There are very few styles of sofas that can truly be called timeless and which have stayed relevant for more than 70 years. But mid-century style sofas are one of those rare styles that have stood the test of time – and they’re not going anywhere anytime soon.

Mid-century sofas’ timelessness and versatility makes them one of the most popular and best sofa categories for most styles of living rooms. They’re largely defined by a simple, functional design with clean lines, small footprint and tapered legs.

‘Mid-century furniture originated in a post-war era where simplicity and function were prioritised over the heavily ornate fashions of previous decades,’ explains Leah Howatson, general manager for international markets at Castlery. ‘That philosophy is exactly what has kept it so popular today, but its resurgence now also comes down to versatility. Rooted in minimalism, the less-is-more approach still resonates with people today. A mid-century sofa is a low-risk choice for anyone designing their home around pieces that will outlast a passing trend.’

Why should you buy a mid-century sofa?

Versatility

A mid-century style sofa is one of the things every mid-century living room has in common. But the beauty of this style of sofa is that it goes well with any style and aesthetic, you don’t necessarily have to have a mid-century living room to get a mid-century sofa.

‘Mid-century design has a timeless quality that makes it incredibly easy to live with. The clean lines and considered proportions feel stylish without being overly trend-led, so these are pieces that can sit comfortably within lots of different interior styles,’ says Monika Puccio, director of buying at Sofa Club. ‘A mid-century-inspired sofa can work just as well in a minimalist space as it can alongside more eclectic or contemporary pieces.’

Longevity

Since mid-century sofas don’t subscribe to any fleeting home decor trends and have stood the test of time for several decades, this sofa style is a safe yet stylish bet. And one that you’re unlikely to get tired of quickly, unlike something a little more trendy.

‘Because the aesthetic has remained relevant for decades, it’s a great option for someone looking for a sofa that feels design-led but has longevity beyond one particular trend,’ Monika at Sofa Club says.

Small space-friendly design

If you’re after a small living room sofa idea, then look no further – mid-century style sofas are perfect for tiny lounges for several different reasons.

‘Mid-century sofas tend to have a relatively streamlined footprint, so they can create a sense of space without compromising on comfort; something that’s particularly relevant in modern homes,’ says John O’Leary, Swyft’s design director. ‘There’s usually a sense of lightness to the design too. Rather than feeling bulky or overly decorative, a midcentury sofa should feel considered and effortless.’

Leah at Castlery continues, ‘Mid-century furniture generally sits up off the ground on slender, raised legs. This visual flow makes the room appear lighter and more spacious. The low profiles and slim frames work well in smaller flats and open-plan spaces alike.’

‘A mid-century sofa doesn’t shout, but instead is built for everyday living, fitting seamlessly into a space with understated presence. The real benefit is how adaptable mid-century design is to modern life. It’s just as applicable now as it was seventy years ago, and I don’t see that changing anytime soon,’ Leah concludes.

As Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I thought I'd seen every overnight hosting solution there was.

I've tested the best sofa beds on the market, tried out the best chair beds, and rounded up plenty of stylish daybeds to sleep friends and family when they come to stay.

However, I think there's a new furniture trend that's about to take interiors by storm, and it's being dubbed the 'floor sofa'.

I've already seen this latest guest bed alternative in plenty of designer showrooms, and now, it's hitting the high street. These are the six of the best floor sofas on my radar.

What is a floor sofa?

But first up, what is a floor sofa? Well, it's a low-to-the-ground seating solution that tends to be without feet and sits directly on the floor. A bit like a sofa crossed with a giant bean bag, if you like.

The cult classic Ligne Roset Togo is the most iconic example. Designed in the 1970's this all-foam sofa was revolutionary in its time; its informal, slouchy build offering a trendsetting alternative to the formal straight-backed seating the furniture world was filled with at the time.

And if the newly launched autumn/winter furniture collections are anything to go by, it seems this modern retro look is having a comeback.

Plus, this time, floor sofas aren't just for seating. Instead, they're giving the humble sofa bed a run for its money by turning slouchy seating into a full-on reclined sleep surface.

These are six of the best options on the high street right now, and I predict this look is going to get even bigger as we head towards 2027.

Six of the best 'floor sofa' beds

If you're looking for relaxed multifunctional seating, I think this new floor sofa bed trend is one to watch.

Whether you call it a loveseat, a snuggle chair or a cuddle chair, this cosy-coded seating style sits somewhere between a regular armchair and a small two-seater sofa in terms of size. And whether you’re looking for compact seating for a small living room or a generously-sized addition to an open-plan lounge, these are the best loveseats I’ve tried and would highly recommend to anyone.

As Ideal Home’s Room Decor Editor, it’s part of my job to regularly try sofas, as well as other forms of living room seating ideas in search of the best sofas, best accent chairs etc. So I’ve tried my fair share of loveseats, too.

But while some people might try to sell you on the idea that they snuggly fit two people, I disagree with that. A loveseat is really just a generously sized seating for one person – at a push, you can fit an adult and a small child. But they make for a super comfy and cosy spot to snuggle up with a cup of tea and read a book, watch TV or just chat with family and friends if you have a conversation-first living room.

‘Originally rising to popularity in the early 19th century, loveseats have remained a timeless favourite thanks to their combination of comfort, versatility and space-saving design,’ says Julia Bilotta, creative stylist at Sofology.

Why should you get a loveseat?

‘A loveseat offers all the comfort of a sofa but in a more compact footprint, making it a versatile choice for a range of homes,’ says John O’Leary, design director at Swyft. ‘It's ideal for creating a cosy seating area without overwhelming the room.’

So if you’re looking for small living room seating ideas, then a loveseat or two loveseats positioned opposite one another could be a great choice for your space. ‘In smaller homes or apartments, a loveseat can comfortably replace a traditional sofa without compromising on comfort,’ John says.

However, loveseats are more popular as additional seating in a living room arrangement. ‘We see people using loveseats alongside a larger sofa. They add extra seating while creating a more balanced, conversational layout, which works particularly well in open-plan living spaces or larger family rooms,’ John adds.

Lastly, given their smaller size, loveseats presents the perfect opportunity to create a bit of a statement by opting for either a bolder colour or a fun pattern. ‘It's also a great way to introduce colour or texture into a space, particularly if you're looking to make more of a design statement,’ John suggests.

How to use a loveseat

While you can, of course, opt for a single loveseat in the living room - whether that’s to replace a sofa or an addition to it - there are other ways to utilise a loveseat.

‘One of the most effective arrangements is placing two loveseats opposite each other to create an intimate seating area that’s ideal for conversation, reading or relaxing away from the busier parts of the home. A coffee table or footstool placed between them helps define the space, while a generously sized rug beneath the seating anchors the arrangement, creating a cosy, clearly defined zone that adds warmth and balance to the room,’ Julia at Sofology recommends.

But a loveseat doesn’t just have to be a living room idea. Snuggle chairs also work really well in bedrooms, reading nooks and more.

‘They're just as effective in bedrooms, home offices, bay windows or reading nooks where you want to create a comfortable place to unwind. They're also a great solution for awkward corners that might otherwise go unused. Paired with a floor lamp and a side table, a loveseat can transform an overlooked area into one of the most inviting spots in the home,’ John at Swyft says.

Where are you putting your loveseat once you choose the best one for you and your home?

Whether you have your heart set on going for a leather sofa and you’re just not sure which ones are the best or you’re not sure what style of sofa and upholstery finish to invest in at all, this round-up of the best leather sofas and what makes them great is the right place for you.

Most don’t realise the many benefits that come with opting for a leather sofa for their living room, making leather styles some of the best sofas out there. They’re timeless classics, existing outside of changing sofa trends, they’re hardwearing and easy to clean and they go with pretty much anything and any living room style.

‘Leather sofas have a timeless quality that makes them a great long-term investment,’ says John O’Leary, Swyft design director. ‘They're incredibly versatile from a design perspective, working just as well in contemporary spaces as they do in more traditional interiors. It's also a material that doesn't rely on trends, so it's easier to build a room around it for years to come.’

Why should you buy a leather sofa?

Whether it’s for aesthetic reasons or practical ones, investing in a leather sofa is a decision you won’t regret. These are just the top benefits of this particular sofa style.

1. Easy to clean

If you’re looking for the best child-friendly sofa style, you’ve found it. Leather sofas come out on top in this regard because of how easy they are to clean – all you need to do is wipe down the surface.

‘From a practical point of view, leather is easy to wipe clean, making it a popular choice for busy households,’ John at Swyft says.

However, if you were to go for a nubuck or suede leather, this doesn’t apply. Leather upholstery is only easy to clean if it is the smooth, sealed kind.

2. Long-lasting and hardwearing material

A sofa is an investment that should last you for many years to come, at least 10 years. And leather is one of those hardwearing upholstery materials that will make sure you get your money’s worth. In fact, it only improves with age and wear!

‘Practically, a leather sofa is durable and resilient,’ says Shelley Cochrane, accessories buyer at Furniture Village. ‘It also grows even more beautiful with age so you can be confident that your leather sofa will stand the test of time.’

3. Elegant, timeless look

Looks-wise, a leather sofa looks both elevated and timeless. And thanks to its versatility, it goes with pretty much any style of living room.

‘I'd recommend a leather sofa for anyone looking to create a more refined, understated living space. They work particularly well in rooms with natural materials like oak, walnut and stone, where the textures complement one another,’ John at Swyft suggests.

Magdalena Gierasinska, head of product and displays at Barker and Stonehouse, adds, ‘Leather sofas suit any kind of living room and I’d recommend them to those who want a classic and elegant look.’

What are the downsides of leather sofas?

But nothing is perfect, and leather sofas are no exception. So in order for you to have the full picture, these are some of the downsides of leather sofas to be aware of before buying one.

1. Prone to scratches

One of the beautiful things about leather is the patina it builds over time as it gets worn in. But if you have a pet like a dog or a cat, part of this worn-in look will inevitably be some scratches, too, as the material is prone to those.

‘Whilst leather is wipe-clean, it can be scratched by pet claws,’ Magdalena at Barker and Stonehouse warns.

2. Uncomfortable in extreme weather

Whether it’s the heatwave or the middle of the winter, when the temperatures get extremely cold or hot, a leather sofa reflects this and it might not be the most pleasant seat in the house because of it.

‘Because it's a natural material, it responds more noticeably to changes in temperature, feeling cooler in winter and warmer in summer,’ John at Swyft says.

3. Requires maintenance

Even though leather sofas are durable and hardwearing, they require some maintenance in order to keep the material feeling supple and soft.

‘As a natural material, leather will age and soften with use, and without regular care it can become dry or lose some of its rich colour,' says Julia Bilotta, creative stylist at Sofology. 'To help preserve the leather’s softness, appearance and natural sheen, we recommend using a specialist leather conditioner as part of a quality care routine. Applying conditioner twice a year will help to nourish the material, prevent it from drying out and keep your sofa looking beautiful for years to come.’

4. Higher price point

Just like any products made out of genuine leather outside of sofas tend to be pricier, the same goes for leather sofas. And while I tried to find some affordably priced leather sofas, most of them are not exactly budget-friendly.

But it is a long-term investment as leather sofas should and usually do last for many years.

Julia at Sofology concludes, ‘Leather sofas are a great choice for those looking for a stylish yet practical piece of furniture that can withstand everyday living. Their durable nature and easy-care qualities make them particularly suited to busy households, while their timeless appeal allows them to work well in a variety of interiors.’

It’s no secret that I’m a big fan of modular sofas. So when a new design launches, I pay attention – especially when it’s from one of the best sofa brands that also makes excellent modular sofas. When I first saw the John Lewis Elara modular sofa at the brand’s autumn/winter 2026 press preview, I immediately fell in love.

Investing in one of the best modular sofas is becoming more popular, as John Lewis reports that sales of their modular sofas have increased by 220% over the last three years. I rate the retailer’s Flow and Tokyo modular sofas very highly – but even David Barrett, head of home design at John Lewis, says that the new Elara modular sofa is even more special.

‘Elara is fully modular and adaptable,’ David explains. ‘It differs from other John Lewis modulars through its availability in three different widths which allows almost endless configurations. The smaller modules can create a compact seating solution whereas the larger module enables you to create a grand corner group that accommodates the whole family and anything in between.’

As the Elara only just dropped on the retailer’s site, the individual modules in various widths are not yet available. But the ready-made Elara 4-seater chaise-end sofa, which sells for £4199 and can be with you within seven days, includes and shows the different seat widths.

Aside from this default ready-made option, the Elara sofa is available in 80 fabrics to choose from, several of which I got to see at the brand’s press showcase. If you go for the made-to-order option, the lead time is eight weeks.

But aside from the various widths available, there are other things to love about the Elara sofa, too. Generously sized and deep-seated sofas have been rising in popularity this year as we all value comfort above all else. And this sofa ticks those boxes – so much so that I’d say it’s not the most small living room-friendly, however, it makes for the perfect open-plan living room idea.

‘The Elara is a stunning centerpiece that looks flawless from every angle, making it the ultimate choice for open-plan living. Its relaxed seating and loose back cushions provide unparalleled, everyday comfort,’ David at John Lewis says. And I can attest to that as I was so comfortable when trying the sofa IRL that I didn’t want to get up at all.

The curvaceous shape of the sofa is another one of its benefits and aesthetically pleasing features which was inspired by Scandinavian design. ‘The Elara sofa brings our AW26 creative vision to life, combining Scandinavian design inspiration with insights gathered during Copenhagen Design Week,’ David confirms.

Last year, the retailer impressed me with the showstopping John Lewis Pleat sofa design. But this year, it’s all about the Elara modular sofa for me.

If you're in the market for a sofa bed, I think Habitat is *the* place to shop right now. Especially if you want a budget-friendly design that's perfect for smaller homes.

The brand has just launched a brand new collection of sofa and chair beds, and there's one design in particular that has really caught my eye.

Habitat's new 'Pillow' sofa bed costs just £235, and I think its soft and squishy look sums up one of the year's biggest furniture trends.

As Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've spent the past five years testing the best sofa beds and best chair beds on the market, and in the past year, I've noticed a growing trend.

This year, 'pillow' furniture is having a moment, and thanks to its soft, squishy, and cocooning vibes, I think it's a look that's here to stay.

I first noticed this trend in the bedroom. This year's bedroom trends are all about turning the sleep space into a restful retreat; a look achieved with tactile fabrics, nurturing colours, and furniture with soft, curvaceous, and 'pillowy' shapes.

It began with headboard trends. At the start of 2026, clean lines and hard edges were very clearly on their way out, and soft, padded, and pillowy bed trends were on the way in.

The idea was to create a sleep space that felt cocooning, restful, and like somewhere you wanted to curl up and 'nest' for a while.

Now, the look has reached the world of sofa beds, and I think Habitat's new launch nails it perfectly.

The aptly named Pillow chair bed looks exactly like you might expect. It's an elevated version of Habitat's bestselling Roma chair bed, but this new Pillow version has softer corners designed to resemble a pillow.

It's a small detail, yes. But it's often the small details that elevate a piece of furniture from run-of-the-mill to understated-luxe, and I think it's definitely a hosting solution to have on your radar as a result.

And not least, because at £295 for the single chair bed, and £365 for the double, this new overnight hosting solution is a stylish option that is also far more affordable than it looks.

I've rounded up some of the alternatives on the market below, and as you'll see, Habitat's options are by *far* the most budget-friendly.

Habitat is often the first brand to adapt designer looks for the high street, and I think its new Pillow chair bed will quickly become another trendsetter.

I expect plenty more pillowy shapes to emerge on the high street in the last half of 2026 and beyond, but will they be as well-priced as this Habitat option? I doubt it.

So, if you're looking for a small-space hosting solution that wins in the comfort, style, *and* budget-friendly stakes, I certainly think this chair bed is it.

Even though it’s still the middle of the summer and temperatures are regularly climbing above 30°C, Habitat just dropped its autumn collection. Several pieces from the range are already trending, including the new Habitat Drape armchair.

The Habitat autumn/winter 2026 lookbook was released at the end of last month, confirming the trending autumn colour palette I’ve been seeing across a few different collections. But when I first laid eyes on the designer-style Drape armchair, I was expecting a price tag well over £500. So I was pleasantly surprised by the £275 price point.

Given the high-end look of this accent chair paired with the affordable price point, I’m sure it’s going to fly off the shelves very soon – especially since it’s already trending on the Habitat website. So if you like the look of this stylish chair, better snap it up now while you still can.

In many ways, the sculptural Habitat Drape armchair reminds me of the H&M Home chrome lounge chair which I named my favourite accent chair last year. The Drape chair has a similar curvaceous shape with exposed legs ‘draped’ with cushioning done in textured upholstery. But while H&M’s chair featured a then-trending chrome frame, Habitat’s chair comes with a solid oak wood frame instead.

For autumn and winter 2026, Habitat’s collection is leaning into a layered and textured look that feels cosy and comfortable. ‘For autumn/winter 2026, our design studio explores expressive, layered interiors that feel intentional and considered,’ says Nina Findley, director of product at Habitat. ‘The collection balances comfort and warmth with individuality, craftsmanship and purposeful design.’

I haven’t been able to test the Drape armchair IRL as of yet but I hope I’ll get to try it soon as the brand also praises its high comfort.

Alternatives

But while we’re on the topic of new-in Habitat armchairs, I also spotted a couple more designs that I think are worth investing in.

Which Habitat armchair speaks to you?

While traditionally sitting rooms were arranged so they faced the fireplace, in more recent years, the go-to focal point of any lounge was the TV. But that is now changing, too, as the ‘conversation-first living room’ trend is on the rise.

This living room trend is only growing in popularity as more people prioritise connection with family and friends over centring a whole room around a screen. ‘It’s simply about designing a living room around people rather than a screen,’ says Jill O’Doherty, design consultant and assistant manager at Sofas & Stuff's flagship showroom.

This kind of approach to decorating a space is not exclusive to the living room as creating homes that feel relaxing, comfortable and cosy has been one of the biggest home decor trends of the last few years. ‘Conversation-first living rooms are rising in popularity, and it reflects a wider cultural shift,’ explains Julia Bilotta, creative stylist at Sofology. ‘After years of our homes revolving around screens, people are rethinking their spaces to feel more sociable and nurturing. It is part of a broader move toward slower, more intentional living that chooses connection over distraction and valuing the quality of time spent together.’

But creating a conversation-first living room doesn’t necessarily mean getting rid of the TV altogether. ‘There may or may not be a television in the room but if there is one, it won’t be the focal point because the aim is to direct attention towards each other and away from the TV,’ says Shelley Cochrane, accessories expert at Furniture Village.

But if you want to have a conversation-first living room in your own home, these are the experts’ top tips on how to go about it.

1. Arrange seating to face each other

Perhaps the most obvious yet effective way to make sure a living room is geared towards conversation is by arranging the seating to face each other. For example, arrange an armchair or two in a way that faces your sofa.

‘Arrange your seating so people naturally turn towards one another, rather than everything facing the television. Including an armchair or two within the main seating arrangement is an easy way to create a more sociable layout,’ Jill at Sofas & Stuff says.

2. Invest in a comfy corner sofa

This is not to say you should get rid of your sofa and get the best corner sofa out there instead. But if you’re already thinking of investing in a new sofa, a corner configuration is one of the most conversation-encouraging styles there is. But modular sofas, as well as certain curved styles also work.

‘Large modular sofas, corner configurations and curved silhouettes all help create spaces that feel more inclusive and encourage interaction,’ says Monika Puccio, buying director at Sofa Club.

Nicky Emlick, creative director at Sofa.com, continues, ‘We're seeing greater demand for generous sofas and modular designs. Comfort is equally important. If you want people to spend time talking, reading or entertaining, the seating has to support that. Choosing a sofa with deeper seats, soft upholstery and enough room for family and guests creates a space people genuinely want to spend time in.’

3. Make a coffee table the centre

Instead of making the TV the focus of the room, make the coffee table the centre of the arrangement. Make sure it’s big enough so that everyone can comfortably rest their drinks on top of it (and more) and to allow you to play some board games on it, too.

‘Layer in a central coffee table or ottoman to create a focal point everyone can gather around,’ Monika at Sofa Club advises.

4. Create clear walkways

‘Keep walkways clear so conversations aren’t interrupted by clutter,’ Julia at Sofology says.

In order for your conversation-first living room to feel comfortable and welcoming, make sure the space is not cluttered and the furniture isn’t placed too close together that would restrict movement around the room.

5. Zone the room

As living rooms become multifunctional - with this particular trend further proving this - creating different zones for different purposes is the expert-recommended approach.

‘Zoning is playing a bigger part in this than people realise,’ says Adam Dugdale, creative director at Oak & More. ‘Rather than treating the living room as one single space built around a screen, we're seeing homeowners divide it into distinct areas, one zone for conversation and hosting, perhaps another quieter corner for reading. A simple way to achieve this is to place a sideboard behind the sofa, using it to define the back of a seating area and create a natural boundary between zones, without the need for a wall or structural change.’

Monika at Sofa Club concludes, ‘A conversation-first layout makes a home feel more welcoming and connected. It encourages meaningful interaction, whether that's catching up with family, entertaining friends or simply spending quality time together at the end of the day.’

If you were under the assumption that bean bags are just for children, you’d be wrong. And if you don’t believe me, let Habitat’s new Estelle Quilted Bean Bag (£120) convince you.

Last summer, I predicted that this living room seating idea would be one of the nineties trends having a comeback this year. And while I was right, I hadn’t quite anticipated that bean bags would have such a sleek, grown-up update.

As a home decor trend in 2026, Habitat’s Estelle bean bag is the perfect balance of cosy and sculptural design. It retains the original playfulness of a bean bag, whilst presenting itself as a serious seating idea.

Are bean bags cool again?

When I first saw the Habitat Estelle Quilted Bean Bag, it reminded me of Urban Outfitters’ Reema Velvet Two-Seater Floor Cushion (was £299, now £224) but at a more affordable price point. Like the Reema, Habitat’s version is large enough for you to stretch out and its low-slung shape is perfect for relaxation.

It’s said to be both light and durable, perfect for everyday use in a reading nook, bedroom or living room. And its gorgeous rust, velvet colourway gives it a seventies, retro look, which, as we know, has been a big trend this year. And it got me thinking: Are bean bags having a revival? And has Habitat just made them look grown-up and cool?

‘This particular design taps beautifully into the 1970s revival we're seeing across interiors this year. It offers a more affordable way to capture the relaxed aesthetic of the iconic Ligne Roset Togo chair, which remains one of the most recognisable pieces of furniture design. It's an easy way to introduce a touch of that laid-back seventies influence without the designer price tag,’ commented Natalie Evans, founder and CEO of home styling and staging company Little Barn Door.

As Habitat shows, bean bags can attain an almost designer look when done right and remain a comfy piece of furniture. But it is the makeover of the bean bag's image that has allowed it to break free from the shackles of playroom ideas.

‘I think bean bags have shaken off their ‘just for kids’ reputation. The newer designs we're seeing are much more considered, with quality fabrics, soft shapes and neutral colours that fit naturally into adult spaces. They're no longer something you'd hide away in a playroom. In the right setting, they can look just as stylish as an accent chair,’ adds Victoria Robinson, style and trend expert at Hillarys.

‘Comfort is a huge priority in interiors right now, which is why I think bean bags are making a comeback. People want homes that feel relaxed and easy to live in, and furniture that helps create that laid-back atmosphere is naturally becoming more popular. They're a great example of how practical pieces can still feel design-led.’

How to style a bean bag

home decor trends effectively. For Victoria, this is all about leaning into the cosy connotations of a bean bag.

‘When styling a bean bag, I'd lean into that cosy, relaxed feel. Place it in a reading corner with a floor lamp and side table, or use it to soften a living room seating arrangement. Keeping it in a fabric and colour that complements the rest of the room helps it feel intentional, rather than looking like an extra seat that's been added at the last minute,’ she says.

Natalie agrees, stating it’s best placed in a cosy corner near a record player or bookshelf. She even recommends pairing the rust colourway with teal for a playful yet stylish colour clash. And after spotting this stunning teal-patterned cushion at OKA (£65), I’m inclined to agree. And for the Habitat bean bag specifically, Natalie says it has staying power.

‘While it's clearly influenced by current trends, its simple, sculptural shape gives it versatility beyond the latest fashion. Whether it becomes a long-term classic may depend on how Habitat develops the collection, particularly if they expand the range of colours and fabrics to suit changing interior trends,’ she says.

‘For anyone wanting to embrace the current seventies aesthetic without making a significant investment, it's a stylish and accessible option that brings both comfort and character into the home.’

Have you been won over by bean bags? I know I have...

The best relaxing living room features don't just make your space look stylish - they create somewhere you can switch off at the end of a busy day, too. From the furniture you choose to the way you light the room, a few thoughtful touches can make all the difference to how cosy, calm and inviting your living room feels.

I spoke to interior design professionals to find out which relaxing living room features they always include in their projects. Whether it's choosing calming colours for a living room, investing in comfortable seating or layering lighting, these are the design elements they recommend prioritising.

But before you start designing your ideal relaxing living room space, it's worth thinking about exactly how you want the space to work, says John Law, Creative Director at Woodhouse & Law Interior Design. 'Is it somewhere to unwind with a book at the end of the day, entertain friends, or simply switch off from a busy household? Once you understand how the room needs to work, the design decisions become much easier.'

1. Deep, comfortable sofas

A relaxing living room should invite you to put your feet up, so it's not surprising that living room seating - in particular a comfortable sofa - topped every expert's list.

'Comfort always comes first,' believes John. 'We always encourage clients to choose a sofa that feels as good as it looks, with generous proportions and layouts that encourage conversation rather than simply pointing everything at the television. A relaxing room should invite you to settle in, not perch.'

Victoria Robinson, trend expert at Hillarys, adds that deep sofas, oversized cushions and upholstered furniture all contribute to a feeling of comfort and ease. 'If a space is designed around relaxation, seating should be every bit as practical as it is attractive.'

2. Layered lighting

Living room lighting can completely transform not only how your space looks but how it feels. Rather than relying on one overhead fitting, Ally Dowsing-Reynolds, interiors expert and co-founder of Dowsing & Reynolds, recommends layering different light sources to create a softer, more relaxing atmosphere.

'Opt for warm LED bulbs for a cosy glow and a dimmer switch to allow you to control the light easily,' she says. 'A dimmer switch offers flexibility with lighting, allowing you to adjust the intensity to soften the room's edges and create a more visually spacious and relaxed feel.'

John adds that where single ceiling light can make a space feel quite harsh, combining table lamps, floor lamps and discreet wall lights creates a softer atmosphere that changes with the time of day. 'It gives the room a warmth that instantly makes you want to stay in it.'

3. A calming colour palette

When it comes to creating a relaxing living room, living room colours matter as much as comfort.

'Relaxing living rooms tend to draw inspiration from nature,' says Victoria. 'Muted greens, warm neutrals, soft blues and earthy tones create a sense of balance and calm without feeling cold or clinical. These colours are easy to live with and help establish a backdrop that feels restful rather than overstimulating.'

While painting the walls is one option, if you're not ready to redecorate, introducing calming colours through accessories is a much quicker update. 'Opt for warm, colourful shades such as ambers, terracottas through soft furnishings, such as cushions and throws,' suggests Ally.

4. Soft textures and natural materials

The most relaxing living rooms not only look cosy - they feel cosy too. Layering tactile materials throughout the room helps soften the overall look while making the space feel warmer and more inviting.

'A room doesn't always need lots of bold colours or patterns to feel interesting, it's often the mix of natural materials that makes it feel calm and inviting,' says John. 'Linen, wool, wood, stone and beautifully woven fabrics all bring depth in a much quieter way, helping a room feel lived in rather than overly designed.'

Victoria also recommends layering tactile textures throughout the room as a cosy living room idea. 'Textured curtains, woven rugs, wooden furniture, linen cushions and soft throws all add depth and warmth without creating visual clutter,' she says. 'The most calming living rooms aren't necessarily the most trend-led, they're the spaces that feel comfortable, balanced and personal.'

5. Personal touches

A relaxing living room doesn't have to be minimalist, but it should feel intentional.

'Finally, we think the most peaceful interiors are the ones that have been carefully edited,' explains John. 'Giving favourite objects, artwork and books room to breathe creates a sense of order, but it's equally important to surround yourself with pieces that genuinely mean something to you.'

Whether it's artwork collected on your travels, treasured family photographs or a favourite chair you've owned for years, those personal touches create an emotional connection with your home.

As John puts it: 'The most relaxing interiors don't just look beautiful – they feel like a warm embrace, wrapping you in the things you love every time you walk through the door.'

Create a relaxing living room

Creating a calming living room doesn't have to mean completely redesigning your space. Whether you start with a softer lighting scheme, introduce more texture or simply edit your décor, incorporating a few relaxing living room features can make your space calmer, cosier and somewhere you'll genuinely enjoy spending time.

I'm calling it. Habitat has just launched a new £230 chair bed, and I think this on-trend design will become an instant bestseller.

As Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've spent the last five years testing some of the best chair beds on the market, and, if you're looking for a space-saving overnight hosting solution, this affordable design is definitely one to have on your radar.

Cute, curvy, and ideal for small homes, Habitat's Benji Chair Bed also nails one of the year's biggest furniture trends.

Habitat already makes one of the best value chair beds you can shop. The brand's super-popular Roma Chair Bed has been a bestseller for years, and with prices starting from under £200 for the single sleeper, it's easy to see why.

However, the new Benji chair bed adds something new to the mix: namely, some designer curves.

Its rounded backrest nails one of this year's biggest furniture trends, and makes it even more of a style statement in the home.

According to interior experts, as we move into the last half of 2026 and start looking towards 2027, boxy furniture is falling out of fashion and being replaced by more organic designs.

As Shelley Cochrane, buyer at Furniture Village, explains, this new look is all about 'rounded edges, curved designs and organic shapes.'

Plus, as Shelley explains, those organic shapes are perfect for a piece of furniture where relaxation is ultimately the name of the game.

'Curves are gentler and less rigid than straight lines,' says Shelley, 'and rounded edges create a soft and inviting atmosphere.'

Habitat isn't the first brand to bring designer curves to the high street: the recently launched Next Palma Chair Bed offers a similar curvaceous design.

However, Habitat is now the brand that does it most affordably. The Next Palma Chair Bed currently costs £375, whereas Habitat's Benji Chair Bed has launched at a *very* affordable £230.

That's nearly a £150 price difference, which I think means the Habitat Benji will quickly become a bestseller among those looking for a compact overnight guest bed.

And of course, these two curved chair beds aren't the only options worth having on your radar.

If you're happy with straighter edges, it's also well worth considering these three alternative buys.

Shop alternatives

Cluttered living rooms aren’t something most of us strive for, and yet it’s often the reality we face. If you feel like you’re waging a daily battle against living room chaos, it might be your layout - rather than your decluttering skills - causing the problem.

The layout mistakes that are making your living room feel messy are easily avoided, once you know what they are. Living room layout rules can lay the groundwork but you’ll still need to correct any unwitting mistakes you’ve made in the past.

With that in mind, I asked interior design experts to share the layout mistakes that wind up creating a messy living room. Heed their advice and before you know it, your living room chaos will be gone and a calming oasis will be left behind.

1. Putting all the furniture against the walls

For small living rooms, pushing the furniture against the walls might seem like a smart choice. But according to Jess Barrett, the interior designer behind Jessica Simone Designs, the opposite is true.

'Pushing every piece of furniture against the walls feels like it should create more space, but it often leaves an empty void in the centre of the room and disconnects the seating,' she explains. We’re then more likely to fill that empty space with things a small living room doesn’t need, leading to more mess and clutter.

'Instead, try bringing furniture in slightly, even by just a few centimetres,' Jess advises. 'This makes the room feel intentional rather than like everything has been spread around the perimeter.'

2. Cramming too much in

On the topic of filling empty space, one of the top living room layout mistakes we can make - especially in smaller spaces - is squeezing too much in. A good living room layout will always have a bit of a breathing space; put too much in and you risk making a small living room feel unwelcome.

'If you're constantly walking around coffee tables, squeezing past armchairs or weaving through furniture to reach another part of the room, the layout isn't supporting the way you actually live,' Jess says. 'Good design should feel effortless.'

Have a think about how you actually use your living room and what seating you need. If you can take something out, do it - the space will feel instantly calmer.

3. Choosing furniture that's out of proportion

While the placement of furniture is the key consideration in a living room layout, the scale of it should be a close second. And if our living rooms often feel messy, we've likely chosen pieces that are too big for the space, says Kris Manalo, Head of Design at Atkin and Thyme.

'An oversized sofa can quite easily overpower a room and make it feel smaller than it is, by taking up too much floor space and making the other components in the room feel cramped and confined,' Kris explains. 'Bigger doesn't always mean better, and just because you can squeeze a large sofa into the room doesn’t mean you should.'

By combining a smaller sofa with an armchair or loveseat, we can open up the space and still enjoy seating that is practical. It will likely make a big difference to how messy the space feels.

4. Using a rug incorrectly

The last layout mistake that can make a living room feel messy comes from the ground up. According to Kris, the placement of a rug - as well as the size and design - can make or break how calm a living room feels.

'So many people choose the wrong-sized rug for their living room, and usually they opt for something that is too small for the space,' she says. 'Placing a small rug in the middle of the living room can completely distort the visual flow, making the space feel cluttered and disjointed.'

The 18-inch rule for rugs is a good alternative: make sure your rug leaves around 18 inches of bare floor space between the edge of the rug and the walls of the room. Interior designers swear by this rule for creating a balanced, harmonious living space.

Add calm to a living

If you correct these layout mistakes, your living room will instantly feel calmer - and who doesn't want that?

A few years ago I flew to Sweden to see IKEA’s latest homeware collection launch, and at the time, the new LINDÅKRA sofa bed was by far my favourite product.

Like a lot of IKEA’s furniture, this £499 sofa bed is designed with small-space living in mind, and I thought its multifunctional design was genius.

It was very close to being the best sofa bed I'd tested. And as Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've reviewed a lot of sofa beds over the past five years, so I don't say that lightly.

However, there was one problem. I *really* didn't like the colourways IKEA had chosen to upholster it in. Luckily, two years later, this sofa bed has just been relaunched in the 'it' colour of the year, and I for one couldn’t be happier to see its new look.

The LINDÅKRA sofa bed offers a *lot* of functionality. It's a sofa, a sofa bed, and there's a detachable pouffe with hidden storage that transforms the sofa into a chaise, or can be used as a coffee table or extra guest seating.

I could see it instantly becoming a bestseller when it launched in the UK. It's perfect for those of us with small living rooms or small bedrooms, who still want to host overnight guests in style.

The only downside was those colour options. The sample on display at the press show was upholstered in *bright* orange fabric, and although it drew lots of attention at the press launch, it wasn’t a colour I could ever imagine having in my home.

Yes, I’m all in favour of statement furniture, but bright orange is a colour that’s very difficult to incorporate into most decor schemes, and I felt it would also date very quickly.

There was another ‘safer’ option: a dark grey. I didn’t hate this option, but I also didn’t love it. It felt very ‘bachelor pad’, and although there’s nothing wrong with that, it also wasn’t for me.

Two years later, as predicted, the LINDÅKRA has become one of IKEA’s most popular sofa beds. The sofa bed has a growing number of 5-star reviews on the IKEA website, and like me, its owners are clearly fans of the sofa bed's versatile, multifunctional design.

'We have a small living room, and this sofa is perfect!, says one reviewer. 'Great storage space and the fact that you can move one part around is brilliant. Plenty of space to sleep too.'

And thankfully, its popularity also means that IKEA has just relaunched it in what I think is a *far* more versatile colour.

Now upholstered in a stylish sage green upholstery, this calming colour is one of the 'it' shades of 2026. And it's a hue that interior designers and decor experts can’t get enough of.

In interiors, 'sage green has become a go-to,' says interior designer and Hutley & Humm co-founder, Melissa Hutley. 'It's very soft, versatile and easy to live with.'

'The versatility and timeless nature of sage green makes it the perfect choice for larger pieces of furniture, like a sofa,' agrees Shelley Cochrane, buyer at furniture retailer Furniture Village. 'Green is an enduringly popular colour and will never go out of style.'

And this year, 'lighter and fresher tones of green are proving to be particularly popular,' says Shelley. 'They're a great way to bring the outdoors into the home, and act as an anchor for the space, providing a calm base that allows a variety of colours, patterns and textures to be layered into the scheme.'

Of course, the LINDÅKRA isn't the only option if you want to make the most of this timeless shade.

I've rounded up some alternatives below, although it is worth noting that none of them offer *quite* as much functionality as IKEA's LINDÅKRA does

In its new on-trend upholstery, I definitely think the LINDÅKRA now truly gives the best sofa beds and best chair beds on the market a run for their money.

Shop alternatives

Our living rooms may be one of the most fun rooms in the house to decorate, with usually little other functional purpose than relaxing and socialising - but that doesn’t mean our decor choices can’t be subject to a bit of light-hearted criticism.

Reams of stunning living room trends have surfaced over the years; be it cosy dark colours or natural texture accessories, to name but a very few. But there are some living room decor trends and features out there that have even the experts running scared, and we've made it our mission to uncover them.

As interior experts, the professionals we spoke to have seen it all - and time and time again, there are a couple of living room interior choices that seriously give them the ‘ick’; a shorthand way of saying they give them a visceral feeling of cringe! Of course, everyone is entitled to their own decor choices - but if you have made any of these choices in your living room, you might want to understand how these ‘icks’ can be *ahem* improved upon, from an expert’s point of view…

1. Perfectly matching furniture sets

Though it is often a practical choice with regards to your time and money, one of the biggest living room icks for Katerina Tchevytchalova, founder of K’Arte Design, is all-matching furniture, often seen in the picture-perfect homes of social media. 'When everything matches too perfectly, a room can end up feeling more like a showroom, rather than a home. It reads as flat and overly uniform, rather than considered. Ick!' Katerina explains.

There’s no need to throw out your (likely expensive) three-piece suite, though. In fact, according to Katerina, the best way to improve your living room seating if you have all-matching furniture, is simply to edit and add unique pieces to the space as the weeks, months, and years go on.

Katerina suggests, 'the fix is to layer the room over time. Introducing one or two distinctive items, perhaps a sculptural coffee table, a vintage armchair in an unexpected fabric or a statement light, immediately adds personality and gives the room a focal point.

'Mixing chunkier, more substantial pieces with lighter, more delicate ones also helps it feel collected rather than bought in one go, adding warmth and a sense of individuality.'

2. Oversized tech in a media wall

Large media walls in living rooms have become a hugely popular living room trend in recent years. But for Rachal Hutcheson, interiors expert at Sharps, large and complex technology overpowering the living space is a huge 'ick'.

'There are a few decor choices in the living room that can feel off to me, and the most common would be when a media unit is dominated by oversized tech. A living room should be a place to unwind and connect, not just somewhere you are constantly aware of tech cables and plug sockets,' she says.

For Rachal, living rooms shouldn’t be all about screens. 'When media becomes the focal point, the room loses that essential feeling of warmth and welcome. You stop noticing the textures, the lighting and the pieces that tell your story.'

To fix this ‘ick’, Rachal reiterates the importance of boosting the character of the room elsewhere, to create a balance between tech and personality. 'Introduce confident colour to restore personality and thoughtful contrasting finishes to add depth that naturally pulls the eye away from screens. And with smart combination storage, you can also tuck tech discreetly out of sight, and have space to showcase the more treasured items.'

3. A small rug in the middle of the room

Though rugs are a great way to instantly create a feeling of comfort in a living room, there are ways to do it wrong. 'One of my biggest living room "icks" is a rug floating in the middle of the floor, with none of the furniture touching it,' Jessica Barrett, interior designer and founder of Jessica Simone Designs, says. 'It makes the rug feel like a little island and can leave the whole area looking disconnected.'

To avoid this ick in your living room, it’s all about positioning a rug, as well as the size. Jessica explains, ‘a rug should help anchor the furniture and bring the living room together.

'Ideally, it should be large enough for at least the front legs of the sofa and armchairs to sit on it. If you’re unsure, mark out different rug sizes on the floor with masking tape before buying. More often than not, going up a size will make the room feel more generous and considered, not smaller,' she says.

4. The wrong lighting

Choosing the wrong lighting in your living room is an ick that some interior designers just can’t get past. Jessica says, ‘one living room “ick” I feel particularly strongly about is a ceiling peppered with spotlights, as is common nowadays. There is absolutely a place for practical lighting, but a living room does not need to be lit like an airport runway! It can make even the loveliest room feel stark and completely remove the atmosphere.’

Tom Raffield, founder of Tom Raffield Lighting, agrees that one solitary lighting source is a similarly big ick for him. 'One of the most common design mistakes is relying on a single overhead light to illuminate an entire room. Not only can this feel harsh and uninviting, but it also flattens a room and lacks ambience.'

As an alternative, the interior experts suggest layered lighting is a no-brainer for creating a sense of calm with your living room lighting ideas. 'I would always rather layer lighting at different heights,' Jessica suggests. 'Combine a ceiling fitting with floor lamps, table lamps and, where possible, wall lights. Position them close to the places you actually use: beside an armchair for reading, on a console or in a darker corner that needs a little warmth.

'This creates soft pockets of light that make the space feel cosy, inviting and somewhere you genuinely want to spend an evening. No big light, please!’ she says.

5. All-grey living rooms

Once the talk of the town and one of the biggest interior trends around - all-grey living rooms (or all-beige living rooms) are actually one of the biggest ‘icks’ for the interior designers we spoke to, these days.

'I love using neutrals, but an entirely grey or beige living room with no contrast, texture or colour is a definite “ick” for me,' Jessica shares. Interior designer and founder of At Home by Design, Helen McClure agrees, explaining, 'a blanket of grey can flatten a room and make it feel lifeless. Colour should respond to the light, the orientation of the room and the atmosphere you want to create. Even subtle colours can bring warmth and character.'

If your living room is full of grey, you don’t have to entirely redecorate to avoid this ick. 'You don’t need to fill the room with bright colour instead,' Jessica suggests. 'Start by introducing one deeper shade, such as olive green, rust, chocolate brown or muted blue. Then layer in natural timber, aged brass and tactile materials such as linen, wool or velvet. The key is contrast.'

Are you guilty of any of these living room 'ick's?

If you’re after generous seating and enough space for lounging when watching TV then you can’t go wrong with a corner sofa which will provide you with both, and more. But as with any kind of sofa, not all corner styles are created equal – that’s why I found the best corner sofas for you to choose from.

As Ideal Home’s Room Decor Editor, it’s part of my job to sit-test as many different sofas available on the market as possible so that you don’t have to. And based on all the sofas I’ve tried, including many corner sofa styles, I narrow it down to the best sofas to recommend to you to make your shopping experience easier.

From the top-rated corner sofa from our best sofas buying guide to the best and most unique curved corner sofa, these are the 12 designs I’d recommend to anyone looking to add a corner sofa to their living space.

Reasons to buy a corner sofa

There are many benefits to getting a corner sofa for your living room. These are just the top ones.

1. Generous seating without cluttering

‘Corner sofas are one of the best ways to maximise seating without filling a room with multiple pieces of furniture,’ says John O’Leary, Swyft design director. ‘They naturally encourage conversation and create a more relaxed, social layout, making them ideal for modern living.’

Since corner sofas are bigger than most other sofa styles, they offer more seating space. But given the clever L shape, they take up less actual and visual space than if you were to go for two separate sofas instead.

2. Clever room dividing

If you’re looking for some clever open-plan living room ideas then investing in a corner sofa is one of the best places to start as it will perfectly zone the living space.

‘Corner sofas are particularly well suited to open-plan living spaces, where they can help define where the living area begins without the need for walls or partitions,’ says Julia Bilotta, creative stylist at Sofology. ‘By creating a natural boundary, they help make larger, open spaces feel more structured and inviting.’

3. Taking advantage of underutilised space

Corner sofas are also great because they utilise the space that often goes underutilised – the corner. And since a corner sofa slots into corners so well, it also makes for a great small living room sofa idea.

‘People often assume corner sofas are only suited to large living rooms, but they can work just as well in more compact spaces. Positioned correctly, they can actually make a room feel more efficient by using corners that might otherwise be underutilised,’ John at Swyft says.

How to choose a corner sofa

Aside from the general things to consider when choosing any type of sofa that you want to last - as a sofa should last for years to come - with corner sofas, one of the biggest things to consider is the scale.

As already mentioned, corner sofas are bigger than most but there are such things as ‘small corner sofas’, too. So just make sure you choose a style that fits your living space and doesn’t overwhelm it.

‘The best style of corner sofa depends on the layout of the room, the flow of the space and the position of key focal points such as a TV, fireplace or windows. In smaller rooms, a classic L-shaped design tucked into a corner can maximise floor space, while larger living areas may benefit from a sweeping curved sofa that creates a striking centrepiece,’ Julia at Sofology advises.

She adds, ‘In smaller living rooms, choosing a corner sofa with a lower back can help create a sense of openness, making the room feel larger while still providing plenty of space to stretch out.’

John at Swyft concludes, ‘The key is choosing a design with considered proportions so it enhances the room rather than dominates it. A well-designed corner sofa should make a space feel more inviting, not more crowded.’

Sofas are investment pieces. Working in interiors, I'm well aware that a good one doesn't come cheap. However, now and again, I come across those unicorn sofas that are not only design-forward, well-reviewed and under the £250 mark, and that is exactly what the £209 Marseille 2 seater sofa at Dusk is.

The online homeware store, Dusk, is already famous on the Ideal Home desk for delivering high-end looks with low price tags. However, right now they are holding one of their many big sales, making their luxe-looking furniture, best sofas and home accessories even more affordable.

The Marseille range of sofas and armchairs is relatively new, launching as part of the Dusk SS26 collection. At full price, the range was already incredibly affordable, with the most expensive sofa, the Marseille 3-seater, costing £449 (currently reduced to £404), and the 2-seater sofa in Latte has been reduced from £349 to £209.

The Marseille sofas are available in two colours, Chenille Ivory and Latte. The Latte colourway in the 2-seater has the biggest saving on it, with £140 knocked off the price, while the Ivory 2-seater has only been reduced by £30 from £299 to £269.

However, even at the slightly higher price, this sofa is a steal (even for a two-seater). It's a price point I've only seen rivalled at IKEA, Habitat and Dunelm, and trust me, they look nowhere near as stylish.

What makes the Marseille sofa look so expensive?

It's the sculptural arm shape that makes the sofa, and its armchair counterpart, which is currently reduced from £259 to £155, look so expensive. The curved arm is a design feature I've only seen in higher-end designs, such as the Rockett St George Ivory Boucle Fabric Curved Arm Armchair, which was priced at £1,340 but is now on sale for £670.

I also love the luxurious-looking latte colourway; however, I am holding out hope that the sofa will soon be available in the rich terracotta colourway they've launched the Marseille armchair in, priced at £233 (down from £259).

Of course, there will be compromises you have to make with any sofa under £300. In the case of the Dusk Marseille sofa, the main ones I can spot are the extra support leg poking out of the middle of the seat and the thin-looking cushions.

However, the reviews of the range rave about the comfort and design. 'The design is a little different and gets lots of compliments, it's also comfy!' writes one reviewer. 'The sofa looks so modern and stylish. Easy to assemble and so comfortable. Such good quality but not pricey at all,' writes another.

The summer sale won't be on forever, so if you love the look of this sofa or the matching armchair, I'd move fast. However, don't forget to factor in the delivery cost to the final price. For the two-seater sofa, you will need the two-man X-Large Box delivery, which should work out around £40.

Dusk also has been known to have long lead times on its furniture; however, for these particular sofas, I've found delivery slots available from 29th July.

This isn't the only item I'm eyeing up in the Dusk summer sale. Here are the other design-forward buys I'm planning to snap up to give my home a luxe look on a budget.

Last month, Ideal Home launched an exclusive collection of sofas with none other than Furniture Village. This week, I made my way to the retailer’s store on Staples Corner to try the Ideal Home x Furniture Village sofa collection in person.

As Ideal Home’s Room Decor Editor, who’s tested over 300 different sofas at this point to determine what the best sofas are, I’m known around the office for trying any sofa that happens to be in the vicinity. So, of course, I had to give the range that bears the Ideal Home name a try.

I managed to try out three out of the four sofa styles that are part of the Ideal Home x Furniture Village offering (the Cotswold sofa was not on display at the store that I visited).

While I didn’t go into the store looking to have any favourites, there was one sofa that instantly stood out for all the right reasons and frankly stole the show for me – and that’s the Gemini sofa. This new sofa style ticks so many boxes, while also exceeding any of my expectations with its cool and unique features…

Gemini sofa

As soon as I saw the Gemini I already liked the modern look defined by clean clines and a blocky construction. But it’s only upon closer inspection that all the cool hidden features reveal themselves.

For starters, the chaise conceals spacious internal storage which was a lovely surprise for me as I’m currently obsessed with all things storage – and while very few storage sofas manage to also be comfortable, this one certainly does.

The Gemini also introduced me to a slightly new take on a recliner – I’m generally not a big fan of recliner sofas, mainly because of their look which I don’t find very aesthetically pleasing, but this I could get on board with. Instead of a reclining function, Furniture Village calls it a gliding one as essentially, the seats glide out to extend the seat depth to match the chaise.

This is a controlled via a remote control - I gave it a try as you can see above - and to make sure the remote doesn’t get lost or misplaced, it’s equipped with a magnetic finish and get me attached to either the side of the sofa (which is also magnetic) or to any other magnetic metal surface.

Sienna sofa

I’ve tried the Sienna sofa before and was happy to see it included in the Ideal Home range. The quilted finish is a great alternative to a classic Chesterfield sofa, while the curved armrests have an art deco-inspired look to them.

The ergonomically shaped armrests are also perfect for supporting your head if you were to lie down on the sofa and watch TV or read a book. The comfortable design extends beyond the armrests though as the entire design of the sofa is very lounging-friendly with the perfect balance between cushiony softness and support.

If your living room is on the smaller side, the Sienna is an ideal choice owing to the elevated-of-the-floor design that comes with very slim tapered legs. Opting for a leggy sofa design like this one creates a more spacious and airy appearance.

While I was sold on the upholstery choices on display at the store, remember that any of the sofas on this list are available in a wide range of upholstery choices – I was particularly fond of some of the earthy colour options (pictured above).

Brondby sofa

Another sofa that makes for a great small living room idea is the Brondby. The compact design encourages a very upright seating style with supportive back cushions and seat cushions that are on the narrow side. But it does all of that while remaining highly comfortable.

Corners are often the most overlooked and underutilised areas of a room - including in small spaces - so opting for a corner sofa in a small lounge is actually a great way to take advantage of every last inch. That’s exactly why I really like the small corner configuration of the Brondby.

Cotswold sofa

As already mentioned before, I didn’t get to try out the Cotswold sofa IRL as it wasn’t available in the store I visited. But just based on the look of the sofa, I really appreciate the curved scroll armrests and the chunky bubble feet which put a new playful spin on the traditional, classic sofa style.

As the name suggests, the style of the sofa is rooted in country home charm and it would fit perfectly in that style of a home.

The cushions are reversible which is set to make them last longer. And on top of that, they come with a five-year plumpness guarantee which is the first time I’ve ever come across one.

All in all, I’m a big fan of the collection and I can’t wait to see which one of these sofas you end up going for and how you style it in your home.

Not every household has room for a separate playroom. Not to mention that the kids often want to be near you and the rest of the family which is why a play corner or area for them in your lounge makes sense. But how do you go about that in an open-plan living room? I asked 4 interior designers how to make a play area in an open-plan living room and they shared their top tips.

We all love open-plan living room ideas because they feel spacious and airy. But the tricky part is finding the best ways to arrange furniture in it, making it flow right - as one of the 3 Fs of interior design that’s very important - and dividing the space as it serves various purposes, one of which is often a kids’ play area.

‘One of the biggest challenges in an open-plan room is striking the right balance between creating a practical play space for children while maintaining a cohesive living area for the whole family,’ says Emma Deterding, founder and creative director at Kelling Designs.

From toy storage ideas to the best way to zone your open-plan family living room, these are the experts’ top 5 tips on creating a play zone for your little one(s).

1. Use flexible storage

Every parent will know that mess and toys scattered everywhere is the biggest challenge when it comes to children’s play spaces. Effective storage can not only help with this, it can also aid in visually dividing the open-plan space.

‘Rather than trying to separate the space completely, I would recommend using flexible storage solutions and furniture placement to subtly define different areas while maintaining a cohesive flow throughout the room,’ suggests Holly Lamont, founder and creative director of interior design studio Holla Design. ‘The key to a well-functioning play area is choosing pieces that work hard. Low-level, child-friendly storage encourages independence and makes tidying away part of the daily routine.’

On top of larger pieces of storage furniture, incorporate some storage baskets and a toy storage box. ‘Use storage that's easy for kids to access, but aesthetically pleasing for adults too, like large lidded baskets to store soft toys and smaller baskets in different sizes to store art supplies,’ says Jo Lane, founder and designer at online interior design service See Your Place. ‘You can also get great wooden boxes on wheels to store lego and games, which can be tucked under a table when not in use. You don't always need rows of primary coloured plastic boxes to make a welcoming play area.’

2. Zone with a soft rug

Rugs are generally one of the best tools to use for zoning and anchoring a space – and a play area is no exception. Just make sure that the playroom rug is soft enough. And perhaps a washable design like this Storybook Grove rug from Ruggable wouldn’t go amiss.

‘A soft rug helps establish a dedicated play zone and adds warmth and comfort,’ Holly at Holla Design says.

Emma at Kelling Designs adds, ‘A good rug is key – children naturally like to play on the floor, so creating a comfortable space for this is ideal.’

3. Add storage seating

Multifunctional furniture makes for a great addition to any multifunctional space. In this case, I - and the experts - would recommend storage seating like an ottoman, a stool or even a window seat or a bench as a hidden toy storage idea.

‘Multifunctional furniture, such as a window seat with built-in storage or an ottoman footstool, provides additional seating while offering valuable storage for bulkier toys,’ Emma at Kelling Designs says.

4. Curate toys

‘The trouble with combining two frequently used spaces in the house means there is risk of clutter and stray toys polluting an otherwise neat and tidy adult area,’ says Francesca Leat, owner, director and head designer at Francesca Leat Interiors.

In order to stop toys spreading everywhere throughout your open-plan living room, take a curational approach to your little one’s toys. ‘Take the Montessori approach and only include a small handful of toys that are easy to tidy away to encourage methodical and calm play that doesn't disrupt the rest of the space too much,’ Francesca explains.

Just make sure those toys are their favourite ones. You can then rotate the rest of the toys every few weeks.

5. Make the whole living space family-friendly

‘In my personal and professional experience, children don't usually go to a dedicated area to play but tend to stick close to wherever you happen to be and play next to you,’ Jo at See Your Place says.

That’s why Jo’s approach is to make the whole open-plan living room children and family-friendly. ‘If you make the area where you spend the most time play-friendly and have key toys and play equipment stashed close to hand, you won't then end up spending all your time carting toys from one space to another,’ she says.

My top open-plan play area picks

Holly at Holla Design concludes, ‘Ultimately, the most successful open-plan living spaces are those that balance practicality with style, creating an environment that works for the whole family.’

Earlier this week, I was scrolling through Next’s new-in section and stumbled across the just-released Next Addison modular sofa – and I was instantly impressed with the look and price point. When I say I’m obsessed with modular sofas, I’m not exaggerating – I’m modular sofas’ number one fan. So when it comes to modular sofas, I know my stuff – especially since I’ve tried over 100 of them at this point (in all fairness, it’s part of my job) and own one myself.

When searching for the best of the best modular sofas, I’m by no means easily impressed. My standards are high, given the number of sofas I’ve tried. And yet, this is not the first time I fell in love with a modular sofa from Next – last year, Next launched the Crosby modular storage sofa, and it’s become one of my all-time favourite sectionals and storage sofas.

‘A modular design offers greater flexibility, allowing customers to configure the sofa to suit their individual room layouts and making it a better fit for a variety of UK homes,’ says Next Home’s spokesperson.

Modular sofas are now bigger than a fleeting sofa trend – it’s a versatile and flexible living room seating solution that future-proofs your lounge and a category that many brands, including Next and John Lewis with its Elara sofa, are expanding, given its popularity.

So what’s so special about Next’s new Addison modular sofa? For starters, the sleek, curved-style sofa looks like a designer piece. And yet, it’s an affordable design – take the three-piece configuration as pictured above which will set you back £1848.

The Addison is available in two colourways and upholstery finishes – either a forest green twill or off-white oyster chenille. They’re smart colour choices to start with as green and cream/off-white are among the most popular sofa colours across the board. And it covers the bases of both a neutral and a colour without it being too bold either.

Full disclaimer, as the sofa has just dropped, I haven’t been able to test it out yet. But you best believe I will be trying it the first chance I get, hopefully soon.

Last week’s heatwave might have cooled off for now, but there is more where it came from, with temperatures set to rise into the 30s again this weekend.

When a heatwave hits, it’s instinct to try and cool your home in any way you can – whether it’s using the best fans and portable air conditioning units, or testing the viral hacks thought to beat the heat for free.

But, for all our cooling efforts, many people don't realise that the strong sunlight that these hot spells bring can also secretly damage even the best sofa. I asked the experts why this happens, and what can be done to protect your seating during the summer months.

How can a heatwave affect my sofa?

We all know that British homes aren’t built to withstand the hot weather, but it might be a surprise to learn that the heat can actually affect the appearance of your furniture too. ‘Heat doesn't just affect how a sofa looks, it can affect how it performs,’ explains Meg Holloway, founder of Maro Home.

‘Intense sunshine can fade upholstery, while excessive heat can dry out natural fibres and even some of the materials hidden inside the sofa, particularly if it's positioned beside a large window,’ she adds. So, if you’ve noticed that your sofa looks faded after last week’s heatwave, it’s simply a side effect of everything that comes with hot and sunny days.

‘Many people don't realise that the sun shining through windows can gradually affect their furniture,’ adds Magdalena Gierasinska, head of product and displays at Barker and Stonehouse. ‘Even if the damage isn't noticeable straight away, repeated exposure can leave colours looking uneven and make furniture appear older than it really is.’

Fading is a natural part of your sofa’s life cycle, but strong sun exposure will speed up this process. No matter how hard you try to cool your living room, if your seating is not protected from the sun, it will likely fall victim to the heatwave.

‘Some sofa materials are more susceptible to damage from sunlight and heat than others,’ says Julia Bilotta, creative stylist at Sofology. ‘Delicate fabrics such as velvet and chenille, along with aniline leather, are particularly sensitive to prolonged exposure to sunlight and can fade or become discoloured more quickly.’

During hot spells, our interiors naturally fall to the back of our minds as we begin to spend more time outside. However, a few preventative measures will help to keep your sofa in top condition when temperatures rise again.

How to protect your sofa during the heatwave

While sofa fading is natural, there are a few things you can do to stop the process from speeding up during sunny spells. And, if your sofa already looks a bit different after last week’s heatwave, there are some measures you can take to refresh your sofa and restore it to tip-top condition.

I asked the experts where to begin.

1. Clean your sofa

If your sofa took a hit during the heatwave, a little TLC will go a long way. ‘The first step is simply to give your sofa some care,’ advises Meg. ‘Vacuum natural fabrics gently, rotate cushions, and allow fillings to recover their shape. If your sofa has washable, removable covers, follow the care instructions carefully, as a gentle wash can make a remarkable difference.’

If dealing with leather, try a conditioner. ‘A quality leather conditioner can help replace some of the moisture lost during hot weather and keep the material pliable,’ explains Magdalena. ‘Simple maintenance like this after a heatwave can make a noticeable difference, and looking after your sofa throughout the year will help it continue looking its best for longer.’

2. Consider sofa position

Want to avoid damage ahead of July’s heatwave? Where you place your sofa could make all the difference. ‘If it's close to a window, try to move it out of direct sunlight where possible,’ says Julia. In fact, moving furniture away from walls is a clever hack that can also work to cool your home.

‘If relocating your sofa isn't an option, consider covering it with a colourfast throw during particularly sunny spells. It's important that any throw you use is colourfast, as non-colourfast fabrics can increase the risk of dye transfer in hot weather,’ she adds.

3. Rotate your cushions

‘To keep your sofa looking its best, it's also a good idea to use it evenly during the summer, and rotate and flip the cushions where possible,’ suggests Julia.

‘These simple maintenance habits can help restore its appearance and minimise the effects of everyday wear, including those that can be more noticeable after periods of hot weather.’

4. Keep blinds and curtains closed

‘The biggest difference comes from reducing direct UV exposure. Sheer curtains, blinds or UV-filtering window films can all help without making a room feel dark,’ says Meg. This simple step won’t only keep your home cool, but it will help to prevent fading caused by sunlight.

Sofa care essentials

Add these buys to your basket to tackle the next heatwave like a pro.