6 Tips for Choosing Soft Furnishings in 2024

Choosing the ideal soft furnishings for your home can be challenging. While it’s easy to focus on the visual appeal or texture, the best choices align with your personal decor style, the atmosphere you want to create, and your lifestyle needs. Soft furnishings are essential in interior design, adding warmth and texture while complementing the architectural elements of your space.

1. Understanding Your Interior Design Style
Before selecting fabrics, it's important to have a clear understanding of your personal style, as fabric types vary depending on design preferences. Start by exploring design magazines, Pinterest, and social media platforms to gather inspiration. Look for interior design projects that resonate with your style and take note of the fabrics they use. This can help you visualise how different fabrics work together to achieve your desired look.

2. Considering the Mood and Ambience
Think about the mood you want to evoke in your space. Do you prefer a cosy and inviting atmosphere, a sleek and refined look, or a laid-back and relaxed feel? The fabrics you choose play a key role in creating your desired ambience. For a traditional or elegant feel, opt for fabrics like silk, velvet, or damask. For a more casual or rustic look, choose cotton, linen, or burlap. Soft, thick, and sumptuous textures like velvet, faux fur, and chenille create a cosy, inviting feel.

3. Exploring Fabric Patterns
Introducing patterns into your soft furnishings is a fantastic way to infuse personality and character into your living space. Whether you're aiming for a cozy retreat, a modern oasis, or a coastal haven, selecting the right patterns can enhance the overall ambiance of your home. Consider whether you want plain or patterned, smooth or textured, heavy or light, bold or neutral fabrics. Patterns can complement different interior design styles, adding visual interest and sophistication to your space.

4. Considering Texture
Texture adds depth, dimension, and visual interest to any space. When selecting soft furnishings, consider the texture to create a cohesive and inviting environment. Luxurious materials like velvet, cashmere, chenille, and faux fur offer a sumptuous feel perfect for upholstered furniture, throws, and cushions. For a more laid-back feel, consider lightweight and organic textures like Belgian flax linen, cotton, bamboo, and merino wool. Experiment with layering different textures to create visual interest and depth in your space.

5. Considering the Fabric's Function
When choosing soft furnishings, consider their intended function. For upholstery fabrics, prioritise durability, style, and stain resistance. For decorative cushions and bedding, select fabrics based on season, visual appeal, and texture. Custom furniture allows for a wide range of fabric options, so consider comfort, durability, and style preferences.

6. Considering Longevity
Performance expectations are another critical consideration. Certain fabrics age better than others, so think about the level of wear the fabric will endure and its source—whether from kids, pets, moisture, or sunlight exposure. Choose upholstered or slip-covered pieces, bedding, and window treatments with timeless appeal to maintain their look over time. Consider how the fabric withstands the test of time, as some fabrics, like linen, get softer and more appealing with use.

Here are some of our recommended fabrics based on some popular design styles:

Contemporary Style: Flax Linens, Cotton, Wool, Cashmere, Silks, Velvets
Coastal Style: Stonewashed Linens, Muslin, Calicos, Washed Cotton
Japandi Style: Textured Linens, Brushed Cotton, Velvet, Chunky Wool Knits, Jute, Hemp
Country Style: Hopsack, Leather, Cotton, Flax Linens

Choose fabrics that resonate with you and reflect your unique taste and personality. Whether you prefer the relaxed vibe of coastal style or the elegance of French decor, selecting the right fabrics will help you create a home you love.