Cushions are one of the simplest ways to give a room personality, warmth, and flow.
They bridge the gap between function and design - bringing together comfort and aesthetics in a single detail.
In this guide, we’ll look at how thoughtful cushion choices can elevate your interiors, from colour and texture to proportion and seasonal styling.
Key Takeaways
- The right cushions can improve the feel of a space instantly.
- Layering different sizes and materials adds depth and personality.
- Seasonal cushion updates are an easy way to refresh your interior design.
1. Choose Colours That Complement Your Existing Palette
Colour is where most people start - and often where they go wrong. The goal isn’t to match your cushions perfectly to your sofa but to create harmony between shades already present in the room.
The first step is to start with the existing base colours that already exist - think wall colour, sofa fabric, and any feature pieces you may have like a rug or curtains with bold colours.
If your interior is neutral, cushions are an easy way to introduce a focal colour. Deep blues, olive greens, or mustard yellows can add vibrancy without overwhelming the space. Exploring different cushions makes it easy to test new colour ideas before committing to bigger design changes.
We love the selection of cushions at Simply Cushions, an Australian ecommerce store that has been in business for years.
2. Use Texture to Add Depth and Dimension
Texture is so underrated when it comes to cushions - in fact, most people don’t even think about texture at all and instead value colour above all else.
Sure, colour is important, but texture makes a space feel cosy and complete.
Combining different fabrics - like linen, velvet, cotton, or boucle - adds visual and tactile variety. A smooth linen cushion paired with a plush velvet one instantly creates depth and contrast.
Texture also influences mood. Natural materials like cotton and linen give off a relaxed, coastal feel, while velvet and chenille feel elegant and formal. To avoid visual clutter, stick to two or three textures and repeat them throughout the room for balance.
3. Balance Sizes and Shapes for Proportion
Great interiors rely on proportion, and cushions are no exception. Too many small ones look cluttered, while only large ones can feel heavy and stiff. Mixing sizes keeps the arrangement interesting and balanced.
A good starting point: use two large 55–60cm cushions at the back, layer one or two medium ones in front, and finish with a small accent cushion or lumbar shape in the centre. This layering effect adds structure and dimension to a sofa or bed.
Shapes also play a role. Square cushions feel timeless, rectangles add variety, and round cushions soften sharper lines. The key is to create contrast while keeping the overall silhouette tidy and intentional.
4. Arrange Cushions for Style and Function
How you place your cushions can completely change the character of a space.
Symmetrical arrangements - with matching cushions on either end of the sofa - create order and formality, ideal for classic or contemporary designs.
If you want a more casual or natural feel, mix things up and make things a bit rough and ready. Let some of the cushions lean over, and experiment with different sizes.
5. Refresh Cushions Seasonally
Cushions are a quick and affordable way to adapt your space throughout the year. Swapping cushion covers seasonally keeps interiors feeling fresh and in tune with the changing light and temperature.
When things start to warm up in spring leading into summer, choose breathable fabrics like cotton or linen and choose light colours.
In winter, thicker textures and deep, warm tones can help to create that cozy feeling that you need when spending more time inside.
6. Wrapping It Up
Cushions may be small, but the impact they can have on a room can’t be undervalued.
The right combination of colour, texture, and size can make all the difference - transforming a boring sofa into something special.
If you’re thinking about upgrading your space and want to start small, cushions are the ideal place to get your hands dirty and make a change.
