Sofas are getting bigger. Generous corner sofas are taking up half of our living spaces, small armchairs are being replaced by the larger loveseat, and modular sections are multiplying. 2024 serves only to hasten us in this direction, as we all lean into the joys of lounging.

The direction of travel for sofas looks quite uplifting – a cheerful pink is emerging, as is some joyful pattern, and designs are often finished with a nostalgic ruffle.

Here we look at 2024's biggest sofa trends, as well as the pieces and brands leading the charge.

The new neutrals

The evolution of Scandi-inspired design, from cool and minimalist to cosy and cocooning, informs an array of warm neutrals in 2024. Greys are (finally) being swapped for earthy beiges, contemporary off whites and taupes that sit so well with the natural materials and modest decoration of Scandi homes.

Stripes will work wonderfully on a neutral sofa – these wide-set, pencil-thin stripes are a gentler take on the more imposing pinstripes.

One of the joys of a warm neutral is its susceptibility to natural light – if you have an upholstery with a slight sheen like a velvet, uplifting pink and green undertones can be revealed over the course of the day, only to modulate into warming peaches and yellows at night.

Retro detailing

Retro influences very much began in our kitchens – we've seen traditional design details like farmhouse sinks, pantries and sweet café curtains return en masse. These nostalgic design nods have made their way into the rest of the home in the form of decorative detailing like gingham, scalloped edges and ruffles.

Applied to a sofa, they add a bit of fun and whimsy to our homes, reminding us that on occasion, neither form nor function matter in the slightest.

Loveseats

Romantic by name, functional by nature. A loveseat is the ideal solution for small spaces or a practical accent piece for unused corners. Occasionally called a snuggler or indeed a cuddler, both an indication of its diminutive size that encourages occupants to curl up.

One of the joys of a loveseat is that extra attention has been paid to design elements that promote comfort – you’ll usually find loveseats made from sumptuous fabrics like velvet, some have matching footstools to stretch out, or with lower armrests to encourage lounging.

Sofa trends: snugglers

Country Living Kirkton Loveseat Snuggler

Clandon Sofa, Black Ticking Stripe

Betsy Love Seat

Now 25% Off

L-shaped and corner sofas

The most popular sofa shape of 2024 is the corner sofa, along with its smaller counterpart, the L-shaped chaise sofa. Both have adopted a clever hybrid role for seating and zoning, and offer generous proportions to sit plenty of guests.

There may be a temptation to arrange cushions and throws symmetrically on a corner sofa, but this can look a bit overly done. Take a cue from this country cottage living room, and relax into a bit of a mismatch.

Pink sofas

Pink has slowly made its way back into interiors – Dulux’s colour of the year 2024 is a soft blush – hastened only by the popularity of the Barbie movie. But the real-world take is far more moderate, favouring a whisper-soft rose, natural clay or reddish mauve.

In terms of application, pink sofas will make a natural partner to dark woods and organic textures like linen or stone, which can moderate some of its sweetness.

Modular sofas

Modular sofas are a really safe bet. No other piece will offer such flexibility and adapt so cleverly to its surroundings and the evolving needs of a home – its individual sections can be moved around to suit your living space, or even your mood.

Modular sofas can just be arranged to seat two people, much like a regular two-piece suite, or they can be extended into vast L or U shapes to accommodate 10 or more – perfect for large families and socialising.

Sofa trends: modular sofas

Squishblocks Modular Sofa

Evelyn Corner Modular Sofa

Vivienne Modular Corner Sofa

Matchy-matchy pattern

For the daring print-lovers. Matchy-matchy is a confident and joyful way to use a single pattern across walls, furniture, window dressing, and just about anything else you can upholster or paint.

The pattern itself is key – choose a subtler motif or a large-scale print if you don’t want to make a room feel too densely decorated, and the opposite is true if you want to make a grand statement.

If you’re bold enough to go for the latter, a neutral base tone to your pattern will balance any intricacy in the design. Ultimately, choose a pattern that you love and won’t tire of.

The country living room selection

Country Living Kirkton Sofa

Minshan Bookcase

Now 25% Off

Country Living Tarland Accent Chair

Country Living Dakota Wool Carpet

Country Living Falmouth Ceramic Table Lamp

Jallen Storage Coffee Table

Churchgate Herringbone Natural Cushion

Clemence Pedestal Side Table

Pembroke Full Length Arch Mirror

Now 19% Off

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