How-to: Finding complimentary furniture silhouettes
/When it comes to selecting furniture, one concern that we hear repeatedly from our clients is “How do I know which pieces go together?!” If you have ever felt this way, you are not alone. Why do you think so many people get stuck in the “sofa set” rut? – Because it feels safe! Say no to sofa sets! We completely understand that selecting and pairing furniture can often seem daunting, but with these simple tips and tricks you can successfully pair pieces that will wow your guests and reflect your own personal style.
SCALE - Choose pieces that are similar in relative size, with approximately the same seat height and depth. Follow this rule for your main upholstery pieces. It is more interesting to add some variety when it comes to arm height/thickness and back height. However, stay away from extreme opposites or your room could start feeling like a Dr. Seuss illustration.
LINES/SILHOUETTE - The lines of a furniture piece can range from very straight and boxy to quite curvy and ornate. If a grouping has exclusively one line type without the other it often feels either too stiff or too crazy. If you have clean lines, add some soft curves, and vice-versa. It's ok to mix styles and period pieces for that eclectic look, but make sure they relate or else something may feel out of place. When in doubt look at the pieces and think, “Could they be friends?”
LEGS - Vary the length a bit. If all of the legs are long, the grouping can feel very “leggy,” like it is floating. On the other hand, if every piece is low to the ground, the grouping tends to feel quite heavy. The leg styles/shapes and finishes can also differ slightly, but keep them in the same family so the pieces correlate.
DETAILS - Limit tufting, nailheads, or another unique feature to one or two pieces. This will prevent the room from feeling too busy and allow that detail to be more noticeable and special.
Here are a few pairings from our store:
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Pairing furniture with varied lines, fabrics, finishes, and colors adds interest to a room and displays your unique personality. It can be nerve-wracking to create your own furniture groupings, but with these simple tips you can select furniture like a pro. Remember though, there are always exceptions to the rules so don’t be afraid to break them! When in doubt, go with your gut. You can do this! If you still have trouble completing your space, contact our design team and they would be more than happy to help steer you in the right direction.
