This article was written by Ryan Podnar, furniture expert at La-Z-Boy South Texas
A sectional sofa is a versatile and cozy piece of furniture that often serves as the centerpiece of your living room. While the sectional itself provides ample seating and comfort, adding the right pillows can elevate its look and enhance the overall ambiance of the space.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps for arranging pillows on a sectional couch, offering helpful tips and styling ideas to create a balanced, comfortable, and stylish seating area.
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- Start With a Plan
- Mix and Match Pillow Sizes
- Layer Pillows for Depth and Comfort
- Play with Color, Texture, and Patterns
- Consider Functionality
- Update Seasonally for Fresh Looks
1. Start with a Plan
Before diving into pillow placement, it’s important to consider the shape, size, and style of your sofa sectional. Sectionals come in various configurations, from L-shaped sectionals to U-shaped sectionals, with chaise lounges or even curved pieces.
The arrangement of pillows on a sectional will depend on these factors.
- L-Shaped Sectional: This is one of the most common configurations, with two seating sections that meet at a right angle. When arranging pillows on an L-shaped sectional, focus on adding comfort and symmetry while maintaining balance between the two sections.
- U-Shaped Sectional: A U-shaped sectional often provides more seating and a larger focal point. In this case, you can create a more dramatic and layered pillow arrangement, balancing the back and armrests with different sizes and textures.
- Chaise Sectional: For sectionals with a chaise lounge, it’s important to add pillows to the chaise area as well as the main seat. The chaise provides ample space for lounging, so placing a few pillows in the middle and along the backrest adds extra comfort.
2. Mix and Match Pillow Sizes
Pillows come in various sizes, and arranging a mix of large, medium, and small pillows can add depth and visual interest to your sectional. Here’s how to incorporate different pillow sizes for a well-balanced arrangement:
- Large Pillows (20” x 20” or 22” x 22”): Start with large pillows for the back or corners of the sectional. These larger pillows help create a comfortable, supportive seating area and can also serve as the focal point for the rest of the arrangement. Place them at the corners or along the backrests to provide structure.
- Medium Pillows (18” x 18”): Medium pillows work well as accent pieces. Place them in front of the large pillows or layer them for added dimension. You can alternate colors, textures, or patterns with the larger pillows to create a cohesive yet dynamic look.
- Small Pillows (14” x 14” or 16” x 16”): Smaller pillows can be placed in front or along the edges of the sectional. These pillows add a pop of color and texture without overwhelming the space. They’re perfect for creating a layered effect and finishing off the arrangement.
Tip: Keep the proportions balanced—if you have a large sectional, use larger pillows to match its scale. Smaller sectionals may benefit from a more restrained arrangement with medium and small pillows.
3. Layer Pillows for Depth and Comfort
Layering pillows on your sectional adds texture and creates a more inviting, cozy atmosphere. The key to successful layering is creating a balanced, dynamic look without overcrowding the space.
- Start with the Largest Pillows: Begin by placing your largest pillows at the back of the sectional, leaning them against the backrest. These pillows provide support while setting the tone for the rest of the arrangement. Position them in a way that feels symmetrical, with a pillow on each corner or a pair placed next to each other.
- Add Medium-Sized Pillows: Place medium-sized pillows in front of the larger ones. You can either center them on top of the larger pillows or stagger them slightly to create a more dynamic look. Mixing patterns or textures with the medium pillows is a great way to add contrast and visual appeal.
- Finish with Smaller Pillows: The final layer of smaller pillows can be added to the front, either symmetrically or casually placed for a more relaxed feel. Scatter them around the sectional or arrange them evenly across the seats for a finished look.
4. Play with Color, Texture, and Patterns
When arranging pillows on a sectional, don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors, textures, and patterns. Combining a variety of pillows can add interest and personality to your sectional, transforming it into a stylish focal point of the room.
- Color Coordination: Choose colors that complement or contrast with the color of your sectional. If you have a neutral-colored sectional, consider adding vibrant or bold-colored pillows, such as deep blues, rich oranges, or soft greens. If your sectional is already a bold color, opt for more subdued tones to avoid overwhelming the space.
- Pattern Mixing: Combining different patterns can add depth and sophistication to your sectional. Mix solid-colored pillows with patterned ones, such as stripes, florals, or geometric designs. When mixing patterns, make sure the colors align with your sectional’s color scheme to create a cohesive look.
- Textural Variety: Experiment with different textures to add richness to your arrangement. Combine velvet, linen, wool, and cotton pillows to create a tactile experience. Textural contrasts add interest and comfort to your sectional, inviting guests to relax and enjoy the space.
Tip: If you're unsure how to mix patterns, start with a neutral base (like solid-colored pillows) and add one or two patterned pillows as accents. This ensures the design stays balanced while allowing room for creativity.
5. Consider Functionality
While styling is important, comfort and functionality are key when arranging pillows on your sectional. Consider how the pillows will be used and where they will provide the most comfort.
- Support for Reclining: If your sectional has a reclining feature or deep seats, consider adding larger pillows along the backrests for additional lumbar support. This will make your sectional not only more stylish but also more comfortable for lounging.
- Pillows for Sitting: If you use your sectional for sitting rather than lounging, arrange pillows that provide arm or back support. You can place smaller pillows at the arms of the sectional for extra comfort when sitting upright.
- Keep Pillows in Reach: If your sectional is often used for watching TV, reading, or napping, make sure the pillows are easily accessible. Keep a few smaller, fluffier pillows within easy reach for guests or family members to grab and use when they need them.
6. Update Seasonally for Fresh Looks
One of the best things about pillows is their ability to transform the look of a room without a significant investment. You can update the look of your sectional throughout the year by swapping out pillows to match the seasons.
- Spring and Summer: Opt for lighter fabrics and brighter colors, such as pastels or vibrant hues. Linen, cotton, or light velvet materials work well for warmer months.
- Fall and Winter: During colder months, consider using rich, deep colors like burgundy, mustard, or forest green. Textures like wool, faux fur, or chunky knits create a cozy, inviting feel during the fall and winter seasons.
What’s Next?
Arranging pillows on a sectional sofa is an easy and effective way to enhance the look and comfort of your living room. By selecting the right pillow sizes, layering them thoughtfully, and incorporating a mix of colors, textures, and patterns, you can create a stylish, comfortable, and inviting space.
Whether you prefer a symmetrical arrangement or a more relaxed, casual look, the right pillow styling can transform your sectional into a beautiful focal point that reflects your personal style. That being said, if you don’t have the right sectional or surrounding furniture, your room will still not feel complete.
If you’d like to get surrounding furniture or a new sectional for your living room, visit your nearest La-Z-Boy South Texas store.
