Traditional-size Sofas: Pillow Arrangement
Styling a sofa?
What size sofa do you have?
Wondering if your sofa qualifies as traditional-size?
Sofa sizing is very diverse. Traditional-size sofas range from 72" to 89" wide.
If your sofa is narrower than 72" check out our on Small Sofas, Loveseats, & Settees: Pillow Arrangement blog. Sofas that are over 90" and/or have seats wider than 26" will be discussed in our upcoming blog on oversized sofas.
Now, let's talk pillows.
The right pillow quantity is personal and varies greatly. Additional pillows provide comfort as well as the opportunity to bring in more colors, patterns, and textures.
Less is more:
One square pillow at each end of the sofa provides a simple, uncluttered look.
Shown: 22x22 inch pillows.
With just two pillows, make them count.
Select impactful colors and/or patterns that you really love.
Our style tip:
Single layer: 22x22 inch pillows
Minimalist with lumbar:
A square pillow at each end of the sofa layered with a lumbar pillow at one end allows for additional fabrics and trim to be utilized. Odd numbers keep things interesting.
Shown: 22x22 inch pillows layered with 14x20 inch lumbar.
Use a matching set of pillows at each end, then add a coordinating lumbar at one end. When mixing patterns, remember to vary the size and scale of the pattern. Textures are a great way to add interest without overwhelming your space with too many patterns.
Our style tip:
Back layer: 22x22 or 20x20 inch pillows
Lumbar layer: 14x20 inch pillow
As with square pillows, don't go too small on lumbar pillows. We recommend lumbar pillows that are at least 12” high and 18” wide.
Lumbar pillows are a cost-effective option when you want to use high-end designer fabrics because they typically require less yardage than square throw pillows.
Not sure if a lumbar pillow will be a comfortable, functional option for you? See our Pillow Insert Sizing Guide and our Pillow Insert Type Guide to ensure your lumbar pillow is stuffed properly, providing the look you want with the comfort you crave.
Minimalist with statement lumbar:
One square pillow at each end of the sofa with a statement long lumbar pillow.
Shown: 22x22 inch pillows with 14x26 inch lumbar.
Is this option right for you? The size of your square pillows, how wide your sofa is, and how your sofa is used determines whether a statement lumbar will work and how wide it can be.
Our style tip:
Back layer: 22x22 inch pillows
Statement lumbar center: 14x26 inch pillow
If you love snuggling up with a lumbar pillow then a statement lumbar with performance or indoor-outdoor fabric in a striking pattern and/or color can be an excellent addition. With these durable, stain-resistant fabrics you can snuggle away and you'll never need to cringe if someone puts your gorgeous statement lumbar on the floor so they can sit or lay down.
Comfortable:
Two square pillows at each end of the sofa provide ample style and enough comfortable support to encourage you to linger awhile.
Shown: 20x20 inch pillows layered in front of 22x22 inch pillows.
By layering two sets of pillows, you can introduce more pattern and color.
When using multiple patterns, be sure to vary the pattern size and scale.
Our style tip:
Back layer: 20x20 or 22x22 inch pillows
Front layer: 20x20 inch pillows
Comfortable with lumbar:
Two square pillows at each end of the sofa layered with a lumbar pillow at one end allows for additional fabrics and trim to be utilized. Odd numbers keep things interesting.
Shown: 20x20 inch pillows layered in front of 22x22 inch pillows with 14x20 inch lumbar at one end.
Layer matching sets of pillows at each end, then add a coordinating lumbar at one end. When mixing patterns, remember to vary the size and scale of the pattern. Textures are a great way to add interest without overwhelming your space with too many patterns.
Asymmetry is stylish, practical and can provide additional comfort.
Our style tip:
Back layer: 20x20 or 22x22 inch pillows
Front layer: 20x20 inch pillows
Lumbar layer: 14x20 inch pillow
As with square pillows, don't go too small on lumbar pillows. We recommend lumbar pillows that are at least 12” high and 18” wide.
Lumbar pillows are a cost-effective option when you want to use high-end designer fabrics because they typically require less yardage than square throw pillows.
Not sure if a lumbar pillow will be a comfortable, functional option for you? See our Pillow Insert Sizing Guide and our Pillow Insert Type Guide to ensure your lumbar pillow is stuffed properly, providing the look you want with the comfort you crave.
Comfortable with statement lumbar:
Two square pillows at each end of the sofa with a statement long lumbar pillow.
Shown: 20x20 inch pillows layered in front of 22x22 inch pillows with 14x26 inch lumbar.
Is this option right for you? Square pillow size, as well as furniture width and usage determines whether a statement lumbar will work and how wide it can be.
Our style tip:
Back layer: 20x20 or 22x22 inch pillows
Front layer: 20x20 inch pillows
Statement center: 14x26 inch pillow
If you love snuggling up with a lumbar pillow then a statement lumbar with performance or indoor-outdoor fabric in a striking pattern and/or color can be an excellent addition. With these durable, stain-resistant fabrics you can snuggle away and you'll never need to cringe if someone puts your gorgeous statement lumbar on the floor so they can sit or lay down.
Can't find the pillow size you need?
You may find it challenging to find readymade pillows, especially statement lumbar pillows, that are just the right size for your sofa. Luckily for you, pillows in our Custom Collection are individually custom made-to-order and can be made in nearly any size and quantity you desire.
Custom Collection pillows are also eligible for our Style Our Pillows Your Way customization options so we can create your ideal pillow in the style and size that's optimal for your sofa.
Already have fabric you love?
With Customer's Own Material (COM) Pillow Designs, we can create your ideal pillow covers using your own fabric.
Need additional guidance and tips on selecting pillows?
Check out Traditional-Size Sofas: Pillow Sizing Arrangement and our How-to Guides which includes our other detailed Pillow Sizing & Arrangement Guides.
Now you're informed and ready to shop for your sofa, enjoy our unique collection of custom, made-to-order decorative pillow covers.
Life is better with pillows, especially beautifully unique pillows.
