sofa.'

In a world where snug armchairs, plush sectionals and stylish loveseats make up living room layouts, it's easy to forget about the humble daybed. However, their fun-sized shape and ability to bridge the gap between comfort and style make them a fitting choice in living rooms, guest bedrooms, and even home offices.

While a sofa would have sufficed in this guest bedroom-meets-office, a daybed's multifunctionality made it a fitting choice for the client. Interior designer Sarah Vanrenen of Vanrenen Hanbury explains, 'Our client was a single man, downsizing from a larger country house to this two-bedroom modern apartment in London. He needed a study space that could be flexible and house occasional overnight guests.'

She continues, 'We knew that a regular sofa bed wasn’t going to be either smart enough or comfortable enough, so we designed this daybed with a proper single mattress that was feather wrapped, so it is supremely comfortable as both a sofa and for sleeping on. We used an amazing fabric from Le Manach (Bosquet Outdoor, available at Pierre Frey) and upholstered it all over, including the legs; it feels tailored and sophisticated.'

Sarah praises their multi-functionality. 'If the room needs to work as both a living room and a space for occasional guests, a daybed can definitely offer a more comfortable option than a sofa.'

While a sofa brings a soft, lived-in feel to a living room, its presence doesn't exactly go unnoticed. This is where the daybed comes in. Small enough to sit quietly within a pared-back scheme, it's an adaptable choice that's perfect for curated, minimalist spaces.

A sofa would have overwhelmed this serene entryway designed by Kristin Fine, co-founder of The 1818 Collective. She used a statement tiger print daybed in the project instead, bringing a romantic feel to the otherwise minimal space. She says, 'This is an entryway in a contemporary home which needed some softening.' She adds, 'They are a wonderful addition, so flexible without all the visual weight of a sofa.'

When styling a daybed, Kristin advises, 'It is always appealing to toss a beautiful throw and pillow on one end and a small stool nearby to optimize all the possible uses.'

Daybed Styling Essentials

While living room sofas aren’t going anywhere, there are moments when a daybed could be a more beautiful and better fit. Offering both comfort and a sense of considered curation, they lend an effortless elegance and intentionality that sofas sometimes struggle to match. And unlike an oversized sectional, they’re also a refined solution for rooms where space is at a premium.

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Unlike the accent wall, which usually just makes a room look unfinished, an accent chair is the perfect finishing touch. It can bring color, pattern, and playful shapes into a room in a more low-commitment way than a couch. Yes, I know patterned couches are having a moment, and my TBC carts are filled with options that I am not quite ready to click “buy” just yet. But an accent chair? More affordable, more flexible – that I can commit to.

And not all accent chairs have to make an accent with color or pattern, the materials can be what makes it more of a feature in the room. There's a reason neutral-lovers were so obsessed with a bouclé accent chair; it added an accent without needing to be bold. Stylistic differences aside, all accent chairs share one common trait – they have the potential to redefine a room without committing to a huge new piece of furniture.

Think about it this way – if you want to tap into some of the hottest interior design trends of the moment, but you're afraid to commit to a total redesign, accent chairs act as the perfect opportunity to test the waters. Unlike a couch, accent chairs aren't a huge commitment. They're usually not a big investment, either.

Consider the living room, for example. If you've chosen a neutral design scheme for the space, but you love the whimsical design trend that's happening at the moment, perhaps all you need is a patterned accent chair to uplift the room and give it some personality. Even if you're not interested in following trends, but you want to give a room a bit of extra energy, all you need to do is incorporate a fun accent chair to immediately refresh the room's atmosphere.

I'm a firm believer that accent chairs are the best-kept secret behind the most stylish interiors. They're the definition of low risk, high reward. Not only do they enrich the character of any room with their aesthetic appeal, but they also act as an opportunity for you to get creative.

So, if you feel eager to give any room in your home a refresh without reimagining it completely, shop 15 accent chairs to help you do just that, below.

The Cut is all about Homes & Gardens helping you invest in pieces that feel current now, but won’t date as trends shift. Finds that elevate a room today and still feel right years from now. Whether it’s a sculptural accent chair or a chic pendant light, our editors will curate an edit that balances style, longevity, and quality. Consider this your shortcut to smart, beautiful shopping.

IKEA might not be your first stop for forecasting capital 'D' design trends, but perhaps it should be. Between cult, sell-out collaborations (Off-White, Gustaf Westman) and archival pieces now trading for four figures at auction, the Swedish giant has accrued more authority than we tend to grant it.

And yet, for 2026, its style guide is decidedly unserious.

If the past few years were ruled by hushed minimalism and disciplined palettes, IKEA’s new interior trend direction swerves hard in the opposite direction, favoring a chicified, almost childlike whimsy. Color is dialed up. Pattern is layered with abandon. Even typically sober storage solutions are reimagined with softness and wit. The goal, according to IKEA Home Furnishing Direction Leader Abbey Stark, is to ‘let your imagination soar.’

With the retailer’s 2026 Color of the Year landing on a bold, expressive Rebel Pink – pointedly in opposition to Pantone’s whisper-soft Cloud Dancer – you can likely sense where this is going. ‘It replaces white walls with a refreshing, empowering energy,’ Abbey cheekily observes. ‘It’s time for a new era of rebellion.’

Subtle, this is not.

Ahead, five unapologetically playful predictions that prove real design insight doesn’t have to take itself so seriously.

1. Joycore Decor

‘Joycore’ isn’t wildly different from the dopamine decor wave of a few years ago. Home is once again a refuge from the antics of the outside world, and you’re allowed to control the mood. According to IKEA, that might call for a lilac-legged stool or an orange swivel chair that muses a certain French fashion house.

It’s maximalism as an antidote to overly adultified minimalism – and what we guess might happen when the design professor's inner child gets a credit card. But this doesn’t mean you need to toss the beige sofa bought back in 2021. As the guide suggests, ‘With white walls and neutral furniture as a base, build up your unique color story. Start with two primary colors, then add a tertiary for balance. Color is joy, so go big.’

In other words: play.

2. Floral Daydream

Pattern-drenching, pattern-maxxing – whatever you prefer – may be reaching its final boss. Though the look can be tricky to pull off (designers will often caution you to vary tone and scale), IKEA’s latest florals are cross-compatible – ready to mix and mingle from the get.

The STRANDMON slipcover, for example, transforms a dependable solid wing chair into a bloom-heavy backdrop for whatever patterned throws you’ve been accumulating. And while florals are at the fore, they’re far from the only patterns here. The lemonade-yellow FJUNKLOCKA cushion cover offers a choose-your-own adventure: romantic foliage or classic stripes.

3. Lagom Living

There is beauty in the mean – a sense of balance elegantly captured by the Swedish concept of ‘lagom.’ According to the guide, it’s ‘about creating a harmonious, calming zone between clutter and sparseness, where you can relax and revive after a long day.’ This may sound familiar – we’ve been circling this organic look for years. Lagom simply pushes the idea toward something more lived-in.

This trend hinges on contrast, focusing on characterful, carefully curated textures, and light filtered through drapery in varying opacities. Its goal is coziness by way of surprise – a velvet cushion set alongside a rattan room divider, for instance, feels distinctly, deliberately lagom.

4. The Art of Storage

Storage is both art and science – and here, IKEA clearly prefers the former. The solutions are still pragmatic, but they’re also exceptionally imaginative. A shoe unit might moonlight as a coat rack – and a bench – while a woven ottoman could have the capacity to swallow off-season throws. Even an unassuming basket might disguise a clever under-shelf clip to steal back precious kitchen inches.

All of these solutions are smart on their own, but according to IKEA, smarter still if you treat them as design opportunities. Consider lining your closet in a punchy wallpaper, or trading the warm wood of your iconic IVAR shelving for a verdant green. In 2026, storage is meant to be hacked, painted, and customized.

5. Rebel Pink

We hinted hard at this earlier, but again, IKEA’s 2026 Color of the Year is Rebel Pink – and it's not because it’s already trending. In fact, the retailer says the opposite: it chose the shade not because it’s everywhere, but because of the color trend it could become.

‘It’s not about what’s trending, but how color can transform a space, evoke emotion, and reflect the way we live. It’s a bold neutral and our way to energize your everyday aesthetic without compromising our commitment to Scandinavian simplicity,’ notes the guide.

The idea of pink as a neutral sounds almost contradictory – until you remember just how thoroughly Millennial Pink saturated 2016. And if 2016 energy is steeping back into 2026, well… you catch our drift.

So don’t be surprised when by late 2026, there’s a whole lot more Rebel Pink in circulation – and not just from the Swedes.

You never quite know what 20 years will do to a ‘mass’ retailer. Today’s accessible whimsy might just become the IKEA auction-house darling of tomorrow.

So as you load up your cart with Rebel Pink and joycore curiosities, consider this your reminder to hang on to a few IKEA favorites. Future you – or your children – might thank you.

Even the most beloved furniture trends can fall out of favor, and suddenly, something that was once a must-have is starting to feel outdated. And you might just be surprised to hear what's on the chopping block in 2026.

Of course, it's not that these dated furniture trends are inherently wrong or particularly ugly. Many of them still look beautiful, but in 2026, interior design trends are moving away from anything 'of-the-moment,' and instead, we're focusing on collected, unique pieces that will wear beautifully over time.

Ahead, designers share the three furniture trends that are looking past their prime – and offer tips for updating your home in ways that will feel fresh, stylish, and totally chic in 2026.

3 Furniture Trends that Feel Outdated in 2026

Instead of presenting you with a never-ending list of outdated styles, there are just a select few furniture trends that designers see on the out, while the onus has moved to personality-driven decorating. In other words: if you still love it, it's in.

That being said, there are three styles that designers are urging you to avoid if you're searching for something new.

'I think we’re moving away from trend-forward statements and back toward furniture that balances beauty, comfort, and timelessness,' says designer Jennifer Davis of Davis Interiors, describing the mood of 2026.

Whether it’s introducing a sofa with a smaller footprint and a softer silhouette, swapping in more timeless upholstery, or mixing in unique pieces with personality and warmth, these adjustments will help your home feel fresh and inviting in 2026.

1. Serious Scandi Style

For years, Scandinavian-style furniture has been a favorite for those looking to create clean, light, and calming spaces. And while there's absolutely nothing wrong with cozy-meets-minimalist Scandinavian decor, designers say this trend is losing its shine.

As Kailee Blalock of House of Hive Design Co. explains, we're seeing popularity for this style of furniture start to fade. 'Especially pieces that are overly minimal, pale, and generic, because they can make homes feel more like a showroom than a space with personality,' she adds.

While the simplicity and pared-back aesthetic of Scandi pieces is still appealing, overusing pale, minimal furniture can make a space feel flat when used in isolation. Instead, look to the Nordics for inspiration from the Scandi maximalist trend, which favors furniture pieces with a crafty, folk-inspired heritage.

2. Warm and Fuzzy Boucle Accents

Bouclé has been everywhere in the past few years, from accent chairs to ottomans, throw pillows to sofas, but its moment in the spotlight is waning. Jennifer Davis explains why this upholstery trend is starting to feel dated.

'Bouclé, while beautiful, has had its moment,' says Jennifer. 'Its heavy saturation has made it feel less special, and many clients are now prioritizing fabrics that feel timeless, durable, and versatile.' So what is replacing bouclé? 'Think textured linens, mohair, wool blends, and performance fabrics that age gracefully,' she adds.

'Overly modern upholstery with cold, sharp lines is also losing momentum,' Jennifer continues. 'Spaces are craving warmth and comfort again. Softer silhouettes, gentle curves, and pieces that invite you to sink in are replacing furniture that looks good but doesn’t feel good.'

For big-ticket furniture items, instead opt for fabrics and shapes that offer both comfort and longevity, rather than focusing on a trending moment if you want the piece to endure. This way, your sofa or bed will remain a timeless part of your home for years to come, and you can have more fun with smaller accents like throw pillows.

3. Sectional Sofas

Big, neutral sectional couches have long been a hallmark of relaxed, California casual style, but sometimes even the classics fall out of favor. And while it might come as a shock to some to find your beloved sectional in this list, the tough news is that this sofa trend is starting to look a little 'big-box store' in 2026.

Mary Beth Sullivan of MB Sullivan Design says it's time to move on. 'One outdated furniture trend for is a big, neutral sectional – sofas that present low and deep (with a seat height lower than 18”), and sofas with wide-track arms.'

To avoid temptation, Mary adds: 'To ensure that a design doesn’t look dated, I never go to one store as a one-stop shop to furnish an entire room off the floor,' she says of collecting and curating mismatched pieces instead for a more tasteful living room.

So while these large sofas are undeniably comfortable and practical, they can dominate a space and make it feel unique. Mixing in better proportioned seating with a mixture of shapes, colors, and patterns can help you to nail a furniture scheme with better balance and style.

So if your living room or bedroom is still filled with oversized sectionals or ultra-minimalist sofas, now is the perfect moment to take stock. And, for anyone looking to refresh their space without overhauling everything, now is the perfect moment to shop thoughtfully.

It’s snowing in New York City, where I’m currently writing, and I’m already dreaming of a Nancy Meyers summer. Because if there’s anything getting me through winter, it’s mental replays of Diane Keaton’s shingled Hamptons house in Something’s Gotta Give (2003) – and the small miracle that the Nancy Meyers–style pinstriped chair I pined over last summer, once an eye-watering $1,350, is now only $239.99.

Maybe this sudden off-season urge for salty New England air happened organically. Or maybe it was planted by TikTok. (A classic 2020-something chicken-or-the-egg; we may never know.) Either way, those swivel chairs that went viral during the warmer months – thanks in part to tastemakers like Kenzie Elizabeth, affectionately dubbed Gen Z’s Martha Stewart – are back, sitting pretty all over my very après feed. Perfect timing. I needed the rescue.

The shape appears to be that of a traditional armchair, but actually swivels a full 360 degrees – a detail I imagine makes wine nights significantly more spirited. In my mind’s eye, it’s already paired with woven accents like a jute rug or rattan lamp, warm woods, and a slow accumulation of vintage finds. Essentially, it’s cooking up the exact 'Eastcoastal' flavor our favorite film director would have wanted.

And despite the seaside associations, decorating with stripes is not just a summer decor trend. The barrel silhouette is timeless, slipping into more traditional decorating ambitions, too. Frankly, this chair could live quite comfortably in Ralph Lauren’s universe – styled with horsebit details, cognac leather, a hit of velvet – as if it’s been wintering upstate in Bedford this whole time.

I’d give anything to be out East right now. But until the season resumes, I’ll settle for the next best thing: some long-overdue transitional styling, stretched out in my living room in what reviewers insist is an impossibly comfortable chair – comfortable enough, they say, to justify buying a second.

It won’t make summer come faster. But it’s close enough.

Shop More Nancy Meyers-Style Chairs

We all have a favorite Nancy Meyers home. Interior designers confess which one they’d move into tomorrow.

Few people set out to buy cheap-looking furniture. Like beauty treatments or clothing, it runs counter to the entire point. We buy things to look better, not worse. Sometimes a ‘good deal’ gets the best of us, but as anyone who’s ever tried to save money on highlights knows, that bargain usually comes with a second appointment and a much higher bill. Buy it nice, or buy it twice.

Perhaps most criminal of all is when you did splurge on a certain furniture trend and the piece still reads budget. That’s double jail. While your great uncle may not clock it at Thanksgiving, anyone you’re actually trying to impress will. There are certain telltale details that not-so-silently scream machine-made, polyester-adjacent, corner-cut furniture from across the room – even when the price tag suggests otherwise.

Ahead, the three fatal flaws that make furniture look cheap – plus what designers recommend instead – so your pieces read every bit as elegant as you intended.

1. Bad Legs

We’ve all been seduced by a plush velvet seat or a mid-century–style coffee table that somehow costs less than three days’ worth of groceries. From the top, it’s convincing. But the legs? They tell on it every time.

‘As a female designer, I almost cringe saying this out loud, but when it comes to checking out furniture, I’m looking right at the legs,’ laughs Lindsay Thornton, interior designer and founder of Cornerstone Design Build. ‘Much like needing the right shoes to finish an outfit, a sofa, table, or chair can be made with beautiful materials, but if the legs look like they came straight from a mass-produced factory, the whole piece falls outside my consideration set,’ she says. ‘Maybe it’s subconscious, but if the legs look cheap, I am sure as not going to sit on that chair!’

Rather than getting distracted by shiny finishes, trendy colors, or tactile fabrics, train your eye downward. Furniture without strong legs rarely excels elsewhere. ‘I look for solid, well-considered legs that make sense within the overall design,’ Lindsay notes. And if solid wood legs push the price out of reach, there’s a hack. ‘Alternatively, opt for a sofa or chair where the fabric goes straight to the ground, removing any guesswork,’ she advises.

Because when the foundation’s wrong, the whole thing collapses – aesthetically, at least.

2. Generic Hardware

Say you pass the leg test. The structure’s solid, the proportions are right, and the piece promises longevity. The bones are there. Then you notice the hardware – and suddenly, you get the ick. Every redeeming quality starts to lose its luster.

‘For case goods, low-end pieces will often have stainless steel or matte black pulls or knobs, since these are the cheapest metal finishes to produce,’ explains Adriena Daunt, principal designer at Montana-based firm Daunt Designs. ‘Designers typically consider handles and pulls to be the jewelry of the piece, so higher-end case goods will sport hardware with interesting shapes, placement and finishes such as unlacquered brass or leather.’

That said, price alone is not a guarantee of good hardware taste. You can absolutely spend real money on a piece that still defaults to painfully generic finishes, which is why it pays to look closely at the smallest details. ‘I recommend looking carefully at the quality of the hardware (pulls, knobs, hinges) and not being afraid to mix metals in the same space.’

Sometimes you’ll get lucky and find furniture in your budget that already gets it right. But if you don’t, hardware is one of the easiest upgrades in the book. Swapping it out instantly elevates the piece and often makes it feel more bespoke than whatever it arrived with in the first place.

3. Trying Too Hard

You learned this early. Trying too hard to be cool is usually the fastest way to miss the mark. Furniture is no different.

‘Anything trying too hard to look expensive usually does the opposite,’ notes Lauren Lerner, founder and principal designer of Living with Lolo. ‘Think high-gloss veneers, synthetic stone, and overly polished finishes. They might seem like shortcuts, but they don’t age well, and they don’t feel real.’

If you need a mental picture, recall your last trip to Las Vegas. ‘When materials feel insubstantial or over-styled, the eye reads them as disposable,’ agrees Karen McCooey, founder and designer of Karen McCooey Studios. Instead, she advises to ‘favor honest materials and restrained finishes,’ like ‘matte or softly patinated metals, real wood with visible grain, tailored upholstery, and textures that age gracefully rather than announce themselves.’

‘Quiet luxury’ may have lost most of its meaning, but the now super-saturated sentiment became popular for a reason. Furniture that doesn’t try to impress usually ends up doing exactly that.

Your furniture might no longer read cheap, but tastelessness has a way of catching up to us all. Don’t get stuck with the living-room equivalent of a Labubu – these are the once-revered, now 'cringey' design trends it’s time to retire in 2026.

If you made a promise to yourself to shop more for vintage and antique home decor this year, there are a few pieces to have on your radar that are the most coveted and collectible right now.

Decorating with antiques is the best way to bring character into your interiors, but finding the right furniture and decor is key. And who better to consult than the designers and experts who bring homes to life with these time-worn pieces every day?

From small decor to furniture that will last a lifetime, these are the antiques you should be collecting in 2026 and keeping an eye out for when you are thrifting, checking out estate sales or searching through your local vintage and antique stores.

1. Art, Art, and More Art

Certain antiques feel far more accessible and easy to find, especially if you are relatively new to buying old. Art is exactly that, and adds so much style, character, and unique appeal to any scheme.

'If you were only allowed to purchase one antique, let it be art! Do not worry about trends, buy art you love. When you buy art you love, it will never feel out of style, especially vintage art, because it has already stood the test of time,' says Drew Michael Scott of Lone Fox.

'You can find very affordable original vintage art. It does not have to be by a well-known or listed artist as long as it speaks to you. And if in a couple of years you want to try something new, it is small and easy to store until you are ready to display it again!'

Not only are antique and vintage works often much more affordable than new pieces (you can find beautiful examples in unassuming corners of charity shops and thrift stores), but because art is subjective, it's about finding works that speak to you rather than following trends or best practice.

'Good art is anything that makes you feel something. Maybe it reminds you of your childhood summers or your grandma’s house. Sometimes you might not even know whether you love it or hate it, but you can't stop looking. I am always more drawn to original art than to prints,' he explains.

'The texture of paint and the patina of time, even by an unknown artist, will always be more compelling to me than a print of a famous work like the Mona Lisa. Some of my favorite pieces of art were ones I did not buy right away, but ones I could not stop thinking about after leaving the store. For me, that is the sign of good art, something that stays with you and makes you think.'

2. Brass Candle Sconces

Candle sconces have found their way back into the trends, adding a chic look to interior schemes. And while these contemporary editions add a lovely touch, nothing is more authentic than antique examples, and they are something experts say you should be looking out for.

'Antique brass candle sconces are elegant, warm, cozy, and an affordable way to dress up your mantle, entryway, bathroom, you name it. They're lightweight and easy to ship, which makes them one of the few antiques you can order from international sellers, so it really opens up your search. Find one in your favorite style, motif, and patina, and you're good to go,' says Amanda Knorr, founder of Knosen.

'Many are sold in pairs, which is my favorite for flanking a fireplace mantle. They're also sold in singles, which is a great option for a smaller entryway wall or bathroom. They're a great way to add brightness to a room without running a wire behind the wall – brass examples have a beautiful, warm glow, whether it's day or night, lit or unlit. It's also fun to swap out the candle colors seasonally.'

You can embrace a classic candle sconce design, or opt for something more playful, like this Pair of Vintage Swedish Brass Wall Sconces or this Pair of Swedish Hammered Brass Sun Sconces, both from Knosen Antiques.

3. Demi-Lune Console Tables

If there's one piece of furniture you don't see quite so often anymore, it's the demi-lune table. But antique examples are sophisticated and charming, and so often fit perfectly in a hallway, like this Biedermeier Demi-Lune Console Table from Chairish, dated between 1815 and 1825.

'Demi-lune console tables always have an enduring appeal. They tend to be beautifully proportioned, elegant, and sit as comfortably in traditional interiors as they do in more pared-back or contemporary spaces. Designed as refined statement pieces rather than purely functional furniture, they have a sense of occasion. The balance of classic and contemporary makes them especially collectible today,' says designer Birdie Fortescue.

'Look for the quality of proportion. These tables should neither be too leggy nor too short, while the 'demi lune' should have a gentle curve and not be overly rounded. Pairs of antique Swedish demi lune tables can be sourced fairly easily and have a dual use when joined together to form a circular dining or centre table,' she explains.

'They are often painted and work equally well when mixed with modern or antique furniture. If opting for a polished table, make sure the patina has character and movement - signs of wear should feel authentic and consistent with the age of the piece, adding interest and charm.'

4. Antique Tables to Use as Kitchen Islands

If you have been keeping up with kitchen trends, you'll know that the kitchen island is evolving. People are embracing freestanding designs, more like work tables that bring a less built-in feel. And an antique piece is a characterful way to do it.

'Custom kitchen islands that do it all had their moment, but if you already have the storage space, then you can't beat the character that comes with an antique kitchen island! They're a great way to make a new kitchen feel more lived-in, and there are so many ways to customize them to suit your needs,' says Amanda.

'You'll want to primarily look at the size and height. You want to find an antique table (baker's table, draper's table, or standard tables in your wood of choice) with the rough dimensions you're looking for. That said, there are many ways to tweak an antique piece to suit those needs. If you love the piece but the height isn't quite right, you can add a butcher block top, marble top, or castors on the feet to bump it up,' she explains.

'Occasionally, you'll find an antique in the sweet spot of 34-36", but it's rare, and I think it's nice when everything in the room is not all at the same height. If storage underneath is important, a draper's table with a bottom shelf is great. If you'd like it to be used for additional seating, look for more of a classic table with leg room underneath.'

5. Antique Wood Furniture with Curved Silhouettes

We are always drawn to curvaceous silhouettes, especially when it comes to architecture and furniture. It softens a room and creates a wonderful flow. And if you find antique furniture in the style, experts assure you're on to a winner.

'We’re seeing a real appetite for pieces that feel sculptural without being showy. Curved wood, in particular, is everywhere. Those soft, sweeping lines bring warmth and movement to a space, and there’s a calm elegance to them that feels incredibly current,' says Sophie Salata, head of brand at Vinterior.

'Named designers still turn heads, of course. But it’s not just about the label. Provenance is what really matters – where a piece comes from, who made it, and how. The joinery’s often the giveaway. You can spot a well-crafted piece by how it’s held together. There’s something deeply reassuring about design that doesn’t need to shout because the quality speaks for itself. Most importantly, it’s about presence. Pieces with stories. The ones that quietly anchor a room and make it feel like home.'

6. Louis Philippe-Style Chests and Mirrors

We've become so accustomed to fast furniture – dressers with drawers that bow under too much weight, wardrobes we swap and change as our styles do, and rebuying everything each time we move house. But once you invest in an antique alternative of exquisite quality, you won't ever turn back.

'As an antique dealer as well as an interior designer, I tell shoppers and clients to search for antiques with clean lines so that they can be incorporated beautifully in both traditional and transitional interiors. This also gives them longevity. One of my favorites is the Louis Philippe style, which I tend to always carry in my showroom,' says interior designer and antique dealer Debbie Mathews LeRoy.

'Louis Philippe chests and mirrors are always in demand. These pieces date back to the early to mid 1800s when King Louis Philippe reigned in France. He was known as the "Citizen King," and preferred a pared-down furniture aesthetic – these pieces certainly are. With clean lines, curves, and a sophisticated elegance, they are just as beautiful today as they were back then.'

7. Gilded Picture Frames

Frames are one of those unexpected decor pieces that always cost more than you expect. But if you simply turn to vintage and antique designs, you'll find yourself with an eye-catching design that is probably more affordable.

'In this color-drenched, deep green room, the gilded frames mimic the brass table hardware and the brass vase. And the rich mahogany table complements the wood wainscot in the room. These family heirlooms feel up to date in a color-drenched room,' says interior designer Shani Core.

'Quality over quantity always! Look for hand-carved wood frames, genuine gilding versus lacquer, high-quality brass, and authentic wood furniture. Just next to this library corner, I added a pair of comfortable, oversized leather chairs with modern throw pillows and a fantastic Ralph Lauren-inspired, colorful antique rug to bring more richness to the space.'

Whether you're a seasoned antiques shopper or you're trying something new (and sustainable), having an idea of the pieces that will add the most to your interiors really helps, and these seven antiques really are a great place to start.

If the last few years of furniture trends have taught us anything, it’s that buying an entire furniture set in one go no longer feels like the ultimate goal. In fact, it’s starting to feel a little boring.

For 2026, interior design trends are loosening up and embracing pieces that look like they’ve been collected over time. In fact, this is the year furniture gets its personality back. Rich woods, tactile finishes, and sculptural silhouettes are all having a moment, while color and pattern are being used to set a mood rather than simply tick off a micro-trend.

Most of all, the furniture trends for 2026 are about creating homes that feel lived-in, layered, and personal. Whether you're shopping for one hero piece or smaller details that quietly add character, these are the trends designers say will define how we furnish our spaces in the year ahead.

6 Furniture Trends to Know Before Shopping in 2026

Before you start bookmarking a new couch or adding yet another side table to your wish list, it’s worth knowing that the furniture trends for 2026 aren’t about quick swaps or total room makeovers.

Instead, they’re subtle shifts that help you shop more thoughtfully and choose pieces you’ll still love long after the trend cycle moves on. These are the six furniture trends designers say are worth knowing before you buy to help you furnish a chic and timeless home in 2026.

1. Collected Not Curated

If there’s one idea that underpins all the furniture trends for 2026, it’s this: homes should look like they’ve been built up over time, not bought in one go. The era of showroom-perfect matching furniture sets is giving way to something far more imperfect and personal.

As Sophie Salata, head of brand at Vinterior, explains, furniture is moving further away from anything that feels overly polished or prescriptive. 'There’s a growing appetite for pieces that feel grounded, tactile and expressive, resulting in a curation of furniture that looks like it’s been chosen over time rather than delivered in one go.'

'People want pieces that hold presence, age well, and allow rooms to evolve,' she says of the growing desire for vintage furniture. 'It’s less about chasing what’s new, and more about choosing furniture that brings character into everyday life.'

But, this doesn’t mean throwing everything together and hoping for the best. According to Katharine Pooley, successful mixing comes down to balance and intention. 'Mixing furniture styles does not need to be a daunting task and is actually quite easy when you are aware of your own tastes and preferences. You want to ensure each element complements each other – pair rounded shapes with sharp angles, soft curves with linear forms, and sculptural objects with minimal pieces. Creating contrast maintains visual interest while encouraging harmony.'

2. Gentle Curves

After years of sharp lines, furniture shapes in 2026 are softening. Curves are everywhere, but they’re not fussy or overly decorative; instead, they bring a sense of ease that makes rooms feel calmer and more welcoming.

Alexis Vitale of the Vitale Design Group says, 'Organic, curved silhouettes are this year’s trend with furniture. Curves bring warmth and interest to a space. People want their spaces to feel relaxed and lived in, yet architecturally interesting.'

'We’re seeing a return to stronger silhouettes and more sculptural forms, but with warmth built in,' Sophie from Vinterior says. 'Sofas are generous and curved, tables feel weighty, and storage pieces are being treated as anchors rather than afterthoughts.'

These are pieces chosen not just for how they look, but for how they make a space feel. A curved sofa or a rounded table naturally encourages conversation, while improving the flow in a room, and softening any harsh lines or contrasts in the space.

Molly Torres Portnof of DATE Interiors adds: 'We're focusing on sculptural curves, natural materials, and custom, handmade pieces in 2026.'

3. Rich Wood Tones

After a decade dominated by pale, pared-back finishes, furniture is finally deepening in tone. But this isn’t about turning away from light woods entirely, but about expanding the palette, introducing richer hues and warmer finishes that add depth, contrast, and a more cocooning feel to a space.

Walnut, in particular, is a favorite in the dark wood trend. 'Though white oak certainly isn't going anywhere, I'm excited to see more walnut pieces on the market,' says Clara Jung of Banner Day Interiors. 'Walnut's richer, deeper tones have a way of instantly adding warmth and dimension to a space.'

By mixing different wood tones, for example, pairing lighter pieces with deeper woods and warmer finishes, rooms gain visual interest without feeling heavy.

'Warmer wood tones are back, whereas lighter wood tones are starting to lose their influence in the market,' adds Alexis. 'Mahogany and walnut woods are just a few of our favorites. They add just the right depth in the home.'

4. Decorative Edges

Furniture trends aren't just about shape, color, and scale. While the overall mood of items like couches, ottomans, and beds remains calm and considered, designers are having more fun with statement details and trims, using small touches to inject fun and personality.

Designer Sean Symington sees furniture becoming more expressive through these decorative nuances: 'Furniture is becoming more expressive through detail,' he explains. 'I think we’ll see more upholstered legs on sofas, chairs, ottomans, and less skirting.'

'Perhaps bolder piping and even using brushed fringe as piping to bring softness and personality,' he continues. 'I think we’ll also see more of precious materials like shell work and mother of pearl that add a subtle sense of luxury.' Used sparingly, they elevate everyday pieces and make furniture feel much more unique and expressive.

5. Statement Prints

If many of the furniture trends for 2026 are about restraint and considered layering, this one is the nudge to be brave. Rather than filling a room with lots of smaller main character moments, designers are leaning toward a single standout piece that does the heavy lifting.

Kailee Blalock from House of Hive Design Co. says: 'For 2026, we’re seeing a strong shift toward statement furniture, especially pieces that bring pattern and personality into a space. Rather than filling a room with multiple competing moments, the trend is leaning toward one oversized hero piece that sets the tone.'

Of course, this can be with something as subtle as a stripe, a classic floral, or a timeless geometric. Or, you can go bigger and bolder.

'One print in particular that’s making a major comeback is animal print,' Kailee continues. 'It’s returning in a way that feels elevated and intentional, more fashion-forward than trendy, and works beautifully as a focal point in an otherwise calm, layered room.'

6. High Gloss Lacquer

High-gloss lacquer furniture is making a confident comeback – and in a way that feels far more timeless than trend-led. While you might think this trend is more about ultra-slick, minimalist pieces, designers are actually embracing this finish to add depth and richness to traditional rooms and furniture styles.

Amy Courtney of Amy Courtney Design is firmly on board, saying: 'High-gloss lacquer furniture, especially in rich colors like burgundy or olive green, is one of our favorite trends. And I actually think it’s a timeless look – the best kind of trend!'

A lacquered sideboard, console, or bedside table can instantly elevate a space, acting as a statement in its own right or providing contrast in an otherwise soft, subtle room. As Amy advises, deep, saturated colors give high-gloss furniture a reflective, almost jewel-like quality, while the finish itself adds polish and glamour in an oh-so chic way.

So whether you’re planning a mini refresh or a complete furniture update, keep these six trends in mind. Embrace curves, color, texture, and personality, and you’ll be well on your way to a home that feels both on-trend and effortlessly timeless.

For the last few years, buying furniture has felt oddly similar to getting dressed in the dark – safer to choose the full matching set and hope for the best.

And while I do love a co-ord in my wardrobe, a couch, armchair, dining table, and chairs all cut from the same cloth rarely feels particularly interesting nowadays. Furniture trends are being treated less like a checklist and more like a curated collection – with pieces chosen for how they speak to one another, rather than how perfectly they match.

Much like a color scheme, a furniture scheme aims to bring your mismatched pieces a level of cohesion and harmony, minus the predictability of matching sets. Instead, designers say it’s about making a few key decisions that allow different styles, eras, and materials to sit comfortably together. Here's how the experts approach it.

What is a Furniture Scheme?

At its core, the idea of a 'furniture scheme' is about creating a sense of cohesiveness, not duplication. Instead of relying on identical catalogue pieces to create cohesion, designers prefer to focus on balance by allowing different interior design styles to coexist.

The key is that they must share something in common, whether that’s scale, tone, or material.

As Laura Lubin of Ellerslie Interiors explains, 'Matching furniture sets have given way to something far more sophisticated: thoughtful composition,' she explains. 'A successful furniture scheme is about balance, not symmetry. We focus on shared elements like scale, tone, or material, rather than identical pieces.'

The problem with matching furniture sets isn’t that they’re inherently wrong – it’s that they often feel static. When every piece in a room is bought at the same time, from the same place, the result can lack depth and individuality.

Kristina Khersonsky of Studio KEETA adds: 'When every piece in a room is brand new and from the same retailer, it starts to feel soulless. A space should look like it’s evolved over time, not like it was added to the cart all at once.'

'I always encourage clients to mix in vintage, artisan-made pieces, or items with personal meaning to give the space more depth and individuality,' she continues. 'The days of the neutral, oversized sectional being the star of the room are behind us. We’re seeing clients lean into expressive upholstery, layered textiles, and even pattern-on-pattern moments that feel personal and collected.'

Ultimately, this new approach reframes how we think about buying furniture. Rather than picking out pieces designed to match exactly, designers now look for subtle connections that allow furniture to feel related without being repetitive.

When pieces “speak the same language" or share a red thread, the room feels curated rather than coordinated. Designer Sean Symington sums it up perfectly when he says: 'A good furniture scheme should feel cohesive without being overly matchy-matchy, think collected and purposeful rather than perfect.'

It’s this characterful approach that makes spaces feel layered, more personal, and far more reflective of how we actually live now.

How to Create a Cohesive Furniture Scheme

1. Start with One Anchor Piece

One of the biggest misconceptions about mixing furniture is that you need to have everything figured out from the outset. In reality, the most successful furniture schemes often begin with a single anchor piece – one item that sets the tone for the entire room.

This might be a couch upholstered in a standout fabric, a vintage wooden dining table, or an armchair with a playful silhouette. Rather than designing a room all at once, this approach allows the scheme to unfold gradually and with far more personality.

Sean advocates starting with what he calls a 'hero fabric', using it as the visual foundation for the space. 'We don’t tend to follow rigid rules or what you think you’re supposed to do, but what we always start with is one hero fabric.'

'This fabric, with its color and pattern, sets the tone for the space,' he continues. 'From there, we pull complementary tones and patterns from it, letting the palette spread naturally across the furniture. It’s this layered approach that ties everything together while keeping the scheme interesting and personal.'

2. Define Your Wants Before You Shop

If mixing furniture feels daunting, it’s usually because there are no 'filters' in place. Without some criteria or starting point, every new piece risks feeling like a wildcard or like you've got too many competing main characters.

Defining your vibe early on is what turns a potentially chaotic mix into a cohesive scheme – and it makes shopping far easier.

Kailee Blalock of House of Hive Design Co. recommends starting with three foundational considerations, beginning with wood tones. 'I always recommend starting with a few guiding decisions,' she says. 'Do you want light, dark, or a mix of wood tones? I personally love combining both to add depth,' she adds.

Next, she advises considering texture. 'Are you drawn to wicker, bouclé, leather, lacquer, or stone?' Identifying the materials that resonate with you helps establish a through-line across the room. Finally, narrow down your accents and finishes – whether that’s brass, chrome, aged bronze, or a mix of metals. 'Once these elements are defined, selecting furniture becomes far easier; every piece is filtered through the same lens, even if the styles differ.'

3. Mix Pattern, Materials and Textures for Depth

When a furniture scheme starts to feel flat, it’s rarely because of the color palette – more often than not, it’s a lack of contrast. Mixing patterns, materials, and textures is what gives a space depth, helping it feel layered. While color tends to set the mood, it’s the interplay between finishes and surfaces that makes a room feel tactile and inviting.

Designer Kathy Kuo describes furniture pairing as 'an art, not a science,' but stresses that balance comes from variety. 'Make sure to include a healthy mix of materials in your furniture scheme,' she adds.

'Wood furniture is a classic choice, but there’s also metal, rattan, glass, marble, and acrylic, to name just a few! While you’re selecting your materials, keep texture in mind as well,' Kathy advises. 'Curating a mix of textural elements plays a large role in designing a sensorial, welcoming space that feels richly layered.'

'To give an example, in a living room I might combine a polished marble coffee table with a burl wood side table, add rattan floor lamps and brass sconces, and mix a plush velvet sofa with slubbed linen armchairs.'

4. Create a Contrast Between Old and New

One of the most effective ways to create interest within a furniture scheme is by mixing old with new. When done intentionally, this kind of transitional decorating introduces tension in the best possible way.

Kailee Blalock suggests employing 'intentional juxtaposition' and suggests pairing an antique console with a modern sofa or mixing sculptural contemporary chairs with a traditional dining table.

'These contrasts create tension, interest, and a sense of evolution,' she adds. 'The room feels collected, not coordinated, and that’s exactly where interiors are headed in 2026.'

Laura Lubin agrees, adding: 'We focus on shared elements like scale, tone, or material, rather than identical pieces. A sculptural contemporary sofa can live beautifully beside an antique chair if their proportions speak the same language. Mixing eras creates depth, while mixing finishes keeps a space from feeling static. The key is restraint. When every piece has a reason to be there, the room feels intentional, collected, and quietly luxurious.'

The most stylish interiors in 2026 aren’t defined by perfection, but by personality. They allow for contrast, collection over time, and the occasional unexpected pairing, creating spaces that feel warm, layered, and genuinely lived-in.

And while matching sets once promised ease, it’s this more considered, collected approach to furnishing that delivers something far more appealing: a home that feels like you.

Small but significant, the right side table can transform a room. It’s not just about storage or surfaces; it’s about introducing personality, texture, and scale into a space. These pieces prove that style doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag, with a selection of beautiful options all under £500.

Whether you’re hunting for bedside table ideas or a clever living room accent, these tables are versatile enough to fit anywhere in the home. Slim and sculptural, classic and quirky, or rich in materials and detail, they can anchor corners, complement sofas, or bring character to a bedroom.

From cosy corners to clever nooks, side tables are small investments with big impact. In British homes, where space can be at a premium, these versatile pieces bring practicality and charm without taking over a room.

Versatile Side Tables

I love all of these for their ability to bring character to any home. From snug city flats to charming country cottages, they fit effortlessly into every corner, adding style without overwhelming the space.

Whether paired with vintage finds, modern accents, or a mix of both, they offer endless ways to inject personality. And with all options under £500, it’s possible to refresh a room, follow the latest furniture trends, and create a home that feels both stylish and unmistakably lived in.

Side tables don’t just fill gaps – they offer opportunities to style and personalise a space. Use them to introduce colour, texture, or a quirky accent, or to display a favourite lamp, a stack of design books, or a vase of seasonal blooms – instantly making a room feel more considered. In British homes – where corners and nooks are often small but valued – the right side table can lift the look and feel of a room.

Even the smallest table can make a statement. From unexpected hallway pairings to playful shapes in the living room, these pieces prove that attention to detail matters. Choosing the right side table can transform the feel of a room without needing a full redesign.

Caned furniture has long been a staple in British homes, admired for its craftsmanship, lightness, and airiness. Its origins in Britain date back to the 17th century, when imported Indian and Southeast Asian furniture inspired a wave of cane weaving in chairs, tables, and cabinets. For centuries, it was considered both practical and elegant, a symbol of refined taste and understated style.

Over time, caned furniture fell out of favour as heavier, more ornate pieces dominated British interiors. Today, however, it is enjoying a remarkable revival. Many people are looking to decorate with antiques, and caned furniture fits perfectly, adding texture, history, and a sense of authenticity to modern interiors.

The renewed interest is also reflected in high street stores and independent designers, who are reimagining classic caned designs for modern homes. From dining chairs and beds to storage cabinets and seating benches, caned furniture is being embraced for its timeless appeal and light, natural aesthetic.

For those looking to create interiors that feel both timeless and current, caned furniture offers a unique way to incorporate transitional decorating ideas while celebrating British heritage. Many of these pieces carry a sense of history, harking back to Georgian and Victorian homes where cane was prized for its craftsmanship and elegance. By pairing antique or vintage caned chairs and cabinets with contemporary textiles, muted colour palettes, and clean-lined furnishings, it is possible to honour the past while giving a room a refreshed, considered feel.

The Caned Furniture Pieces Worth Investing In

'Caned furniture is enjoying a revival because it taps into something deeper than trend; it offers texture, craftsmanship, and a sense of lightness that modern interiors crave,' explains US-based interior designer Jennifer Davis.

'The key is balance and restraint. Cane works best when it’s treated as a textural accent rather than a theme. I also love cane in unexpected places, a sleek cabinet door, or a subtle lighting detail. When the surrounding palette is elevated, and the forms are thoughtful, cane feels chic rather than nostalgic.'

'I’m always drawn to classic shapes with thoughtful caned detailing, especially accent chairs and bed frames, which I personally have a long-standing love affair with. A well-proportioned lounge chair with a caned back or a beautifully crafted bed that incorporates cane feels both architectural and inviting. Pieces that honour traditional techniques while feeling edited and refined will always have staying power.'

Caned furniture is not just a passing trend but a key element shaping current furniture trends in British interiors. Its lightweight structure and natural texture make it versatile for both small city flats and larger period homes, while its craftsmanship adds instant character to any space. Designers are increasingly mixing caned pieces with bold upholstery, statement lighting, and minimalist cabinetry, proving that it works beyond traditional or heritage schemes. For anyone serious about interior style, investing in a few well-chosen caned items offers a way to refresh a room, introduce texture, and stay ahead of evolving furniture trends in a way that feels modern and considered.

Styling a couch might seem simple in theory – add a few cushions, a throw, and call it done – but I've never been able to achieve that beautifully dressed designer look on my own.

As the visual anchor of the entire space, the best couch should be treated as such, and the way it is styled can make all the difference to your living room. The challenge is that sofas demand proportion without bulk, color without chaos, and layers without clutter.

This means that your cushion choices need to feel considered, throws intentional, and every pattern and print chosen in harmony. Overwhelmed? Me too. So, I've turned to the experts to help decode the art of styling a couch like a pro. Here are their top tips (and industry secrets) that always work.

How to Style a Couch Like a Designer

If you’re unsure where to start, the good news is that sofa styling becomes far less daunting once you understand the key principles designers rely on time and again.

Below, they break down the elements that matter most – from proportion and pattern to texture, fill, and finishing touches – so you can create a couch that looks thoughtfully layered and beautifully intentional, no matter your interior design style.

1. Start With Pillow Proportion

The quickest way to elevate a couch is to get the pillow proportions right, and according to designer Bethany Adams, this is where most people slip up.

'Sofas need two elements to feel complete: pillows and a throw blanket,' says Bethany. 'Sounds simple enough, but I’ve seen many a disaster made out of these two ingredients. Pillows should be in direct proportion to your sofa. Most big-box retailers sell pillows in a single size – e.g. 16” x 16” – which is woefully undersized for most sofas. A typical sofa will need at least 20” square pillows in the corners, plus a single lumbar pillow,' she advises to help anchor the arrangement.

Equally important is editing your mix of throw pillows, Bethany adds. 'Decide which of your pillows will be the showstopper and let the others play a supporting role,' she suggests. That means one patterned or textural hero piece, paired with complementary solids or quieter prints around it.

2. Master the Art of Mix and Match

Mixing patterns and colors might feel intimidating, but designer Sean Symington insists it’s all about playing with scale. 'When mixing patterns, I like to play with scale,' says Sean. 'If the sofa fabric has a large-scale pattern, I’ll go for small-scale prints on the cushions, and vice versa.'

'If the sofa is plain, however, you can have a bit of fun and do either,' Sean suggests. 'I also like using contrast piping or fringe in a color that ties in with other tones in the room or pulls a shade from one of the cushion fabrics. It’s such an easy way to make everything feel cohesive without being too coordinated.'

A good starting point is to pick a couple of prints that you love and then work neutrals and plains around them. This is a great way to refresh a scheme seasonally, too – your couch and plain cushions stay year-round, but you swap in new prints each season to give your space a new look.

For Laura Williams of Living Oak Interior Design, harmony starts with color. 'I like to mix and match patterns with similar color tones,' she says. 'A subtle checkered blanket with a block print pillow is a perfect combination in a related colorway.' Cath Beckett, co-founder of Yellow London, agrees, adding: 'Mix cushions with different colors or patterns to add visual interest. Sofas with textured or bold fabrics make a room feel more inviting and allow you to introduce brighter colors or striking patterns that won’t take over.'

The key is to let different textures and patterns play off each other while still keeping within a unified living room color scheme.

3. Layer Textures for Warmth and Depth

Speaking of texture, a balance of materials and tactility is essential for styling a couch that feels inviting rather than flat. 'Another thing to consider when styling your pillows is how you might introduce texture to the arrangement,' adds Emma Sims Hilditch of interior design agency Sims-Hilditch. 'Using natural fabrics or heavily patterned and printed materials paired with more neutral fabrics creates a pleasing contrast and helps to inject life into a room.'

Designer Kathy Kuo also leans heavily on a variety of textures, favoring 'pillows covered in soft velvets, rich tapestry patterns, and textural materials like wool shag' to create instant depth. 'An expertly styled sofa starts with the pillows,' she adds. 'For a cozy, layered look, I love to include one or two throw pillows in each corner of the sofa, mixing patterns and textures to infuse plenty of dimension and visual interest.'

Birdie Fortescue echoes the importance of that balance: 'Styling a sofa is all about balance, texture and proportion. I like to use one or two colors as a starting point, and mix cushions in varying sizes and patterns to create comfort and depth. For example, I like to include a geometric print with a floral design.'

Consider pairing a smooth linen West Elm's Classic Linen Pillow Cover with a nubby boucle this Boucle Throw Pillow from CB2, or mixing a ruffled cotton pillow like this Slub-Weave Cushion Cover from H&M with a soft velvet McGee & Co.'s Bellevue Velvet Pillow Cover. These subtle contrasts create a richness that your couch (and your living room) will benefit from instantly.

4. A Throw Blanket Can Make or Break It

A good throw blanket always adds softness and warmth, but designers say it should be chosen intentionally rather than as an afterthought that you pick up on a whim.

Bethany Adams advises pairing the material of your throw with the mood of your couch: 'For the throw blanket, choose a material and fabrication that is in keeping with your sofa,' she continues. 'For example: a chunky knit throw, like the Colossal Handknit Throw from Pottery Barn, belongs on your comfy, cozy family room sectional, while your boucle living room sofa should get something more chic and manageable, like the Cashmere Tassel Throw from Cozy Earth.' This helps the throw enhance rather than compete with the sofa.

Birdie Fortescue adds that throws are also a useful way to break up a large expanse of fabric – but warns against over-styling. 'Layering in a throw adds softness and helps break up a large expanse of fabric, but I always leave enough space so the sofa still feels inviting and usable,' she says.

5. Don't Overlook the Power of Filling

Even the most beautiful cushion covers will fall flat (literally and stylistically) without the right filling. Designers insist that what’s inside matters just as much as choosing a chic cover.

'I love layering sofas with big, generous cushions, it’s one of my favourite ways to make a space feel inviting and lived-in,' advises Sean. 'My top tip for that beautifully full cushion look is to always go for an inner that’s slightly larger than the cushion cover. It gives you that full, luxurious shape that makes cushions look so inviting.'

It’s an easy upgrade that instantly elevates the entire sofa. Material matters, too. Kathy Kuo recommends: 'Feather and down are far and away the most comfortable fill materials (perfect for sneaking in an impromptu nap!), as well as the easiest to shape.'

The right inner cushion will help to create that sink-in softness while still allowing you to perfect the sculpted, designer look. Crate & Barrel's Feather-Down Fill 20"x20" Pillow Insert ticks the boxes on luxurious material and size, too.

6. Provide a Mix of Pillow Shapes and Sizes

A well-styled couch relies on variation, and mixing pillow shapes and sizes is one of the most effective ways to add interest and depth. Start by choosing cushions in two or three sizes – small, medium, and large – and layering them thoughtfully.

Larger pillows at the back create height and structure, while medium and smaller ones sit in front to build dimension. Incorporating different shapes, such as squares paired with a lumbar or bolster pillow, helps to create further interest.

'Adding a lumbar pillow in the center of the sofa and bolster pillows on the ends is a clever way to create a tiered look that highlights a variety of shapes,' Kathy adds.

The rule of three plays a part here, too. Odd numbers tend to look more natural and visually appealing, so styling with three or five pillows often results in the most balanced composition.

Couch styling essentials

Whether you prefer a minimal scheme or a more decorative approach, the same principles apply when styling any living room seating: choose pillows and throws thoughtfully, layer intentionally, and always leave room for comfort. After all, a beautifully styled sofa isn’t just something to admire – it’s something to sink into, and enjoy every single day.

I have friends staying with me over the Christmas period, and I recently realised I still do not have a sofa bed that can comfortably accommodate them. For a moment, I thought I had left it far too late. Most of the designs I love take up to twelve weeks to arrive, and even the supposedly quick delivery options seem to be scheduled for January. I had almost resigned myself to bringing out an inflatable mattress on Christmas Eve.

When I began researching the best sleeper sofas, I discovered that all the beautiful styles I had my heart set on, including the Rowen and Wren Sofa Bed that I have been admiring for months, will not be ready in time for the festive season. Sigh. If you want one before the holiday period, you have to look for pieces that are currently in stock. To my relief, some genuinely attractive options can be delivered well before Christmas.

Better still, a handful of them are included in the Black Friday sales, which makes the timing feel most fortunate. After a fair amount of searching, I have gathered the most elegant and affordable sofa beds that you can buy today, with delivery guaranteed ahead of the celebrations. Here are the ones worth considering if you are still hoping to be guest-ready before Christmas morning.

My friends always joke that if I were in Friends, I would be Monica. I cannot deny it. There are some things people who love hosting always have in their homes. Fluffy guest towels, a little basket of essentials for overnight visitors, and of course, a fully stocked wine fridge at all times in case of an unexpected visit from a friend.

One of the main things for me is always having a place for people to stay. We have a guest bedroom, but often several friends are staying over at once. Having one of these sofa beds genuinely makes life easier. It allows us to be relaxed and social in the living room without feeling cramped, and the space still feels like a proper lounge rather than a makeshift bedroom. With Christmas coming up and visitors arriving, having a stylish sofa bed ready to go is a lifesaver for keeping everything calm, comfortable, and festive.

If you are thinking beyond just sofa beds, there are plenty of simple ways to make a home guest-ready for the festive season without feeling overcrowded. Investing in a few versatile pieces, such as a stylish foldaway table, a chic bedside carafe (I love this one from Rebecca Udall), or a compact storage ottoman, can transform a living space in an instant.

Little touches like a well-curated basket of toiletries, a small selection of snacks, and thoughtful lighting ideas can elevate any room. There's nothing worse than staying at someone's house and being forced to use 'the big light', so low lighting is essential. Paying attention to these details turns hosting from a chore into a genuinely enjoyable experience.

There are two different types of decorators – those who like to repair and repurpose furniture, and those who see a damaged chair or table and decide it's time to replace it with something new.

But when it comes to reupholstering antique furniture, which approach is the most affordable? Is it cheaper to reupholster antique furniture or buy new? If you are experienced at decorating with antiques, you will know that it's not unusual to come across furniture in need of a bit of TLC, but reupholstering can be an expensive endeavor.

So, what's the best option? Is it cheaper to buy new, and is cost a factor you should be putting above the preservation of heirloom designs? Here's what the experts have to say, and how they make the best choice.

Is it Cheaper to Reupholster Antique Furniture or Buy New?

When it comes to whether reupholstering or buying new is more affordable, there's no definitive answer. It depends on the cost of the upholstery fabric you choose and the size of the antique furniture.

Recovering an entire armchair will inevitably cost more than a seat cushion of an antique dining chair, for example, so you could be paying anything from a couple of hundred dollars right into the thousands. But more often than not, reupholstering does come at a slightly higher price point, as designers explain.

'Depending on the quality of the antique and the fabric, I find it is typically less expensive to buy new rather than reupholster,' says interior designer Shani Core, who has opted to reupholster several antique pieces in her designs.

'If I am going to take the time, expense, and effort to reupholster an antique, it must be of good quality. And then I am going to want to use a vibrant, fun, more modern fabric to bring the antique up to date, which all adds up.'

For more intricate pieces or traditional methods, you will need to source an expert in the field, which will also come at a higher cost, but a necessary one. The fabric is also a really important factor when reupholstering antique furniture. Choosing the right upholstery is key to the overall look of the piece, but also to how well it lasts and wears over time.

'The cost will vary depending on what fabric you pick,' adds Michael Glotzer, of The Hunt Vintage, which offers upholstered antiques and a reupholstery service. 'Fabric can be $10 to $200 per yard, but I tend to use high-quality fabric in the $20 per yard range. Another thing to look into is performance fabric, which is fabric that can withstand stains and is cleanable.'

How to Tell if it's Better to Reupholster and When an Antique is Beyond Repair

When considering reupholstering antique furniture, it's essential to know how to recognize when it is fixable and when something is too damaged to be repaired. If you reupholster a chair or a sofa with irreparable damage to the structure, it's going to be an expensive endeavor that inevitably ends up being a waste of time.

'I would say any skilled upholstery shop can rescue any old piece unless it is damaged by termites (a rare occurrence) or has water or fire damage. Then I would suggest replacing it with a new piece of furniture,' says Michael.

'Antique chairs with fretwork, caning, or scratching can always be repaired and brought back to life, but when the hand-carved details of a wood leg have been chewed away by a dog, they are beyond repair,' adds Shani, who explains that the structural integrity of the antique should always be considered first.

However, if the damage is purely aesthetic but can't be saved, upholstery can be used to disguise it. 'You may be able to add a skirt and change the whole look while hiding the damaged leg,' she suggests.

The value and sentimentality of antique furniture also come into play when deciding whether or not it is worth the investment to reupholster. 'You should think about whether the item you’re contemplating getting reupholstered is fundamentally a good quality piece of furniture or not,' says interior designer Benji Lewis.

'If, for example, you own an antique armchair or sofa made by Howard, then you’d be very lucky, and should absolutely consider getting it refurbished because it’s going to be an investment piece. That’s not to say it won’t cost you a bob or two, but even by looking at eBay you can see the value of a Howard piece,' he explains, noting that names such as Gillows, James Shoolbred, and George Smith should also be saved.

'After that, my take on things would be to weigh up how much you appreciate the piece you own based on sentimentality and come to a decision based on that,' he says.

Is Reupholstering Antique Furniture Worth the Investment?

While the key consideration for most of us is whether it's more affordable to reupholster antique furniture or buy a new piece, designers emphasize the importance of preserving these historical designs.

'Reupholstering may end up being comparable in cost to buying new, but you're getting something far more valuable: the ability to choose exactly the fabric you want, customize the cushion fill, and keep a well-made piece out of a landfill. I almost always vote to reupholster over new,' says Rebekah Zaveloff, co-founder and creative director of Imparfait Design Studio.

'Beyond the practical benefits of customization and quality, there's the added value of preserving a piece with history and character. You're investing in something with a story rather than contributing to disposable furniture culture,' she adds.

There's often sentiment and memories attached to furniture handed down through the generations, a feeling that simply cannot be replicated with contemporary finds. But there's also a quality of craftsmanship to antique furniture that deserves to be preserved and treasured.

'Almost anything can be fixed or restored – the frame, the springs, the structure. I have two Adrian Pearsall sofas I've reupholstered four times over 30 years, and they're still going strong,' explains Rebekah.

It's also about sustainability. If you have the means to spend a little bit more reupholstering an antique rather than buying new, you can find joy in saving and reviving, rather than sending a beautiful piece to waste. 'If you can rescue a family heirloom or save an old piece from a landfill, I’m always in support of that first,' adds Michael.

FAQs

How to Find Someone to Upholster Antique Furniture

It's not always easy to find someone who is well-versed in upholstering antiques, but designers have a few tips and tricks to help you find a local craftsman to revive your prized pieces.

1. Check the quality of the antique

'First, check the quality and make sure the piece is worthy of the time and expense it will take to reupholster. Then I always turn towards the fabric – you’ll need something to withstand the wear and tear of use,' Shani advises.

2. Enquire with local upholstery shops

'Check the work of your local upholstery shops. I would ask to see examples of their work and pay attention to the seams and the quality of their workmanship. Always turn the piece over and see how they finish the bottom! A good upholsterer will ensure the bottom is finished nicely as well,' she adds.

It's essential to ask plenty of questions – any professional will be accustomed to the questions and happy to provide full details and suggestions on the best approach for your specific antique design.

'Find a reputable upholsterer who can assess the bones of the piece and walk you through what's possible. Ask to see examples of their work, especially if your piece has any unusual details or requires structural repair. And don't be afraid to take your time selecting fabric – it's the most visible part of the investment,' says Rebekah.

3. Do plenty of research and ask to see your upholsterer's portfolio

'Research your upholsterer and ask to see their portfolio; ask also questions about how they’d set about the re-upholstery work. I’d want to know about the type of springs they’d use, for example, and what kind of stuffing would go into the new seat and back. On an antique piece, for example, you want hand-tied coil springs, so ask about this,' says Benji.

'If you’re in the position of a Howard sofa and your upholsterer says they’ll use mid-century Z springs to reseat it, then step away; this isn’t the right person for the job because they’ll kill the value of your item. A mid-century sofa, however, would be fine to have its seat resprung with the Z’s,' he explains.

4. Utilize social media

And finally, utilize social media. Many experts in the field share their services and projects online and will happily answer any questions and offer basic valuation through messages.

'Instagram is a great resource to see local upholstery work, and then I would check Google reviews as well before narrowing down and visiting the final contenders in person. Pricing may also vary greatly, so you’ll want to get 2-3 quotes before making your final decision,' Shani suggests.

What’s the Difference Between Recovering and Reupholstering?

There are different levels of restoring antique furniture, so it's important to understand the different terms and services offered and what they actually include. 'There’s a big difference between reupholstering and recovering an item,' says Benji.

Recovering essentially means replacing the fabric of an antique chair or sofa. No other repairs of the furniture are included, so if it has a wobbly leg or worn-down seat padding, it will be returned to you in the same condition, just with a lovely new fabric over it.

Reupholstery is the next level of repair, as Benji explains: 'Reupholstery really should entail repair work to a wobbly frame, re-springing the item, etc, and not just replacing the webbing and covering the piece with pretty fabric.'

The verdict? Buying new is usually cheaper than reupholstering antique furniture; however, if you have the budget to restore an heirloom piece, it's always the favored option. It's more sustainable and makes the most of the high-quality craftsmanship used to make them, something you don't see quite as often in contemporary finds. If you are looking for more antique and vintage inspiration, our series Better Vintage delves into exactly that: why it's better to buy vintage pieces and what you should be looking out for on your next second-hand hunt

We all know by now that a designer's worst-kept secret is that the key to layered, lived-in interiors is to introduce antiques. These time-worn pieces bring character, interest, and a subtle contrast to contemporary decor.

But decorating with antiques requires a careful balance – the wrong approach can leave your home feeling dated and dreary. And there are plenty of ways to modernize antique furniture so each piece feels characterful, timeless, and far from outdated.

Not sure where to start? Here are a few ways to modernize antique furniture and ensure it feels cohesive and beautifully styled in your schemes, according to designers who have seen and tried it all.

6 Ways to Modernize Antique Furniture

Making any modifications to antique furniture can feel like a daunting prospect. Often one-of-a-kind finds, you don't want to ruin the authentic character. But these small changes get the designer seal of approval and will give your antiques a refreshed look.

1. Style Antiques with Contemporary Accessories

One of the simplest ways to give your antique furniture a more modern feel is to pair it with contemporary decor. 'Tension is a designer’s favorite ingredient for creating interesting spaces. Luckily, this is fairly simple to do,' says Chloe Legras of Boxwood Avenue.

'When using antique furniture in a space, I love balancing it with modern accessories and decor that feature clean lines, like a minimal lamp, sleek frames, or modern chairs. Contemporary lighting is always a great way to add balance to a room with vintage pieces. Think of it like wearing lug boots with a dress – pair the unexpected!'

It's a method that's favored by designers for a reason – it gives room a unique feel that feels collected, considered, and evolved. And it's a look that Shani Core, founder and principal designer of Shani Core Interiors, has created in her own spaces.

'In the living area of my studio, the antique Rose Medallion garden stool acts as a holder for a vase of flowers and the occasional glass of champagne! It’s my opinion every room needs antiques to help create a unique story,' she says.

2. Reupholster Antique Chairs

It's not unusual to find a beautiful chair in an antique store in need of a slight refresh. often, the fabric might be a little worn out, the seat padding almost non-existent, and in some cases, the upholstery torn. But reupholstering is a great option, not just to refresh the furniture, but to give it a more up-to-date look that feels more in keeping with your interior design style.

'I always find a blended approach to interiors more characterful than opting for something that’s all trad or all contemporary. Taking a contemporary furnishing fabric and using it on an antique upholstered item is a great way of injecting new life into a preloved piece,' says interior designer Benji Lewis.

'French fauteuils particularly respond brilliantly to this because they don’t require much fabric, and being neat by design, they look fab with a splash of some modern textile to create the perfect accent chair,' he explains.

Shani has also embraced reupholstery in a recent project to great success. 'In a recently completed dining room, I found a set of four antique pencil rattan chairs that were in perfect condition except for the seat cushions,' she explains.

'We needed a set of six, so we designed new seat cushions in a beautiful tropical print and had a pair of captain’s chairs made to go on each end of the table. The result was better than if all six chairs were matching.'

For a bold look, consider something like the Tiger Jacquard Fabric by Sarah Sherman Samuel, or for a more classic look, the delicate stripes of Schumacher's Clyde Fabric are a lovely choice.

3. Repaint or Stain Tired Antique Furniture

When you want to refresh the rooms in your home, color instantly comes to mind. And the same applies to your antique furniture, especially if you want to breathe new life into a dresser, cabinet, or side table.

'Painting the outside one color and the inside another is a way of updating antique furniture. I also recommend wallpapering the back of a piece of furniture with glass fronts and flat backs to create depth and interest,' says Laura Gilbert of L. Gilbert Designs.

You don't have to repaint antique furniture a bold color, either, if that's not your style. Staining wooden designs so they read less orange and more natural wood can make a huge difference to the piece without taking away from its character and original look.

Shane Brown, founder of the beloved California design destinations Big Daddy’s Antiques and The Well, agrees, adding 'Refinish it and let it breathe. A fresh finish can completely transform an antique without erasing its history. It’s about balance – letting the soul of the piece shine while giving it a little edge.'

4. Swap Out the Hardware and Legs of Furniture

Always regarded as the jewelry of a room, hardware is one of those small but meaningful swaps that make all the difference to antique furniture. 'To modernize an antique piece, swapping hardware is an easy way to achieve a more modern look,' says Chloe.

It's a classic example of how mixing old and new can create a beautiful contrast that instantly enhances an old piece. A beautiful antique dresser refreshed with decorative knobs or a contemporary chrome handle creates a striking talking point.

And it also works the other way around, perfect if you have antique handles you want to utilize. 'Sourcing antique or vintage hardware, or adding castors to found pieces, is always a beautiful way to dress up the ordinary,' says Chloe, explaining that these small, subtle details make all the difference.

5. Juxtapose Antique Furniture with Modern Art

There's a joy in heading to your local antiques fairs to source one-of-a-kind art pieces, but designers say it can be more impactful to pair more contemporary works with antique furniture if you want to give it a more modern feel.

'A contemporary piece of artwork or a light instantly lifts a period piece, for example, an antique chest of drawers with a modern painting hanging above it,' says Benji, mentioning that the same approach works with 'an antique sofa with a contemporary table lamp beside it – it’s all about the considered blend.'

Kate Aslangul, founder and creative director of Oakley Moore, agrees, adding that 'The key is contrast; hang a bold contemporary painting above an antique piece, add an oversized table lamp and position one or two clean-lined objects, perhaps a sculptural vase or a sleek tray, alongside.'

6. Display Vintage Paintings in Contemporary Frames, and Vice Versa

Art is perhaps the most beloved way to decorate with vintage and antiques. It's an accessible way in to sourcing older decor, and it's also an area of focus for many designers when it comes to modernizing antiques.

'Adding vintage artwork to a sleek frame is a great option to add original artwork into a space while maintaining a clean and modern aesthetic,' says Chloe, who notes it can work both ways.

As well as pairing vintage or antique art in a modern frame, you can also pair contemporary art in a vintage frame. Both have the same effect, balancing the aesthetic and style of one another, as Shane explains.

'Hang a piece of modern art in an old frame, lean mirrors against the wall, build a gallery wall that blends centuries. It’s about contrast and conversation – let your antiques flirt with the modern world.'

Antique furniture brings so much character and interest to interiors, but it's important that it feels cohesive with your scheme. Modernizing antique pieces isn't about making them look brand new, but rather finding small ways to elevate and breathe new life into them.

Feeling inspired to learn more about vintage pieces and antiques? Our monthly series Better Vintage delves into the most collectible pieces to look out for right now, exploring the history and heritage, plus tips on how to source and style these iconic pieces.

If you thought the whole ‘boneless' couch bit would’ve deflated by now, think again. It’s still very much still lounging across our FYPs – and our living rooms – which means a) if you bought one, you’re in good, mutually content company, and b) maybe it's not a fleeting interior trend at all, but a timeless investment. And the concept has gone beyond the boneless couch, with boneless chaise lounges being searched for more than ever, according to Google.

Could this arrive-in-a-box concept actually be the future of stylish furniture? Ridiculously comfortable and even easier to assemble, sleek, soft-to-the-touch designs like this recent Ebern Designs chaise on Wayfair suggest the answer is 'yes.'

Because a chaise – like a chandelier, or a very good piece of art – swiftly elevates everything around it, lending a newfound authority to what skeptics once dismissed as starter furniture. And judging by how many very established, very taste-literate adults (designers included) have sung its praises, boneless might just be the new backbone of modern living.

One of them is Northeast-based interior designer Nina Lichenstein, who appreciates both the beauty and the utility of this furniture trend. ‘Boneless may not be for everyone,’ she admits – some people just prefer something with, well, bones – ‘but their relaxed ethos is likely here to stay, in one form or another,’ be it a sofa, chair, or – in this instance – a very chic chaise.

Its assembly couldn’t be easier. Unbox, wait 48 hours, and you’ve got a fully formed, gallery-worthy lounge. In smaller spaces, it reads as effortless and smart; in larger rooms, it easily takes center stage. Add a tiny table for your beverage of chaise, a grounding rug, maybe a framed print or two – and suddenly you’ve got a vignette that feels a far cry from big-box bargain.

It’s not hard to see why this rediscovery of an antique silhouette is catching on. ‘In a world that increasingly values authenticity, relaxation, and mental well-being, these boneless lounges act as a visual cue for a lifestyle that doesn’t take itself too seriously,’ Nina says. ‘They’re cozy, approachable, and mood-driven – a stark contrast to the rigid lines and tailored upholstery of pre-pandemic interiors.’

According to her, it’s only a matter of time before the big furniture houses catch up, releasing ‘more refined silhouettes, with greater attention to quality and sustainability.’ But for now, we can revel in the fact that the look is still attainable.

The real question might be why we ever bothered with bones to begin with. Ahead, a few more reasons to give in to the cult of cushion.

If you love an unreasonably good-looking, deeply cushy design, WOWMAX’s headboard pillows bring all of the plush and none of the pretense to the bedroom.

Designer Heidi Hendricks is a true expert at harmonizing old and new. Her projects effortlessly combine distinctive vintage pieces with contemporary design, creating rooms that feel rich, layered, and timeless. By blending styles and eras, she crafts spaces that defy a specific time – tapestries of diverse influences that transcend trends and fleeting aesthetics, resulting in interiors that remain captivating for years to come.

Homes & Gardens recently toured Heidi’s latest project – a relatively new build with a lack of history that most of her previous remodels had in spades. Transforming this minimal space into something rich with layers and character was a new challenge, and it was decorating with vintage furniture that played a key part in aging this modern home. Brown vintage furniture, in particular, according to Heidi.

Here she talks us through why she believes every space needs something old and her tips for what she looks for when sourcing specific vintage furniture.

Home & Gardens: Why do you think mixing old and new is important for creating timeless interiors?

‘I think blending old and new is so critical to creating a successful and harmonious room, ensuring it doesn’t resemble a rummage sale. It requires focusing on contrast, cohesion, and storytelling, which can be achieved by carefully considering color, scale, and placement,' explains Heidi. 'I’m always advocating for old ‘brown’ furniture to be rescued from auction houses and estate sales – it brings instant character and a sense of warmth and history to a room.'

Home & Gardens: What styles do you look for most when thrifting and antiquing?

‘The particular antique furniture styles I look out for are Shaker craft and styles from the mid-1800s through the mid-1900s. It has had a tremendous influence on modern American and Scandinavian furniture. I find their clean silhouettes and invisible joinery easy to balance with the curvier lines of ornate antiques and upholstered pieces.’

Home & Gardens: Do you have any reliable sources you often turn to when looking for a specific vintage piece?

‘I became adept at sourcing online during the COVID days and relied heavily on 1stDibs. In more recent years, I’ve been relishing the thrill of hunting down antiques in person, allowing me to experience their size, scale, and authentic patina firsthand.'

'I love hunting in smaller shops, like Montage Antiques in Millerton, NY, as well as towns with large concentrations of antique shops, such as Hudson, NY. I also have a few “secret weapons” – my relationships with pickers who travel the US and abroad and text me pictures to see if I’m interested.’

Home & Gardens: What's your biggest tip for finding the right vintage pieces?

‘Definitely try looking in person. And arm yourself with ideal dimensions, especially the maximum size allowed, for the targeted piece that you are hunting. I often hear about people’s thrilling finds only to have their spirits crash when they realize the piece is simply the wrong size back in their house. Don’t fear patina; most scratches and loose legs can be refurbished by an expert.’

Home & Gardens: What's your best vintage find to date?

‘The most memorable piece of vintage furniture I have sourced is probably so because it was the greatest bargain. We went to a Shaker furniture auction a few years back, and while the rare and unusual pieces sold quickly and at or above market prices, we held on until the very end when they auctioned off smaller items, including a wonderfully large-scale wooden storage trunk. Unbelievably, we were the only people bidding, so we nabbed it for $300.’

If you want the thrill of shopping second-hand online, as well as in person, 1stDibs and Chairish are the best places to head to. They make sourcing vintage pieces simple, with really easy-to-use sites, and lots of edits for inspiration too. Of course, there's eBay too, which can require a bit more digging, and you have to be alert to knock-offs and getting the right price.

We have a guide of the best places to buy vintage pieces online, but if you are after great quality, vintage-style pieces that are going to add character to a room, there are brands we trust to buy new ones, too. Studio McGee, Lulu and Georgia, West Elm, and Magnolia, to name a few.

The sofa is the true protagonist of any living room story. It sets the tone for the entire space and, ideally, becomes a beloved piece that stays with us for years – if not a lifetime.

Investing in a sofa is no small decision; it can bring lasting satisfaction or lingering regret. Before making your choice, take time to understand exactly what you need from this essential piece. While it’s tempting to follow the latest sofa trends, it’s far wiser to pause, reflect, and choose a brand that aligns with your lifestyle and priorities.

With that in mind, we’ve curated a selection of the best sofa brands that we love – names known for craftsmanship, comfort, and timeless design. Explore our top picks from each collection for inspiration as you begin (or refine) your search for the perfect sofa.

The Most Stylish Sofa Brands for a Refined, Relaxed Living Space

Jodie Hazlewood, owner of The House Upstairs, advises: 'When choosing a sofa, think about how you live. Are you someone who curls up under a blanket each evening? Then a deep, enveloping design makes sense. If you love to entertain, a more structured, upright shape might suit you better.'

Before browsing sofa brands or visiting showrooms, define your priorities. If guests often end up sleeping uncomfortably on your current sofa, consider a stylish sofa bed. For a cosy living room or cinema room, comfort and space to sprawl are key; in a grand Georgian drawing room, something elegant and timeless will feel more at home.

In short, match your choice to your lifestyle and setting – and note your must-haves before you start shopping.

Where to Shop Sofas for Traditional Interiors

George Smith

I'll be the first to tell you that browsing the sofa collection at George Smith can prove quite addictive. George Smith sofas are the epitome of classic English craftsmanship, making them an ideal choice for traditional homes. With their sumptuous upholstery, graceful lines, and meticulous attention to detail, they sit beautifully within the rich textures and period features so often found in historic houses. There’s an effortless sense of heritage and quiet luxury in every piece.

For those fortunate enough to live in a Georgian townhouse or Victorian villa, George Smith sofas feel like a natural fit. Their timeless designs honour the character of older homes.

Best for: Homes steeped in history

Price: From £6,600

Kingcome

Kingcome Sofas are a reliable choice for those who appreciate traditional English upholstery done well. Rooted in classic craftsmanship with handmade construction in Devon, their sofas tend to favour familiar shapes, think scroll arms, deep seats, and tailored lines, that won’t date quickly. They feel substantial and solid rather than trendy or flashy, making them a sensible buy if you want a sofa with longevity.

What stands out is their commitment to quality materials and careful construction, which gives their sofas a reassuring heft and durability. However, the designs can feel a little conservative, lacking the boldness or innovation some contemporary buyers might seek.

If you’re looking for something modern or minimalist, Kingcome may not be the most exciting option. But if your priority is classic style and craftsmanship that fits a range of interiors, especially traditional or country settings, it’s a safe and steady choice worth considering.

Best for: Country homes

Price: From £3,190

PINCH

PINCH sofas are highly covetable pieces of furniture. Their prices certainly put them at the luxury end of the spectrum, but that said, they are genuinely beautiful things, and every sofa they make has a clear, classic design language that you will love forever and a day.

The moment I clapped eyes on the Phelan sofa, with its unusual and beautiful shape, deep seats, and curved and sloping arms, I knew it had to be mine.

Best for: Elegant, sculptural British design with a refined silhouette

Price: from £6,000

Rowen & Wren

Rowen and Wren have long held the key to our hearts. A quick scroll through their website reveals an abundance of inspiration, but it’s their exquisite sofa collection that truly captures our attention.

Each piece is handmade to order in Britain and upholstered in the most beautiful, tactile fabrics – think earthy linens and soft ochre-striped cottons. Generously proportioned and thoughtfully designed, their sofas deliver on comfort as much as style; when they say it seats three, it truly does – a rare bird indeed.

These are timeless, quietly graceful designs, free from glitz yet rich in elegance. The Remy sofa is a standout example: crafted from sustainably sourced hardwood, with gently scrolled arms, pleated details, turned oak legs, and antique brass castors – a piece that embodies understated British refinement.

Best for: Simple, rustic romantic charm

Price: from £1,468

Susie Watson Design

Susie Watson is perhaps most well known for her oh-so-pretty cottage-core homewares, often featuring endearing illustrations of flowering foxgloves, irises, and lupins set on dusty pink and pale blue polka-dot fabrics. It’s worth noting, though, that Susie Watson’s collection of sofas, whilst a fairly small collection, features standout designs that will work seamlessly with a more traditional aesthetic.

Each one is a shining example of traditional sofa design reimagined. There is the 'Classic Sofa', which is especially tricky to find fault with, a 'Chesterfield sofa' with the familiar buttoned upholstery, an achingly pretty 'caned sofa' (we’re calling it the perfect addition to a big entranceway or light-filled orangery), and their 'Georgian sofa' (pictured above), which is an instant winner if you’re putting a room together that you wish to reflect a sense of place and suitability.

It’s easy to see her sofas in grand drawing rooms and dinky low-ceilinged cottages alike. Each is handmade to order in a small workshop in Lancashire, and because of this process, each sofa is unique, and no two are the same.

Best for: Cottage interiors

Price: from £2,745

Sophie Conran

Sophie Conran is a beloved British designer, and her online shop houses invariably beautiful collections of sofas, armchairs, coffee tables, fabrics, tableware, garden accessories, and many more highly desirable homeware items. But for now, we turn our attention to Sophie Conran’s collections of sofas, some of the best in the business, each handmade in Derbyshire, and, despite their elegant, even delicate appearance, they're built to withstand modern lives.

If you find that the endless onslaught of family, friends, children, and dogs wreaks havoc on your sofa and so daren’t even dream of investing in such a beautiful item since it wouldn’t last five minutes, think again. Luckily, these sofas all come with loose covers, so they can be removed for cleaning, with a bow detail at the back, making it a genuinely uncomplicated and unfussy process.

Sophie Conran’s Coco sofas have been, for a very long time now, an immovable feature of our ‘drawing room wish list.’ They’re timeless, defy all trends, and are wonderful heirloom pieces that can be passed down through generations and cherished for years to come.

Best for: Traditional shapes with a twist of joy

Price: from £3,785

Where to Shop Sofas for Contemporary Interiors

Arlo & Jacob

A family-run business with a strong reputation for well-made sofas that stand the test of time. A far cry from the fast-paced production line, each sofa is made by hand in Nottinghamshire, and every detail is tended to by one pair of hands.

Arlo & Jacob have a large selection of sofas in many shapes and sizes, but each is made to withstand the tyranny of abuse brought about by families, children, and pets – they even have a robust, family-friendly fabric selection well worth exploring.

Our favourite? We say go for the 'Grace' sofa if you’re searching for an unfussy design that has style and substance.

Best for: Unusual and contemporary designs

Price: from £1,165

B&B Italia

B&B Italia is another Italian brand you must know if you love contemporary design. More than just furniture, B&B Italia is known for shaping how modern interiors function and feel. They’ve been instrumental in popularizing modular living, allowing users to adapt and personalize their spaces without sacrificing aesthetics.

Our favourite from their collection is the Le Bambole x Stella McCartney sofa, which features a hand-drawn “Fungi Forest” print upholstery pulled from the Stella McCartney Summer 2022 runway collection, so it feels distinctly high fashion but is softened with the use of an illustrated print.

Best for: Precision-crafted statement sofas

Price: From £3,400

Benchmark Furniture

With workshops in Berkshire and Dorset, Benchmark Furniture is an easy brand to fall in love with. Everything they make has a sense of permanence and intention. There's no throwaway culture here, and that is deeply important in this fast and furious present.

Made with natural, sustainable, and non-toxic materials, their sofas are made with human health and well-being in mind. From an aesthetic perspective, these sofas best suit those homes that favour simplicity in good, quality design and want something well-crafted to add to their hushed and simple interior.

Best for: Beautifully made furniture with genuinely impressive eco-credentials

Price: Price on enquiry

Darlings of Chelsea

Well known for their longevity and durability, Darlings of Chelsea’s sofas are great investments if you want a hardwearing sofa that will look close to identical five years into slouching on it daily to the day it arrives fresh from the box.

They have a whopping collection of over 170 fabrics and leathers, including a range of stain-resistant and recycled fabrics to choose from.

Corner sofas are often tricky to integrate into a room and can be bulky additions that dominate a space, but this sofa company has a plethora of corner sofa styles that are definitely worth browsing.

Darlings of Chelsea offer the option to customise your sofa by adding your seat cushion preference, chosen foot colour, and whether you'd like removable arms, so there's a lot of opportunity to get it perfectly suited to your tastes. The Norbury range is a particularly great choice; it even features a love seat sofa bed, which is ideal if you have a small space in which you need to have maximum functionality.

Best for: Contemporary corner sofas and storage solutions

Price: From £819

Edra

Edra’s sofas are unapologetically expressive. Designs like On the Rocks and Cipria feel more like living sculptures than seating, often featuring unconventional materials, plush textures, and an almost surreal, otherworldly silhouette. There’s a dreamlike fluidity to their shapes, as if the furniture is in motion. It’s furniture as a statement, bold, tactile, and totally unconcerned with convention.

This aesthetic works best in homes that lean towards the eclectic, artistic, or highly contemporary.

Best for: Artistic, shape-shifting sofas

Price: On enquiry

Flexform

Ultra-modern and best in a minimalist setting, the sofa range at Felxform really does embody Italian craftsmanship excellence. Available in modular, stand-alone, or sectional configurations, there is a lot of choice and absolutely no one-size-fits-all approach.

The first Felxform sofa I ever saw in real life was in a beautiful, ancient Venetian palazzo, with the clean, simple, and ultra-modern shape in the middle of a deeply ornate and elaborate room; it was a sight to behold. How they transported the behemoth of a sofa through the carless canals of Venice remains a mystery.

Best for: Ideal for larger living rooms or open-plan spaces

Price: From £9,500

Heal's

If you love the simplicity of the Scandi or Japandi style, then you will adore the sofas at Heal's.

If you’re seeking to cultivate a space that feels both tranquil and impeccably stylish, look to sofas that master the art of refined minimalism. If this rings true for you, then it's Heal's we recommend you turn to as a first port of call. Every sofa is a masterclass in contemporary design, with clean lines, natural materials, and a focus on comfort that effortlessly complements any minimalist space.

Best for: Scandinavian and Japandi design

Price: From £1,295

Julian Chichester

If you want more control over the creative process and wish to feel like you're commissioning a piece of art in sofa form, then Julian Chichester is the place to go.

Hugely influenced by mid-century modern design and driven by a deep love for exceptional craftsmanship, Julian Chichester creates many artful pieces of furniture that will last a lifetime– and longer – and become heirlooms to pass down through the generations.

Honestly, we have a crush on every sofa in their collection, but if you're looking for a sofa for a more contemporary setting, nothing is quite as special or fitting as The Grove Sofa.

Best for: Modern and contemporary designs

Price: from £POA

Poliform

Poliform has a collection of sofas, each one sleek, architectural, and deeply comfortable. Designed and made in Italy, their pieces combine clean lines with soft, sculptural forms, making them ideal for contemporary interiors.

Material quality is central to Poliform’s appeal. Expect high-end upholstery options, from supple Italian leathers to textured natural fabrics, many of which are removable for added practicality. Each piece is finished with precision, from polished metal legs to streamlined timber detailing, and the brand’s modular systems allow for full customisation to suit your space.

Best for: architectural modular style

Price: on request

Porada

The sofa collection at Italian brand Porada has some iconic designs. Porada’s sofas are instantly recognizable for their sculptural, fluid forms and architectural presence. What is particularly wonderful is that many of their sofas are designed to offer maximum compositional freedom, so you can rearrange them whenever you like.

Despite their obvious structure and geometric lines, they are fabulously comfortable. Some even have memory foam, so they're gorgeous to sleep on, too.

All of the sofas in their collection suit sleek, modern apartments or contemporary houses with open-plan living spaces down to the ground.

Best for: Sculptural elegance with a soft, organic edge

Price: From £3,900

Roche bobois

The vast collection of modern sofas and sofa beds at Roche bobois is often the result of collaborations with artists, and these creations often feature bold color palettes, intricate textures, and unconventional forms, reflecting the artists' unique visions and challenging the norms of interior design. While these pieces are undeniably striking, their avant-garde nature may not align with every aesthetic preference.

Ideal for those with a penchant for the unconventional, Roche Bobois' artist-inspired sofas cater to individuals who view their living spaces as canvases for personal expression. Collectors, design enthusiasts, and those with a deep appreciation for contemporary art will find these pieces resonate with their sensibilities. However, for those who favor minimalist, neutral-toned interiors or seek furniture that blends seamlessly into traditional settings, these bold designs might not be the perfect fit.

Best for: Artful, statement-making luxury sofas

Price: From £5,850

Where to Shop for Transitional Interiors

Andrew Martin

Andrew Martin’s sofas sit comfortably at the intersection between contemporary and classic. With silhouettes that nod to traditional design but are softened by relaxed proportions and tactile upholstery, these pieces are neither overly formal nor aggressively modern. They strike a balance that suits homes in flux: spaces evolving from period features into more modern moods, or vice versa.

It’s this versatility that makes them so appealing to designers working across styles. Whether placed in a townhouse drawing room or a newly extended kitchen-living space, Andrew Martin’s sofas bring a sense of cohesion. The Strand sofa, pictured above, achieves all of this. It's unpretentious yet utterly beautiful. A firm favourite.

Best for: Characterful, collected homes

Price: From £957

Cox & Cox

A great brand to get to know if you’re sofa searching but unsure which look would work best in your home, Cox & Cox doesn’t have one designated look, as such, but they have such a large selection that it’s impossible not to find something suited to your tastes.

They have a variety of modern Scandi-chic sofas as well as antique-inspired designs, and a selection of ottomans and loveseats which complement them well.

This Somerset-based company has some bang-on-trend designs, but it’s worth considering investing in pieces you’re confident will outlive fleeting fashions, so our pick would be their Dinan Sofa, which is the perfect fit for structured living room layouts and will undoubtedly stand the test of time. It has a very supportive high frame and duck feather-filled cushions, so it adds a pleasing formality and structure to a room.

Best for: Scandi-chic sofas

Price: from £625

David Seyfried

My love affair with David Seyfried sofas shows no signs of slowing down.

The designs have essential clarity but with a wink of character. Sizes can all be adjusted to a customer’s specification, so there is a lot of wiggle room, quite literally.

If you would like extra depth or change the length of the legs or arms, there is no charge. With all of this in mind, the cost is remarkably reasonable for the service they offer.

Best for: Bespoke service

Price: from around £2,000

Loaf

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you have likely heard of this iconic British sofa brand. Loaf has a plethora of sofa styles, from large corner to reclining love seats. Naturally, you’ll have an instinctive inclination as to which best suits your home style, but one to bear in mind is their Brioche sofa.

As the name suggests, it's a squashy, cocooning hug of a sofa, perfect for curling up after a long day with a mug of steaming tea. It’s a sizable piece of furniture, but it comes apart so it can fit through small spaces and slim doorways – it also means it can move with you quite happily, squeeze into awkward rooms, and be carried up tricky stairwells.

The cushion is filled with duck feathers, making it outrageously comfortable. The fabric range is impressive, with a vast selection of materials and colours to choose from. Many of the names make us chuckle – 'Battered Shed' and 'Compost Heap' are particularly fun – but their colours are achingly difficult to choose between. For us, Milky Tea and Rusty Rake are clear winners.

Best for: Highly customizable designs

Price: from £1,295

Neptune

Truthfully, there isn't a sofa at Neptune that we don't like. That said, our firm favourite is the Long Island sofa, which has a laidback, casual, and cool girl energy we simply love. If you're looking for a less structured and strictly tailored look, and prefer a more linen-luxe aesthetic, then this is the one for you.

All of the sofa designs at Neptune have pleasingly generous proportions and are fabulously comfortable. Picking the fabric, be it velvet, linen, or leather, from their fabric library feels akin to being a kid in a sweet shop. Don't say we didn't warn you.

Best for: Their range has a large aesthetic reach, so there is likely a design that suits your look.

Price: from £2,195

Oka

Oka has a plethora of sofa styles, from classic and structured to relaxed and casual, and each design is truly beautiful.

The Pippo sofa is particularly handsome, with a gently curving back and arms that are upholstered in cotton woven in an Italian mill. The linen features a stripe, half of which is horizontal, the other half vertical, for a pleasing mismatching style. It is supported by tapered bobbin feet. Oka designed this piece with a modern farmhouse in mind; the striped pattern and neutral colours pair beautifully with light, airy interiors.

Best for: Beautifully structured and formal pieces

Price: from £895

Soho Home

Soho Home’s sofas evoke the sumptuous glamour of a private members’ club, with a design language steeped in vintage ‘60s and ‘70s references, Art Deco flair, and a bold use of jewel tones, rich textures, and playful details like tassels and velvet upholstery. They’re unapologetically eclectic, creating an atmosphere that feels intimate, theatrical, and distinctly evening in spirit.

This is not a collection of sofas for the faint-hearted or minimalist purists. Soho Home sofas are best suited to those who want their interiors to feel layered, luxurious, and a little dramatic.

Best for: Vintage glamour

Price: From £2,296

Sofa.com

The collection of sofas at sofa.com is enormous. Many of which are easily disassembled so they can fit into narrow doorways and round awkward corners.

Their aquaclean collection is ideally suited to those with children, toddlers, pets, or those who relish the odd party, as it makes cleaning any spills (even the reddest of red wines) easy and instant. The fabric is also treated so that it reduces the activity of bacteria and viruses by up to 91%, so if you have snotty toddlers and muddy pups lounging on the sofa for hours, it will simply stay perfectly clean. Magic.

Best for: Family life and withstanding everyday wear and tear

Price: From £2,630

The House Upstairs

The House Upstairs is a total unapologetic feast for the eyes. The sofas are all joy-sparking, playful pieces that serve as the perfect spot for curling up in when the sun goes down. Admittedly, the options aren't endless, but that’s half the joy of purchasing from this brand - owner and founder Jodie Hazlewood has designed them all herself, and if it’s good enough for Jodie’s home, it’s good enough for ours.

As if there wasn’t already enough to love about this British company, they also offer a free design and fabric suggestion service for your sofa, so you can benefit from an expert pair of eyes to assess your style and advise you before you take the plunge.

If you’re on the lookout for something that transforms into a cosy pull-out bed, then you will savour the sight of 'The Amy Sofa'. Banish all preconceived notions of a sofa bed – a pencil-grey room-dominating behemoth; this most definitely is not. This is a pocket rocket of a sofa – it is a neat and unobtrusive, pleasingly vintage design. You can choose to fold it out into a small double, a double, or a king-size bed. The pull-out sofa mechanism is skillfully camouflaged; if you weren’t told, you really wouldn’t know at all.

Worth mentioning, too, if you’re having the sofa delivered to the UK mainland, the delivery is complimentary, which is always a nice touch.

Best for: An injection of colour. Suitable for maximalist interiors.

Price: from £2,150

A sofa is a place we sit, nap, eat, drink, console, and celebrate. A good sofa will ideally be with you for many, many years to come, so selecting a sofa is no small task.

As you contend with not just aesthetics but the practicality of your sofa and the myriad of choices there are on the market, be sure it’s going to be a place you will actually want to sit. That seems like an obvious consideration, but ultimately, even if it is a sculptural masterpiece or hides a myriad of impressive functions, if it is uncomfortable, it will be unwelcoming; if it is unwelcoming, it won’t stand the test of time.

A few months ago, everyone and their mother was talking about the 'boneless' couch – that cloudlike, frame-free furniture trend that ships vacuum-sealed and expands on arrival like a memory foam mattress. I’ll admit, I initially wrote the whole category off. It’s not that they weren’t cute – they just leaned a little too minimal for my taste. So what I wanted wasn't more style per se, but more detail. More… personality.

And then I came across the 'WOWMAX couch bed.'

Made by the same brand behind that viral tufted headboard pillow I have been coveting, WOWMAX is a name that knows its way around a cushion. What looks like an oversized button-tufted floor pillow is actually a modular seating system – one that you can piece together to create a loveseat, a full-length couch, a sectional, or even a sleeper sofa.

The building possibilities, quite literally, are endless. As are the uses. It’s called a ‘couch bed’ because not only is it plush enough to sit on, but the skin-friendly fabric and supportive polyester fill (which, thanks to clever nine-button tufting, doesn’t slide or lose its shape) make it suitable for sleep too.

It’s the perfect solution for overnight guests, movie marathons, or a guest bedroom where space is tight and flexibility is key. Essentially, it’s couch by day, bed by night – like a futon, but chicer.

Now, one caveat: since there’s no metal frame, each backrest does need to lean against a wall for support. But there’s a sort of freedom in that – these boneless cushions are light enough to move around but sturdy enough to hold their own. Hosting? Rearrange in minutes. Reconfiguring your space? No problem. Want to get playful? Mix and match colors.

This 'couch bed' concept is the one I'd personally choose – partly because I’m a WOWMAX devotee, but also a sucker for the lace-like tufting and charming ruching details. Its design looks intentional, which is more than I can say for most furniture-in-a-bag situations.

That said, I’ve rounded up a few more pillow-adjacent, boneless couch beds that are making me rethink my stance on the overly minimal thing altogether. You’d never guess any of these arrived deflated.

Going into hosting season, I am on the lookout for ways to make my home easier to accommodate overnight guests, and since my space isn't blessed with lots of square footage, I think a flexible couch bed might be the game-changing piece of furniture I am after.

San Francisco–based interior designer Tineke Triggs has earned acclaim for crafting spaces that are as daring as they are meticulously curated. Renowned for her talent in balancing bold creativity with everyday livability, she transforms interiors – whether through a jewel-toned living room, a transformative ceiling mural, or a home layered with art and narrative – into immersive, unforgettable environments.

Her work is intensely personal, shaped by her perspective as a visual thinker who can translate a client’s essence into design, even when they struggle to articulate it themselves. Celebrated for her collaborations with artisans and her playful layering of pattern, texture, and custom details, she infuses each project with rhythm, character, and storytelling. In this conversation, she explores her approach to designing homes that are both comfortable and full of personality, the often-overlooked importance of ceilings, and why narrative lies at the heart of her design philosophy.

Your rooms feel both fearless and finely tuned. How would you describe your approach to decorating?

Each project has its own distinct identity. I start by creating a persona in my mind – a sense of who will inhabit the space. I’m dyslexic, and growing up, sketching was a peaceful refuge for me. Even now, I rely on visual cues to understand a person. Often, clients don’t fully know themselves, so I try to imagine who they truly are beneath the surface. There’s often someone deeper, more serene, or far bolder than the person you first meet. Once I have a sense of that inner character, I design a space that feels uniquely comfortable for them – one that reflects their voice, their rhythm, and the way they want to live.

What does comfortable look like for you?

It shouldn’t feel over-styled – like every detail has been obsessively curated. Don’t overthink design. It’s like weddings: I remember walking down the aisle and barely noticing the flowers I’d spent hours planning. The lesson is the same for interiors – don’t get caught up in the things that don’t really matter.

What does matter, then?

To me, a home’s decor is all about storytelling – what story it tells matters most. I’m not a minimalist; I love saturating every plane with layers of color and meaning, and each piece of art on the walls carries a story. Every element in my home – from accessories to carpets to antiques – exists to draw you in and reveal something about who I am. That said, not every piece of furniture needs to carry that weight; it can simply be comfortable and beautiful without being a statement. In short: walls tell the story, accent pieces matter, and almost everything else can just be functional.

When you talk about walls, I know you mean ceilings. Many of your projects feature ceiling murals – what draws you to highlight them in your designs?

In life, we spend so much time looking down at our phones, but we should be looking up, outward, wider. A ceiling is a chance to expand a space – it completes the room. If a ceiling isn’t considered, it feels like it was left out. For example, the decorative artist Caroline Lizarraga and I created a ceiling wallpaper in gilded gold, with paint dripping down the sides of the walls. That kind of imagination and custom detail is what excites me. I love it when a space surprises you.

How do you pick the pattern for the ceiling?

It really depends on what the project calls for. In one case, the wallpaper itself was the standout element. Recently, I designed a 'man cave' with a bar and table, where the ceilings were low. I painted the room a saturated gray, but the ceiling started to dominate, so I added an agate-inspired design that looked like it was dripping down from above. My general rule is that when walls are dark, the ceiling should become the focal point – it’s where you can really play and create drama.

Do clients tend to let your imagination run wild?

Sometimes a client is very conservative, very traditional, but even then, I push the boundaries as much as I can. For one project, everything was blue, so I added a feathered wallpaper on the ceiling. It was a bold statement, but never overdone. That’s my guiding principle in everything I do – I can’t handle over-stimulation, a habit born from having ADD, so balance is key.

Yes, there are always moments of calm in all of your projects. How do you keep it feeling inviting rather than dramatic?

It always comes back to livability. I’m drawn to things that feel comfortable, and comfort can still be bold. Take jewel tones, they’re rich and vibrant, yet still inviting because they echo colors found in nature. I love metallics too – being a Leo, I naturally gravitate toward a little sparkle – but there’s a limit. Too much opulence feels overwhelming, and I like my spaces to feel lively, not overdone.

Your spaces often unfold in layers, with custom lighting, sculptural seating, and rich textures. What’s your approach to creating a sense of rhythm and depth within a room?

I start by collecting everything that catches my eye – throwing pieces into a basket and letting them accumulate. Then I begin refining, taking things out as I build a presentation board. If you watch me at work, it might look chaotic. I often create 20 schemes at once, mixing fabrics and wallpapers in groups that just keep growing. It’s all because I need to see everything visually – it’s how my mind works.

How do you know when you’re done?

The key to completing a home isn’t the furniture – it’s everything else. An unfinished space is missing art, accessories, plants, flowers, books, blankets, and pillows – all the elements that make it feel lived-in and cozy. Once those details are in place, the home truly feels complete.

See more of Tineke's work at Tineke Triggs

There's a phenomenon that happens when you start to love something: you start to become blind to it. You've probably heard of the phrase used when it comes to fashion or beauty trends: 'blush blindness', 'eyebrow blindness,' 'baggy blindness'. But what I am guilty of relates to my interiors – 'vintage blindness'.

I have become so obsessed with hunting through thrift shops and antique stores to find quirky pieces that will add character to my rooms, that I am not sure whether my love for decorating with vintage has gone too far. I brought home an old ceramic olive jar last week which, once in my home, gave more kitsch Grandma's kitchen than chic, rustic Mediterranean retreat.

My recent search has been for a bar cart for my small kitchen. I want the perfect piece that's going to add character, texture, and storage, because when space is tight, everything you bring into it needs to work hard. When I saw this bar cart, not in the depths of a second-hand store, but on Home Depot (I was equally surprised), it spoke to me. This was the quirky, characterful, textured piece I was after.

I sent it straight to our editor to sense-check it wasn't my vintage blindness – that this was actually a great piece at a great price.. She agreed, so I ordered it.

I think a bar cart is one of the most versatile pieces you can add to a kitchen, because it doesn't have to act as its namesake, just see it as a compact, portable, chic piece of furniture that's going to add extra kitchen storage and surface space.

I intend to use the top section to display drinks bottles and my nicest glassware, but the bottom section will be for more practical storage of my larger plates and platters that I really struggle to fit into my shallow cabinets.

On the Home Depot site, there's also an image of this used as a coffee station, with a coffee machine on top and the accessories beneath. This is a great idea in any home, but if you are heading off to college this year, a rolling cart to create your own coffee shop is top of my list for recommendations, and this one would add some style to your dorm room too.

Since a bar cart has been on my wishlist for a while, I have some other recommendations that almost came home with me, just in case my rattan pick is a little too quirky...

These days, I’m convinced that some animals live better than we do. Their lifespans are being extended with supplements. Their food comes refrigerated, plated in TikToks like $46 steak tartare. And now, thanks to Ruggable’s first-ever home accessories drop – a debut line of pet beds, rugs, and pillows – they can finally out-style us, too.

It helps that the launch comes courtesy of Jonathan Adler – potter, designer, and longtime Ruggable collaborator. Given his distinctly dynamic design language and expansive archive, they could’ve gone in any direction (bedding, candles, window treatments, and so on). But pet beds? That felt personal.

‘We expanded to pet beds for purely selfish reasons – I was sick of going to friends’ houses and seeing their ugly pet beds sitting out,’ Jonathan tells me. ‘If it’s going to be out, it should look as great as the rest of your home does. You – and your pet – deserve it.’

His home decor muse? A rescue pup named FoxyLady. ‘She was my inspiration for the collection, and I’m happy to report, she loves everything we came up with.’

Some FoxyLady-approved designs include Jonathan’s signature bold geometrics, classic monogram motifs (‘F’ for Foxy, of course), and notably: the return of his cult-favorite tiger pattern.

A faux taxidermy icon from his earlier Ruggable drops, it’s perfect for a feisty feline – or any four-legged creature with main character energy. ‘Foxy has a ferocious side,’ he says. ‘The tiger motif lets her express it.’

And because this is Ruggable (one of Homes & Gardens' tried and tested best places to buy rugs), form follows function. The beds come in two parts – an outer bolster and an inner memory foam mattress – each wrapped in removable, machine-washable covers. There’s even a water-resistant insert to ward off accidents and inevitable mess (see: how to dog-proof your home).

Of course, the question remains: how matchy-matchy should you go when living with pets? Should you coordinate with your pet, or is subtlety the smarter route? Jonathan plays it cool. ‘I can only hope to look as gorgeous as Foxy (though we’re both about the same height),’ he jokes. ‘It doesn’t matter if you match or complement – what matters is that you love the piece. If you love it, it will work.’

In other words, one for you, one for them. A pattern on the floor, and a matching perch for your furry companion. At long last, the whole household gets in on the design moment.

Match

Mix-and-Match

As with any beloved family member, things can get a little… hairy, so be sure to shop our picks for the best vacuums for pet hair.

When I first stumbled upon the Amazon ‘boneless' couch corner of TikTok, I was immediately reminded of that iconic Vine (RIP) where a guy tries to order a pizza – ‘boneless.’ What’s a boneless pizza? No one knew then, and no one knows now – which, of course, was the joke. I had the same confused-but-delighted reaction when I heard the term applied to furniture. So naturally, I had to investigate: what, exactly, makes a couch ‘boneless’?

As it turns out, this sofa trend is quite literal. A boneless couch is, quite simply, a couch without bones – no visible frame, no rigid shape, just pure, pillowy form. ‘The term boneless couch might sound like it belongs in a culinary conversation, but this furniture phenomenon has become one of the most polarizing trends in interior design,’ says interior designer Nina Lichtenstein.

Often lightweight and sold in flat-pack boxes, this new furniture trend is a shapeshifter. Once freed from their packaging, they expand on their own – much like a mattress-in-a-box. And while admittedly slightly absurd sounding in theory, logistically, they're a godsend.

‘For apartment dwellers and commitment-averse millennials, they offer a low-maintenance, no-fuss alternative to traditional, bulky seating,’ Nina explains. As any New Yorker like myself can attest – a sofa you don’t have to saw in half to get up the stairs is basically priceless.

Of course, when something sounds this good, there’s usually a catch. Some of the boneless couches I have come across can look a little, well, cheap – and with some Amazon versions going for around $300, it's because they are exactly that. But as anyone who’s ever lived with an ugly sofa knows: cheap is fine, cheap-looking is the real crime, so I have done some digging to find some boneless couches that nail this trend and look chic.

In terms of styling, to prevent the interior design trend from appearing overly marshmallow-adjacent, Nina suggests anchoring the softness of the boneless sofa with structured accent – say, a sculptural lighting or a sharp-edged side table – for contrast.

So, are ‘boneless’ sofas here to stay? Nina thinks so. ‘At the end of the day, softness sells. Especially when the world outside feels anything but,' she says.

Ahead, the best Amazon boneless couches to build your own soft-sided sanctuary – and unlike that infamous boneless pizza, these actually deliver. In a box, no less.

There’s plenty more where that came from. Browse our edit of the best Amazon furniture finds ahead of Prime Day to get some equally chic, and affordable pieces.

Long-loved for their affordable prices and easy-to-construct (most of the time) flat-pack furniture, IKEA is a staple when it comes to good design on a budget. IKEA's beauty is its accessibility; it's filled with surprisingly high-quality pieces that make creating a truly lasting scheme feel achievable and straightforward. However, like all inexpensive contemporary furniture, these pieces can sometimes feel a little... mainstream and lacking in that crucial element of luxury.

Luckily, there are plenty of great IKEA hacks to make IKEA furniture look more expensive. So I spoke with IKEA shoppers, interior designers, and home DIYers about their favorite ways of making IKEA furniture look more luxurious and elevated.

The results were endless, proving that affordable furniture can be made to look more luxe. With a keen eye and a bit of DIY knowledge, you can transform even the most mundane pieces into a high-end centerpiece that's both practical and stylish.

Whether you're reupholstering or adding paneling, you can entirely reimagine IKEA furniture with these six nifty ideas that will take your piece from affordable to elevated.

1. Add character to IKEA pieces with paneling and molding

While there are plenty of IKEA pieces that look expensive, an area we all know is more practicality over aesthetics is its storage. All the classic best-selling storage, while versatile and hardworking, lack a luxury feel.

To make your IKEA storage furniture feel more expensive and luxurious, consider adding some form of molding or paneling, as this can transform a plain piece.

Louise Kemp, founder of lkhome__ on Instagram, took a simple IKEA built-in unit from the BILLY series (pictured above) and made it look more expensive by adding some character with paneling. 'I think the main way we made our IKEA units look more expensive was by adding to them,' Laura explains. 'For example, we added coving, a tongue and groove sheet, and additional MDF boards to give it a built-in look.'

To make the unit feel even more bespoke, Louise added some hardware and painted it a refreshing sage green. She adds, 'We also changed out the handles and added antique brass ones, with matching lighting. Finally, we painted it a lovely shade of green, which looks completely different from the plain white Ikea units we started with!'

2. Incorporate aged hardware on drawers, cabinets, and cupboards

Whether you're adding vintage kitchen hardware to your IKEA kitchen or you're fitting new handles on a cupboard or chest of drawers, sophisticated metal accents can make all the difference to a mundane piece of IKEA furniture.

Designers say hardware can make a room look more expensive and can entirely transform a mass-produced piece into a unique work of art. Adding aged accents like brass handles or knobs will make your IKEA furniture feel not only more sophisticated but also add patina and character to a modern piece.

Sarah Brady, Founder and Creative Director of Salt Design Company, says 'Add new hardware to make your IKEA furniture look more expensive. Don’t settle for default hardware. Switch out the knobs and handles for something more stylish, like brass or leather, to instantly upgrade the piece.'

3. Opt for designer collaborations and style simply but effectively

There are some IKEA products that designers swear by, and these picks mostly come from IKEA's frequent designer collaborations. It's in these ranges that you'll find the IKEA furniture that looks the most expensive.

Interior designer Tola Ojuolape says she always opts for pieces that have been designed in collaboration with iconic designers, and these feel more expensive and bespoke.

'When I want my IKEA furniture to look more expensive, I would opt for pieces from IKEA's iconic designer collaborations, such as the Ilse Crawford Collection, which emphasises timeless, sustainable design,' she explains.

'Her rectangular dining tables, often made with natural materials like cork, offer an understated elegance that can be elevated further with thoughtful styling. I would layer the table with complementary vases from her latest collection, textured linens, as well as more vibrant crockery (trays, cups, and vases) from IKEA’s Tesamann’s Collection to create a cohesive, high-end look, especially when hosting.'

And the easier tip Tola offered for elevating IKEA furniture – fresh flowers. Simple but effective. She adds, 'Finally, I would add fresh flowers, nothing overly styled, just thoughtfully arranged. It’s those small, deliberate choices that make the setup feel curated and more high-end.'

4. Elevate your IKEA furniture by mixing it with vintage pieces

Styling an IKEA piece with vintage decor can make just as much difference as entirely revamping it with DIY. Artful and attentive styling elevates even the plainest IKEA pieces, making them look more expensive and unique.

You can make an IKEA bed look more expensive by styling it with vintage bedding and cushions, or you can elevate an IKEA shelving unit and make it feel more interesting by decorating it with layers of antique decor.

Sharing her styling tips, Sarah Brady says, 'Curate your IKEA furniture with intention. Add personal touches like books, artwork, and decorative objects. Layer in textures to elevate open shelving and surfaces with depth and character.'

Decorating with antiques will make your IKEA pieces feel grander and more sophisticated. You want your furniture to feel more refined and unique, so by opting for vintage decor, a characterless piece is instantly improved. For example, an antique vase on an IKEA coffee table is far better than a more mundane style. Or, an ornate gilded mirror can make an IKEA console appear less stark, creating the perfect contrast of styles in a hallway.

6. Paint your piece in a bold color

You'd be surprised how much a lick of paint can transform a piece of IKEA furniture. A timeless paint color can make natural wood pieces feel far less boring and more bespoke.

If you want to transform a lackluster cabinet or shelf into a work of art, follow in Kanza's footsteps. Founder of the Instagram page handmadehome_durham, Kanza has transformed her space using DIY. She says, 'I didn’t want to part with my IKEA Kallax – it’s been with me through multiple house moves, is built to last and offers generous storage, but its basic look didn’t quite fit with my evolving decor style. Rather than replace it, I decided to upcycle it. I added MDF arches to soften the shape and painted the entire piece in Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue – a rich, deep tone that instantly made it feel more elegant and high-end. The transformation turned something functional into a statement piece that now feels cohesive with the rest of the room.'

If you want to transform a shelf or cabinet like Kanza's, opt for the best dark blue paints that ooze sophistication and warmth. For a lighter alternative, consider a refreshing sage green or plaster pink.

Kanza adds, 'My top tip for making KEA furniture look more expensive is to treat it like a blank canvas, a base to add on to rather than a finished product in itself. With a bit of imagination, whether it’s a bold colour, new hardware, or a custom shape, you can turn something functional into something beautiful and personal.'

6. Reupholster cheap IKEA furniture with more luxury textiles

Whether you're reupholstering a chair or creating a cushion, adding a vibrant textile can transform an IKEA piece into a high-end and unique statement.

Interior designer Noz Nozawa added her own DIY cushion to her affordable outdoor IKEA sofa, giving it a much-needed dose of pattern and color. She explains, 'I think IKEA makes some great furniture frames and bases that are a wonderful quality for their value. The way I elevate these frames is by making custom cushions with more vibrant textiles.'

'In my own home, I have the outdoor Jutholmen modular sofa, which I chose principally for its ideal dimensions and boxy arms to fit on my small San Francisco patio. The great price point on the frame gave me room to splurge on seat and back cushions that I covered in a fab Lee Jofa outdoor chenille.'

'You can also elevate IKEA benches or headboards by reupholstering them in a durable performance fabric.'

Small touches can make all the difference to mundane furniture. Whether you're tackling a DIY project or simply styling your piece with vintage decor, there are plenty of ways to make IKEA furniture look more expensive.

With rails of clothes, stacks of books, and shelves of china to choose from, thrifting is an endlessly inspiring (and affordable) venture that can transform your home into an eclectic and one-of-a-kind space. And it's not just decor and trinkets that can be the best things to thrift, you'll often find some furniture gems hidden in your local thrift store too.

Thrift stores are, of course, so much cheaper than antique stores, and while there's often a bit of a mixed bag when it comes to furniture, if you know what to look out for, you could find some really unique vintage pieces. So I spoke with the experts to find out what furniture they recommend looking out for at the thrift store.

1. Peacock chairs

Rattan furniture is not only featured amongst this year's vintage furniture trends, it's been popular for decades, meaning you can find all sorts of unique styles at the thrift store. However, there's one style that's a classic vintage staple – the peacock chair, dubbed for its dramatic arched back and bamboo detail.

Amber Michelle, founder of The Magic Of Round Top, is a long-time vintage collector and loves a peacock chair as it's an example of furniture one should always thrift. She says, 'I love finding the beautiful peacock chairs from the '70s. Look for artisan furniture that is beautifully handcrafted from amazing woods that can serve as heirloom pieces for your family.'

'Buying secondhand and thrift is a mission near and dear to my heart, as it not only allows you to be very creative in home decorating and creating designs the whole family can create together, but it is also extremely good for our planet,' Amber adds. 'Choosing thrift over buying new really says a lot about what matters to you. Thrifting for furniture is heart and soul-based shopping.'

2. Stools

Every room needs a stool; it's a humble yet mighty piece of furniture that can fill dead space and provide extra seating, or surface space, all without dominating. Whether you're adding one to your pantry or placing one beside your couch, stools come in many shapes and sizes, making them an easy piece to bring into your scheme, regardless of your interior design style. They are also a great piece to thrift.

Mike Fretto, CEO of furniture company Neighbor, often hunts for stools at the thrift store due to their affordable prices and one-of-a-kind styles. He says, 'I think that stools are definitely a great type of furniture to look out for in thrift stores. New stools are often pretty overpriced for how small and basic they are design-wise in all actuality. Buying them second-hand can be a great way to ensure you aren’t overpaying.'

'Stools are also often some of the easiest types of furniture to customize. Uneven legs are pretty easy to fix, and they can be stained or painted without needing a whole lot of expertise.'

3. Vanities and desks

While it can be hard to hunt for specific pieces at the thrift store, as furniture can vary in age and style, a classic piece to always keep in mind is a desk or vanity. An antique desk can be just what a home office needs, giving it a sense of patina and character. Alternatively, a vintage desk can double up as a vanity and sit in the corner of your bedroom.

Jane Shapiro, founder of Mothership Thrift and Vintage, says, 'Vanities and desks are my favorite pieces of furniture to thrift. The quality of materials and details in the design is hard to match with modern furniture. For example, an Art Deco vanity will be made out of solid wood, have a thick glass mirror, sturdy drawer pulls, and often handy storage compartments.'

Caring for antique furniture is surprisingly easy, says Jane, 'There are so many easy-to-use and effective products on the market to help maintain and restore old wood and metal, so you can keep adding new life into antique vanities and desks.' We would always recommend adding touch up markers to your DIY kit, they hide scratches and discoloration in seconds.

4. Bamboo furniture

A big furniture trend for 2025, bamboo is a material popular for its relaxed, bohemian feel and its reliable sturdiness. A classic style used in mid-century design right up to the present day, bamboo furniture often lies in thrift stores.

Whether you're hunting for the perfect seating for your front porch idea or want a comfy chair for your living room, bamboo furniture feels both relaxed and traditional. Emma Carole Paradis, co-founder of interior design studio Impeccable Nest, says 'I love to thrift bamboo furniture (think British Colonial). We love to find beautiful bamboo armoires and corner étagères in beautiful dark woods. These immediately give an interior a warm hug and an elegant feel once they're placed. We never pass up some fun barware for our clients and our own home. The cheekier the better!'

5. Mid-century accent chairs

Mid-century furniture often retails for high prices and has been collectible over recent years due to its contemporary, cool connotations. So if you spot something you love from this era in a thrift store, snap it up as it's likely you'll get the best price in thrift stores over vintage shops.

Hannah Oravec, from Lawless Design studio, says she always goes thrifting with certain European furniture styles in mind. 'You can never go wrong with mid-century modern or rustic European styles. I gravitate towards Danish modern, French, and Belgian farmhouse styles, mixed with English cottage. These seamlessly blend new and old in a manner that is both collected and eclectic in feeling.'

While you're less likely to find high-brow makers than in a dedicated vintage store, Hannah says she always keeps in mind the names of her favorite makers in case she stumbles across a hidden gem. 'Keep an eye out for designers like Fritz Hanson, Pierre Jeanneret, and Henning Kjaernulf. They designed beautiful, classic pieces that are both chic and timeless.'

6. Wooden dining tables

Whether you're looking for the perfect long table for a traditional dining room or a small round style for a breakfast nook, thrift stores often stock an array of donated furniture that can make creating your dream space far less expensive but just as lasting.

Rachel Leonard Kennedy often thrifts furniture. She says, 'Real wood will always be the best furniture to buy at thrift stores as these pieces are going to last longer than the modern press-board stuff that’s for sale. A real-wood piece is going to carry a hefty price tag at a modern furniture store, so when I come across something made with natural wood, I always consider taking it home. My dining room table is a round, mahogany wood piece I scored for $25 from a thrift store in Germany. I have an end table in my living room that I found at a thrift store in Huntsville, Alabama, from the late 1800s for $80, made entirely of a beautiful dark walnut.'

A top tip from Rachel for cleaning wood furniture is, 'Buy some Murphy Oil Soap cleaning spray and wipe your wood pieces down every couple of months to keep them supple, plus you’ll enjoy the added perk of having a delicious orange wood scent wafting through your home like a candle.'

You never know what you'll find at the thrift store, whether it's a bamboo chair or a handmade stool; endless treasures are waiting to be rehomed. If you can't make it to the thrift, remember you can buy vintage furniture online and find all your favorite styles with ease.

When you think of affordable, high-quality furniture, it's likely that Swedish stalwart IKEA is the first place that springs to mind. But, what if the furniture you want isn't available in the color you want it?

Luckily, say our paint and furniture pros, IKEA furniture can be painted, allowing you to flip your furniture on a budget and customize it with your individual space in mind.

Here, they shares their tips on painting wood furniture fresh from the store, including how to prep, sand and seal.

Can you paint IKEA furniture?

Luckily, says Carr Lanphier, CEO of Improovy, the answer is yes, you can paint IKEA fu

If you have got your hands on some gorgeous, budget-friendly IKEA pieces that will not date, you can indeed give it a lick of fresh or fun color.

'You can definitely paint IKEA furniture,' Carr assures. 'I've seen this done quite a bit as a DIY refresh on an older, or even a new, piece.'

It's a great way to make furniture look more expensive, achieve an antique finish with paint, and even spruce up your outdoor IKEA items by painting garden furniture.

Mike Fretto, furniture expert and creative director at Neighbor, adds, 'Yes, you can paint most IKEA furniture. In fact, it’s pretty popular for people to do this so that they can customize their pieces and make them appear less cookie-cutter.'

But, as Carr highlights, there are some significant, and very important, mistakes to avoid when painting wooden furniture.

How to paint IKEA furniture

As with any DIY project, preparation is key if you're planning on painting your IKEA furniture. 'I’ve seen some of these DIY jobs fall apart pretty quickly due to failing to prepare the piece correctly,' warns Carr.

This, as Mike advises, includes disassembling the furniture, usually made easy by the flatpack nature of IKEA pieces, and cleaning it thoroughly.

A microfiber cloth and all-purpose spray, such as the Seventh Generation Multi Surface Cleaning Spray available at Walmart, or warm soapy water, will usually do the job. For particularly tough stains and marks, a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, available at Amazon, is ideal.

Next, says Carr, 'IKEA furniture is usually laminate, so it has that smooth finish paint won’t adhere to without priming.'

For this reason, if you're looking for a quick and easy affordable DIY weekend project, he recommends purchasing a primer specifically intended for use on laminate.

The Rust-Oleum ZINSSER Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Primer/Sealer available at Amazon, which bonds to all surfaces without the need for sanding, creates a mold and mildew resistant film, and is guaranteed to work with any paint.

This can be applied with a roller, included in the BETTER 6-Piece Paint Mini Roller Kit available at Walmart, or with a paint brush, such as the Double Thick Chip Paint Brush, available at Amazon.

'Apply the primer and allow it to dry completely before painting over it with your furniture paint of choice,' adds Carr. 'Otherwise, you can sand down laminate to remove that smooth finish and provide a rougher surface for your paint to adhere to.'

This can be done using simple sandpaper, such as the Sand Paper Variety Pack available at Amazon, which includes 12 different grit assortments, or with something a little more heavy-duty, like the bestselling HYCHIKA Detail Sander, also available at Amazon.

Mike adds, 'I would also recommend applying a sealant at the end to really lock the paint in place.'

We recommend the Minwax Polycrylic Protective Wood Finish available at Amazon for this.

Furniture painting essentials

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

FAQs

Can you vinyl wrap IKEA furniture?

Another great way to update your IKEA furniture on a budget is with vinyl wrapping, such as the Abyssaly Wood Grain Contact Paper available at Amazon.

Proper preparation before adhesion is still recommended.

Meet our experts

There are plenty more DIY projects that will elevate your home without any high costs, from adding texture to walls to building DIY built-in bookshelves.

A couch is one of life’s commitments. It’s not forever, but it should look and feel great for a good long while. So, if you’re shopping now or in the near future, the couch colors going out of style for 2025 and beyond are worth knowing about.

What’s in and what’s out isn’t merely a whim of fashion. ‘Design evolves the way language does – certain tones fall out of conversation not because they were wrong, but because they no longer say what we need them to,’ says Rachel Blindauer, interior and product designer.

Here, interiors experts reveal which living room sofa shades are the ones to swerve, the reasons why they’re not a great contribution to interiors right now, and what timeless couch colors you might like to pick instead.

1. Cool gray

Once a reliable choice for a living room, cool-toned grays, especially those with blue undertones, have had their moment. Cool gray is out for 2025, in fact, it's been on the out for a long time, so avoid this shade when choosing a couch color.

‘Gray was a staple during the farmhouse and minimalist years, but they’re now being seen as overly cold and one-dimensional,’ says Alice Moszczynski, a New York-based interior designer at Planner 5D, of the color also known as millennial gray.

But that’s not to say all neutrals are out; simply avoid the chillier versions. ‘I’m seeing people are leaning into warmer neutrals instead, like taupe, camel, and mushroom, which offer the same versatility but with much more warmth and depth,’ says Alice.

2. Bright white

The same accusation of chill is being leveled at bright white for the couch that’s the centerpiece of living room furniture. Like cool gray, a white couch can lack the warmth and depth that current interiors are leaning into, explains Rebekah Moore Murphy, co-founder and architect of design at Murphy & Moore Design.

‘Bright white upholstery, while still a classic in small doses, tends to be impractical for most households and misses that sense of patina and lived-in luxury that many are craving,’ she says.

The shades to choose instead are along the same lines as those that might replace cool gray. Think ‘warmer hues like mushroom, ivory, soft taupe, and creamy off-whites’, recommends interior designer and founder of June St George Ally-Catherine Trenary.

3. Dark gray

Yes, gray again, but there’s another take on gray you should know is out of style for couches, and that’s charcoal.

‘For years, charcoal gray was the go-to “safe” option: dark enough to hide stains, neutral enough to suit every trend,’ says Rachel Blindauer. ‘But its reign is quietly ending. Today, charcoal reads more corporate than cozy – especially in open-concept homes flooded with natural light.’

The color’s flaws are that it can feel heavy and cold in bright or coastal spaces; often flattens other colors in the room instead of enhancing them; and is associated with mass-market, builder-grade decor from the 2010s, she says.

The alternatives to choose, Rachel says, are ‘earth-infused neutrals like mushroom, oat, or warm flax’.

4. Navy blue

Even the staples of living room color can become out of joint with the times. ‘Navy had a strong run as a safe but stylish choice,’ says interior designer and operations manager at 123 Remodeling Lior Kahana. ‘Lately though, it can come off a bit heavy or overly formal.’

You needn’t give up on decorating with blue, however. ‘Dusty blues or slate tones offer a similar grounding effect but feel more relaxed and natural,’ says Lior. ‘They pair well with wood, leather, and woven textures, making them a better fit for casual, layered spaces.’

5. Aqua

Swerve sofas upholstered in shades from the blue-green area of the color wheel, too, if you want to be in style, suggests Rachel Blindauer.

‘Aqua-toned sofas had their moment, especially in coastal or boho-inspired interiors,’ she says. ‘But as design moves toward subtler expressions of place and personality, these bright blues are starting to feel too loud, too theme-specific.’

Problems with this hue are that it’s too characteristic of beachy, she explains, plus it is difficult to integrate into evolving palettes or seasonal decor.

There are some appealing alternatives. ‘Consider muted sage, mineral blue, or dusty olive,’ Rachel suggests. ‘These shades feel fresher but more grounded, offering a nod to nature without veering into novelty.’

6. Millennial pink

One more shade that’s become a blast from the past in room color ideas is millennial pink. Remember when every cool living room on social media had a pink velvet sofa?

‘That soft blush tone dominated sofas and accent chairs for years, but it’s now being replaced with more saturated hues,’ says Alice Moszczynski. ‘Richer tones like terracotta, clay, or even oxblood colors still bring warmth and romance, but feel more grown-up,’ she suggests.

If you’ve seen the signs you need a new couch, it’s not a matter of slavishly following fashion to reject the colors going out of style for its successor. Choose the tones that suit the times, and your living room will bea nurturing space as well as elegant.

Mid-century modern design is witnessing a major revival. Furniture, art, and decor from the middle of the last century are now deemed 'collectible', visual reminders of the era's originality and fine craftsmanship. Many of today's valuable pieces have been designed by Europe's most recognized designers and makers, and interestingly, this mix includes a name we all know and love, popular Swedish homeware brand IKEA.

I spoke to Andreas Siesing, one of Sweden’s leading design historians and Auctionet’s IKEA and interiors expert, who spilled all the secrets on the most valuable IKEA pieces and how to spot a collectible. Despite IKEA's affordability, Andreas reveals that all kinds of pieces are sought after today, from rare midcentury gems to furniture produced in more recent years.

Here are Andreas' top tips for finding a hidden treasure at auction, online, or in your local thrift store, sharing exactly what to look out for, including eras, notable names, and the most iconic styles.

What are your tips for spotting a collectible IKEA piece?

There are plenty of collectibles interior designers look for when antique shopping, and while you might not initially think IKEA pieces are one of them, Andreas's tips prove otherwise and will help you seek out the treasure from the trash.

Andreas says, 'Keep an open mind – collectible IKEA doesn’t always mean decades-old. In fact, IKEA furniture already makes up one‑fifth of the average home (rising to a quarter among Millennials), which means more recent pieces are increasingly in demand.'

As midcentury modern homes become more trendy, Andreas says to consider the condition and seek out certain styles. 'Armchairs, in particular, are perennially sought after. Don’t overlook the 1990s – a period only now being rediscovered.'

If you're unsure where to start, take a look at past auctions to understand what styles and makers are collectible. Andreas explains, 'A great shortcut is to explore Auctionet’s archive of over 10,000 sold IKEA items. Their recent ‘IKEA Through the Years’ auction was the largest IKEA auction ever staged. It showcased over 200 lots, including rare and elusive pieces like the “Holken” hanging chair from the 1970s and Rutger Andersson’s striking black-and-white furniture for postmodern interiors, which were heavily featured at launch but soon almost entirely forgotten. But act fast, according to our recent research, 32% of buyers today consider IKEA “collectible,” and prices are climbing; what felt like a fair deal two years ago might now look like a bargain.'

From your experience, what IKEA piece has reached the highest sum?

Midcentury modern ideas embrace retro furniture styles, like slow slung chairs, plush armchairs, sleek coffee tables, and metal-framed furniture. Keep an eye out for these shapes, as recently, a 1950s curved wood armchair, pictured above, reached the highest price an IKEA piece has ever reached at auction.

When I asked Andreas the highest price an IKEA piece has sold for, he told me, 'That would be Bengt Ruda’s Cavelli armchair. In autumn 2021, it set a world record, selling for 151,000 SEK (around $15,619) at Stadsauktion Sundsvall.'

'Designed in the late 1950s, the model hails from the era when teak was the most popular wood in Scandinavia, yet it features an Italian-style design. It was produced in very limited numbers, making surviving examples exceptionally scarce and highly sought-after.'

Which makers and designer are deemed as the most collectible?

When buying antique furniture online, always look out for pieces designed by certain names. IKEA has had many collections over the years, but pieces from lines designed by notable names are often more valuable.

Andreas says, 'In the IKEA world, provenance matters less than you might think – but giving an item a clear identity is everything. The more information you can provide, the better. That said, some names do stand out. Gillis Lundgren (who designed the infamous Impala chair), the designer behind many iconic pieces, is unquestionably at the forefront. More recently, IKEA’s collaborations with external designers have produced models that are gaining momentum in the secondary market and are likely to become increasingly sought after.'

Another name Andreas mentioned was Karin Mobring. He says, 'She designed a wealth of pieces throughout the '60s, '70s, and '80s, yet remains somewhat under-the-radar. The fact that no comprehensive biography of her work exists still amazes me. Her designs, such as the safari chair Diana, were highlighted in the ‘IKEA Through the Years’ auction, underscoring her enduring appeal.'

Is there a certain period of IKEA furniture that is more popular or valuable?

While you might think midcentury pieces are more valuable than more contemporary styles due to their age, Andreas suggests that furniture from as late as the 1990s is deemed collectible.

We are seeing a huge resurgence in '90s trend making a comeback so don't neglect the 1990s and 2000s when you're hunting for an IKEA piece. Andreas explains there isn't just one valuable period. 'IKEA never goes out of fashion, which means virtually any decade could hold tomorrow’s collectible. Ten to fifteen years ago, collectors focused almost exclusively on the 1950s and 60s.'

'But today, buyers are casting a much wider net and looking for IKEA pieces from all decades – even pieces from the 2000s are seeing rising interest. The 1970s and, increasingly, the 1980s are especially hot right now, but really, there’s potential across all decades.'

How can you familiarize yourself with IKEA's past collections?

IKEA has a longstanding history, meaning a vast number of collections have made their debut over the years. While it might seem overwhelming getting to grips with these lines, past catalogues will come in handy and help you understand IKEA's timeline of collections and their makers.

Andreas explains, 'For years, IKEA catalogues offered an ever-evolving showcase of what was considered cutting-edge design. Now, that vast archive of discontinued models is proving to be a goldmine.'

'We believe that many of the most exciting IKEA pieces have yet to reach the auction world. Some have been lost, of course, but many are still out there, tucked away in attics, garages, or holiday homes. Design detectives should dig into old IKEA catalogues – now digitized and accessible online – and take a close look. A magnifying glass wouldn’t go amiss!'

While IKEA was long thought to be an affordable household name, some past styles are deemed highly valuable collector's items today. Midcentury pieces, and styles from the 1990s and 2000s, are becoming more prized and are most definitely not vintage and antique decor to avoid. Hold on to your IKEA pieces they could be worth $1000s in years to come!

Whether your tastes steer towards the maximal or you're more of a curated minimalist, interior design is about creating a space that best represents your tastes. While designing a home that honors your style is important, it may be useful to consider the tastes of others before you buy a new dining set or snap up the armchair you've had your eye on, as furniture choices can impact the value of your home.

While furniture might not literally increase the value of your home (unless you plan to sell furnished), they play a major part in how buyers view your property and how quickly they're likely to purchase it. In an effort to understand what styles buyers favor more than others, I asked real estate experts and interior designers what furniture trends, eras, and styles continue to be favored.

Interestingly, the answers were varied, but almost all the experts maintained that classic, more neutral furniture choices are your best bet, making it easier for buyers to envision themselves in the space.

1. Transitional furniture