Arranging Pillows on Sectional Sofas Guide

Sectional sofas are a popular furniture choice for many homes. With their plush cushions and cozy corners, they invite you to kick back and relax. But a sectional sofa isn't complete without scatter cushions and pillows to add visual interest and take comfort to the next level.

Arranging pillows on a sectional sofa may seem tricky, but following some simple guidelines can help you create an eye-catching and inviting look.

Prepare Before Arranging Pillows

Before you can start arranging pillows, take a few preparatory steps:

• Remove all existing pillows from the sectional.
• Group pillows by size and shape into piles sorted by throw pillows, lumbar pillows, and accent pillows.

Having pillows organized into categories based on size and function will make the arranging process easier.

Arrange Pillows in Sections

The key to a cohesive look is to arrange pillows methodically section-by-section.

Place Larger Pillows in Corner Areas

Start by placing the largest pillows in the corner areas of the sectional. 24" to 26" square pillows work well in the main corners, while lumbar pillows can fill the corners created by the chaise section.

Use Medium Pillows for Arms and Backs of Sections

Next, arrange slightly smaller 22" pillows along the arms and backs of each section of the sofa. Make sure to distribute them evenly for balance.

Add Smaller Accent Pillows Last

Finally, fill in the gaps with smaller 18"-20" accent pillows in complementary colors and patterns. Accent pillows introduce personality and visual interest.

Balance Height and Color

A harmonious arrangement takes both color and scale into account. Follow these tips:

Vary Heights of Pillows for Visual Interest

Mix up pillow heights by incorporating lumbar pillows and larger toss pillows with smaller euro shams. Varying the heights adds depth and dimension.

Coordinate Pillow Colors for a Cohesive Look

Choose pillows in colors that complement each other and tie in with your overall decor. Limit yourself to 2-4 colors for harmony. Neutrals like whites, ivories and grays are easy to combine with bold accent colors.

Follow Design Principles

Certain design principles apply when arranging pillows on a sectional:

Use Odd Numbers of Pillows in Groupings

Place pillows in odd-numbered groupings of 3, 5 or 7 pillows for the most pleasing visual effect.

Maintain Scale Between Pillows and Sofa

Make sure pillows are proportionate to the size of the sectional. For a large sectional, opt for 22"-26" pillows. Smaller sectionals look best with 18"-22" pillows.

Align Pillows for Orderly Appearance

Keep pillows lined up neatly and evenly spaced. Precise alignment makes the arrangement look polished.

Fluff and Adjust Pillows

Once you've arranged the pillows, add the finishing touches:

• Fluff each pillow to restore its shape after being arranged.
• Make minor adjustments to the arrangement until you achieve the perfect composition.

Step back and view your work from different angles to ensure the pillows look great from every viewpoint.

Maintaining Arrangement

To keep your pillow arrangement looking fresh over time:

• Regularly fluff and adjust pillows that get compacted.
• Replace faded or damaged pillows as needed.
• Wash removable pillow covers periodically.

Arranging throw pillows and cushions on a sectional sofa may seem daunting, but just take it one step at a time. Follow our tips to select pillows in coordinating colors, arrange methodically by section, apply design principles, and adjust as needed. With some practice, you'll be styling your sectional like a pro!

Create a Color Palette

Defining a cohesive color palette is key to pulling off a polished arrangement. Here are some tips for choosing pillow colors:

• Pick 2-4 colors that complement each other and your overall decor.
• Opt for tones that are harmonious, like shades of blue and green or neutrals like cream and gray.
• Introduce brighter accent colors in small doses via patterns and textures.
• Tie accent colors to other details in the room, like artwork or throw blankets.

Limiting your palette promotes visual harmony while still allowing for self-expression. Don't be afraid to experiment with bold accent colors that reflect your personality!

Consider Pattern

When mixing and matching patterned pillows:

• Stick to no more than three coordinated patterns.
• Combine a large-scale graphic print with a smaller scale floral or stripe.
• Anchor patterns with solid pillows in the same color family.
• Place patterns in adjacent groupings rather than scattering them.

Repeating accent colors from one pattern to the next is a foolproof way to achieve a cohesive blend. Feel free to get creative with lively patterns and prints!

Create a Focal Point

Strategically place statement pillows to create a focal point:

• Choose a large 26" lumbar pillow in a vibrant color or attention-grabbing fabric.
• Position the statement cushion in a prominent spot like the center of the sofa or corner of the chaise.
• Scale down surrounding pillows so the focal pillow pops.

An eye-catching lumbar or euro sham steals the show and becomes the anchor for the arrangement. Go bold with color and texture!

Vary Sizes

Mixing up pillow sizes adds intrigue:

• Incorporate a range like 24", 22", 20" and smaller accent sizes.
• Experiment with oversized 26"-28" pillows for drama.
• Use daintier 18" euro sham shapes for contrast.

Playing around with scale--from extra large toss pillows to petite lumbar cushions--creates visual interest and dimension.

Vary Shapes

The shape of the pillow impacts the look as well:

• Square pillows offer a classic, tailored appearance.
• Oblong lumbar pillows provide support and fill awkward spaces.
• Circular pillows soften the arrangement.
• Euro shams introduce unique asymmetry.

Blending pillow shapes gives your arrangement personality and depth. Tailor your pillow geometry to your sectional's configuration.

Thoughtful layering is the secret for a luxe look. Follow these steps:

• Build your base with the largest pillows set in the corners and arms.
• Work in medium and smaller pillows, layering outward.
• Finish with the smallest accent pillows layered in front.

Working from back to front creates a stacked, dimensional feel. Don't be afraid to fluff, flip, and tweak for the perfect composition.