House Rules

Rule #1: Make sure everything adds up

Think about your sofa's proportions as well as the overall look you're aiming for.

Double-check the measurements
You want your sofa to sit comfortably in your room (and not block any sockets).

Give your sofa some support
Rugs, footstools and other complementary pieces will bring the whole room together.

Layer your fabrics
Mix different fabrics sharing the same hue for a striking yet visually balanced look.

Rule #2: Fail to plan, plan to fail

Rush things and you'll end up with the wrong furniture.

Draw inspiration from everything
Artworks. Nature. A fabulous meal. A bright idea can be found in many places outside the pages of an interiors magazine.

Set yourself a clear price range
Remember that a sofa is a serious investment. Spend as much as you're comfortable with.

Don't pick on looks alone
Keep the practicalities in mind. They're what matters in the long run.

Rule #3: Comfort comes first

Style matters, but it has to feel just as good as it looks.

Look beyond the fabric
Seat depth, arm height and the angle of the back all play a big part in everyday comfort, so pay attention to these details when choosing a sofa design.

Choose your cushion carefully
Love to sink in? Feather fillings are beautifully soft. Prefer less plumping? Go for foam cushions that are feather wrapped for supportive softness that's easy to maintain.

Embrace how you naturally sit
Whether you're an upright sitter, a sloucher or a sprawler, choose a sofa that suits the way you actually relax.

Rule #4: Choose a colour you'll love for years

Colour shouldn't feel intimidating. Here's how to get it right.

Start with the room
Look at the colours already in your space before choosing new ones. Think about which shades mix or match well.

Live with your swatches
See them in daylight, evening light and beside everything else in the room.

Trust your instincts
If you're drawn to a specific colour, there's usually a reason. Go with what makes you happy.

Keep the sofa simple
A plain sofa gives you the freedom to change everything else around it. Let cushions, throws and rugs do the changing, so refreshing your space is about updating the accessories, rather than replacing the sofa.