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A sofa isn’t just where you sit (or lounge) daily. As the largest piece of furniture in your living room, it also speaks volumes about who you are.
So what is your own couch telegraphing? To help shed some light on this secret sofa language, we asked furniture experts to reveal what certain couch styles say about their owners. This could come in handy if you’re shopping for new seating, or just want a better handle on how your home’s design comes across to others.
And it’s not just the sofa itself, but also what you put on top—e.g., pillows, blankets, etc.—that relays tons of personality, too.
“Sofas look sad and empty without anything on them,” notes Jamie Novak, an organizing expert and author of “Keep This Toss That.”
So if your couch seems to be missing something, it might be time to accessorize so your home feels more, well, you.
Here’s how your couch style expresses your own personal aesthetic—prepare to see where you sit in a whole new light!
If your couch style is minimalist
Photo by West Chin Architects & Interior Designers
A sleek, simple minimalist couch suggests its owner is no-nonsense and no-frills—but make no mistake, this strong style statement shows you set a high bar, in life as well as how your home looks.
“The ultimate sofa in this category has a low profile with simple tailored cushions in white and two accent pillows,” explains Drew Henry, founder of Design Dudes.
A tuxedo sofa fits this vibe, especially if it’s adorned with an even number of pillows, which helps set a formal, minimal tone.
All that said, “a chic and simple couch like this doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice fun,” points out Anna Brockway, co-founder of Chairish.
In fact, a minimalist sofa is the perfect backdrop for a show-stopping pillow pair, but be sure to pick standard squares that are at least 20 inches for the most impact, adds Brockway.
You might display pillows on each end in the same solid color as your couch, so you’re adding something but still keeping the lines clean, says Karen Gray-Plaisted of Design Solutions KGP.
If your couch is bohemian
Photo by Breeze Giannasio Interiors
A boho-style couch screams that you’re a free spirit who isn’t afraid to make bold moves. And while boho sofa styles are are often comfy and eclectic, what truly makes this style shine is what you place on top.
Think pillows with bright patterns, bold shades, and every size and shape you can find. For a maximalist look, pile it on, with squares, rectangles, and a lumbar with texture.
“Who cares if things match on a maximalist couch?” says Henry. “So go big with colors and even graphic prints.”
Novak likes to add something unexpected on a boho couch, such as a single sequined item, with lots of solid throw pillows on deep, plush cushions.
“The contrast is attention-getting, and it’s a great way to show off your sofa style,” she notes.
If your couch is classic
If you’re a quiet, steady, stay-the-course kind of individual, then odds are you’ve chosen a classic couch that will stand the test of time. A tufted, regal Chesterfield sofa with its curved arms and nailhead detail fits the bill, or you might consider a classic camelback sofa with its high back arch and smooth lines.
Since a classic look often gives a nod to history, look to the past to dress up this couch.
“Nostalgia is a big trend now in home decor, so think of throwbacks to grandma when styling this couch,” adds Novak.
Ideas to try: Lay a doily on the top of the backrest, drape lace-edged blankets or anything crocheted.
“For a cohesive look, make sure your pillow pairs share at least one color, and add visual interest by playing with the size you use,” says Brockway.
If your couch is simply comfortable
Photo by Ashley Camper Photography
While many couch styles sacrifice a bit of comfort for the sake of style, certain homeowners can’t be bothered. If kicking back in comfort is your main M.O., you’ve likely embraced that with a deep-cushioned sofa style that envelopes you in a warm hug.
This style (and more importantly, feel) is often found in a sectional. Bonus points if it reclines!
As for decor, an odd number of pillows will create a more relaxed feel. Ditch symmetry and go for a more unexpected look.
“Pick accessories that are functional but also a good mix of sizes,” says Brockway.
If your couch was a castoff
Did you pick up your couch at a flea market, or from a friend offering it up for free, or from Craigslist or the curb on trash day? You’re clearly thrifty, but this type of couch owner may also relish the challenge of fixing things up. You might take a crack at painting, or sanding, or even reupholstering your castoff to give it a whole new look.
In this case, consider skipping pillows and throws here and let your couch speak for itself. It’s sure to be a conversation starter with a unique story (e.g., “you’ll never guess where I found this…”). Here’s more on how to repair and update fixer-upper furniture.
The post What Your Sofa Style Secretly Says About You appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.
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