Cushions: The unsung heroes of home comfort.
Whether we like to admit to it or not, I think we all have one small addiction or another. For me, I have to confess there are a few, cushions, chairs, and Christmas decorations (in no particular order) and possibly Kevin Macleod, although I’d rather say I have great admiration for him, so I don’t come over sounding all stalkerish. I’m forever telling handy husband how lucky he is that there aren’t more on my list, but his eye rolling gives me the feeling he’s not totally convinced. A quick scan of the bottom part of my wardrobe might evidence there’s also a thing for shoes going on.
Today, let’s talk cushions, pivotal in many room schemes and from my own experience quite often the starting point for many a change in style and colour choice. Strangely they always find a way into our home unnoticed, multiplying until there are more cushions than sofa. Were it not for me, I don’t believe anyone in our house would see a remote need for these crowd pleasers. These soft and versatile accessories are not only just pieces of fabric filled with padding, but are the silent companions that enhance style, comfort, and ambience in our homes, not least forgetting they promote good posture and well-being, reducing physical strain and generally making us happy.
Using monochrome to achieve a Scandinavian style
Beyond their ergonomic value, I think cushions offer up a certain amount of nostalgia. We associate them with cozy winter afternoons on the sofa, shields for scary movie nights, an afternoon’s target practice with the kids, or simply finding comfort in their embrace.
Making a hard wood seat comfy with cushions
Cushions can also be a canvas for our creativity. With so many options out there, a vast array of shapes, designs and patterns, they allow us to express our personality and decorate according to our tastes. Whether you like maximalist chintz, Scandinavian minimalism or Bohemian restfulness, cushions can be used to tie together a theme or make a bold statement.
Injecting autumnal colours into your scheme
You can buy cushions with an exisitng insert or as a single cover. If there is one thing I’ve learned over the years it’s that the insert is everything and your choice can make or break the finished look. One of my pet hates are synthetic polyester versions, cheaper than their feather counterparts, they more often than not result in your cushions taking on a wearisome and “seen better days” appearance. Although a little more expensive, I much prefer feather fillers, a sound investment, not only are they better in terms of their longevitiy (a quick plump up makes them as good as new) they are also much more comfortable, and tend to sit better on your sofa. Also remember to size up on your insert by at least 1cm all round, so the cushion cover is well filled.
Feather inserts create a plump cushion
Choosing cushions to sit together can be an art in itself. When deciding, here are a few things to keep in mind.
Colour co-ordination - It’s important to think about what will compliment the colour of your sofa and the room. Depending on your style you can either match with different textures or contrast with different colours.
Size matters - Mixing different sizes can create a dynamic look, use larger cushions at the back for support and smaller ones at the front for comfort.
Texture - Incorporating different textures can add depth to your scheme, think velvet, linen and weave for a tactile contrast.
Pattern play - If your sofa is plain, introduce patterned cushions or vice versa.
Odd numbers - Odd numbers of cushions tend to look more aesthetically pleasing than even numbers.
Comfort v’s decor - It is important to strike a balance between decorative cushions and those that provide comfort.
Personal style - Let your personal style shine through your choice of cushions, mix and match to create a unique look that represents you.
Seasonal swaps - Consider changing your cushions with the seasons, using lighter, brighter colours for spring and summer and richer, deeper colours for autumn and winter.
Consider your sofa style - The style of your sofa plays a part, if you have a modern sofa you might chose geometrics, if it’s more tradtional in style, it may suit more muted classic colours.
Quality Matters - Invest in good quality cushions and inserts to maintain shape and support.
Proportions - Ensure that the cushions you chose are in proportion to the size of your sofa. A tiny cushion on a small sofa will look lost.
Try before you buy - If possible test out your cushions on your sofa or bed.
With the changing season upon us, we are being offered up new designs, think autumn leaves, tonal neutrals with a pop of colour here and there. Here is a round-up of some of the lovely offerings out there.
Beautiful woven texture in this pink/navy cushion
Click on the button
Stripes give a nautical touch
Scandinavian style from House Doctor
Pops of colour fade grid cushion
Pink & Gold Abstract
Autumnal colours of Totemic Cushion