Sofa Styling 101: How to Build Your Living Room Around Your New Centrepiece

Jul 22, 2025

Your sofa is most often the heart of your living room and the foundation for your entire space! At Living Emporium, the perfect sofa sets the tone for a room that’s both stylish and functional. Whether you choose a classic sofa, a practical sofa bed or a luxurious recliner, here’s how to style your living space accordingly.

Start with the Right Foundation

Before adding decorative elements, consider what goes beneath your sofa. A well-chosen rug anchors your seating area and defines the space. For a balanced look, ensure your rug extends at least 30cm beyond your sofa on all sides. If you’ve opted for one of our recliner sofas, remember to account for the extended footrest when selecting your rug size!

Sofa and Cushion Combinations That Pop

Scatter cushions are your best friends when it comes to sofa styling! For a cohesive look, follow these simple guidelines:

• Choose 3-5 cushions for a standard three-seater sofa
• Mix textures and patterns while maintaining a consistent colour palette
• Create depth by layering different sizes, larger cushions at the back, smaller in front
• For sofa beds, select cushions that can be easily removed when converting to sleep mode

Living Emporium stores offer a stunning range of cushions in seasonal colours that will instantly refresh your space.

Throws and Mink Blankets

Nothing says ‘cosy home’ quite like a beautifully draped throw or mink blanket. These versatile pieces add warmth, texture and colour to your sofa arrangement. For sofas with lift-up storage, extra throws can be placed inside for easy access when the temperature drops.

Tip: When choosing pillows and throws, consider the colour and fabric of your sofa. Choose colours that complement each other rather than being identical. 

Complete the Picture

Remember that styling extends beyond your sofa:

• Add a coffee table within easy reach. This is essential for recliner sofas where you’ll be spending relaxed time.
• Consider side tables for additional surface space.
• Fill the wall space above your sofa with artwork that complements your colour scheme.

Visit us in-store to find the perfect sofa for Your Home, Your Style!