5 Ways to Style Cushions & Throws Like a Designer

Texture is one of the most powerful tools in a designer’s arsenal. It adds depth, warmth, and a tactile quality that makes a space feel complete. Cushions and throws are the perfect way to introduce texture—whether you’re working with a neutral palette or a bolder colour scheme.

How to Layer Textures Thoughtfully:

• Start with Natural Materials : Begin with foundational pieces in natural materials like linen or cotton. These provide a soft, breathable base that feels timeless and versatile.
• Incorporate Rich Fabrics : Add depth by layering in cushions made from velvet. Velvet has a unique ability to catch the light, adding richness and subtle dimension to your arrangement.
• Balance with Organic Textures : Pair smooth fabrics like velvet with chunkier, more organic textures like a knitted throw or a woven cushion. The contrast between these materials creates a sense of harmony and balance.

Pro Tip: Stick to a cohesive colour palette when layering textures. For example, if you’re working with earthy tones, choose textures in shades of terracotta, sage, and cream to create a unified look.

A well-designed space often features a mix of patterns and solid colours. This combination creates visual interest while maintaining balance. However, mixing patterns can feel intimidating if you’re not sure where to start.

Designer Tips for Mixing Patterns and Solids:

• Start with a Neutral Base : Use solid-coloured cushions in neutral tones as your foundation. These pieces anchor the space and provide a backdrop for bolder patterns.
• Layer in Patterns Gradually : Introduce patterned cushions one at a time. Popular choices include geometric prints, abstract designs, and subtle florals.
• Vary the Scale of Patterns : Combine large-scale patterns with smaller, more intricate ones. For example, a bold, oversized floral design pairs beautifully with a delicate stripe or dot pattern.
• Use a Consistent Colour Palette : To keep the look cohesive, ensure all your patterns share at least one common colour. This creates a sense of unity while allowing for variety.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about mixing patterns, start with one patterned cushion and build around it with complementary solid colours.

While symmetry has its place, asymmetry often feels more modern and effortless. Designers use asymmetry to create visual interest and make a space feel approachable.

How to Style Asymmetrically:

• Group Cushions in Odd Numbers : Odd-numbered groupings feel more natural and less rigid than even ones. For example, arrange three cushions on one side of a sofa and two on the other.
• Vary Sizes and Shapes : Use a mix of square, rectangular, and round cushions to create an organic, layered look. Place the largest cushions at the back and smaller ones at the front.
• Play with Throw Placement : Instead of folding a throw neatly, drape it casually over one side of the sofa or let it cascade off the edge of a bed. This relaxed styling adds warmth and personality to the room.

Styling Tip: Asymmetry doesn’t mean chaos. There should still be a sense of balance. For instance, if one side of the sofa has more cushions, balance it with a throw or a decorative object like a side table on the opposite side.

Cushions and throws are one of the easiest ways to refresh your home for the changing seasons. By swapping out colours and materials, you can keep your space feeling fresh and aligned with the mood of the time.

Seasonal Styling Guide:

• Autumn and Winter : Opt for warm, earthy tones like rust, mustard, and deep green. Pair these with cozy textures like wool, velvet, or chunky knits to create a cocoon-like atmosphere.
• Spring and Summer : Lighten things up with breezy fabrics like linen or cotton. Choose colours like pastel pinks, soft blues, or crisp whites for a fresh, airy feel.
• Transitional Seasons : Use neutral tones like beige, grey, and taupe as a base. Add pops of seasonal colour through smaller accents like a patterned cushion or a lightweight throw.

Pro Tip: Invest in high-quality cushion inserts and simply swap out the covers to reflect the season. This approach is both budget-friendly and space-saving.

Layering is the hallmark of a well-styled space. It’s all about creating depth and visual interest without overcrowding the room.

Steps to Layer Like a Designer:

1. Start with a Foundation : Place larger, neutral cushions at the back of your arrangement. These provide structure and act as a backdrop for the rest of the layers.
2. Add a Middle Layer : Introduce medium-sized cushions in complementary colours or subtle patterns. These act as the bridge between the foundation and the decorative layer.
3. Finish with Decorative Cushions : Use smaller, eye-catching cushions with bold patterns, textures, or embellishments as the final layer.
4. Incorporate a Throw : Fold a throw neatly and place it over the back of a chair or sofa for a structured look, or drape it loosely for a more relaxed vibe.

Final Detail: Pay attention to proportion. The size of your cushions and throws should match the scale of your furniture. Oversized cushions on a small sofa can feel overwhelming, while tiny cushions on a large sectional might get lost.

Why Cushions and Throws Matter in Design

Cushions and throws aren’t just decorative—they’re essential elements of interior design. They allow you to experiment with trends, colours, and textures without making permanent changes.

At Gray & Co, we believe in the transformative power of thoughtfully curated homewares. Our Cushion Collection and Throws are designed to help you create spaces that are not only beautiful but also deeply personal and inviting.

Ready to bring these styling tips to life? Explore our Cushion Collection and Throws to discover high-quality, timeless pieces that elevate any space.

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Which tip will you try first? Share your thoughts in the comments or tag us on Instagram (@gray_and_co_store) to showcase your beautifully styled spaces!