How to Decorate With a Reclining Sofa

This article was written by Ryan Podnar, furniture expert at La-Z-Boy South Texas store

A reclining sofa is not only a functional piece of furniture, but it can also be a key element in designing a stylish and cozy living room. There are many types of recliner sofas to choose from that can set the tone for your room.

Whether you’re looking to create a laid-back space for family movie nights or elevate your living room with a comfortable yet chic vibe, incorporating a recliner sofa into your décor can help you strike the perfect balance between relaxation and style.

This article will walk you through how to decorate with a reclining sofa to make it an attractive focal point in your home.

Coming Up...

• Finding the Right Reclining Sofa Style
• Balance Comfort With Aesthetic Appeal
• Make Use of Lighting
• Create a Focal Point
• Incorporate Functional Elements
• Play With Color and Texture
• Make It Your Own!
• Ready to Find the Best Reclining Sofa For You?

Key Takeaways

• Utilize functional pieces such as throws, blankets, end tables, and rugs
• Make use of lighting to highlight pretty features of the sofa

Finding the Right Reclining Sofa Style

The first step in decorating with a sofa recliner is choosing the right style that suits your taste and complements your existing décor. Sofa recliners come in various designs, from traditional to contemporary, so it’s important to select one that fits your aesthetic. Here are a few options:

• Traditional Reclining Sofas: If you have a classic or cozy living room, opt for a traditional reclining sofa with plush cushions, soft fabrics, and rich tones like leather or velvet. This style is perfect for adding warmth and comfort to your space.

A good example of this type of sofa is the Emma Grey 80” Microfiber Manual Reclining Fabric Sofa at Living Spaces.

• Modern Reclining Sofas: For a more minimalist or contemporary look, choose a sleek reclining sofa with clean lines, neutral colors like gray or beige, and modern materials like microfiber or faux leather. This style blends well with modern furniture and creates a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere.
• Power Reclining Sofas: For added convenience and modern flair, power reclining sofas offer an easy-to-operate electronic mechanism. These can be great for families or those who appreciate high-tech furniture and sleek design.

A great example of a nice power recliner sofa is the Talladega Power Reclining Sofa W/ Headrest at La-Z-Boy South Texas.

Balance Comfort with Aesthetic Appeal

While reclining sofas are known for their comfort, it’s important to integrate them into your décor without sacrificing style. Here’s how to achieve that perfect balance:

• Use Throw Pillows and Blankets: Add stylish throw pillows and a cozy blanket to your reclining sofa. Choose colors, textures, and patterns that match or contrast with the rest of your room’s décor. Throw pillows can instantly elevate the look of your sofa, making it feel more chic and inviting.
• Add a Stylish Rug: A well-placed rug can anchor the reclining sofa and bring warmth to the space. If your sofa is neutral in color, consider a bold, patterned rug to add visual interest. For a more cohesive look, choose a rug that complements the tones of your sofa and surrounding furniture.
• Opt for Coordinating Furniture: Surround your reclining sofa with other furniture pieces that match or complement its style. For instance, pair it with a matching loveseat or accent chairs. If you want a more eclectic style, mix different furniture types, but ensure they all share a common color scheme or theme to create harmony.

Make Use of Lighting

Lighting plays a key role in highlighting your reclining sofa and setting the right mood in the room. The right lighting can enhance the comfort of your seating area and complement the reclining sofa’s style:

• Floor Lamps and Table Lamps: Position floor lamps or table lamps next to your reclining sofa for soft, ambient lighting. If your sofa is in a corner or by a wall, a tall floor lamp can provide extra light without overwhelming the space.
• Accent Lighting: Use accent lighting, such as wall sconces or LED strips, to highlight the sofa’s shape or texture. This works particularly well if your reclining sofa is a statement piece in the room and you want to emphasize its design.
• Natural Light: If your room has large windows, arrange the sofa so that you can enjoy natural light while sitting comfortably. Positioning the sofa near a window can brighten up the space and create an airy, relaxed feel.

Create a Focal Point

Your reclining sofa can easily become the focal point of the room if arranged correctly. Here are some ways to make the sofa stand out without overwhelming the space:

• Center the Sofa: If possible, position the reclining sofa centrally in the room, especially if it has a sleek or modern design. This will make it the main attraction in your living space and allow for easy conversation and viewing of a television or fireplace.
• Position with Purpose: Consider the room’s layout and traffic flow when positioning the reclining sofa. Place it at an angle or facing the room’s focal point, such as a television, fireplace, or artwork. This will ensure the sofa is part of the conversation and not just tucked away in a corner.
• Use Statement Art or Decor: If your reclining sofa is fairly neutral in color, add statement artwork or a striking wall mirror behind it to draw attention. This creates a stylish backdrop that complements the comfort of the sofa.

Incorporate Functional Elements

A reclining sofa is meant to be a comfortable, relaxing spot, so make sure to integrate it with functional elements that enhance its usability. Here are some ideas:

• Side Tables: Position side tables next to the reclining sofa for convenience. You can place lamps, drinks, or remote controls on the tables. Opt for tables that match the style of your sofa or mix materials like wood and metal for an eclectic look.
• Storage Solutions: Reclining sofas often offer storage options in the form of hidden compartments or USB charging ports. Incorporating these features into your design can help keep your living room organized and clutter-free.
• Media Console: If the sofa faces a TV, pair it with a stylish media console or entertainment center. This will help you create a cohesive, functional living area where everything you need is within arm’s reach.

Play with Color and Texture

The key to decorating with a reclining sofa is balancing the richness of the fabric with complementary textures and colors in the room. Here’s how:

• Color Palette: If your reclining sofa is a neutral shade like gray, beige, or brown, you can have fun with the rest of your room’s color palette. Add pops of color with accessories like throw pillows, artwork, and curtains. For a more cohesive look, use a color scheme that complements the tones of the sofa.
• Textures: Pair the softness of the reclining sofa with different textures in the room, such as velvet cushions, leather ottomans, or a woven area rug. Mixing textures will create visual depth and interest while maintaining a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.

Make It Your Own!

Finally, make the space around your reclining sofa feel personal and cozy. Whether it’s family photos, unique décor items, or a favorite piece of art, personal touches will make your living room feel truly yours.

• Custom Pillows and Throws: Choose fabrics or designs that resonate with your personal style. This could include embroidered pillows, handwoven throws, or even vintage finds that add character to the space.
• Personalized Decor: Add unique touches like indoor plants, decorative books, or family heirlooms to make the space feel lived-in and special.

Ready to Find the Best Reclining Sofa For You?

Decorating with a reclining sofa is about blending comfort and style seamlessly. By choosing the right style of reclining sofa, balancing comfort with aesthetics, and paying attention to color, texture, and lighting, you can create a living space that is both functional and beautiful.

Whether you’re using it as the focal point of the room or as part of a larger design scheme, a reclining sofa is an ideal piece for creating a relaxing and stylish environment. However, you need to ensure you have the right sofa for you.

If you are still looking for the perfect reclining sofa for you, come into your nearest La-Z-Boy South Texas store to check out our reclining sofas.