How to Style Cushions Like an Interior Designer: The Art of Effortless Styling

You’ve got the sofa. The walls are painted, the accessories are placed just so, the rug is down… and yet, something still feels 'off'. You know what I mean, don’t you? That feeling when a space should feel finished… but it just doesn’t. If you’re sat there nodding along, you’re definitely not alone.

I can probably tell you straight away, the thing that’s probably holding your home back and it is your cushions, or more specifically… how you’ve styled them.

Now, before you start blaming the sofa (or ordering yet another paint sample), hear me out because when done properly, cushion styling isn’t just the cherry on top. It’s a crucial part of creating that cohesive, luxurious feel that makes a room sing.

So, let’s talk about it. Let’s fix it. I'm going to talk you through how to style cushions like an interior designer and reveal the:

• The biggest cushion styling mistakes we see (all the time!)

• The exact styling method interior designers actually use

• Bonus tips to take your sofa from basic to beautifully styled
  

Ready? Okay, let’s dive in.

The 3 Biggest Cushion Styling Mistakes

Mistake 1: Same Size, Same Shape

If all your cushions are the same size and shape, I’m sorry to say, your sofa is always going to look a little flat. Symmetry might be satisfying, sure, but in design? It’s variation that creates depth and character.

The Designer Fix: Layer your cushions. Use:

• Two large squares

• A smaller lumbar cushion

• A round cushion or a tactile, textured piece

Think of it like curating a gallery wall. If everything’s the same size and shape, it’s just not that interesting to look at.

Mistake 2: All Plains, No Patterns

I get it. Sticking to plains feels safe. Easy. Less risky, right? But the truth is… all plain everything just looks a little, well... boring. Without pattern, there’s nothing for the eye to land on. There's no movement, and no energy.

The Designer Fix:

Start mixing! Combine:

• Florals

• Stripes

• Geometrics

But (and this is key), keep it within a cohesive colour palette. I like the 3-colour rule: pick three main colours from your room and echo them in your cushions. That way, you’ve got harmony and interest.

Mistake 3: Ignoring Texture

Texture is the unsung hero of home styling. If all your cushions are made from the same fabric, no matter how beautifully patterned, your space will still feel one-dimensional.

The Designer Fix:

Mix at least 2-3 textures, like:

• Velvet (for depth and luxe)

• Bouclé (for cosiness)

• Linen (for softness and breathability)

• Woven fabrics (for that natural, organic feel)

Texture isn’t just for show... it literally changes how the space feels. That’s where the magic happens.

Bonus Tips

1) Style in Odd Numbers: Odd numbers (3, 5) create a more balanced, less forced look. It just feels better to the eye.

2) Anchor With a Colour Palette

Identify 2-3 main colours in your room. Think walls, rug, or art and echo those in your cushions. This instantly pulls everything together.

3) Layer Heights and Depths Plump, oversized cushions at the back. Slimmer, smaller ones in front. Think depth, not just a line of pillows.

Styled Cushions, Styled Home

At Lynne Kelly Interiors, we handcraft every cushion with these principles in mind, thoughtful patterns, rich textures, and size variation, so you can skip the guesswork and still get that designer look.

If you’re local, why not pop into our Melbourne, Derbyshire showroom? You can see our handmade cushions in person (and feel all those gorgeous textures for yourself).

Or browse our collection of cushions online because your sofa deserves more than a quick cushion toss, don’t you think?

And if you ever want personalised advice, you can always book an interior design service with us. We’d love to help you bring your space to life.

Save this post for the next time you’re rearranging your living room or giving your space a little refresh — come back to this guide because styled cushions equals a styled home. Always. Happy cushion styling! Lynne Kelly Interiors x