Buying a new couch can sometimes be a difficult task, with so many styles, fabrics, and colors to choose from. But, thankfully, the process doesn’t need to be difficult when you have insider expert knowledge on the biggest sofa trends for 2021 at your fingertips.
The overall feeling is that we are becoming less formal and are looking for hardworking sofas that are impressive enough to sink into but still look smart; we’re moving away from matching sets and looking to add vibrancy through different shapes, colors, and leather.
Color-wise, we’re increasingly looking to nature to inform the story, leaning towards inky blues and moss green, while there’s also a return of earthy tones, like beige and rust. When homeowners want to go bold, hues are still warm and inviting, echoing nature’s spices like hot paprika and golden turmeric.
When it comes to details and shapes, modern-retro fluting and glamorous curved lines are de rigueur, while at the opposite end of the scale a raw, organic, and unrefined aesthetic is also breaking through.
1. GO FOR BOLD
2021 will see homeowners search out warm positive colors and what better way to radiate a welcoming feeling than from your sofa.
Strong yet subdued colors such as our Paprika are warm and inviting. Paired with strong deep hues such as navy it becomes vibrant yet when surrounded by soft greys or off-whites, it is a calming space to retreat to.
‘With places like Pinterest and Instagram, there is plenty of good inspiration out there making it easier to get bolder colors right. We’ve noticed that customers are looking to come away from the grey and neutral shades and instead are opting to inject more color into their homes.’
2. FABULOUS FLUTING
Fluting emerged as big in sofa trends this season and it is set to continue into next year. This is a versatile and liveable trend that lends itself to contemporary and classic schemes alike.
A continuation of a trend that initially re-emerged during 2020, for 2021 we’re seeing it evolve into more intricate pleating combined with striking chunky quilting. A clever upholstery technique that creates a whole host of different looks.
3. RAW BEAUTY
Raw materials and unrefined finishes are without a doubt two of the biggest sofa trends we’re seeing for 2021. Natural, pared-back designs are combined with heavy textures such as boucle, creating a lovely tactile look and feel.
Along with this, we’re seeing the return of beige – warm, earthy shades are making a big comeback to replace cool greys as a base color. If opting for a statement sofa that will add a pop of color to a neutral space, tones inspired by nature (particularly ocean blues and mossy greens) are still the best option.
4. AHEAD OF THE CURVE
There’s been a shift away from the more formal arrangement of two sofas facing each other in favor of more relaxed, curvaceous shapes that provide both comfort and ample space for entertaining. Curved sofa shapes like Palm Sofa can often feel cozier than angular designs, allowing us to make the most of the space in any home.
Sweeping silhouettes and deep seats make curves perfect for stretching out and relaxing with family and friends. The Palm’s contemporary modular style also allows you to choose the exact configuration to suit your room and lifestyle.
5. RETRO OPULENCE
The curved sofa style is also part of a wider trend that looks to the past for inspiration and then adds to it. An evolution of the Art Deco influence that has been a huge trend for the last few years, Retro Opulence is bolder and more glamorous,
‘The sofa trends we are seeing feature rounded curves and geometric patterns, as well as 1920s-inspired occasional chairs with scalloped shell-like backs create striking centerpieces for any living room, especially in rich tones of emerald green, royal blue, or deep burgundy.’
As you’ve seen, there are ways to invest in leather and furniture in the trend without worrying about it going out of style. Figure out your taste, contemporary, transitional, or traditional, then stick to the classics within those realms. You’ll be in good shape and style.
