Whether you are a first-time home owner, or have just discovered the home of your dreams, the way we design our living areas tell a story about our past, present, and what is to come. A definitive method for creating your own style and sanctuary is by having custom pillows and decorative pillows that can accentuate your sofa. Designer pillows, those that are made for custom projects, allow us to be creative and find a style that works for us. When working on your style, there are a few elements that you may want to consider.
The simplest method to give any sofa that stunning, impeccably completed decorator look is to use throw pillows and custom pillows (not to mention the utmost lounge-ability). However, with virtually infinite possible combinations, it might be difficult to know where to begin. To help you create your ideal sofa setting, we’ve broken down the essentials, from pillow sizing to patterns.
The Starting Line – Our Sofa
For design, ultimately we start with the larger piece of furniture that will be hosting a square throw pillow or your other decorative pillows. Most sofas come with a set of throw pillows, but you’re not obligated to use them. A neutral, soft look is a décor classic that provides for the most range of pillow combinations. Whether it’s white, gray, navy, or black, you will have plenty of options to choose from. Replace two, three, or all of the pillows on your sofa for a new, personalized design on your decorative throw pillows.
If replacing the pillows is not an option (or you really enjoy the pillows that you received with your sofa, you can always look at a pillow cover. Having colorful throw pillows is great, but this reduces our ability to change our designs as often as we would like. A pillow cover allows us to change the style of our living spaces as often as we would like. Additionally, it gives us a chance to change the fabrics that we use for our throw pillows. Finding custom pillows does not have to be difficult when you have an idea of what you want to achieve.
If you dislike the sofa pillows that were included, you may want to shop around for pillow inserts. These allow for homeowners to find the comfort level they desire. Additionally, they can find pillow covers that serve different needs. Having different pillow covers allows for the changing of patterns, textures, and colors in your live areas.
An odd number of cushions, in general, makes for the most natural, appealing arrangement: three for smaller sofas, five for bigger ones.
Developing a Versatile Foundation
To establish an adaptable foundation for the remainder of your arrangement, start with a square throw pillow —either 22- or 20-inch squares, which feel appropriately soft on larger sofas, or standard 18-inch squares.
Choose a fabric for these base pillows that contrasts with your sofa in an interesting way. Fabrics have the ability to compliment a specific design feature or contract instead. Depending on the type of fabric you have for your sofa, you can spice things up with the accent pillow of your choice. Designer throw pillows often come in several different fabrics types:
- Cotton – Cotton pillows are the most commonly used. They allow for a soft and cool sensation and are very customizable with personal designs. A collection of cotton pillows is necessary when bringing your room together.
- Silk – Custom silk pillows exude sophistication. These are ideal for colorful pillows and personalization. If you decide that silk pillows will work in your living space, it is recommended to work with someone on a custom designer pillow. The silk that you find at department stores won’t last long and the classy look that you want will fade along with the pillow cover.
- Velvet – A velvet pillow allows for a sleek and sophisticated look inside your home. Velvet pillows usually have solid colors that can range from bright to a muted darker tone. A velvet pillow can be both a snuggly pillow and also provide a beautiful look.
- Wool – Wool pillows tend to be thicker and warmer during the cold months. These are the ultimate snuggly pillows for people to wrap up with by a fireplace. Wool also allows for a unique decorative pillow cover. These decorative pillow options include a motif pillow (to bring your entire room together) or a cute design. Animal print, abstract designs, or classic colors are great options for wool pillows.
- Faux Leather – Faux leather pillows add a chic look to any living area. Additionally, with faux leather, you have the ability to create some unique decorative throw pillow covers. Customization is key here with these types of pillows.
- Linen – Linen pillows are a stylish pillow option that have a wide range of utility. Linen, as a fabric, is great for motif pillows. Additionally, they make for great outdoor pillows or outdoor fabrics. That means, these pillow covers could be used inside the home, or outside on the patio.
Personality – Let it Shine through Colors and Patterns
Now comes the exciting part! Choose a pair of designer pillows in a color and pattern that you like, either the same size as your first layer or slightly smaller. Look for something that complements the colors in the space; your area rug is a fantastic place to start, but you can also get ideas from your wall color or other furnishings.
If you have pillow inserts that you like, then consider talking to a custom designer about what fabrics and types of pillows you want. Your decorative pillow cover should connect the motifs and designs in your living area. Below are some ideas for patterns and designs.
Decorative Flower Pillow – Floral patterns are a great way to accent furnishings, rugs, or paintings. Floral patterns offer us a colorful pillow and can become a source of fresh color.
Color Themes – A bright color palette can help to accentuate various parts of your room. Designer fabric pillows will allow for rich colors and long lasting materials. Color themes can include various shades of a singular color, bright colors to make designs pop, or pillow covers that can be swapped out based on the occasion.
At Imperial Decorating, our professional design staff can help you bring your design dreams to life. With 4 generations of expertise, we can supply you with a breadth of knowledge regarding design choice, handmade pillows, stylish pillows, contemporary throw pillows, and much more. If you have any questions about our services and how we can assist you, please give us a call or send us a message through our website.
