Thinking of giving your living room a makeover by introducing a fancy circle couch?
Comfy and with a unique layout, this type of couch is ideal to enjoy some precious family time, hosts some evening drinks with your friends, and create a unique interior style.
Not sure where to start? Stop going around in circles!
We're going to tell you exactly what to do - and, most importantly, what to avoid - in order to pick and style a circle couch the right way.
DO: Take the room's shape into consideration
Circle couches aren't like traditional rectangular sofas that you can move around until you find the right spot. Because of their signature shape, you must really think it through!
In most cases, we don't recommend choosing a circle couch if you have a very small living room. It could end up looking even more cramped since you'd miss out on precious space in the back;
However, if you really want a circle couch, look for one that would fit in a strategic spot like a bay window or a more rounded corner;
This is also helpful if you have a medium-sized living room that isn't big enough for you to divide it into separate areas;
If, on the contrary, you have a living room so large that space is the least of your worries, then a circle couch will be your chance to get creative. For example, you could place it in the middle of the room to divide it into two different areas.
DON'T: pick a random color for your circle couch
Your circle couch is likely to be the largest piece of furniture in your living room: you definitely don't want it to look out of place!
Think of it in relation to the rest of the room;
We recommend identifying your living room's palette and looking for a circle couch in one of its main colors;
Another option is to go for a more neutral tone and tie the room together by adding cushions in its accent color.
It's easy to focus on colors and designs without really thinking about the upholstery material but that's something that you could regret over time:
Natural fabrics are perfect in Scandinavian rooms or to showcase your passion for sustainability. Breathable and more affordable cotton and sophisticated-looking linen are popular natural options. However, natural upholstery is also known for collecting pet hair, so you might want to avoid it if your four-legged friends are allowed on the couch;
Leather is the most durable fabric and works particularly well in vintage and industrial settings. Spillages, pet hair and odors are no longer a problem! However, keep in mind that pets could still scratch it and that, if exposed to direct sunlight for years, it could discolor;
Synthetic fabrics like polyester or faux suede are a practical and budget-friendly choice: they're easier to wash and don't result in allergies, which makes them ideal if you have pets;
If you were hoping for the most elegant look to complement your luxurious room, you could try velvet or silk. Do keep in mind that they're more delicate, though;
Planning on placing your circle couch under your patio roof or in a bohemian living room? Fabric upholstery and a rattan frame can convey a cozy element of spontaneity and casual vibes.
DON'T: forget about your décor style
Your décor style goes beyond colors and materials. While they're both important, the design of your circle couch will play a major part!
If you want your living room to look cohesive, it's important to choose a circle couch that can complement its existing interior style:
Most circle couches work particularly well in modern or contemporary rooms. Just focus on sleek shapes and, for the latter, style it by adding square accent pillows;
For a mid-century modern effect, choose leather or warmer colors, short exposed legs, and designs that emphasize the length of the couch (usually with a shorter back). You can also style it by adding cushions with vintage and geometric shapes;
A streamlined monochrome design is perfect for minimalist rooms or, by looking for wooden legs and/or upholstery in natural colors, Scandinavian settings;
The quirkiest shapes in the boldest colors can help you emphasize your spontaneous and bohemian approach to life and décor.
It can be a bit trickier to complement the following styles since circle couches aren't the most obvious choice for them. However, if you focus on these details, your room will still look cohesive:
Tufted leather upholstery and darker colors for industrial décor;
White or neutral tones, harmonious shapes and the most decorative pillows for shabby chic and French country styles.
DO: consider complementary accessories
Depending on the vibes and atmosphere that you're going for, your circle couch could be absolutely fine as it is or it might need an extra something:
Adding lots of throw pillows will give it a more casual feel;
Adding textures like a shawl or a knit blanket will make your room even cozier and reinforce your décor choice (for example, natural textures are ideal in Scandinavian settings).
DON'T: ignore the shape of other pieces of furniture
When it comes to circle couches and their surroundings, you have two main options: amplify the circular element through other pieces of furniture or surround it with more traditional shapes to keep the couch in the spotlight.
For the first option, you could maximize space by adding curved tables right behind it (if it's in the center of the room) or placing a round coffee table or ottoman in front of it;
Otherwise, stick to square and rectangular pieces of furniture so that the shape of your circle couch stands out immediately.
Caroline is a young, New York-based interior designer and home decor writer, obsessed with textiles and designer furniture. Backed with rigorous training from a prestigious design school, as well as a profound understanding of material quality and fabric care, she offers spot-on advice on how to furnish your place with reliable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing pieces.
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