This article was written by Ryan Podnar, furniture expert at La-Z-Boy South Texas
Throw pillows are an easy and affordable way to enhance the look and feel of your living room. Whether you’re trying to add color, texture, or comfort to a couch and loveseat, knowing how to arrange pillows can make a significant difference in the overall design.
The right pillow arrangement can elevate the aesthetic, create a balanced look, and offer functional support. Sometimes, arranging pillows requires more strategy to maximize the aesthetic of your room and furniture.
This article walks you through how to arrange pillows on a couch and loveseat to achieve a stylish and comfortable seating area.
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Key Takeaways
- Understanding balance in your living room is an important step of arranging your pillows
- Adding accent pillows can help make your room feel like it represents you well
Choose the Right Pillows
Before arranging pillows, it's important to select the right ones that fit the overall style of your room and furniture. Consider the following factors:
- Size: Pillows come in various sizes, from small square ones to large bolster pillows. A balanced pillow arrangement often includes a mix of sizes to create depth and interest.
- Standard square pillows (18x18 inches or 20x20 inches) are perfect for a basic arrangement.
- Larger pillows (22x22 inches or 24x24 inches) can be used for a bolder look.
- Smaller pillows (12x12 inches or 14x14 inches) can add an extra layer of texture and personality.
- Material and Texture: To add visual interest, mix different fabrics and textures. Use velvet, linen, cotton, or faux fur for variety. Combining different materials will make the arrangement look more sophisticated and give the space a tactile dimension.
- Colors and Patterns: Choose pillows that complement your couch and loveseat color scheme. For a cohesive look, stick with a coordinated color palette or mix patterns with solid colors. If your furniture is neutral, don't hesitate to play with bold colors or patterns to create contrast.
Start with the Basics
A classic and simple approach to arranging pillows on a couch and loveseat is to place two pillows on each end of the seating area. This setup offers a symmetrical and organized look.
- On a Couch: Start by placing one pillow at each corner of the couch. You can use larger square pillows for a clean, structured look. Alternatively, you can place smaller pillows at the edges to keep the arrangement fresh and casual.
- On a Loveseat: Similarly, place one pillow at each end of the loveseat. The pillows can match those on the couch for a consistent look or you can introduce complementary colors and textures to create subtle variation.
Mixing Sizes for Balance
Once you’ve established a basic setup with pillows on each side, you can layer in different sizes to create a more dynamic arrangement. Mixing sizes will give the arrangement depth and make the furniture look more inviting.
- On the Couch: Start with two large pillows on each side, then add medium-sized pillows (or smaller ones) in the center. The smaller pillows can be layered on top of the larger ones, either slightly off-center or directly in front for balance.
- On the Loveseat: You can replicate the same arrangement or opt for a simpler approach by using just one larger pillow at each end, and layering a couple of smaller pillows in the center. This arrangement works particularly well for a smaller loveseat or when you want to avoid overcrowding.
Creating Layers and Depth
Creating layers is key to making your pillow arrangement look thoughtfully designed. By stacking different sizes, colors, and patterns, you can achieve a rich, layered look that adds dimension to the space.
- Layering Large and Small Pillows: Start with a couple of large pillows at the back, then layer medium-sized pillows in front of them. Finally, place smaller accent pillows at the front or in the center to tie everything together. This method creates a sophisticated, multi-dimensional arrangement.
- Varying Pillow Heights: For added visual interest, place one or two pillows slightly higher or lower than the rest, creating an asymmetrical yet balanced look. You can achieve this by stacking pillows in different positions, such as placing one pillow standing upright at the back and others flat against the couch.
Add Accent Pillows for Personality
Accent pillows are a great way to personalize your pillow arrangement. These smaller pillows can introduce patterns, textures, or even a pop of color that makes your sofa and loveseat set feel more unique.
- Pattern Mixing: Don’t be afraid to mix patterns! Combining different styles, like geometric, floral, stripes, or polka dots, can create a fun and eclectic feel. To keep it cohesive, make sure the patterns share a common color or theme.
- Textural Contrast: Mixing textures like silk, wool, linen, and cotton can add a tactile element to your pillow arrangement. For example, pair a soft velvet pillow with a textured woven throw pillow to create contrast and depth.
- Play with Shapes: While square pillows are common, don't hesitate to mix in round, bolster, or lumbar pillows. These shapes can introduce variety and make the arrangement feel more playful and modern.
If you’re interested in accent pillows, you can find simple, yet elegant pillows at stores like Kohls.
Consider the Room’s Functionality
While aesthetics are important, don’t forget about the functionality of your pillows. The goal is to create an arrangement that is visually appealing but also practical for everyday use.
- For Comfort: Ensure the pillows are arranged in a way that provides comfortable support for sitting or lounging. Placing larger, softer pillows where people tend to lean or rest their backs can make the seating area more inviting.
- For Easy Maintenance: Pillows should not only look good but also be easy to adjust and fluff. Avoid overstuffing the arrangement, as this can make the pillows hard to move. Make sure you can easily remove and wash pillow covers as needed.
Symmetry vs. Asymmetry
You can choose between a symmetrical or asymmetrical arrangement depending on the style of the room.
- Symmetrical Arrangement: For a formal or traditional look, use symmetry to create order. This involves placing an equal number of pillows on either side of the couch and loveseat, making sure the size and color are balanced.
- Asymmetrical Arrangement: For a more relaxed or modern feel, opt for an asymmetrical arrangement. This allows for creative expression and can be visually interesting. Use a variety of sizes, colors, and textures, with more pillows on one side or a more informal approach to placement.
Finishing Touches
Once your pillows are arranged, step back and take a look at the overall space. You may want to make slight adjustments to ensure the arrangement feels balanced and visually pleasing.
- Add a Throw Blanket: A throw blanket draped over the back of the couch or loveseat can complement your pillow arrangement and bring additional texture and color to the space. Make sure the blanket coordinates with the pillow colors for a cohesive look.
- Ensure a Relaxed Look: While symmetry is pleasing, don't be afraid to let your pillows have a natural, slightly tousled look. This can make the space feel more comfortable and lived-in.
Do You Have the Right Couch & Loveseat?
Arranging pillows on a sofa and loveseat is an easy way to inject personality, comfort, and style into your living room. By considering factors like size, texture, color, and balance, you can create a visually appealing and cozy seating area.
Whether you prefer a symmetrical arrangement for a formal look or a more relaxed asymmetrical setup, the key is to mix different pillow sizes and shapes to add depth and dimension.
With these tips, your couch and loveseat will be transformed into a comfortable and stylish focal point of your living space. However, that’s only if you have the right couch and loveseat!
If you’re looking for an upgrade, come into your nearest La-Z-Boy South Texas store to sit on our sofa loveseat sets.