Cushions are often the final layer in a room — but they are never an afterthought. When chosen with care, they bring comfort, colour, and personality, softening a space and making it feel lived-in. Getting the balance right is less about rules and more about proportion, texture, and instinct.

Start with Scale

The size of your cushions sets the tone. Larger cushions feel generous and grounding, particularly on sofas or deep armchairs, while smaller ones add contrast and detail. Begin with your biggest cushions at the back, allowing them to anchor the arrangement, then layer forward with smaller sizes. This creates depth without clutter, and ensures the space still feels relaxed rather than overly styled.

Layer, Don’t Line Up

Cushions work best when they feel effortless. Avoid rigid symmetry and instead think in gentle groupings — odd numbers often feel more natural. Let cushions overlap slightly, encouraging a sense of movement and ease. A carefully layered arrangement invites use, rather than feeling like it’s there to be admired from a distance.

Mix Fabrics for Texture

Texture is what brings cushions to life. Pair tactile fabrics like wool, velvet, or bouclé with smoother linens or cottons to create contrast. The interplay between soft and structured materials adds depth and warmth, allowing the arrangement to feel rich without relying solely on pattern or colour.

Play with Tone, Not Just Colour

A cohesive cushion story doesn’t need perfect colour matching. Instead, work within a tonal family — layering variations of a single hue, or pairing earthy neutrals with a pop of deeper colour. Subtle shifts in tone create interest while maintaining a sense of calm and cohesion.

Pattern as Accent

If you’re introducing pattern, let it play a supporting role. One or two patterned cushions can bring energy and rhythm, especially when balanced with textured plains. Scale matters here — mix larger motifs with finer details so nothing competes too loudly for attention.

Let Comfort Lead

Above all, cushions are meant to be used. Don’t overfill a sofa or chair to the point where comfort is compromised. The most successful arrangements feel inviting — soft enough to sink into, flexible enough to move, and relaxed enough to change over time.