Cushions are not mere accessories but soul of homely comfort, here’s how to pick the best

How to select cushions for living room: Use a colour wheel to pick matching or contrasting colours that go well with your walls and art (Image: Maishaa)

Cushions are the unsung heroes of interior design, capable of instantly transforming a room with their colours, textures, and patterns. With a little creativity and imagination, you can breathe new life into your living space by styling your cushions in a multitude of ways. Picking the right throw pillows can be tricky if you are setting your living room.

With the right approach and knowledge, you can find the missing pieces for your living room and turn your living area into your favourite corner of the room.

Think about what you'll use the pillows for. Need back support for movie nights or firmer ones for lounging or maybe cosy ones for ultimate comfort? Choose accordingly, recommends décor expert Arun Garg, founder of Maishaa. He adds, “Use pillows to add a personal touch. Pick textures, colours, and patterns that represent your style. Your throw pillows can tell your story.”

According to Garg, for choosing the cushions, it’s important to keep in mind the size, colours and the purpose of the pillow. He says, “Big pillows are too much for a small couch, while tiny ones get lost on a big sofa. Pick pillows that match your furniture size. Think about your current décor. Use a colour wheel to pick matching or contrasting colours that go well with your walls and art.” Mix up different textures if you are going for a bold look, a chunky knit throw with soft velvet adds depth and interest to your room.

Summer's heat demands a living room refresh, so to lift the mood ditch heavy throw pillows for light, breathable options like linen or cotton blends. Embrace the season with colours. Garg informs, “Earthy tones like calming greens or warm beiges bring nature indoors. For a bold touch, pick citrus hues like lemon yellow or coral pink add a burst of sunshine. And, for a cool escape take inspiration from the ocean and go with blues and turquoise. Don't be afraid to mix and match. Pair a patterned citrus cushion with a plain linen one, or add a textured knit for depth. Remember, your living room should reflect summer's joy, so choose colours and textures that make you smile.”

For fans of classic themes, shades of ivory, taupe, and charcoal gray add a sense of understated elegance to any space, while bold accents of navy blue and emerald green add a touch of drama and sophistication. Layering cushions is a great way to add dimension and coziness to any seating area. Start by placing larger cushions at the back for support, then layer smaller cushions in front to create depth. Experiment with different patterns and textures to achieve a visually dynamic look. For added visual interest, consider incorporating throw pillows or bolster cushions for an extra layer of comfort and style.

You can also decide whether you prefer a symmetrical or asymmetrical arrangement for your cushions. Symmetry creates a sense of order and balance, with cushions arranged in pairs or in evenly spaced rows. Asymmetry, on the other hand, adds an element of whimsy and spontaneity, with cushions arranged in a more relaxed and organic manner. Choose the approach that best suits your personal style and the vibe of your space.