In any home that graces the pages of H&H and our social media feeds, it’s all about the details. And throw pillows may be small, but they can make a massive impact. If you’re wondering how designers are so good at styling a collection of cushions, we’ve got you covered. From Sophisticated Scandinavian to Heritage Charm, scroll down to discover 10 tried-and-true formulas to layer your accent pillows!

Jewel Tones + Geometric Patterns + Crushed Velvet = Fashion-Forward

Amp up the drama on a pair of cream-colored couches by combining sumptuous emerald green with subtle stripes and abstract patterns. A light pink lumbar pillow acts like a palette cleanser.

Photographer:
Virginia Macdonald
Source:
House & Home September 2020
Designer:
Anne Hepfer

Needlepoint Embroidery + Vintage Textiles + Equestrian Motifs = Heritage Charm

Create a sense of familiarity with historical details like in this seaside summer retreat. Timeless homespun and needlepoint throw pillows add comfort and nostalgia to a vintage-look sofa. “We wanted our summer home to look as though it had been layered over time,” says Kenneth McRobbie of 31 Westgate.

Photographer:
Janet Kimber
Source:
House & Home July/August 2020
Designer:
Colin Blanchard & Kenneth McRobbie, 31 Westgate

Plush Plum + Pops of Pattern + Ivory Accents = All About Ombré

Achieve a gradient effect with your throw pillows by varying shades within the same hue, then mix in an unexpected pattern for even more style points. Finally, incorporate a neutral color that matches another element in the room (in this case, a statement chair) to bring the whole look together.

Photographer:
Virginia Macdonald
Source:
House & Home October 2020
Designer:
Gillian Gillies

Zingy Hues + Mismatched Patterns + Eclectic Shapes = Energetic Maximalism

Bring excitement to your living room by combining funky colors and whimsical prints! The key to achieving this look? Pick a statement piece (like this zesty velvet sofa) and select a handful of contrasting hues to make it pop!

Photographer:
Sian Richards
Source:
House & Home October 2019
Designer:
Emily Griffin

Neutral Palette + Subtle Prints + Crisp Lines = Sophisticated Scandinavian

In this refined Scandi-style home, a statement caramel leather sofa pairs perfectly with greige and muted navy pillows for a simple yet sophisticated look. “We like to add visual interest by layering textures,” says designer Jenelle Erickson. “In this home, the finishes are very monochromatic, so this was crucial.”

Photographer:
Michelle Johnson, MJay Photography
Designer:
Jenelle Erickson & Stephanie Smith, SmithErickson Designs

Cool Blues + Nautical Stripes + Laid-back Fabrics = Classic Coastal

Bring the coastline to the comfort of your home, no matter where you are! To get that beach house vibe using throw pillows, stick to a soothing palette of bright whites, subtle grays, and soft blues and materials like linen and cotton.

Photographer:
Patrick Biller
Source:
House & Home July 2019
Designer:
Tiffany Piotrowski

Sunset Colors + Geometric Prints + Global Flair = Colorful Boho

Sometimes more is more! Designer Justina Blakeney layers plenty of throw pillows for added texture and depth. Bursts of orange boost happiness and bold patterns spark energy in the crisp white space.

Photographer:
Courtesy of Jungalow
Designer:
Justina Blakeney

Earth Tones + Touchable Textures + Classic Patterns = Earthy Modernism

Incorporate elements from nature with earth-toned pillows that create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your bedroom. Finish the look off with delicate lines for a modern touch.

Photographer:
Joel Klassen, Klassen Photography
Designer:
Aly Velji & Alison Connor, Aly Velji Designs

Country Style + Warm Tones + Abstract Character = Rural Comfort

For a relaxed vibe outside of the city, layer accent pillows of varying warm tones — like honey, crimson and sand. Add interest with abstract prints and landscape designs.

Photographer:
Maxime Desbiens
Source:
House & Home September 2019
Designer:
Luke Havekes

High-Contrast Palette + Simple Lines + Modern Aesthetic = Cozy Monochrome

In the this contemporary Muskoka cottage‘s living room, black and white pillows covered with bold dashes, zig zags and stripes create a city-cool feeling amongst the rustic landscape.

Photographer:
Valerie Wilcox
Source:
House & Home July/August 2020
Designer:
Lorraine Franklin; Architecture by Nelson Kwong & Neal Prabhu at nkArchitect

 

 

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