dream sofas for man cave

Dream Sofas For Your Man Cave

Dream Sofas For Your Man Cave

Any man knows the importance of the man cave. It’s a space where you can escape the world for a while and sink into the quiet comfort of your favourite sports, hobbies, or just to have a moment of peace.

Standing at the centre of any great man cave is an exquisite sofa; a beacon of comfort and relaxation.

If you’re having trouble choosing a new sofa for your personal sanctuary, you’ve come to the right place! This article will explore some of our favourite sofa choices for watching a game with boys or enjoying a quiet night in with some whiskey.

To be more specific, we’ll cover:

  • Classic Sofas
  • Reclinable Sofas
  • Modern and Contemporary Sofas.

Of course, it all depends on your personal style and needs. Just make sure to give it some thought! We’re sure you’ll be spending plenty of time on whatever sofa you choose.

Classic Sofas

These traditional-style sofas are perfect if you want a refined, sophisticated man cave to sip whiskey and smoke cigars in.

They feature strong shapes, dark colours, and rich materials that exude luxury in every inch. If you want to feel like a classic, 50s spy relaxing in his off time, these sofas are a great choice!

Premium Leather Sofa With Tufted Back And Arms

This classically styled sofa features gorgeous, natural leather.

There’s a reason leather has been used as a furniture covering for thousands of years; it’s durable, beautiful, and comfortable.

Additionally, leather ages wonderfully. It will only get more soft and comfortable the longer you own it, especially if you make sure to take good care of it.

Faux leather is also an option. It has pretty much all of the benefits of real leather while also being durable and cruelty-free.

Button-Tufted Sofa With Rolled Arms And Nailhead Trim

Refined and traditional, this sofa features strong shapes that just scream luxury.

It’s a really great choice if you want the same rich, classical look of our previous item, without the limited colours that come with leather. Because this sofa comes upholstered, it’s available in a much wider range of shades.

Nailhead accents add a hand-made feel, and button tufting makes for a comfortable place to sit. All of this adds up to a perfect centrepiece for your sophisticated man cave.

Chesterfield Sofa With Deep Button Tufting

The deep button tufting on this sofa adds even more comfort, letting you sink into the sofa and enjoy it to the fullest. The gap created by the tufting also helps keep you cool in hot weather.

This is really useful in a refurbished garage, basement, or shed – all common locations for a man cave. These places often have poorer insulation and airflow, meaning things can get hot and uncomfortable pretty easily.

The timeless style of this sofa makes for a great atmosphere; formal but inviting, and endlessly sophisticated.

Camelback Sofa With Exposed Wood Frame

This timeless, traditional-styled sofa has a “camelback” shape. This means that the back of the sofa rises at the centre and on either end to create a “hump”.

A sofa like this is perfect for relaxing in style, letting you feel like a sophisticated gentleman while you ship your whiskey after work.

It works best in a space that matches this style but can work in a lot of contemporary rooms as well.

The exposed wood frame of this sofa adds even more texture and refinement to the piece, further increasing the feel of handcrafted luxury.

Bridgewater Sofa With Low Arms

A Bridgewater sofa has an overall low profile, with low arms that sit slightly back from the front of the sofa. They often feature a skirt to hide their legs.

They are definitely not centrepieces like our other features in this section, but have plenty to offer a man cave if they suit your style.

If you like the classical style of the rest of this section, but find the other sofas a bit too uptight for your liking, then this is a great choice.

Tuxedo Sofa

Sometimes known as a “square sofa”, this art-deco style features streamlined, boxy shapes.

The arms stand as an extension of the backrest, connecting with it seamlessly. The sofa also features no separate cushions, instead having built-in cushioning on the backrest and seat.

These sofas are not only comfortable but are also great for fitting into a confined space.

Reclinable Sofas

If you’re looking for the ultimate man cave comfort, then a recliner is a must-buy.

Of course, if you want to go a step further, you could buy a full reclinable sofa. These are basically a bunch of recliners connected together to make one, long seat.

Game nights will never be held at anyone else’s house once the lads experience this level of comfort!

Wall-Hugger Reclining Sofa

Recliners often take up a lot of space, which is why this form of them exists.

Because recliners lean back, they normally have to stand a fair distance from the wall. Wall-huggers are set on a rail, meaning that they instead slide forward as you recline. This means they don’t get any closer to the wall.

What’s great about this design is it lets you get a recliner into a small room without sacrificing loads of space.

Reclining Sectional Sofa

A sectional sofa is split into many sections that can be rearranged and fit together in a variety of ways.

Yes, these come in recliner form, too!

This allows you to reorganise your room whenever needed, which is perfect if you’re working with limited space. It also makes the sofa way easier to install and transport.

They can come in a huge range of shapes and styles, though most are in an L-shape.

Double Reclining Sofa

As you might expect from the name, this sofa reclines and has space for two people. It’s basically a reclining loveseat!

It’s great if you aren’t expecting loads of guests very often, or as a companion item to a larger sofa. If you want a space that’s primarily for relaxing on your own, watching TV, or playing games, then this is a great option.

Power Lift Reclining Sofa

A powerlift recliner uses motors to make movements easier for you.

It will tilt back into a recline at the push of a button, and then tilt forward to help you stand again.

This may not be essential for everyone, but if you have mobility issues or chronic pain it can be a lifesaver.

Modern and Contemporary Sofas

These sofas focus on clean lines and a modern style. They’re perfect if you want a space that feels light, modern, and sleek. Another bonus is that modern-style sofas are often the ones that offer all the fancy new features!

Convertible Sofa

A convertible sofa lets you enjoy two furniture pieces in one.

It starts as a sofa but can be easily pulled out into a bed. For a man cave, this has a variety of uses.

It’s great if you need a daytime nap, some relaxation away from the family, or just enjoy watching tv lying down. It also works wonderfully if your game nights tend to stretch into the early morning.

(And of course, it’s a comfortable place to sleep if you end up in the doghouse.)

Loveseat

A loveseat is, in basic terms, a small sofa that fits two people.

They are great for small spaces, or as a companion furniture item for a larger sofa. This makes loveseats a good choice for a wide range of man caves depending on your needs. They also come in a huge variety of styles.

Sleeper Sofa

Unlike a convertible sofa, these don’t pull out into a full bed.

Instead, they’re made to be comfortable to both sit and sleep on as is. You might know them as a daybed or futon.

They tend to be a lot less bulky than convertible sofas, which makes them easier to fit in small places and move around. This is especially useful if you don’t want to use them often.

Their slimmer style also works well for minimalist, modern environments.

The Bottom Line

In the end, the best sofa for your man cave is the one that you love.

This room should be your personal escape, a place you can enjoy solitude without worrying about the outside world.

Put your own taste above all else when choosing a stylish sofa, because in the end you’re the one who’ll be using the room.

We hope this list has helped with that decision! We’re sure your next game night will have all your friends green with envy once they see your immaculately decorated man cave.

Sofa Beds Comfortable

Are Sofa Beds Comfortable for Every Night Use?

Are Sofa Beds Comfortable for Every Night Use?

Have you ever had a guest stay over, only to realise you don’t have a proper bed for them to sleep on?

Or, perhaps you’re living in a small apartment in which a traditional bed simply will not fit?

In either case, a sofa bed can be the perfect solution!

Sofa beds can be a comfortable option to sleep, accommodate guests, and save space in smaller homes or apartments.

However, considering that we want to sleep as soundly as possible, the golden question is this: are sofa beds comfortable for every night use?

In this blog post, we’ll cover:

  • The benefits of sleeping on a sofa bed every night
  • How to make your sofa bed more comfortable and cosy
  • Factors to consider when buying a sofa bed
  • The verdict: to buy or not to buy?

So, let’s get started!

Are Sofa Beds Comfortable?

Surprisingly, there is no simple answer to this! The comfort of a sofa bed depends on several factors, such as the mattress and who will be sleeping on it.

Generally speaking, the comfort levels of sofa beds largely depend on the mattress.

Most sofa beds are not designed to be slept in every day, as their mattresses tend to be firm and thin.

If you’re planning on making a sofa bed your permanent bed, then it’s best to invest in a sofa bed with a comfortable and durable mattress.

You also need to consider what your body needs to sleep comfortably. If you sleep better on a soft mattress, opt for a soft sofa bed. If you have back problems, then a firm mattress is the best option.

Keep in mind that what you might find comfortable for one night may not be as comfortable long-term!

The Benefits of Sleeping on a Sofa Bed Every Night

Maximise Space

Living in a cramped space is simply not ideal! One of the best benefits of sofa beds is how much space they can save you, especially in a small flat or tiny apartment.

A sofa bed serves as both a comfortable space to sit on during the day and a bed to sleep at night. They can also eliminate the need for an extra bedroom or separate guest bed.

Considering that a lot of sofa beds can be tucked away or folded up when not in use, you’ll have more space to walk around during the day.

Sofa beds are also easy to move around, which can be convenient.

Guest Beds

Sofa beds are a great option for accommodating overnight guests without sacrificing space in your home.

You don’t need to necessarily have a guest room or extra bed to be able to accommodate overnight guests. With a sofa bed, you can easily accommodate them and then tuck it away during the day to maximise space.

It’s a win-win!

Assist with Sleep Problems

We’ve all suffered from sleep problems at some point in our lives. Not sleeping well can make getting through a long day feel impossible!

Well, another great benefit of a sofa bed is that it can assist with difficulties with falling asleep.

If you suffer from sleep problems such as back pain or snoring, a sofa bed might be the perfect solution.

Most sofa beds come with a firmer and more supportive mattress than traditional beds, which can alleviate back soreness and reduce snoring.

Flexibility and Handling

Sofa beds are designed to be flexible and easy to handle. You can easily tuck them away when not needed and move them around.

You can also easily transform most sofa beds into either a bed or couch without too much effort.

A great thing about sofa beds is how flexible they are. Owning a sofa bed is a great way of having an extra bed in your home without the additional hassle.

Added Storage

Some sofa beds come with hidden storage space, which is another awesome way of dealing with small living situations.

Some sofa beds might come with drawers or compartments, which are ideal to store pillows, blankets, or clothes.

Wide Variety of Styles

If you have been browsing for sofa beds, you might have noticed that they come in a wide variety of styles.

You can choose from classic to modern as well as from a variety of colours and textures for it to best complement your home.

Can Sofa Beds be Used as a Long-Term Bedding Solution?

Yes, sofa beds can be used as a long-term bedding solution – but only as long as you choose the right one.

While sofa beds might not (generally speaking) be as comfortable as a traditional bed, it is possible to choose one with a high-quality and durable mattress that can make it the same — or even better than — a normal bed!

Therefore, it’s extremely important to do your research properly so that you can source a sofa bed that will best suit your needs.

How to Make Your Sofa Bed More Cosy and Comfortable

If you are set on making a sofa bed your long-term sleeping solution, there are ways you can make it more snug and agreeable.

Feather Pillows

Feather pillows are known to increase the comfort of your sleep. This is because feather pillows tend to have more structure for support and conform to the shape of your head and neck.

Switching to a feather pillow can reduce neck and shoulder pain and ensure you sleep soundly.

Breathable and Fresh Sheets

There is nothing like going to bed with clean and crispy sheets that are straight out of the dryer! Choosing breathable sheets will also make sleeping in a sofa bed more comfortable.

You might also want to regularly wash your sheets (once a week is ideal) to keep them clean and hygienic.

Mattress Topper

Adding a mattress topper is another great way to make your sofa bed more comfortable.

A mattress topper can make a big difference as it will add a layer of comfort, which can provide extra support and contour to your body. It will also give the mattress an additional layer of protection.

High Thread Count Sheets

When buying new sheets, you may want to consider investing in high thread count sheets and fabrics, such as cotton or linen.

While high thread sheets are usually more expensive, they are a good investment if you want to get the best slumber possible.

Look for sheets with a thread count of 300 or higher for a soft and silky feel. The higher the thread, the better the sleep!

Factors to Consider When Buying a Sofa Bed

Measurements and Dimensions

Buying a sofa bed that will not fit in your home will defeat the purpose of buying it in the first place!

Because of this, you need to consider the measurements and dimensions of a sofa bed before buying for it to perfectly fit in your home.

It’s also a good idea to measure the space where you plan to put the sofa bed to make sure it will fit like a glove!

Room Layout

Yet another significant factor to consider is the layout of your room.

Consider how the sofa bed will look in the room, and how it will fit with the rest of your furniture.

If your room is small, then look for a sofa bed that doesn’t take up too much space.

Lying Surface

One of the most important factors to consider is the lying surface of a sofa bed.

Look for a sofa bed with a comfortable mattress. To choose the best mattress for you, consider the fabric, thickness, and firmness of the mattress.

Next, weigh up the size of the lying surface. If you want to fit two people on the sofa bed, then choose one with a larger surface area.

Suitable Folding Mechanism

Sofa beds come with different folding mechanisms such as pull-out, click-clack, and fold-out.

Getting into a fight with your sofa bed is the last thing you want to do – so choose one you find the easiest to use and which will better fit your room!

For instance, if you’re planning to use the sofa bed every day, then you might want to opt for a mechanism that is simpler to operate.

Some sofa beds are meant to be extended forwards or downwards, so choose the best one for your room layout and space.

Integrated Bed Base

foundation for the mattress.

This is key for improving the comfort and support of the sofa bed, which is especially important if you want to sleep on it daily.

Slatted Frame

A slatted frame has a significant influence on healthy sleeping comfort. It also provides better ventilation and airflow, which keeps the mattress fresh and dry.

A slatted frame is another way to add that necessary support to the mattress and make the sofa bed as comfortable as possible.

The Verdict: Can You Sleep On a Sofa Bed Every Night?

While sofa beds are a smart way to maximise space and host guests, not every single one may be suitable for every night use. However, this depends on each sofa bed and your specific sleeping needs.

There are plenty of high-quality sofa beds out there that are comfortable for every night use. You just need to find the right one!

A sofa bed can be a fantastic investment. So, do your research, take your measurements, and find the best sofa bed for you!

Cosy Sofa Inspiration

Cosy Sofa Inspiration For A Warm & Welcoming Home

Cosy Sofa Inspiration For A Warm & Welcoming Home

At the end of each day, you want to come home to a house that feels like your own space.

Your home should feel like a reflection of your character and personality; somewhere you feel comfortable and warm.

One way to ensure this cosiness is to have a welcoming sofa set up to relax in after a long day. After all, sofas are the heart of one’s house that can make or break a home’s overall vibe.

Curious about how to use your sofa to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere?

Read on to find:

  • Six inspirations for cosy sofa ideas
  • Customisations to try, such as extra supports, sofa beds, and more
  • How to use colours, patterns, and more to make a cosy sofa that’ll make your home feel warm and welcoming.

Let’s dive in!

Choose a Sofa with a Simple Design

Don’t be fooled into thinking that sofas with simple designs are boring.

If you pick a sofa with a loud or busy design, you might find it difficult to pair it with throws and cushions as there will be plenty of patterns that clash with the sofa. A busy-design sofa means there are limited options for customisation.

However, if you pick a sofa that has a single solid colour or a simple design, you’ll find that you have many options for interesting and creative customisation!

For example, a plain red-coloured couch can be paired with many other shades such as green, teal, orange, or purple. You also have the advantage of complementing the sofa with basically any pattern you want!

Prioritise Softness and Longevity

It’s nice to have sofas that look pretty, but the most important thing is your and your guests’ comfort and the couch’s durability.

You don’t want to have to get new sofas every few years due to damage!

There are many soft and comfortable materials available for you to consider when choosing sofas.

Some of the best and most comfortable materials for couches include cotton, linen, and wool.

If you’re torn about what to pick, you may want to give wool a try as it is quickly becoming a popular sofa material due to its comfort and environmental sustainability.

Go for Extra Support Features

There are a few ways that you can make a sofa more comfortable and supportive.

Adding extra support features to your sofas will make them just that little bit more comfortable so that you can chill out on your sofa for hours with a good book without having to change positions every ten minutes.

One great way to add extra support to your sofa is to find some soft, comfy cushions. Cushions are great on couches, especially if you’re someone who likes to lean against the arm of your sofa.

Try a Sofa Bed

Sofa beds (or pull-out sofas) are extremely convenient to have in your home.

Having them means that your friends can stay the night whenever they need to, such as if it’s too late for them to drive home after an event or dinner party at your house.

Sofa beds can also be a super fun way to have an at-home date night, especially if you live with your spouse or partner.

Just pull out the bed in front of the TV, set it up, and have a snug movie night with popcorn and snacks. No need to go anywhere else!

Layer Patterned Fabrics

Layering some patterns on your sofas is a great way to add a splash of fun and drama to your home.

Patterns are eye-catching, but you have to know how to properly layer them so they would fit together nicely.

The main thing to think about when layering patterns is whether they match or clash.

You don’t want clashing patterns as they are hard on the eyes and will make your sofas difficult to look at. Find patterns that complement one another.

Add Some Throw Pillows and Blankets

You can easily customise your sofas by adding some throw pillows and blankets.

Pillows and blankets can turn your sofa into a comfortable little nest to rest and relax in. Creating different combinations will also help your sofas create a unique atmosphere for your home.

Mixing and matching your pillows and blankets can be super fun and cathartic. Try mixing different textures and patterns to create new looks.

Other options are matching block colours with patterns, big pillows with small pillows, and more!

In Conclusion

You want your house to feel like home. After all, it’s the place you come to rest, relax, and be comfortable, and you want to be able to do these things in a space that feels uniquely yours!

If you’re feeling bored with your sofas and want a change – or if you’re starting from scratch in a new house or flat – there are many ways you can create a warm and welcoming space that you and your guests will love.
So, get started with these tips to style your dream sofas!

Sofa in Front of a Window

Should You Place a Sofa in Front of a Window?

Should You Place a Sofa in Front of a Window?

Just purchased a new sofa, or looking to rearrange your current space? It can be tricky to determine what room layout looks best, but it’s crucial to get it right so you can relax happily on your couch at the end of a long day.

So, should you place your sofa in front of a window?

There are lots of factors to think about on both sides of the question. We’ll walk you through the most important ones in this guide, including:

  • Whether or not you should place a sofa in front of a window
  • Our eight top reasons why you shouldn’t
  • Our four top reasons why you should.

Let’s take a look!

Should You Place a Sofa in Front of a Window? The Answer

It’s up to you!

At the end of the day, you can put your sofa wherever you like – especially as there are no particular, strict guidelines for where to place your couch.

However, where you position your furniture in your home will affect the design and ambience of a room. If placed well, it can complement it; if not, it could be jarring.

Why You Shouldn’t Place a Sofa in Front of a Window

There are a few reasons why placing your sofa in front of a window may not be the best idea. Here are our top eight:

One of the Crucial Aspects of a Home to Steer Clear of, According to Feng Shui Principles

If you’re a believer in Feng Shui, then putting a sofa in front of your window has very negative implications!

Having your back against a door or window makes you vulnerable, as there’s no solid wall behind your sofa to protect you.

Additionally, the “Chi” that enters from the window can be chaotic or particularly strong, which could disrupt the natural flow of the room and create a sense of restlessness.

Blocks Natural Light

If your sofa is too tall to sit comfortably below the window, you might want to avoid placing it there if you can.

Natural lighting is crucial to making a room feel open, airy, and pleasant, as well as helping you save on heating and lighting costs.

Limits Access to the Window

You may want to be able to get close to the window to look outside, talk to friends or family, or even climb through it…!

Having a sofa there makes all of these things more difficult — apart from giving you a soft place to land if you come in through the window!

Can Make the Room Feel Cramped

Exposed windows make the room feel bigger, so this is one thing to think about if you’re working with a smaller space.

Try putting your sofa into a corner area or other less open part of the room to maximise space.

May Not Be Aesthetically Pleasing

In some cases, a sofa beneath the window just doesn’t look great – especially if it is taller than the bottom of the sill. It’s all up to personal tastes though!

Can Make Opening and Closing the Window Difficult

When opening and closing the window, it’ll be made all the more annoying if you have to climb onto or lean over your sofa each time. That’s not to mention that it could make drawing curtains and blinds tricky!

May Not Be Comfortable to Sit On With a Draft

Unless your windows are very new, it’s likely there’lll be a bit of a draft coming through them even when they’re shut. This can make for a less-than-pleasant place to relax.

You don’t want a cold breeze on the back of your neck while you’re trying to read or watch television!

UV Rays Can Further Fade Sofa Upholstery

Long-term exposure to the sunlight can fade the exterior of your sofa, making it lose value and become less pleasing to look at.

If you do end up putting your sofa in front of a window, it’s a good idea to rotate the cushions regularly, make sure the curtains or blinds are closed when you’re not home, and to invest in solar film for the glass.

Why You Should Place a Sofa in Front of a Window

Despite the fact that there are a few cons to placing your sofa in front of a window, there are also pros! Here are our top four:

Provides a Unique Focal Point

Having a piece of furniture and a window in one spot will really draw the eye! This combo could act as a centrepiece in your space.

Maximises Space in the Room

If there are no other great options for sofa placement, then this may be where your sofa needs to go.

Plus, putting it there frees up space along plain walls for things like bookcases and decor, as well as keeping the centre of the room free.

Offers a Great View While Lounging

It can be nice to be able to look outside and see what’s going on in the world without having to move from your couch!

There’s not much better than curling up on the sofa for a nap in a puddle of sunlight – or with a cup of tea, safe inside on a rainy day.

Can Create a Cosy and Inviting Atmosphere

Having a sofa in front of your window just looks cheerful!

When entering a room, it’s natural for guests to want to check out the view – so why not give them a comfy spot to look out from?

The Verdict: Should You Place a Sofa in Front of a Window?

So, there you have it: all the reasons you may or may not want to place sofas in front of windows!

To recap:

Arguments against placing your sofa in front of a window include:

  • Poor Feng Shui
  • Can block natural light
  • Limits window access (including opening and closing the window)
  • Can make the room feel small
  • May not look right
  • May feel draughty
  • UV rays from the sun can fade the upholstery faster

Arguments for placing your sofa in front of a window include:

  • Gives you something to focus on in the room
  • Maximises the room’s space
  • Offers up a lovely outside view
  • Can help make the room seem cosy and inviting.

Ultimately, it’s really up to you, your preferences, and your space requirements where you decide to place your sofa!

Mix And Match Sofas

How To Mix And Match Sofas, Chairs & Footstools

How To Mix And Match Sofas, Chairs & Footstools

Once upon a time, perfectly matched living room furniture sets were all the rage.

Now, mixing and matching textures, colours, shapes, and styles has become the newly fashionable method of decorating a living space!

This is especially apparent in sitting furniture. Sofas and chairs are a great place to exercise this creative design freedom.

Playing with design features in this way is a wonderful method of creating interesting, homely spaces. It can open up a whole new way of crafting interiors, allowing you to customise your space to perfection.

However, the fine line between stylish and discordant can be a hard one to walk. That’s why we’re here!

This article will provide you with tips on how to successfully mix and match sofas, chairs and footstools. We’ll cover:

  • Whether you should mix sofas and chairs
  • How to successfully combine complementary styles
  • How contrasting fabrics can create an interesting look
  • How matching patterns with solid colours can elevate a space
  • How to use symmetry when designing your living room
  • Why you should experiment with different arrangements during your design process
  • Why a statement piece could be a great addition to your living room
  • How to add some fun with an unexpected pop of colour.

Let’s get started!

Should You Mix Sofas And Chairs?

You’ve probably already guessed the answer to this question: Absolutely!

There’s really nothing wrong with matching furniture sets. It’s an easy way to get a harmonious living space without having to worry about fully custom designs.

If you want something that fits your exact desires and stands out from the crowd, then mixing and matching is a great option.

It opens the door to a whole new range of styles, themes, and feelings that can be evoked by your living space. It also allows you to discover combinations and styles that you may never have considered before!

There are certain things to keep in mind as you choose furniture pieces that will help you to avoid clashing or overcomplicating your space. However, in the end, it’s all up to personal taste.

Ultimately, the person you’re designing for is… well, you! The most important part of designing your home is that you like it.

Mastering The Art Of Mixing And Matching Sofas, Chairs, And Footstools: 10 Top Tips

Combine Styles That Complement Each Other

An easy way to combine non-matching sofas and chairs is by choosing complimentary styles.

Some just won’t work well together! For instance, if your living room is traditional, maximalist, and covered in patterns, an industrial, solid-colour sofa will probably stick out like a sore thumb.

Instead, you may want to select a style that is adjacent to your existing one. By choosing a sofa or chair that matches this way, you’ll find it much easier to create a cohesive final look.

For instance, if your space is modern but not minimalist, you could introduce a traditional-style armchair. This works especially well if you match other aspects of the furniture such as colour or shape so that they blend in ways besides style.

This can work very well for bringing some interest and variance of shape to a room. Some other examples of complementary styles could be:

  • Industrial and monochrome modern
  • Traditional and contemporary eclectic
  • Cottage and rustic traditional.

Use Contrasting Fabrics For An Interesting Look

Evoking contrast through fabrics is a great way to make your space feel more interesting and varied. It works best in traditional, eclectic, or generally playful spaces. Of course, this is a guideline – not a rule!

When you’re designing an interior, don’t think of it as a strict puzzle to be solved with hard rules. Instead, treat it more like a painting.

Add colour, texture, and style like you’re filling in a canvas. Think about what works with one another, how they can elevate other parts of the space, and whether they complement the existing decor. There is no single right answer in design!

A great way to do this is by using contrasting fabrics. This can apply to almost any style and type of fabric, but should usually be limited to fabrics that evoke similar styles and feelings.

For instance, rattan and linen are both homely, rustic, and textured. This means they work great in the same space. This is because they contribute to the same general “feel”, so they harmonise wonderfully.

On the other hand, rich silk and rustic rattan would probably look out of place together.

When you’re playing with texture, you should probably avoid too much variance in shape and style. Generally, you’ll want to pick one or two things to vary in your space, and then unite the pieces with a commonality.

A great way to unite varied fabrics is by adding pillows or throws that match other furniture in the room. For instance, you might have a velvet chair and a linen sofa. You can then pair these items by adding velvet pillows to the sofa!

Some examples of contrasting fabrics that work well together include:

  • Coloured velvet and linen
  • Corduroy and leather
  • Leather and floral accent fabric.

Match Patterns With Solid Colours

It’s very easy to overwhelm a space by including too many patterns layered on top of one another.

Of course, there are always exceptions. In a hyper-maximalist, eclectic space, a mishmash of patterns can work wonderfully.

However, in most spaces, you’ll want to break up the heavy pattern with the occasionally solid colour piece.

In a living room, this would usually be done with a patterned sofa and solid colour chair, or vice versa.

If your space is feeling tired and monochrome, a pop of texture is a great way to counter this! It can really breathe life into an otherwise dull living area.

If you already have a brightly coloured, busy-texture chair, then a simple, solid-colour sofa is a great choice to compliment it. This is best paired with cushions that match the pattern of the chair to unify the space.

When choosing your colour and pattern, it’s good to match the colour to a single aspect of the pattern.

For instance, if you have a black and gold, floral patterned sofa, you could match it with a gold armchair in the same colour. This would really pop and bring some life to the space, without clashing with your existing decor.

Some other examples of pairing patterns with solid colours can include:

  • Traditional, pink floral pattern chair paired with a solid, rosy pink sofa
  • Green and orange, geometric, modern sofa paired with an emerald green chair
  • Turquoise/blue shades, wave-patterned sofa paired with a solid colour, turquoise chair.

Play With Symmetry

When you’re choosing the placement and design of your furniture, a great way of bringing harmony to space is through symmetry.

This is done by matching the fabric, texture, partner, colour, or design of two items on opposite sides of space, mirroring each other. For instance, you might place two matching armchairs on either side of a fireplace.

This will bring a sense of cohesion to the space. It helps make your design feel intentional and will pull the space’s focus together toward a central item – whatever sits at the “mirror line” of your symmetrical layout.

Normally, symmetry means matching all aspects of a furniture piece with another, including style, shape, and colour.

In some cases, you might be able to evoke symmetry by only matching one of these features. This will be less stark in its effect on the space, but will still create similar outcomes in a more diluted form.

Some examples of how you might use symmetry in a living space include:

  • Two matching armchairs facing toward a fireplace
  • Two parallel sofas facing inward toward one another, framing a large wall art piece
  • Two matching floor lamps standing on either side of the main sofa.

Experiment With Different Arrangements

There really is no right or wrong way to put your living room together.

Everyone’s taste is different. What you think is gorgeous could look hideous to another person, so don’t let traditional style rules hold you back too much.

However, it is worth trying things out before you commit to a big furniture purchase when redesigning a room.

A great way to come up with a design you like is through experimentation. This can be done physically or digitally.

If you have some Photoshop know-how, it can be really useful to play with colour, texture, and shape by editing a photo of your space. This can be done fairly easily and has plenty of tutorials online.

You can even Photoshop furniture into a room to get an idea of how it looks.

Even if you don’t have that technical ability, it’s not a problem! You can experiment by moving around your furniture to try out different arrangements.

If you want to experiment with colours, a great way to do this is by getting a blanket in the colour or texture you want to try and then draping it over a piece of furniture in your space.

Additionally, make sure to consider the purpose of your space when designing its layout.

For instance, if you want a quiet place to read, you’ll probably want to place your armchair in a corner or by a window.

On the other hand, if you want to create a conversational sitting space for guests, then you’ll want it perpendicular to your sofa to create an easy social space.

Examples of living room arrangements could include:

  • A sofa in the centre, with two armchairs perpendicular on either side to create a conversational sitting area
  • A single armchair in a corner, with comfy decorations and plants to create a lovely reading nook
  • An L-shaped corner sofa with a diagonal TV stand to create an easy TV-watching area.

Mix And Match Contrasting Styles

Much like mixing directly complementary styles, mixing contrasting styles is another way to make a space feel really interesting if you’re feeling brave!

This has to be done with caution, as it’s very easy to overwhelm the space with this method.

To do this, keep in mind the four main aspects of any piece of furniture: style, shape, colour/pattern, and texture.

When choosing furniture pieces, try to match at least two or even three of these features.

For instance, you might have two chairs in very different styles. To make them still feel cohesive, you could make sure their colour, pattern, and shape match. By only varying a few aspects at a time, you’ll help your room still feel unified.

A few examples of this method could include:

  • A traditional armchair matched to a clean, modern space by choosing the same square-edge shapes and monochrome colours as the existing decor.
  • A rustic, farmhouse sofa matched a contemporary space by using the pre-existing blue colour scheme and floral patterns.
  • A minimalist, modern sofa matched an eclectic, traditional living space by incorporating colourful patterns and interesting shapes in its design.

Add Different Shapes

When aiming to create interesting spaces, it’s important to consider more than just colour and pattern.

You should also think about the different forms in furniture you choose. For instance, a chair might have rounded edges, hard square shapes, or flowing organic forms.

If you want a more dynamic look, it can be a good idea to mix and match shapes.

You’ll want to avoid extremely stark contrast with a single piece of furniture. If your room is filled with dainty, flowing furniture and you add a huge, bulky, square armchair, it will look huge and out of place.

Instead, think about the shapes you’ve already used in the space and play off them. Think of what shapes would complement those already there, or use highly contrasting forms in a deliberate, measured way.

The main thing to keep in mind is scale. You can have an extremely square and an extremely rounded chair next to one another harmoniously – as long as their scale matches.

Choose a consistent scale for your seating when you start designing the room, and then stick to it!

A great way to introduce a greater range of shape language to your living space is with accessories. This includes things like coffee tables, lamps, curtains, and decorations.

When done intentionally and with consideration for scale and overall shape language, this method can create a very appealing effect.

Some of the ways you could introduce some shape variance into your room could include:

  • A round rug to balance out square-edged furniture pieces
  • A statement piece armchair with flowing shapes to contrast hard, modern sofas
  • A square-backed armchair to complement a more traditional, eclectic style with rounded shapes, tied together with more traditional cushions.

Use A Statement Piece

A great way to begin the design process is by identifying a statement piece. This means an item that will stand front and centre in your room (literally or figuratively) and become a design focal point.

Often, this means some kind of outrageous sofa, armchair or coffee table that immediately commands attention when you enter the room. For instance, it might have very striking shapes, patterns, or colours.

Once you have this centrepiece, you can then base the rest of the room around it.

This is a great way to create a cohesive space, since it provides a root for all your future design choices. You can base your colour scheme and fabric choices on this singular piece of furniture.

Some examples of statement furniture pieces could include:

  • A brightly patterned, curvy, traditional armchair that has unusual shapes or features
  • A solid-colour but very vibrant sofa that defines the main accent colour of the room
  • A large, extravagant fireplace at the centre of the room.

Use Pillows And Throws To Tie Pieces Together

Bright and bold furnishings are a great way to spice up an otherwise bland and monochrome space.

However, they can feel a little disconnected from the rest of your decor on their own. Sometimes it can feel like they suddenly appeared in a room that really isn’t meant for them!

To avoid this, you can make use of items like pillows and throws to tie these pieces into the overall decor.

The best way to do this is to incorporate colours, patterns, textures, or shapes from other parts of the room into a furniture item. For example, you could tie a bright blue armchair in with a mostly beige room by adding matching blue pillows to the room.

Pillows are especially wonderful for distributing patterns across a space. This can really elevate an otherwise plain and boring room, especially when matched to a statement-piece furniture item like an armchair.

Some examples of how you could use accessories to tie a room together could include:

  • Adding a deep, red armchair to a beige-toned room. Then, placing matching red pillows on the existing sofas
  • Adding a turquoise sofa to a monochrome, white and grey space. Then, build on that further by adding turquoise curtains to the same room
  • Adding a rose-floral patterned sofa to a mostly solid-colour room. Then, add matching floral throws and pillows to the other furniture pieces.

Add A Touch Of Fun With An Unexpected Colour

Playing with colour is a great way to make your room feel fun and interesting!

It works especially well in eclectic, traditional or contemporary spaces. However, it can also work perfectly in more modern or minimalist spaces if done properly.
The main thing is choosing a single, strong accent colour and sticking to it. You want to avoid completing strong colours that will make you feel overwhelmed as soon as you step into the living room.

This doesn’t mean the rest of your space can’t have any colour, however.

Softer, darker or less saturated colours are fine elsewhere. Just limit your use of ultra-saturated colours.

Don’t be afraid to think outside the box here. There are rules to design, but sometimes the weirdest, most out-there idea turns out looking great!

If you want a pink-themed living room, choose a couple of furniture pieces and really go pink! You should avoid oversaturating the entire space in a strong colour, but one or two spots of an unapologetic accent colour will create a great style.

If you want to use more than one main colour, you should learn a bit about complementary colours.

The main thing to remember is that colours work best with the hue at the opposite end of the colour wheel. These are complementary to one another, meaning they will always look good together.

Some examples of accent colour use that could work well include:

  • A pop of pink in an otherwise yellow room, maybe with a statement piece armchair
  • Orange pillows and throws in a room that’s mostly monochrome blues and purples
  • A bright, turquoise rug in a mostly orange and red coloured space, matched with similar pillows on the sofa.

The Bottom Line

Each of these things will help you build an interesting, appealing space using mixed and matched furniture pieces.

It can be a little intimidating to start a design project like this. Largely, this is because there are so many rules and aspects to consider that can be overwhelming!

However, we want to reiterate that the person you’re designing for here is you.

If you love something, do it! Sometimes, rules are made to be broken.

On the other hand, if you’re not sure about something, rules can be a great way to explore different solutions to your design problem. They can help you nail down what style looks best in most cases.

Use our guidelines as a guide, and not as restrictions. They’re here to help, not bind. Happy decorating!

How To Sit On A Sofa With lower back pain

How To Sit On A Sofa With Lower Back Pain

How To Sit On A Sofa With Lower Back Pain

Most of us attempt to spend as many of our waking hours on the sofa as possible.

Chilling on the sofa is relaxing – and relaxation is good for you, right? Well, as far as lower back pain is concerned: not always.

There are a few factors that make sofas a hot spot for lower back pain, such as:

  • Poor seated posture
  • Sedentary habits and static positions
  • Lifestyle habits
  • Passive loading

Fortunately for sofa fanciers, we have a few straightforward solutions that will reduce your sofa’s ill effects.

In this article, we’ll discuss exactly how to sit on the couch with sciatica or lower back pain. Let’s sink in!

The Impact of Sitting on Back Pain: Understanding The Link

Sitting in a static position for a long period of time is often linked to back pain. Unfortunately, reducing back pain isn’t as easy as simply switching to a standing desk!

Granted, sitting is worse for your back than standing, but the root causes of back pain are a little more complex.

Poor and Bad Posture

Bad posture – anyone who works at a computer knows the struggle. It’s almost impossible not to slump forward in your seat, after all.

The bad news is that a slumped sitting posture contributes significantly to lower back pain and sciatica.

Your Spine Needs Movement To Stay Healthy

Movement is crucial to spinal health. Holding a position for a long time tends to lead to uneven pressure on your spine.

Additionally, even ‘good’ static positions have a tendency to collapse into ‘bad’ postures. Therefore it’s vital that you take a break and move around after being seated for a long period of time!

Lifestyle Habits Leading To Spine Pressure

There are several lifestyle habits associated with chronic lower back pain, such as:

  • Excess weight
  • Physical inactivity
  • Poor diet
  • Smoking

Making adjustments to your lifestyle can go a long way toward treating chronic lower back pain.

Passive Loading

Your back can be engaged actively or passively. Active engagement happens when you assume a ‘good’ posture or position.

If you don’t actively load your spine, you will fall into a passive posture — such as the dreaded slump.

Sofa Sitting: Tips for Maintaining Good Posture and Reducing Pain

Maybe you’re a student, or perhaps you work from home. Either way, the sofa looks like a pretty attractive place to settle down with your laptop and work.

Working from the sofa can easily turn a cosy indulgence into a painful backache. Let’s go over a few ways you can enjoy your sofa/office safely!

Sit With Your Back Straight

It’s vitally important to be aware of your spinal posture.

Sitting with your back straight is one way to avoid back pain. If you are able to sit slightly reclining — at 135 degrees, to be precise — that’s even better.

Keep Your Feet Flat on The Floor

Your feet should never dangle or be crossed. Keep your feet flat on the floor or (if you can’t reach the floor) flat on a footrest.

This position takes the strain off your knees, hips, and lower back.

Use a Cushion or Pillow For Lower Back Support

Sometimes you need to use props to support good posture. Use a rolled-up towel or pillow to support your lower back.

This extra support can turn your back posture from a slumped capital ‘C’ shape to a healthy ‘S’.

Keep Your Shoulders Relaxed

Tense shoulders encourage a tense spine, neck, and lower back. Keep your shoulders in a relaxed neutral position, not slumped forward or pulled back.

Keep Your Head in Line With Your Spine

Your head is heavy, and it demands a lot from your neck muscles!

If your head drops forward like a turtle, you’ll feel a lot of strain in the back of your neck. Instead of hanging your head forward from your shoulders, let it balance comfortably on top of your neck.

Maintain a Proper Angle For Your Knees and Hips

When you sit on a sofa, you are folded at the waist and the knees. The muscles at the back of your thighs and the front of your hips are shortened in this position.

This shortening can lead to stiffness — negatively impacting your knee and lower back health.

Keep your knees and hips bent at an angle of 90 degrees or slightly higher. This will prevent undue muscle shortening and excessive pressure on your joints.

Cushion Addition

A cushion can help you adjust your angles properly. You can sit on it to raise your torso, and correct the angle of your knees and hips.

Extra Cushions for Laptop Use

It can be hard to avoid slumping forward if you work with your laptop sitting on your lap.

Try using a cushion between your lap and your laptop to help you straighten up. Be sure to put something hard and flat between the cushion and your laptop to prevent blocking your computer’s cooling fans.

Walk And Stretching Exercises

Movement is the best friend of spinal health!

There’s nothing better you can do for your back than regularly getting up to stretch. It doesn’t have to be an entire yoga routine — just enough movement to shake out the tension.

Use an Optimal Sofa

If your sofa is too low, your knees could easily end up sitting higher than your hips.

This kind of posture shortens the muscles of your hips and loads pressure onto your lower back. If you have the option, choose to work from a sofa with a nice high base.

Or, Avoid Working on Sofa Altogether

Let’s face it: there’s a reason you don’t see many people dragging sofas in front of their desks in the office.

They are simply not designed to be worked from.

With that in mind, you should ideally work in multiple different postures every day.

Variation is key! Sit for an hour, stand for an hour, and balance on your head (okay… maybe don’t balance on your head). Working from your sofa might be fine for a short section of your day — just don’t get too comfortable.

The Bottom Line

The central factor in preventing lower back pain is avoiding static positions.

You shouldn’t be sitting or standing in one position all day — try to mix it up as much as you can!

If you must work from your sofa, try to sit with the best possible posture. That means:

  • Spine and skull aligned
  • Knees and waist bent to no less than 90 degrees
  • Back straight or slightly reclined
  • Lumbar supported
  • Shoulders relaxed
  • Laptop raised from your lap by a cushion and a flat surface

Go forth and sit in good health!

Mix and Match Pillows

How To Mix and Match Pillows For Your Sofa

How To Mix and Match Pillows For Your Sofa

One of the first things your guests will notice when they walk into your house is the way your sofas and pillows are placed and organised.

A good sofa-and-pillow setup will definitely change the way your living room looks and brighten the whole room!

While it can be hard to get this set up right from the get-go, knowing what you’re doing will make the entire process fun and cathartic. You’ll enjoy setting up your sofas in the way you want!

In this article, we’ll explore some great ideas and inspiration for your lounge’s seating area. We’ll look at:

  • Different ways to mix and match pillows for your sofa
  • Incorporating colour, pattern, and symmetry techniques that will help create an organised and coherent appearance.

Excited to create a gorgeous setup for your living room? Then let’s get into it!

Think About Your Current Decor

The best place to start when redecorating your sofas is to think about what they currently look like.

What pillows do you have? Do you have separate covers for them? How can they be rearranged?

Maybe you have some pillows stored in the back of a closet; bring them out and see if you can find any gorgeous pairings. If you get all of your current decors together, you’ll be surprised at what potential you already have in your home.

It’s essential to look at what you have on hand before going out to do a big shop as it will make your shopping list for new decor considerably smaller. Work with what you already have first!

Choose a Colour Theme Beforehand

The answer to this isn’t always as simple as picking your favourite colour; look around the room your sofas are in and think about what colours would suit the area best.

Pairing the palette with the colour of your walls or the sofas themselves is a great place to start.

Colour theory is fairly easy, and once you know the basics, there are a few different types of colour combinations to go for such as monochrome, complementary, and analogous.

Here are a few examples of aesthetically pleasing colour combinations to try out!

Monochrome Combinations (Same Colour but Different Shades):

  • Dark blue and pale blue
  • Dark pink and red
  • Orange and light brown.

Complementary Combinations (Opposite Sides of the Color Wheel):

  • Teal and orange
  • Purple and bright green
  • Red and dark green.

Analogous (Shades That Sit Next to Each Other on the Color Wheel):

  • Purple, blue, and teal
  • Pink, red, and orange
  • Green, blue, and purple.

Add a Pop of Bold Colour

Adding a pop of colour to your sofa arrangement will help spark the whole room to life, especially if your colour scheme is made up of light tones such as white or beige.

For example, having light-hued sofas with brightly-coloured pillows is eye-catching and can wow your guests, especially if these shades contrast the rest of the room.

When done right, a pop of colour will catch everyone’s attention and earn you plenty of compliments. Here are some great ideas for colour schemes with a pop of bright colour to choose from:

Incorporate Different Textures

The choice of texture is a vital aspect of decorating your couches. Many textures go together very well while some don’t — that’s why knowing the difference is essential!

For this one, you can go simple and classic with your textures or get creative and organise your pillows into fun combinations!

There are several things to consider when matching materials and textures together such as softness, aesthetics, and pattern. Here are some texture combination ideas:

  • Cotton, polyester, and silk
  • Chenille, velvet, and faux fur
  • Waffle, wool, and faux leather.

Add Decorative Trimmings for a Touch of Luxury

This is an easy and inexpensive way to make your living room feel just a bit fancier.

Decorative trimmings can be purchased at most craft and sewing shops, and there are many different types to choose from.

Or, if you’re not into DIY, there are also plenty of options for pillow covers with beautiful trimmings at many stores!

Trimmings will make your pillows unique and add flavour to your sofa setup. Here are a couple of trimming combinations to try if you’re dipping your toes into this idea:

  • Lace with tassels
  • Beads with rope
  • Sequins and ribbon.

Switch up Your Cushion Covers to Match the Season or Your Style

Whoever said your sofas had to look the same all year round?

Give your guests a different experience each time by keeping extra pillow covers for when the season changes – or even when you feel like trying out a new look!

For example, your living room could be decorated with warm colours in the summer and cool colours in the fall.

Incorporate wintery laces in the festive season and floral patterns in the spring to add a bit more of a unique touch. The possibilities are endless!

Play with Various Pillow Sizes

Pillows come in all sizes, from mini cuties to massive huggies. The way you organise your differently-sized pillows adds variety to your sofas and makes them appear more unique. Try to vary your pillow sizes to create a pleasant pattern.

On one sofa, for example, you could have two big cushions and then two small cushions on the other sofa.

Or you could go big, small, big, small. If a triple pattern is more of your style, try big, medium, small, big, medium, small!

Of course, you have free rein to arrange these pillows according to what looks nice to the eyes.

Combine Solid Colours with Printed Patterns

Sofa pillows are made to be mixed and matched; patterns and block colours can complement each other beautifully when paired right.

The best way to do this is to hold the side of your pillow by side and test out different combinations to see what goes well together.

One good idea is to match patterned pillows with a pillow that is the same colour as the minority colour on the patterned one.

For example, if you have a floral pillow with red roses on a white background, try pairing it with a solid white pillow.

You can also try mixing your pillows around in order to create unique looks and patterns. Try a blue-patterned pillow and a solid white pillow on one sofa, and a solid blue pillow with a white-patterned one on the other.

Mix and Match Pillows in Groups of Odd Numbers

Symmetry and even numbers definitely have their purposes, but grouping your pillows in odd numbers will also create an interesting asymmetrical look.

Arranging your pillows in groups of three or five will give your sofa a comfortable and inviting appearance!

The pillows don’t all have to be the same in these arrangements, either.

For example, you could have one big pillow with a different coloured or patterned pillow leaning against it, and then a smaller version of the first pillow leaning against the opposite arm of the sofa.

Then, go for a complementary but different look on another sofa!

The Bottom Line

Your home is a representation of — well — you! You want your home to be a place that mirrors your personality and style, and somewhere you feel comfortable in.

Sofas really are the centrepiece of your living room, and the way you arrange your sofa pillows can make or break the feel of the room.

Try out some of the examples and ideas above or try creating your own! Your sofas will be looking classy and cool in no time, and your living room will transform into a space that your guests won’t want to leave in a hurry!

Sofa Excercises Workouts

Sofa Excercises & Workouts

Sofa Excercises & Workouts

A quick note:

You will need to be careful when exercising using large pieces of furniture, so be sure they are firmly positioned before you go any further. If you’re keen to find an ideal sofa to start your new exercise regime, why not take a look at our corner sofas which can be suitable for even the most elaborate exercises?

Glute bridges for beginners

Glute bridges can be the perfect solution if you’re keen to get your bottom in shape without having to spend hours in the gym. Not only are they fairly straightforward to perform, but you’ll also be right next to the sofa should you need to take a break. Here’s how to get started:

  • Check that your sofa is against the wall as you’ll be leaning against it for this exercise and won’t want the piece of furniture to slip backward as you work out
  • Next, sit on an end seat with your back against the chair, so that if you tipped your head backward, it would lay comfortably on the top of the back part of the sofa (but keep your head upright for this exercise)
  • Now, lift your bottom off of the surface of the chair, with your legs on the ground
  • Your shoulders should press into the back of the sofa, allowing you to support your weight as you make a ‘bridge’ shape
  • Hold this pose for 2 seconds and then relax for 5 seconds, repeating the raising process 20 times. Just 2-3 sets of this exercise should have you and your bottom feeling tight in a matter of weeks

The high-knee toe touch (advanced)

For this exercise, you’ll likely find it similar to certain movements that take place during step aerobics (if you’ve ever tried it). It’s pretty straightforward, but you’ll need good cardio to really get the most out of it, making this an exercise for veterans, or those keen to build up their resilience.

  • First, stand in front of the sofa facing the seats and place your hands behind your head, with your elbows pointing outwards
  • Next, lift your right leg first and place your foot at the edge of the seat, just grazing the material. The higher your sofa, the more intense the exercise will be
  • Now, lower your foot and do the same with your other foot
  • Each time you lift a foot, hold the position for a few seconds until you feel comfortable enough to go faster
  • The key to this exercise is pacing yourself. The longer you do it, the more you’ll work out your core, including your abs and hips

Sofa sitting

This straightforward exercise might sound simple as most of us sit on sofas for fun, but it’s actually a pretty intense workout for your legs, shoulders, and core when done properly.

  • The first thing to do is to take a comfortable, upright position in the centre of your sofa so that you can’t easily contact the armrests at your left and right
  • Straighten your back against the rear of the sofa and position your feet so that they are as flat as possible to the floor in front of the sofa. You might need to sit forward on the edge of the sofa if you’re shorter than needed for this exercise
  • Next, fold your arms across your chest and keep them there
  • Now, lift your feet and legs and fold them up until they contact your arms in front of your chest
  • Hold this position for 5 seconds and then reset, repeating the process 20 times. You can take a break for 60 seconds and then repeat another set (or two more if you can manage it) to get the full effect of the exercise

Sofa push-ups

This exercise is quick, easy, and incredibly comfortable, as you’ll be using the soft seating of the sofa instead of the hard floor. You’ll be at an angle to maximise your core-work out without needing to compress your body weight.

  • Start by placing your hands on the edge of the sofa, whilst making sure that it can’t slip backward as you exercise, or you might find yourself face-planting against a potentially cold, hard floor
  • With your hands on the sofa, lower yourself down by placing your feet back and going onto your tip toes
  • You should find yourself in a diagonal position
  • Perform push-ups by raising and lowering yourself so that your face approaches and then moves away from the seat of your sofa
  • Aim for 25 push-ups, or 30 if you can manage it
  • When resting, stand upright, breathe deeply and then reposition for another set

Quick Note – this sofa can be even more challenging if you use our Oakley Swivel Chair for a little more pivoting as you raise and lower yourself.

The reverse sofa push-up

If you enjoy a good challenge and have a solid sofa like our Bampton 2-seater, this exercise could be the ideal one to get your heart pumping.

  • Switch your position from the previously mentioned push-up exercise, so your feet are where your hands were previously, and your hands are where your feet were, creating a diagonal bridge with your body
  • Now, lower yourself to the ground with your arms, while keeping your feet firmly in place on the sofa
  • To avoid the risk of injury, place a pillow under where your head aligns to the floor just in case your arms give in
  • Perform 25 repetitions if you can, or just 15 if you find this exercise to be especially demanding

Getting a successful sofa workout

And there you have it, a selection of sofa exercises that won’t cost you anything but time. Why not look at our extensive range of sofas while you plan your latest fitness regime and see if your ideal companion sofa has been waiting for you all along?
We even offer a variety of chairs, corner sofas, swivel seats and much more, and for those that are budget concise, you can check out our sofa outlet first to make sure you’re getting a deal in our sale.

And if you haven’t heard about the latest trend in the furniture fitness community, check out our sofa yoga guide, which will give you all sorts of new-age ideas on how to bend your body from the comfort of your living room.

Ideas For Arranging Your Sofa In A Living Room

Ideas For Arranging Your Sofa In A Living Room

Ideas For Arranging Your Sofa In A Living Room

Whether you are moving into a new home, buying some new furniture pieces, or considering rearranging your living room, it can often prove difficult to know where to place your sofa. Modern homes tend to be smaller and furniture pieces tend to be large – and as this space is often multi-purpose, you’ll need to provide somewhere to relax, somewhere to entertain and often much more.

Having the right layout can have a big impact, so let’s take a look at some ideas for arranging your sofa in your living room.

Initial considerations when deciding on sofa placement

As the sofa will be the largest piece in the room, it can be worthwhile to determine where it will go before you begin to put in other furniture pieces. Take a moment to find the focal point of your living room – this will typically be the main interest point or predominant function. For example, if you have a family, the focal point will often be the TV, but you may want to showcase your fireplace, a window, or even a statement piece of furniture. Once you know what your focal point, is you can determine whether or not to place your sofa opposite it or build your seating around it. Don’t forget that you will still want some design flexibility for the rest of the room.

Best sofa placement

Small living rooms

When it comes to small living room sofas, many people decide to push larger furniture pieces against walls to create a more open space. This can actually be counter-intuitive, as it will create an awkward, dead space that may even draw attention to smaller proportions. A good solution is to instead choose smaller sofas and keep them away from walls, as it will make a room feel more spacious and open.

Awkward living rooms

While most modern homes feature smaller living rooms, it’s no secret that many also play host to open-plan designs that may make sofa placement a little more complicated. When this is the case, it can be a good idea to designate zones around the room to insure that everything gets placed with both functionality and style in mind.
Zoning your room will work best if you define the different aspects of the room’s functionality. For example, if you spend most of your time watching TV but also use the space when eating, why not create a separate area for both instead of trying to cater to all needs in one seating area? A great way to ensure cohesiveness when breaking your room into different zones is to maintain colour schemes and use specific furniture pieces that create visually distinct but complementary vibes.
Don’t forget that you will still need to navigate your room when placing your sofa and other pieces of furniture, so be sure to define clear routes so that you don’t block access to other areas of your home.

Large living rooms

Larger living rooms run the risk of feeling cold and empty, so this can be an excellent opportunity to go for more oversized, more comfortable-looking corner sofas that will help you to create a sense of scale. If you are using zoning for a larger living room, it can be a good idea to use your sofas to help you to divide the space.

Sofa arrangement design trends

Some interior design trends suggest that symmetrical living room layouts will help to create a sense of order for your living space. This means creating a balance and will often see two identical sofas placed opposite each other within the room. The good news is that the sofas don’t have to be matching, as long as their proportions are the same. 
Another trend that has emerged in recent years is arranging living room furniture diagonally, to help make spaces look less square and better define seating areas. Sofas can be placed on a diagonal axis and all furniture and additional seating should be placed at the same angle. If you are considering this option you can anchor your seating to the room’s architecture, for example, align your sofa with your TV or fireplace.
If you predominantly use your living room to relax and watch TV, sectional sofas can be a great idea. They can typically be moved to form more flexible seating arrangements and come in a host of configurations to suit your needs and your space. Sectional sofas can also be used as living room dividers and provide additional seating space when you have guests.

Top design tips to maximise sofa design elements

The design of your sofa can also impact how it fits within your living room. With this in mind, here are a few top tips:

  • Sofas that sit close to the floor will help to make your ceilings look higher and make the room feel more spacious. Sofas with legs will actually create the opposite and instead create more visual space for a wider-looking room.
  • If you opt to buy smaller sofas, it can be a good idea to choose solid neutral colours over patterns to make the room feel bigger. A love seat can be a good alternative to a full-size sofa, but if you don’t want to lose additional seating space, it may be worthwhile to choose sofas that have low backs.
  • If you already have a sofa and you feel like it’s too large for your living space, it can be a good idea to minimise additional furniture in the room to simplify the area and provide more walking space. Also consider your cushions and any slipcovers or blankets that you may keep in the room, as these can add unnecessary additional bulk.
  • It can be a worthwhile idea to minimise dark colours, patterns and textures on sofas of all sizes, as these can diffuse natural light and overwhelm living spaces.
  • For large living rooms that have lots of windows, arranging furniture in the centre of the room will help to maximise natural light while ensuring that everything still feels cozy and comfortable.
  • To promote conversation and create a more homely feel, sofas that face each other should be placed no more than 8 feet apart.

Final thoughts

As you can see, there is a lot to consider when placing a sofa in your living room but it can be achieved with the right know-how. The great news is that sofas are no longer limited in design or style, so it will be a simple process to choose the right sofa to meet the needs of your room, without missing out on comfort or risking your overall aesthetic.

Who Invented The Sofa

Who Invented The Sofa?

Who Invented The Sofa?

In the modern home, furniture plays a key role in how we express our design preferences and spend our downtime. One of the most important pieces is the sofa, as this is used to add comfort and function to one of the most pivotal areas of the home.

In 2023 sofas vary significantly in shape, style, colour, and finish and can be used in many different spaces to offer functional yet comfortable seating. Designs are no longer limited to big bulky pieces that take up space and homeowners are now able to choose from corner sofas, suites, love seats, armchairs, and similar to enjoy company, relax, and much more.

As such an integral, everyday feature, you may be wondering where sofas came from and how long we’ve been using them within homes around the world. If this is the case, read on to find out who invented the sofa.

Where did the concept of the sofa originate?

As seating similar to modern sofas has appeared throughout history, let’s take a look at some key points:

Ancient Egypt

Seating actually dates as far back as the 18th century and can be traced to lineages of dynasties in ancient Egypt. Kings and Egyptian pharaohs were buried in large tombs and while you may know that these often featured luxury items like gold and foods that would help the dead pass successfully into the afterlife, you might not know that there were also furniture pieces that were buried alongside these items. The idea behind adding creature comforts was to make transitions into the afterlife easier and provide a home away from home.

One example of sofas featuring in ancient Egypt was when archaeologists entered the tomb of the boy King Titan in 1922. Excursion leader Howard Carter found upholstered seating that resembled pieces that were typical of the current age. Considering that these pieces had been locked away in an underground tomb for centuries and managed to survive in a good enough condition for them to be understood as seating, the quality of materials and craftsmanship must have been at a particularly high standard that simply can’t be replicated in modern design.

Rome

During Roman times, an innovative seating piece called a Lectus appeared. This was a form of upholstered seating that was used as a dining chair where Romans of high standing dined in comfort. Royal families would have both beds and Lectus’s within their homes, whereas less fortunate families would typically use their Lectus as their bed.

The western world

While there may have been examples of upholstered seating centuries before, it took the western world a much longer time to begin to design and build these key features of the modern home. During the 1500s and 1600s, western homes were typically small and contained little to no furniture. In fact, the people of the time would sleep on basic straw linen beds and these were often kept in living rooms and doubled up as seating. Sofas and similar seating options were only found in the homes of the rich and important, and seating wasn’t considered a necessity for everyday use.

Early sofa designs typically contained oak sections and carpentry as crafters centered their focus on style – and many fit the church and Gothic aesthetics that was popular at the time. It still took a while for sofas to really gain traction as household items, but woodworkers, upholsterers, and similar artisans were beginning to expand their skill sets as building materials and a focus on architecture became more prevalent.

As more and more people started to think about how their homes reflected their social status within communities, houses started to be more elaborately designed and built, and people began to see the worth of well-designed furniture pieces that would make their homes stand out among their peers. As a result, large, comfortable, expertly designed sofas were a natural choice.
The first recorded image of a sofa was dated to 1686, on an engraving called ‘Woman Of Quality On A Canape’. The piece featured was in a low-back style known as a canape.

The French court

In the 1690s French court, imagery began to emerge of noblewomen using sofas to lounge upon, and they began to feature more prominently in homes as a result. Craftsmen began to move away from the traditional wooden bench-style seating by adding material furnishings and began to incorporate softer fabrics and even padding to emphasize comfort for more long-term use. Intricate wood carving also remained a coveted feature.

The 1800s

Furniture maker Jay Wellingdon Couch is accredited with creating the first sofa (or couch, as the case may be) in 1895, despite similar seating designs appearing centuries before. However, this is probably the closest example to resemble a modern sofa and acted as the basis for newer and more intricate designs. In this time period, the sofa was still widely accepted as an item for richer individuals with more elaborate homes. In the coming years, however, furniture makers began designing sofas in more durable, functional materials that cost less to improve the accessibility of comfortable seating for homes across the world. Design, style, and function have continued to improve and now sofas are an integral part of everyday life.

Modern sofas

For the modern household, sofas are often one of the most important investments; combining comfort with functionality. The modern buyer not only has access to sofas on the high street that is designed to meet every need in terms of colour, material, size, and shape, but they will also have the ability to choose custom elements for even more freedom.
Buying a sofa can now be as simple as going in-store and choosing the one you like or going online and having your chosen your sofa delivered straight to your door. It is still possible to speak with furniture makers who will create a unique sofa from scratch to meet your needs, but thanks to the internet and well-developed shipping protocols, you can even reach out to artisans around the world and order with ease.
Sofas are still largely handmade, meet a host of safety standards, and can cater to the needs of families, individuals, and even homes with pets. They can be used as little or as much as needed for years to come.

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