Table lamps are among the most versatile lighting you can have in your home. You can rely on them to subtly direct the eye and attention to certain areas or highlight a favorite piece of furniture. They’re also a clever, low-commitment way to introduce color, texture, or an unexpected silhouette alongside what you already own — making knowing where to shop for lighting feel like a genuine styling opportunity instead of just a practical errand.

Still haven't found the one? Don't give up on your table lamp hunt just yet. If you've enjoyed this edit but have something a little more specific in mind, our free Find service at Design Lab by Livingetc is here to help. Tell us what you're looking for, and our in-house stylists will handpick pieces to suit your taste and budget.

And if it's not just the lamp you're unsure about, why not book a free 10-minute Discovery Call? We can talk through your space and help you figure out which of our styling services might be right for you.

Happy lamp hunting! And for more interiors inspiration and shopping finds, don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter.

Thank you for sharing your style preferences! Since I didn't have many details about your bedroom, I've explored a few directions that blend your love for different styles.

You'll find a lovely mix of warm wood finishes, interesting shapes, and subtle decorative details, all within your £150 budget.

I hope you enjoy exploring the selection, and I'd love to hear which pieces catch your eye!

There are few greater pleasures in life than hosting a truly fantastic party. Having the people you love gathered around a table and knowing that you've pulled out all the stops for them. A great host understands the importance of the little details; they can juggle multiple things at once, and most importantly of all, they make it all look easy. It's an art form, and just like anything else, it's a skill that should be fine-tuned and honed.

Without tooting my own horn, I can pretty confidently say that I know my way around hosting a dinner party, but that doesn't mean there isn't room for improvement. See, I know I have the food down, and the conversation is certainly never lacking either, but lately I've been wanting to bring a little more refinement to my gatherings. I want my dinner parties to look like the ones you'd save on Pinterest, with those little elevated touches of elegance that make the night feel truly special for your guests. What I want is to be the boujie host of my friendship group.

So, who better to guide me than the internet's favorite host and founder of Second Helping, Matilda Bea. Even if you haven't heard her name, you'd certainly recognise her home, and more specifically, her dining table. Matilda's hosting setups regularly amass several million views on TikTok, and for good reason. Her dinner parties always appear thoughtful and considered, without ever seeming as though she's taking herself too seriously. There's a level of playfulness and whimsy to all her tablescapes, while still remaining thoroughly and undeniably boujie. And there are a few essentials that Matilda recommends for anyone who wants to level up their hosting game.

Starting with servewear. Matilda swears by a striking serving platter, specifically referencing this Balu Tallulah Serving platter, which she says is "perfect for dinner parties and serving up sharing dishes, from roasted meats to spatchcock chicken." You'll want to think about how the dishes you serve on will become part of the tablescape, and as she says, "The pedestal adds a lovely bit of height to the table, bringing another dimension to the tablescape."

She also loves her Tatiana Alida Catch Me if You Can! Platter, which she regularly places front and centre on the table. "It's so generously sized that you can pile it high with all sorts of delicious things, keeping everything within easy reach of everyone around the table," she tells me.

A good floral arrangement is a quintessential feature of Matilda's events, and though she regularly switches it up, she often finds herself turning to her trusty collection of bud vases from The White Company. "I always have a collection of these on the go," she says. "They are perfect for scattering little arrangements of flowers along the table, adding a lovely touch without taking up too much space or getting in the way of conversation."

An excellent host is always prepared, which is exactly why Matilda is never without a can of Perello Olives [available at Selfridges] in the fridge, which she says are "the perfect thing to bring out with drinks when friends pop round!"

So, with that in mind, we've curated a thorough guide of thoroughly unnecessary essentials for becoming the boujiest host around.

For more ideas to elevate your hosting game, these interior designers' hosting tips will leave you with plenty of inspiration for your next dinner party.

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If you've been eyeing up Habitat's sofas for your living room, you'll know the one drawback to the brand's affordable offering — you can't try before you buy. There's nowhere currently to take one of its sofas for a test-drive, so you might just have to rely on reviews from other buyers to help you make your pick. However, while you might not be able to actually sit on them, you can order free fabric samples, so you can make sure the color and texture are to your liking first.

So, that's what I've done, too. I’ll admit it, I didn’t expect Habitat’s sofa range to offer quite so much variety in its upholstery — from camel chenille, velvet and natural bouclé to green and navy fabrics, soft neutrals and tan leather. I’ve been looking at them side by side, thinking about the mood each could bring to a space, what I’m drawn to in its texture and color, and the cushions, wood tones and other details I’d bring in around it.

If you’re weighing up where to buy a sofa⁠, it’s worth giving the upholstery as much thought as the shape. A fabric can soften a more structured design or give a simple silhouette real presence — it can also be the starting point for a room’s wider palette.

Even different sofas from the same retailers can vary a lot in how they're constructed, and how comfortable they are; however, for this review, I was able to test Habitat's Casper sofa, as shown below, to get an idea of comfort. At £550, It's an affordable sofa, so I'm comparing it to other sofas in that price range, rather than to styles that cost several thousand. And I'd say it offers surprisingly good value for money. It's not a sofa you sink into as such, but it's not as firm as many others I've tried at a similar price point. It's definitely comfortable enough to lounge on.

It also has some surprisingly elevated design details for the price. The curved back and its rounded feet felt particularly design-y — a good sign for the other sofas we're looking at in this feature.

Beyond the design, here’s what stood out to me in each sample, and how I’d imagine styling it in a home.

Casper

I was lucky enough to try the Casper two-seater in person, which gave me a much better sense of how its generous shape and camel chenille come together beyond the product photos. The fabric has a plush, soft finish, and its warm tone shifts gently in the light, giving the sofa a lovely depth. I’d style it with dark timber, a chalky rug and cushions in cream or a muted stripe, letting the sofa bring a relaxed, sun-warmed note to the room.

Nora

Green can sometimes feel like a big commitment on a sofa, but the Nora Fabric 2 Seater Sofa felt surprisingly easy to imagine at home. I like that the color brings a little of the outside in without taking over the room, and the soft fabric gives it a relaxed, everyday quality. I’d lean into that natural feeling with warm wood, a vintage-looking rug and perhaps a small accent in rust or ochre. It has the potential to make a compact sofa feel like a thoughtful focal point.

Poppy Bouclé

When I picked up the Poppy Fabric 2 Seater Sofa sample, I found myself wondering how practical a white bouclé fabric could be in everyday life. It’s such a lovely, soft-looking neutral, but the light color and textured weave would probably need a little more attention to keep it looking fresh. And yet, even though we’ve seen bouclé everywhere, I can understand why it continues to appeal — there’s something timeless about its warmth and texture. I’d keep the styling simple, with a darker wood detail and cushions in a muted color, so the fabric can bring that gentle, tactile quality to the room.

Chesterfield Blue

At first glance, the Chesterfield Velvet 3 Seater Sofa silhouette can feel quite traditional, but the blue fabric is what made me want to include it in this edit. It feels so soft against the skin — the sort of sofa you sit down on for a moment and then have no real intention of getting up from. The velvet brings out the depth of the color, while the classic shape gives it presence. I’d mix it with relaxed linen, warm wood and less formal accessories to make the look feel fresh and modern.

Della Natural

Della Fabric 3 Seater Sofa natural is a softer take on a clean, mid-century shape. I like that the neutral tone feels warm enough to work with timber and layered textiles, while the simple lines keep the overall look feeling light. It’s a good option if you want a sofa that can adapt as a room evolves — I’d start with cushions in olive, tobacco or faded blue, then bring in a patterned rug to give the pale upholstery a little more personality.

Newell Leather

There’s something special about real leather — it has a natural richness and a way of catching the light that makes even a small sample feel full of character. Newell Leather 3 Seater Sofa has a warm tan tone which brings a mid-century note into a room, but I think it could sit just as beautifully in a more eclectic space. I’d pair it with walnut, a soft wool rug and cushions in green or creamy neutrals, letting the leather bring grounding warmth to the room.

Jacob Chocolate

I’ve always liked the idea of a chocolate sofa, but seeing the Jacob Velvet 3 Seater Sofa sample made me realize how much depth the color can have — and yes, it's my favorite fabric so far. It feels incredibly soft and elevated, bringing a luxurious feel to the space. It has the same warmth and versatility as a neutral, but with a little more depth and drama — the velvet texture gives the brown tone a beautiful richness. I’d bring in pale cushions or a cream throw to lift it, then repeat the darker shade in a lamp, frame or side table so it feels intentional and effortlessly elegant.

Myra Green

The Myra Fabric 3 Seater Sofa feels a little more tailored to me — it has a mid-century character that would look especially good against walnut or darker timber. I like the way the color could bring the garden indoors without turning the whole room into a green scheme. I’d keep the surrounding palette warm and fairly simple, with a textured rug, a few pieces of pottery and perhaps one small accent in ochre or soft pink.

Beckett Navy

Navy is a color I often come back to when I want a room to feel settled, and I liked how the knitted fabric gave this sample a softer, more relaxed impression. The Beckett Fabric 2 Seater Sofa has the depth of a darker upholstery, but not the severity — I can imagine it feeling cozy without making a room seem too serious. I’d bring in lighter cushions to create contrast, then use pale wood or a brushed-metal detail to keep the scheme feeling fresh.

Draper Bouclé

By now, you may know that I have mixed feelings about bouclé. We’ve seen it everywhere, so it wouldn’t usually be the first fabric I reach for. But when I picked up the Draper Boucle 3 Seater Sofa sample, I had that familiar, comforting reaction that reminded me why it became so popular in the first place. It feels soft and tactile, and the natural color makes it easy to picture at home. I’d pair it with smoother materials, like timber or stone, to let the texture stand out. I may not find bouclé unexpected anymore, but I can still see the warmth it brings to a room.

What I like about laying all these samples out together is that there isn’t one right answer — the same sofa can feel completely different depending on its upholstery, the light in the room and what you pair with it. Whether you’re drawn to the ease of a natural fabric, the richness of velvet, the texture of bouclé or the character of leather, the sample is a useful starting point for imagining how a sofa might feel at home.

And if you’re looking for a little help bringing a room together, Design Lab by Livingetc⁠ offers product sourcing and styling guidance to help you find pieces that feel right for your space. For more interiors ideas and inspiration, you can also sign up to the Livingetc newsletter⁠.

Bye-bye bows, there's a new chic motif in town, and this trend is about to be on the dinner table of all the coolest hosts around.

Already boasting the approval of some of the most respected tastemakers, the shell has emerged as the unlikely decor icon to pair with your dinnerware this year. Not only did Posh Spice herself feature them in her recent collaboration with Westwing, but they were also a major point of inspiration for the it-girl's favorite jeweler, Jessica McCormack, when designing her recent collection with L'Objet. In both of these collections, the coastal motif is given a luxurious makeover, finished in shiny chrome and polished ceramic, ushering in a new aesthetic era for the shell.

Once restricted to a solely coastal, beachy aesthetic, the shell is having a new design moment. Perhaps partially inspired by our growing desire for the unpredictability of nature, shells are a perfect example of the random beauty that AI can never replace. This is, in part, what inspired Melissa Borovali, founder of Hide and Stone, to develop her own collection of shell-centered decor and jewelry. "Shells are having a resurgence because designers are reimagining them through a modern lens, coinciding with a broader global shift toward sustainability that is drawing people back to natural materials," she tells me.

There's also something about the unique formation of shells, with all their texture and variation, that makes them such an appealing material to explore in design. "Texture has become the ultimate element of exploration in fashion and design. Beyond their innate aesthetic, shells offer a medium that is naturally beautiful yet durable enough to withstand manipulation, allowing them to be elevated into high-end, lasting design," says Melissa.

Pairing the natural material with more luxurious, elevated materials, like silver and gold, is what has allowed the shell to transcend beyond that beachhouse look. "I combine natural elements with solid gold, silver, and semi-precious stones to honor the craftsmanship of every piece," says Melissa. In other collections, shells are reimagined purely from these luxurious materials, transforming the natural form into something wholly new.

No matter the material, these shell-centric designs bring a touch of whimsy and elegance to your dinner table setting, with an organic, sculptural quality that can only be found in nature.

There is something undeniably enchanting about these shell designs, transporting you back to a childlike place of wonder and excitement, which is exactly what every dinner party could do with a little bit more of. And it doesn't hurt that they are incredibly chic, too. And if you're looking for some more stylish hosting ideas, these interior designers' hosting tips will have you covered.

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Dear Kiki,

Inspired by your brief, I’ve curated a personalised edit of dining tables that brings together sculptural shapes, beautiful materials and a little architectural character, while keeping your budget and style preferences in mind. From softly curved silhouettes to distinctive pedestal bases, I’ve focused on pieces that feel contemporary yet timeless, with natural wood grains, subtle stone finishes and details that will sit beautifully within your colourful kitchen. I’ve also kept practicality in mind, prioritising designs that make moving around your banquette corner a little easier without compromising on style.

If you'd like a little more support pulling everything together, take a look at Style, our room design service at Design Lab By Livingetc. We'd have a 45-minute one-to-one call to discuss your space, and afterwards I'd put together a full moodboard for your space, along with tailored product recommendations and a clear design direction.

I hope you find the selection useful and, most importantly, that you discover a piece that feels like the right fit for your home. I’d love to know which ones stand out to you.

Best wishes,

Iokasti

I'll always declare my love for October loudly and proudly. Something about the crisp air creeping in, the orange and red leaves covering the sidewalk, and the excuse to start binge-making soups and baked goods really feeds my spirit. However, this year, I also noticed that October is a busy month for the design world. The excitement around the holiday season is kicking into full gear, and creativity on the back of a new season is at its peak.

So while I can't believe it's already time to put on our Halloween costumes and subsequently say our goodbyes to this spooky, leafy month, the end doesn't come without several things to celebrate: 10 things, to be exact. From our favorite homeware brands celebrating brand new ventures into homeware to collaborations and launches that feel genuinely exciting, each release captures the collective desire for cozier homes that keep style at the forefront.

Of course, I have already made clear my October-loving bias, and perhaps I say this every month, but could this be the best ICYMI round-up yet? I guess that's left for you to scroll and decide. Goodbye, October; thank you for bringing so many creative collections to inspire our interiors.

1. Hommey's Debut Tableware Collection

Sorry, fellow UK dwellers, but first on the list is a launch more for our friends in the United States to celebrate. My jealousy is at an all-time high, because homeware brand Hommey, known for its cozy bedding, bath towels, and bedtime apparel, is moving into tableware for the first time.

Hommey dinnerware is the brand's first-ever collection for the table, spanning cutlery, ceramics, and napery. And all of Hommey's signature colors and laid-back style are included. The collection is simple but fun, putting Hommey in the running for a new best place to buy table decor ahead of the holiday hosting season.

And the best part? The collection is designed to be mixed, matched, and enjoyed together, each piece bringing a little more color and character to the everyday. Because, as Hommey says, "Why save the good stuff for only special occasions?"

2. CLOTH by Tom Morris for LAYERED

Okay, this collaboration is a personal favorite of mine. Earlier this month, I had the privilege of attending the launch event for the LAYERED x Tom Morris rug collection, CLOTH, and I've been thinking about it ever since.

LAYERED has become one of my favorite places to buy rugs, as every piece embraces a contemporary colorway and pattern, but with a sense of timelessness. So it makes total sense for the brand to partner with London-based interior designer Tom Morris, who embraces a similar sense of craft and elevated, contemporary style.

Marking Morris's first venture into product design, CLOTH draws on Britain's rich textile traditions, bringing together his narrative-led approach to interiors with LAYERED's expertise in contemporary textile craftsmanship. It's perhaps the perfect underfoot layer for your home this season.

3. New Sofas from Schplendid

Lucky for anyone currently trying to furnish an apartment or flat, Schplendid is celebrating the beauty of small-space living this month with three new sofas. Each piece is deliberately designed to deliver comfort and plenty of personality, but with a smaller footprint.

This collection is made for homes with narrow hallways, tight staircases, and multifunctional rooms. So no, you don't have to sacrifice style just because you can't fit a large sofa. Between the three designs, there is a range of sofa trends, colors, and materials to choose from. The Edie and Mini Margot are available now on the Schplendid site, with the Humphry available from mid-January. If you want to know a little more about the Schplendid sofa brand, we just did a comprehensive review of our favorite sofas from them, too.

4. ORIGINAL BTC Launches the Blossom Linear Portable At Decorex

I've said it once; I'll say it a million times again: every home needs a varied mix of good lighting. This means a truly layered lighting scheme complete with table lamps, sconces, task lighting, and possibly even a few portable lamps for a bit of ambiance. Especially when it's a portable lamp as stylish as the Original BTC’s new Blossom Linear lamp, which officially launched at Decorex.

The Blossom Linear Portable Light combines a sculptural bone china shade with the flexibility of a rechargeable design. It has an almost Art Deco look with its elongated shade, gentle curves, and fine linear detailing, and was inspired by the delicate form of plum blossom. It's definitely not a piece you'd immediately guess was a portable lamp.

I'm imagining this warm, inviting glow across dining tables, bedside corners, and reading nooks. Where would you style it?

5. Ruggable Easy Care Wool Collection

Honestly, Ruggable is always dropping a new and noteworthy launch or designer rug collaboration, but this month, the brand really caught my attention. Since releasing its all-in-one washable design, Ruggable has slowly been improving and reinventing that design. First it was the performance weave Jute rug, and now, well, the brand is introducing the Easy Care Wool rug — its first collection crafted from natural fibers.

As natural materials and tactile textures continue to shape interior design trends, Easy Care Wool embraces a nature-inspired palette of warm taupe, deep teal, earthy rust, soft oyster, creamy ecru and organic olive, alongside rich textures and considered detailing. Lauren Sherman, chief marketing officer at Ruggable, says, "We spend a lot of time listening to our consumers and understanding what they want from their homes, and natural materials were an important opportunity for us."

6. MG&Co. Introduces Its New Lighting Collection

If you love a thoughtful detail in your interior, then it's worth keeping one eye on what MG&Co. is up to. From whimsical cabinet pulls to very cool matchbox holders, the brand has mastered how to make the mundane more fun. And this October, the London-based homewares brand introduces a new lighting collection, bringing its playful approach to color, material and everyday design to a series of porcelain and lacquered metal lights.

At the heart of the collection is a study in contrast: the soft, warm glow of light through raw, textured porcelain, set against glossy lacquered metal. The collection spans pendants, spotlights, flush lights, and table lamps with both calm, understated and bold, expressive colors to choose from — think sky blue, olive, and cherry, alongside cream and pistachio tones.

7. Albany's New Professional Paint Range

Planning a full renovation or refresh? Looking to get a new color on the walls this season? We all have our paint brands we know and love, but in the way of exciting newness, Albany has announced the launch of its new and improved professional paint range – now available in store at Brewers Decorator Centers.

Basically, it's the same trusted brand you know but with a new look and improved performance, and the range has been reformulated to deliver even greater quality, improved opacity, enhanced color accuracy and increased coverage. Sounds like all the things you need to avoid any painting mistakes, no?

The most interesting part to me, however, was that 64 decorators from across the UK tested the products in real-world decorating environments, scoring them against performance criteria like application, coverage, and finish. Feedback like 'Easily the best I've tried', 'Went on as expected. Second coat not needed. Covers well', etc., helped identify the products in the new Albany range.

Alongside the reformulated paint range, Albany has also refreshed its color card with the Albany Design Collection — a carefully selected palette of 128 shades. So, it's safe to say your next paint job is covered.

8. Christy's Autumn/Winter Bedding Collection

If you are looking to swap your bed linens for something that feels a little bit more autumnal (but still just as serene as you'd want your bed space), then meet Fig, the rich new shade of Christy's Autumn/Winter 2026 bedding collection.

This shade is available in soft sateen, quilted coverlets, rich velvet cushions, and coordinating throws. So no matter what your bed is missing, you can create a layered, sophisticated bedroom for the new season.

9. Studio Hagen Hall Launches Furniture

I recently discovered the architecture and interior design practice, Studio Hagen Hall, just in time to catch that they will be launching their debut furniture release at the end of October — lucky us!

As of now, the launch is a singular (but incredible) coffee table. However, don't worry, this will be the first release in an ongoing series of pieces born from their bespoke approach to interiors projects.

Titled SHH-001, the sculptural coffee table captures the studio's design philosophy in a standalone piece — the ethos that furniture design should be approached with the same care as architecture and interiors. The table originated as a one-off coffee table for a modernist house refurbishment in Hampstead, designed as a solution to sit alongside an in-built corner sofa.

Now it's a piece you can bring into your own space.

10. Victoria Beckham x Westwing Tableware Collection

If you've been keeping up with designer launches and homeware releases at all, then you have probably caught wind of the Westwing x Victoria Beckham collaboration. There isn't much the former Spice Girl can do without gaining global attention. And, I must admit, the collection is very elegant.

Inspired by the 19th-century Arts and Crafts design movement (as well as her fashion brand's ready-to-wear collection), you can expect hammered metal finishes, rippled glass, and white embroidered linens. Frankly, it's mostly neutral pieces, but they are the kind of pieces that will remain timeless and that you can still pair with a range of schemes throughout the years.

Plus, it's time to get those holiday table setting plans in order!

Well, I simply can't believe that October has come and gone. I guess that means it's officially time to start decking the halls with all the best holiday and Christmas decorating ideas. And, of course, we are here to help.

Until next month, be sure to subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter to stay up on the latest and greatest in design.

For the most surprising micro design trend right now, step forward the ‘uncomfortable’ chair. After years of almost every conversation we’ve had with designers focusing on choosing shapes and textures that people can hunker down into, the sculptural seat is the antithesis of that, and forms part of the wider 'discomfort' trend we're seeing in interiors today. It’s brought in not because it’s a seat to linger on but because it shifts the mood and feel of an entire space, where almost everything else has been selected to be easier on the eye (and bottom).

"I think of chairs as an expression, an accent point, something that can be a focus or a way to draw the eye," says designer Anahita Rigby, who was the first person to draw my attention to this idea. "There is a real beauty in a chair when it’s dysfunctional, in that it’s not really made to be sat on, and instead has a sculptural form that has been perhaps designed with rigor by an architect. I’m obviously not talking about every seat in a space being uninviting to sit on, but every home needs at least one uncomfortable chair to elevate it, make it seem more refined."

Designers understand that when you walk into a room with an uncomfortable chair, you’re more likely to throw your shoulders back, be party-ready, and feel like a more fabulous version of yourself. "The uncomfortable chair I added to my living room definitely makes the space feel more considered, balancing the softer energy it already had to seem more dynamic," says Sarah Stemp, co-founder of Sascal Studio.

They’re perhaps best used in spaces not designed for lounging — no one is yet placing them in front of the TV. "Uncomfortable chairs can pop up in various parts of the house," says Anahita. "It could be in the corner of a hallway, a space you actually don’t want people to linger in but to pass through to the more comfortable living areas. It could be near a bookshelf as a piece of art, a suggestion of a reading corner, though you know someone is more likely to take a book off a shelf and onto the sofa. It could even be as a dining chair in an informal dining room, because what these pieces of art do is change someone’s mood and behavior. You walk into a room that has an unexpectedly artistic piece of furniture in it, and you stand up a bit straighter; you act a little smarter. It’s fascinating to see."

The 'Uncomfortable Chair' Edit

They’re what decorator Simone Haag calls a ‘collar flick’ moment. "Putting a room together is a bit like choosing an outfit," she explains. "Having a little confidence to roll the cuff or flick the collar is a nuance that makes all the difference, and the framework for a room is just about the same. Add a little unexpected moment and the energy of the space shifts."

For more inspiration for your home, why not sign up to the Livingetc newsletter.

Lighting is having a more expressive moment this year. The latest trends make room for sculptural shapes, fluid forms, and softer, more atmospheric light, so a lamp can bring personality to a room even when it’s switched off. I think of them as an evening character of a living room — one might draw you toward a book, while another gives a dark corner a little warmth.

When it comes to a living room lighting scheme, you might ask yourself, 'How many lamps does a living room actually need?' It's a question I get asked all the time as a stylist. And while there’s no magic number, I’d start with two lamps in most living rooms, then add another if the space is large, open-plan, or divided into different zones.

That’s alongside a ceiling light, if you have one. The point isn’t to go out and buy lighting to fill a room with lamps unnecessarily — it’s to create enough separate pools of light that you can turn off the big light and still feel comfortable, whether you’re reading, watching a movie, or having people over. Here's what I tell my clients.

How Many Lamps Does a Living Room Need?

Two is my comfortable starting point for most living rooms. In a smaller space with a good ceiling light, one table lamp and one floor lamp may be plenty — a larger room, or one that includes a reading corner or separate TV area, could use three or more. I’d rather have a few lights doing different jobs than a collection of lamps all switched on at once with nowhere in particular to take the eye.

This is where I’d think about the room’s layout as much as its square footage. If your sofa and armchair sit in separate corners, for example, a lamp near each can make the seating feel connected without making the room look too symmetrical.

And if you already have a favorite table lamp, you don’t have to buy its twin — a floor lamp with a different silhouette can make the arrangement feel more relaxed and personal.

Where Should I Put Them, and What Should Each Lamp Do?

I’d start with where you spend time. A table lamp near the sofa can make evenings feel softer than relying on an overhead fitting, while a floor lamp beside an armchair gives you useful light for reading. A lamp on a console or sideboard can brighten a dim stretch of wall and make a display of books, art, or objects feel elevated. The best placement is usually the one that answers a small, everyday question — where do I need light, and what do I want this corner to feel like?

It also helps to spread light around the room and vary its height, rather than concentrating everything in the center. Emma Deterding, founder and creative director of Kelling Designs and KDLoves, advises planning lighting around how people will use the space, including whether it needs to work for reading or a desk area. "When it comes to the living room, your lighting is a crucial part of the overall design scheme and should be planned at the beginning of the design process," she advises.

That’s a useful reminder to think about outlets and switches early, too, especially if you’re planning a renovation. If you’re working with what’s already there, plug-in table and floor lamps can still give you that layered lighting effect.

What Should I Look for When Shopping for Lamps?

I’d look for a mix of practical and decorative pieces, and check that each one adds something the others don’t. A simple lamp with a fabric shade might give you a lovely soft glow; a sculptural base on a sideboard can act more like an object; and an adjustable floor lamp can put focused light right where you need it. Suzanne Duin, founder of lighting brand Maison Maison⁠, makes the case for combining ambient, task, and accent lighting — a helpful way to choose lamps by the job they’ll do, rather than by how many you think you should own.

"Whether you are designing a warm and relaxing space for the evenings, carving out a nook bright enough for reading, or working from home, the key is to balance these layers of lighting to help bring a room to life and emphasize different aspects of a scheme for different purposes," says Suzanne.

Scale matters, but I wouldn’t let measurements take all the fun out of it. A larger lamp can bring welcome presence to a generous side table, while a petite one might feel just right on a narrow console. Before you buy, check the lamp’s height, the light's reach, and whether its bulb and dimmer are compatible — then think about its color, material, and shape alongside the pieces you already own.

If you're looking for ways to tweak your living room lighting to make it feel warmer, these designer-approved tips will help you create a space that feels snug while looking elevated, too.

And if you'd like some help selecting pieces that work specifically for your space, explore our design services at Design Lab by Livingetc⁠.

For more ideas and inspiration delivered straight to your inbox, subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter⁠.

It's hard to say exactly when it started, but over the past few years, we've developed a rather fascinating relationship with butter. Of course, butter is far from a new addition to the dinner table. But while it was once simply a necessary accompaniment to a bread roll, nowadays, it has become something different entirely.

Butter is no longer simply an essential; it's a luxury, and we're displaying it as such. Don't believe me? Just take a look at the elegant, shell-shaped Isla Stainless Steel Butter Dish at Westwing, designed by none other than Victoria Beckham. A surprising star product from her recent collaboration with Westwing, the delicate design turns a simple curl of butter into the cherry on top of your tablescape — and if Posh is pro-butter dish, then so are we.

The rise of the butter dish has not come from nowhere, though. There's been a few years of this growing butter-based phenomenon, and there's hardly a food stylist out there that hasn't created some kind of weird and wonderful display from the stuff. Perhaps nothing expresses this obsession better than the highly photographed piles of whipped butter that sit proud on the counters at Copenhagen's Atelier September. The snow-white peaks of cloud-like spread have become as popular a tourist attraction as the colorful houses lining the canals. But it's not only these butter mountains that have done the rounds on social media; we've seen butter candles burning bright, butter platters decorated with edible flowers, and delicate vintage butter molds, too.

But as beautiful as these displays are, they aren't exactly the most compatible with the average day-to-day routine. And this is where the butter dish comes in. It's an easy way of elevating the everyday, and this is what designer Henry Holland loves about them: "It's something that sits on your kitchen counter or dining table every day, so why shouldn't it be something you really love looking at?"

And it's not just the designers that are loving them; these once old-fashioned items have become the object of desire for many a Gen Z and millennial. So whether you're looking for a way to take your dinner parties to the next level, or you simply want to add a little bit more joy to your morning slice of toast, a butter dish is the kitchen item we all need right now.

As the cost of living increases and true luxuries become increasingly inaccessible to the masses, we've been seeing a growing interest in embracing life's little luxuries, and that's exactly what this trend offers.

"I've always loved the idea of taking something we use every day and making it feel special," explains Henry, who just recently added a very stylish butter dish design to his collection of homewares. For him, this design signified an attitude of appreciation for the small things, finding ways to elevate everyday rituals into something that feels that little bit more special.

This is something Henry has noticed more generally in our attitudes towards interior design trends nowadays. "I think there's been a real shift in the way people think about their homes and the objects they surround themselves with," he says. People are finding the beauty in the mundane, appreciating the luxury of domesticity: "There's something quite lovely about the ritual of setting a table properly, even if it's just for breakfast on a Tuesday morning."

This item also reflects the growing appetite for the past, as shown through the countless nostalgic decorating trends we've seen popping up as of late. There's something pleasingly old-fashioned about the idea of a butter dish, like something you'd find in your grandparents' home. This was also part of their appeal for Henry, who says, "I also love the slightly nostalgic, almost old-fashioned nature of a butter dish and the idea of reinterpreting that in a way that feels contemporary, playful, and a little bit sculptural."

This idea of playfulism is also essential to this design's appeal. "Younger generations are having a lot more fun with their interiors and are less concerned with everything matching or following a particular set of rules," says Henry. "A butter dish is a relatively small way to inject a bit of personality into your home, and I'm all for anything that makes the mundane feel a little more joyful."

For much of the younger generation, our experience of adulthood feels so removed from the kind of lives our parents and grandparents were able to live at our age, so finding little ways to feel a bit more grown-up, as though you really have your life together, has become all the more appealing. Sure, you may not be able to own property, but at least you have a butter dish, and doesn't that have to count for something?

The right butter dish can add a little personality to your breakfast or dining table, but if you want to take it to the next level, these food stylists have turned displaying your favorite spread into an art form.

"I love treating butter as a little sculpture rather than just something to serve with bread," creative director and food stylist Clara Santa Isabel tells me. In one installation, Clara constructed a wall of butter, decorated with engravings of the brand's name. In another, bowls of fluffy whipped butter sit beside delicate pastries, braided in the shape of knives and forks. "It's such a versatile and malleable ingredient, which makes it perfect for experimenting with shapes, textures, and compositions. From geometric blocks to organic forms."

To Clara, the familiarity and accessibility of butter is exactly what makes it such a good subject. "It's a basic ingredient that almost everyone knows and can relate to, and there's something really interesting about giving it a completely new perspective," she says.

And of course, the dish is essential to the display. "I think the dish should be part of the composition, not just a container," she says. But this doesn't have to be limited to the traditional butter dish: "I love playing with the relationship between the butter and the object holding it, whether that's a beautiful vintage silver dish or tray, a ceramic piece, or something completely unexpected such as fabrics, mirrors, paper, pedestals," says Clara.

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When I first heard about the KitchenAid Luminaire, I'll be honest, I was a touch dubious. I mean, has anyone ever really needed their stand mixer to glow in the dark? It all seemed a bit gimmicky to me. But as soon as I saw it in the flesh, glimmering in all of its glory, I knew I'd be eating my words.

You don't have to be a pro baker to know that KitchenAid is one of the best kitchen appliance brands out there. It's the Rolls-Royce of stand mixers, known for its quality, performance, and longevity; you'd be hard-pressed to find a chef who doesn't swear by one. Renowned for quality, yes, but it's not quality alone that's secured KitchenAid its cult-like following; for many, it's all about that iconic design.

First developed back in 1936, the original KitchenAid was designed by Egmont Arens, designer and editor of Vanity Fair, and little has changed in the 60-plus years since. Of course, there have been tweaks and adjustments along the way, but the core design has remained practically unaltered. So, when KitchenAid introduces something new, we take notice. And this glow-in-the-dark, shimmering mixer was pretty hard to ignore.

In many ways, I was probably the prime target for this product — one of the few things I love more than baking is looking at pretty things, and this piece combines my two loves with ease. But, as I've had to remind myself, all that glitters is not gold, and are good looks alone enough to make this product worth it? I put it to the test to find out.

First Impressions

When I think of my childhood modern kitchen, a bright, cherry-red KitchenAid is one of the first images that springs to mind. It was a fixture in my home, always on display, so I wasn't convinced that a new machine could improve on its iconic appeal. However, as soon as I pulled it out of its box and was met with that softly shimmering blue finish, I was won over.

The brand-new finish, Peppercorn Blue, was described as having a 'velvet-like crinkle finish', a textural contrast to the typical ultra-smooth finish we find on KitchenAids. As such, I expected some sort of dimensionality and tactility to it, and, truthfully, I wasn't expecting to like it much. So it was a shock to me that the finish ended up being one of the things I like the most about this product. What the description doesn't capture is the softly shimmering effect this velvet-like crinkle brings.

But this shimmering blue finish is just the warm-up act for the main event: the glowing LED lights integrated within the machine. This is the real selling point, and it's easy to see why. The classic stainless steel bowl is replaced with a fluted glass design, which, when combined with the integrated bowl light, casts a glorious pattern of shadows and light atop your worktops.

It's a lovely, soft, calming shade of blue, too, and when paired with the glowing bowl and the shimmering finish, it looked to me like what Cinderella's dress might look like as a kitchen appliance — the belle of the ball in stand mixers.

What It's Like To Use

Not one to miss an opportunity to make a mess of my kitchen, I immediately put this beauty of a mixer to good use. In order to get a thorough and accurate view of how it is to use, I made a variety of different bakes, testing all the attachments to see how it fared at each task.

Whether it was whipping up a fluffy cream cheese frosting or saving me the arm workout of kneading my sourdough, the KitchenAid Luminaire made every step an absolute breeze.

My last KitchenAid experience was with a machine that my parents had been gifted for their wedding, so it's safe to say there had been quite a few advancements in the 30 years since then, perhaps most notably with the speed selections. Although I never found myself struggling with the old model's speed setting, which ranged from 1-10 in increments of 2, the new and improved settings you'll find with their Artisan Plus mixers are undeniably impressive.

Not only are there an impressive 11 preset speeds available, but for even more control, a simple twist of the knob allows you to switch over to Precision Speed Control, so you can adjust the speed to suit your needs exactly. There's even a handy half-speed setting, perfect for working with the most delicate batters.

The mixer comes with a classic whisk attachment, flat beater, dough hook, and a clever silicone-wrapped beater that scrapes down the bowl as you go; pretty much everything you could ever need for your stand mixer. If you did want even more from your machine, though, this design is compatible with a wide range of KitchenAid add-ons, including a meat grinder and a pasta maker.

The LED light, one of this design's selling points, doesn't just serve an aesthetic purpose; it also comes in surprisingly handy while you're baking, especially if your kitchen lighting leaves something to be desired. It makes the interior of your bowl far easier to see, allowing you to keep track of the state of your batter with far more ease.

It's speedy, smooth, and powerful, all without feeling remotely intimidating or overwhelming to use.

Is The KitchenAid Luminaire Worth It?

Ok, so now let's get into the nitty-gritty: is the KitchenAid Luminaire worth it?

As you can likely tell, I was very much a fan of this machine, but that isn't to say I thought it was entirely without fault.

My one real gripe with this design actually came down to the beautiful fluted glass bowl. Positioned as the selling point, and the reason behind the beautiful illuminated effect it offers, it's the one feature I wasn't completely sold on. Compared to the stainless steel bowl you'd find with a classic KitchenAid, this bowl was considerably heavier, especially when filled with dough or batter, and it made it feel slightly more precarious than I would've liked.

The original bowls came fitted with a sturdy handle, which made transferring the contents into their respective baking vessel relatively easy, but without the grip offered by a handle, I found myself feeling slightly nervous as I attempted to empty the batter from the bowl into the baking tin. There are two lips on either side, which are easy enough to hold on to, but because this large bowl has such a considerable weight to it, it's not really a one-handed task.

There was also something quite nice about the seemingly indestructible nature of a metal bowl, and although I didn't run into any problems, I did find myself feeling slightly nervous about the relative fragility of this fluted glass design.

Despite this, I must admit that the glass design did have its benefits too. Of course, the magnificent patterns of light it cast along my kitchen worktops were the obvious one, but I also enjoyed the fact that I could see exactly what was going on with my batter at any point, and could keep a close eye on any patches that had not been properly incorporated yet.

Finally, to address the elephant in the room, yes, this machine is expensive. At £899, there's no pretending this is a budget purchase. It's a luxury item, and it carries a luxury price tag. But whether or not this machine is worth the cost really comes down to what you're looking for.

It's important to note that the classic Artisan Plus design, which offers all the same features except for the fluted glass bowl and sparkling blue finish, is considerably less expensive, at £699. So, if you're mainly concerned about performance, I would probably suggest sticking to that. However, if you're looking for a complete showstopper design that you'd feel proud to have on full display in your kitchen, it may be worth splashing the extra cash and opting for the gorgeous KitchenAid Luminaire.

After years of trying to keep all our appliances as hidden from view as possible, perhaps the next kitchen appliance trend is all about moving in the opposite direction and embracing hyper-aesthetic appliances that demand to be displayed.

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Hi again Louise,

Inspired by your brief, I’ve focused on pieces that feel as though they could have been collected over time, instead of anything too polished or overly new. With your dusty mauve walls, dark green sofas and walnut furniture, I think aged brass, burgundy ceramic and warmer antique finishes will sit beautifully against the deeper autumnal palette.

Because this is a darker corner without nearby sockets, I’ve included both candle sconces and a rechargeable wall light. The candle options are more decorative and atmospheric, while the rechargeable fitting gives you a proper pool of light without needing to run new electrics.

Hi Nadia,

Inspired by your brief, I’ve focused on floor planters with enough height and presence to sit comfortably next to your fridge, while keeping the opening close to the 34cm diameter you need. Because this will be quite a visible piece in the kitchen/dining area, I curated planters that are decorative in their own instead of purely functional. The three options take slightly different approaches — one cleaner and more architectural, one darker and more sculptural, and one with a little more personality.

Stylist Note:
For your space, I’d personally lean towards the Palma if you want the most balanced option overall. Its proportions are very close to what you asked for, and the taller shape should work really well beside the fridge without overwhelming the area. If you’d prefer something with a bit more drama, the graphite planter gives you a stronger Art Deco feel, while the LSA option is the one I’d choose if you want the planter itself to become more of a design feature.

Thank you so much for sending through the extra photos, I can really get a sense of how your room flows and feels now, which is such a pleasure as a designer.

Now that I’ve had a proper look at your space, it’s clear why the rug is such a pivotal piece for you. There’s so much charm and personality coming through — from the Sap Green walls to the dark timber floors, and that lovely mix of antique, vintage and modern pieces. Because the room stretches out, it does naturally feel like two distinct zones.

With that in mind, I’ve curated rug options that do much more than just fill the floor. Each one is chosen to visually pull the room together and add a more contemporary layer. My aim is to keep the inviting warmth and easy character you already have, while giving everything a soft refresh. I’ve deliberately looked at lighter grounds, subtle borders and linear patterns, as these will help lift the darker flooring and give the room a clearer sense of structure. I’ve also kept your preferred size in mind, and where the options are closer to 200 x 300cm, I’d position them so the front legs of the seating sit on the rug, making the arrangement feel more connected.

You’ll see a few different directions in the edit but each one is chosen to help create the foundation you mentioned and, hopefully, make the rest of your room feel truly finished.

An armchair has a funny way of becoming everyone’s favorite seat — or the one that looks lovely in the corner but somehow never gets sat in. That’s why I wanted to try a selection of John Lewis armchairs⁠ in person, from playful bouclé shapes to more classic, sink-in styles. A photo can tell you whether a chair will work with your scheme — it can’t tell you if the seat is firm, the back supportive, or the arms comfortable enough to rest on.

I spent time sitting in chairs, paying attention to those small but very real differences — seat height and depth, how much support the back gives you, whether you can curl up with a book, and if the cushions need constant plumping. As an interior stylist for Design Lab by Livingetc, I’m always looking at the details as well as the overall shape — the texture of a fabric, the finish on a frame, or the bit of design that makes a chair feel special. If you’ve read our reviews of John Lewis' sofas, you’ll know I like to see how a piece looks and feels beyond the product photos.

I chose a handful of John Lewis armchairs I could find in store and imagine in a Livingetc reader’s home — pieces with a little personality, as well as practical appeal. These are my honest impressions from trying them myself, and there’s no commercial relationship to disclose beyond the fact that John Lewis may pay us a commission if you buy through a link in this article.

Of course, an accent chair⁠ has to earn its place visually, too. Some of the chairs I tried are made for long reading sessions — others feel more like conversation pieces, bringing a bit of personality to an empty corner. I’ve shared what stood out to me, what I found comfortable, and the little compromises worth knowing about before you choose one.

Pillow Lounge Armchair

The shape was what caught my eye first. I like the contrast between the exposed metal frame and the generous cushions that wrap around it, especially the bulky arms — it feels more interesting than a standard occasional chair. The seat height felt familiar to me, and at 175cm I could sit back with my feet comfortably on the floor. John Lewis lists the seat height as 42cm.

The seat itself is firm, and you sit on it rather than sinking in. The back feels a little softer, but still supportive, so the overall impression is quite upright. The deep seat gives you room to curl up with a book, but I wouldn’t choose it as my go-to chair for properly lounging. The arm cushions are lovely and soft to squeeze, though they may need a little plumping after you’ve been leaning on them. The green fabric feels soft, and the chair feels stable. For me, it would make a stylish conversation chair in a living room — a distinctive shape that looks inviting, even if the seat is firmer than its name suggests.

John Lewis customers currently rate it 4.2 out of 5, based on five reviews. That’s only a handful of opinions, but it’s a positive first impression from the people who’ve bought it.

Elephant Armchair

The name makes sense as soon as you see it — this chair has a rounded, almost elephant-like shape, with generous arms that seem to hug the seat. It’s playful and a little unexpected, which is what caught my eye. The Natural Bouclé has a pronounced looped texture, and the chair feels firm and steady without being difficult to move.

You sit more on top of the seat than sink into it. The seat feels low and firm, while the back is also quite firm; the arms, by contrast, are comfortable and sit at a natural height. At 175cm, I could sit back with my feet on the floor, but I wouldn’t choose this for curling up or stretching out with a book. It feels better suited to sitting upright and chatting. I’d add a small cushion for extra back support, but the seat itself feels stable and doesn’t need plumping. For me, this is an accent chair that brings a playful shape into a room — and one I’d use to create a conversation spot rather than a lounging corner.

John Lewis currently lists five customer reviews, with an average rating of five stars. It’s a lovely early endorsement, even if it’s still based on a small number of buyers' experiences.

Piro Swivel Armchair

The first thing I noticed was the swivel — and, once I sat down, I couldn’t stop turning. It’s a surprisingly fun detail, even if this chair doesn’t spin effortlessly; the base feels solid, and it takes a little push to get moving. The low, rounded shape has a contemporary, understated look, and the cream bouclé brings plenty of texture. In person, though, I could already see how easily marks show on the pale fabric, and how the loops could become disturbed with wear.

The seat felt medium to me, but the chair is low enough that I found myself sinking back rather than sitting upright. The extra cushion is comfortable, but I wanted more support behind me from this swivel accent chair. The arms are quite firm, too, so they’re not the softest place to rest your elbows. My only hesitation is that the chair looks more inviting to lounge in than it feels in practice. I’d choose it for its sculptural shape and tactile finish — and for the pleasure of swiveling — rather than for long, supported reading sessions.

John Lewis currently shows a five-star average from five customer reviews. That’s a small sample, so I’d treat it as a snapshot rather than a clear consensus.

Hoxton Armchair

The Hoxton was one of the first chairs I wanted to try. The tubular chrome frame gives it a little 1970s character, while the chocolate chenille softens the look and feels lovely to touch. It has the presence of an accent piece — the sort of chair that could start a conversation before anyone has even sat down.

I expected the rounded back cushion to be more of a design detail than a comfortable one, but it sits in just the right place to support my lower back. I’d describe the seat as medium to firm; John Lewis calls it firm, and I can see why, as you sit upright rather than sink in. You can stretch out a little, but the upper back isn’t supported, so I wouldn’t choose it for reading or a long lounge. The slim tubular arms look elegant, though they’re not the most comfortable for resting your arms. The chair feels light and easy to move, giving it a less grounded feel than a heavier design. Despite its delicate-looking frame, though, it felt reassuringly steady when I gave it a gentle wobble test.

So far, the Hoxton has earned five stars from 11 customer reviews, with shoppers describing it as "stylish and a beautiful statement armchair".

Falmouth Armchair

The Falmouth has a more traditional feel than the other chairs I tried, but the navy color gives it a little more presence. The moment I sat down, I noticed how different it felt — this was the softest chair I’d tried at John Lewis that day. You really sink into it, and the wide, deep seat makes it easy to settle back. The cushion behind you feels supportive, while the soft arms are comfortable to rest against. Its loose cover and oversized French seams add to that relaxed, slightly undone look.

My only thought is how much tidying it needs. The cushions are so soft that they don’t spring back into shape after you get up, so you’ll need to plump and straighten them regularly if you like your chair to look neat. If you’re happy with a more relaxed, lived-in feel, that softness is also the Falmouth’s great appeal.

Eva Armchair

The Eva was one of the chairs I was most curious to try. Its upholstery looked wonderfully soft, and the curved shape has that lovely mix of old-world character and something more contemporary. Sitting in it, I found the seat medium to firm — you stay supported rather than sinking in, and the low seat encourages a more upright perch. The back is fixed, which helps it keep its neat, finished look without needing much fuss.

The detail that makes the chair interesting is also where it gives up a little comfort. The oak capping along the arms frames the shape beautifully, but it’s hard under your elbows, so it isn’t somewhere I’d settle in for a long reading session. With its generous proportions and substantial feel, the Eva is better suited to conversation than curling up or lounging. It has enough presence to hold its own in a room, though; the velvet-like upholstery adds softness and polish, while the wood keeps the look from feeling too formal.

Plank Armchair

The Plank was one of those chairs I wanted to try as soon as I saw it. Its shape feels distinctive, with the exposed oak frame bringing a strong, linear note to the design and the upholstered seat and arms softening it. The natural chenille is lovely to touch, and the padded arms are comfortable to rest on. I found the seat medium in firmness — supportive enough to feel settled, without feeling too rigid.

This is a low, deep chair, so it encourages you to curl up rather than sit bolt upright. There’s plenty of room to settle in with a book, and I can imagine it working beautifully in a reading corner. The back feels supportive, although I’d add a cushion if you prefer something softer behind you. John Lewis also gives the Plank a medium comfort rating, which felt in line with my experience — its structured cushions are designed to hold their shape and need less plumping. It currently has a five-star average from six customer reviews — a promising response, even if it’s still a small sample.

The right armchair can do more than fill an empty corner — it can become your favorite place to read, unwind, or take a little break from everyone else. If you’re still looking for the one that feels right for your space, Design Lab by Livingetc⁠ can help you find pieces that work with your room and your style.

And for more ideas to bring home, sign up for the Livingetc newsletter⁠ — your next favorite chair might be waiting in your inbox.

If you're looking to invest in a sofa right now, Schplendid is a British brand worth knowing. Heard of them already? Great, but if not, it might be because this sofa brand is, at the time of writing, only a year old. However, its founder, Rohan Blacker, is also the brain behind brands including Pooky and sofa.com, so I might suggest you're in good hands on that front.

Schplendid's major selling points? We're talking all-natural fabrics and fillings, eight-way hand-tied springs (a traditional craft I have a real soft spot for), and thoughtful construction. But when it comes to buying a new sofa, you want to be satisfied with the 'sit' of it when it arrives at your house, and without making an appointment at Schplendid's London office to test them for yourself, you might be nervous to invest.

That's where I come in. I headed across London to the brand's riverside showroom, where I met with managing director and co-founder George Williams to get into its sofa ‘ingredients’, but also sat on and edited down to my favorites, the brand's already quite extensive seating offering. From frame construction to natural upholstery, George walked me through the details most people wouldn't think to ask about. Having spent years working with furniture myself, I know how much these seemingly invisible elements matter when choosing a sofa.

But really, I'm here to offer my guidance on which of these sofas might work best for you. This article and this testing process have no commercial relation to the brand, other than that if you happen to buy a sofa from one of our links, we'll receive a small cut. These sofas are all quality, but when it comes to buying one, you need to find the one that suits your own preferences. So, here's how I rated them.

What's Underneath a Schplendid Sofa?

Schplendid uses eight-way hand-tied coil springs, a suspension method that, instead of relying on the simpler zig-zag spring systems (very often) found in contemporary sofas, ties each coil in eight directions to form an interconnected foundation. Of course, the proof is in the sit, and what interested me most was how differently the sofas responded, depending on cushioning and proportions.

Schplendid offers a 50-day return period, which George explained also applies to made-to-order sofas. A sofa is a really personal purchase, especially when you're customizing it, so that's a pretty reassuring offer.

Albion

Schplendid's Albion is the kind of sofa that draws you to sit. This silhouette is soft without looking sloppy or somewhat casual. In the showroom, it was upholstered in Schplendid's new Marmalade Mohair — a bold choice that I really responded to in person.

The mohair, sourced from South Africa and woven in Belgium with a cotton backing, comes in 6mm pile and is wonderfully tactile. The depth gives the upholstery a richness that shifts as the light catches it. For me, this is when a piece starts to speak my language. Fabric isn't just a finishing touch. It can completely transform a sofa's character, and it's one of the details that make a sofa look more expensive, from how the piping reads to how sculptural or relaxed the silhouette looks.

I appreciate that the upholstery wraps around the sofa, including the backs of the cushions and on the internal support structure beneath the seat bench. That kind of detail makes a piece feel properly finished from every angle, especially if you want to float it in the middle of a room. The single bench cushion creates that clean, continuous seat, without the uncomfortable gap between two cushions. It's also reversible, which is always a practical advantage. Turning a cushion helps distribute everyday wear, so one side isn't doing all the work. As a stylist who is an expert in fluffing sofas, less maintenance is always favorable.

On top of that, the Albion’s firm, angled back lets you relax without fussing with loose cushions. Almost all their sofas' back seats are 80% goose and 20% feather. As someone on the shorter side, I needed an extra cushion behind me to sit upright comfortably — something to keep in mind if you like your feet on the floor and don't want to perch on the edge. While this makes the Albion great for lounging and for those on the taller end of the spectrum than me, it does mean the sofa is a bit deeper than it first appears. In a smaller living room, especially if you want to push it up against a wall, pay close attention to the measurements.

Personally, I think this sofa deserves some breathing room. If you have the space, try floating it away from the wall. Its shape is too lovely to tuck into a corner simply.

Lenny

Continuing with Schplendid's fabulous new mohair velvet collection, the Lenny was upholstered in the color Heather, and I honestly couldn't get enough of how sweet it looked. I immediately imagined it in an elegant interior, surrounded by burgundies, powder blues, and perhaps a few antique pieces. The mohair has such beautiful richness, and I especially love how the piping traces the sofa's silhouette. Even the skirt feels beautifully tailored, with the velvet falling into soft, deliberate folds around the base. It's exactly the kind of decorative detail we're seeing more of in this year's sofa trends, and the Lenny wears it beautifully.

I deliberately sat down for a photograph because I wanted you to see how the feather-filled cushions actually behave when someone's sitting on them. And there's a definite ooh moment when you settle in. The filling is generously packed, so the cushions hold their shape and provide plenty of support, but they still feel soft as they give beneath you. I felt particularly well supported through my back. The seating has a slight angle, which gives it a relaxed feel, although compared with the Albion, the Lenny has a slightly shorter back and a more cushioned, tailored appearance.

Schplendid upholsters both sides of every cushion seat — even the ones you’re not supposed to see. I love this. It means you can flip them whenever you want, so you don’t end up with one side faded and tired while the other stays pristine. If you spill something (and let’s be honest, it happens), you have options. Just always check the care label before you go wild with the cleaning products.

As much as I adored the Heather mohair, I could also picture the Lenny in a heavier linen. The skirt would take on a more relaxed, a little rumpled character, whereas the velvet gives every fold and seam a more deliberate, dressed-up finish. It's a lovely example of how the same sofa can have two completely different personalities depending on what you choose to wrap it in.

Edie

Schplendid clearly listens to feedback, and its newly designed Edie stole the show for me. Designed for small-space living, it delivers comfort and plenty of character without taking up too much space. They've even considered narrow hallways (a very real London delivery issue, and one that doesn't get nearly enough attention when we're shopping for compact sofas).

The skirted sofa isn't new, but I love what Schplendid has done with the Edie. The classic dressmaker detailing, tailored box pleats, and curved camelback give it the character of a piece collected over time. I'd happily style this alongside contemporary furniture and vintage finds, perhaps a sculptural coffee table or an antique side table. I think that contrast is what would make the Edie particularly interesting in a modern living room.

Despite its tailored look, Edie isn’t stiff or formal. The integrated sprung seat has bounce and plenty of support, and the two bolster cushions are a thoughtful touch. Both George and I (very different heights) found it comfortable. No loose seat cushions means no endless plumping — just sit, get up, and it still looks fabulous. George also explained that feedback on Schplendid's earlier sofas highlighted how angled backs could leave awkward gaps between the sofa and the wall. With the Edie, they've addressed that by introducing a straighter, wall-hugging back. It's a practical improvement, especially for smaller living rooms where every centimetre matters.

The Edie is now available, with prices starting at £2,300. It's worth noting that it’s not currently available in the new mohair velvet, but having seen it in linen, I wouldn't necessarily want to change that. The fabric works with the tailoring and gives those box pleats the definition they deserve. For me, this design is serious proof that a smaller sofa doesn't have to look or feel like a compromise.

Wee Bonnie

The Wee Bonnie is a classic, lounge-worthy sofa that could fit into almost any home. Its relaxed appeal invites you to stay a little longer and makes your sitting area an even warmer, more welcoming retreat. Inspired by the cloud sofa (think slouchy, ultra-plush modular design), the Wee Bonnie has a distinct personality. Having both sat on and sold the cloud, I can say the Wee Bonnie’s feather-filled cushions are noticeably denser. They’re soft but not floppy, with a nice weight. While there's plenty of softness to sink into, Schplendid's traditional construction, including its coconut fibre padding, adds a more substantial, grounded feel.

At 100cm deep, this is definitely a sofa you sink into, and I certainly did. Being on the shorter side, I appreciated that despite the generous depth, my feet could still comfortably reach the floor. That said, I'd personally add a couple of cushions behind my back when sitting upright. For curling up with your feet on the sofa, however, the depth is ideal. If 100cm isn't quite deep enough for you, Schplendid has also designed the Big Bonnie, with a deeper seat at 115cm and 6cm-wide square arms. Personally, I'd reserve this one for a larger living room, where you can really make the most of those proportions without overwhelming the space.

All that softness comes with the need for regular plumping. Feather-filled cushions naturally compress and shift with use, so you won't get that perfectly structured sit every time. I personally don't see that as a flaw — it's part of the appeal. But if constant cushion plumping isn't for you, it's worth exploring more structured alternatives before committing.

Vesper

How gorgeous is the Vesper in Pinot cotton velvet? Honestly, this sofa is pure temptation. Maybe it’s the rich, winey color, or the way those high sides make you feel a little glamorous just looking at it. And that beautifully tailored skirt? Chef’s kiss. It’s a modern twist on a classic, but with a real sense of attitude. Schplendid describes it as the sofa that would pour you a Negroni and dim the lights.

Originally, it featured tall, slender arms that enclosed the sitter, with a slightly angled back that gave it a wonderfully enclosed silhouette. But George explained that customer feedback revealed a practical drawback: those beautiful high arms could restrict your peripheral view when sitting back. So, Schplendid tweaked the design, lowering the arms into a gentler slope and reducing the arm cushion size. You can see the evolution in the third image. It's a thoughtful adjustment that makes the sofa more practical without losing its distinctive character.

Now, I’ve actually sat in this, and I can tell you, ‘cocooning’ doesn’t even start to cover it. If I almost disappeared into the Wee Bonnie, the Vesper armchair took cocooning to another level. The seat is deep and bouncy, and once you park yourself, you’re not getting up anytime soon. That’s due to the supportive sprung coil base and 80% goose down, 20% feather dense cushions. Ideal for a cinema room, or for those never-ending, but equally beautiful, living room days when you want the sofa to make a statement without losing comfort.

What’s really charming is the skirt. It takes what could be a statement piece and gives it a soft, almost romantic edge. There’s a hint of old-school charm, like it would look totally at ease next to a distressed leather armchair or an ornate antique. But in Pinot velvet? Somehow, it still fits right into a modern space. It's a bold sofa, yes, but one of those pieces you could design an entire room around.

Margot

The Margot is a quite similar sitting experience to the Vesper, but with a noticeably more compact frame, making it especially appealing for smaller living spaces. As George explained, “We recognise that people living in smaller spaces deserve the same comfort and beautiful design, and we wanted to accommodate that.” That's exactly what they've done with the Edie, too, which was designed with smaller city homes in mind.

The lower arms and back give the Margot a lighter silhouette, while the less angled back means you can nestle it right up against a wall without wasting valuable floor space. The tailored skirt remains, bringing that lovely softness and subtle traditional character to an otherwise streamlined design.

In the showroom, the Margot was upholstered in Dry Martini velvet, a shade that's difficult not to fall for. Understated, yes, but certainly not boring. I’m imagining it paired with blush pink, deep burgundy and rich, dark woods. Burled wood, perhaps?

Having tested the sofas, seen the construction up close and spoken with George, I came away impressed by Schplendid's approach. The sofas are comfortable, each offering a different sitting experience, but what stands out to me is the thought behind how they're made and how they'll hold up over time.

There are practical considerations, too. Schplendid's sofas can be made to come apart for delivery where narrow hallways or awkward access might otherwise be an issue. Add to that its 50-day free returns policy and warranty, and there's a reassuring level of consideration for what happens after you've placed your order. These aren't necessarily designs chasing the next trend. They're familiar silhouettes that have been refined through experience and customer feedback, with enough versatility to work in different homes as tastes evolve.

After eight years working with furniture, I know that comfort alone doesn't make a great sofa. Construction, longevity and how a piece adapts to your home matter just as much. Schplendid understands that, and it's why I'd happily put the brand on my shortlist.

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Looking for a new sofa is hard. I know because I've been on the hunt for one myself for longer than I'd care to admit, in what feels like an almost endless research quest — not to mention the inspiration that floods my inbox every day. It's one of the major furniture pieces in a home, so it requires careful consideration, but with so many brands, styles, materials, and colors to choose from, it can feel nearly impossible to know where to start. But, thankfully, I feel I am nearing the end of my sofa-hunting journey.

When scouring the best places to buy a sofa, I landed on Westwing. If you're not familiar with the German brand, it was founded in 2011 by Delia Lalanche, a former editor at ELLE and ELLE Decoration Germany, with four co-founders, originally as a curated "shoppable magazine" of home and living products and the latest trends and stories. It launched its exclusive in-house product brand 'Westwing Collection' in 2018 and opened its first physical store in 2022. Launching in the UK in February 2026, it now operates in 28 European countries, offering premium home decor and furniture from well-known design brands alongside its own collection. And, safe to say, I'm a fan.

I'm also a particular fan of its sofas. The only trouble is that there's not — as yet — a physical store in the UK. So I traveled all the way to Munich to visit its new flagship store and put Westwing's sofa collection to the test. I had a good, proper sit on each sofa, some of which were rather longer 'sits' than I realized...! There's also no commercial relationship to disclose, other than the brand may pay us a commission if you buy one of Westwing's products via a link from this page. These are my honest thoughts on Westwing sofas — the highlights and drawbacks — and the ones that were particularly Livingetc in style.

Melva

The MELVA sofa was the first I tested, and I was immediately enamored — it looks better in real life than in pictures, and it remained my favorite of all the sofas, too. Contemporary and elegant, with soft, rounded edges, it effortlessly blends form and function, feeling as good to lounge in as it is a statement piece in your space — the Westwing representative at the store also shared that she has the MELVA in her own living room and how well it's fared since she bought it.

The chenille fabric on the store's sample felt lovely and soft, and I found it incredibly comfortable. With a wood frame and foam padding, I would describe the sofa as medium-firm — not too firm, but not too soft — though some customers note it's on the firmer/harder side in their reviews; as is the way with these sorts of things, personal opinion will vary when choosing a sofa.

This sofa is perfect for lounging; it has a generous seat depth, with wide armrests that you could pop a small tray on for drinks and snacks, and/or place a bolster cushion on top of the backrest if you plan on positioning it against a wall to add extra height to it for further support. Like many of Westwing's sofa range, the MELVA is also endlessly modular, with shapes and configurations to suit any space, small or large, from compact two-seaters to large corner sofas with matching footstools.

It's also available in a wide range of colors and fabrics — what was great about the store visit was that I could test out the different colors and fabrics and see how they paired with Westwing's cushion collection, too. I've now got my heart set on the MELVA sofa in olive green, available in a woven fabric, so not quite as soft to the touch as the chenille, but still perfectly soft enough.

Tayla

TAYLA was the sofa I went into the store thinking I'd love the most, and while it's absolutely a statement-making design, I personally didn't find it super comfortable. It was quite firm and a little too deep for my liking, and the upholstered bubble elements were very noticeable when sitting on it. For that reason, I wouldn't recommend it for an everyday lounging sofa. But a firm, deep sofa might be exactly what you're looking for; plus, if you want a showstopper design, this definitely ticks the box.

Best suited to contemporary homes, this sculptural sofa, with its modular design, is a style we're seeing pop up a lot in the latest sofa trends — it's all about shape and versatility. And this style offers endless versatility, from single modules to full-blown conversation pits; you can combine them into a wide variety of forms. Available in multiple colors and fabrics, I think the terracotta bouclé option would be particularly striking — but it's a statement piece in and of itself, so any color or fabric would be eye-catching.

It reminds me of Mario Bellini’s Camaleonda sofa — a truly iconic sofa that is defined as much for its adaptability as its aesthetics.

Lennon

The LENNON sample in store was HUGE — but, again, as with most of Westwing's sofas, you can buy single and chaise modules up to XL modular sofa options, which you can add to and reconfigure into almost endless arrangements, including super-size options, if you wish.

This low-slung sofa also features soft, extra-deep seating for that 'sink-in' feel, as well as a tailored shape — the sewn-in foam padding has a pocket-spring core to retain its shape — so you get that comfortable lounging vibe, but in a style that won't require endless 'zhuzzing' (though a regular fluff is advised). It's deeper and a tiny bit firmer than the MELVA, but not by much, and I found it very comfortable. The defined fabric seams add a nice touch to the structured, minimalist Scandinavian design, and it's the most modular of all the sofas.

From linen to leather, there are multiple fabric and colorways to choose from — you can even mix-and-match — and the olive green woven fabric on this store's sample is the one I have my eyes on for the MELVA. The LENNON is slightly too low profile for me (and definitely for my husband, who is Mr. High-Back all the way!). It does, however, add a lovely relaxed feel to a space, without ever veering into overly slouchy territory.

Alba

The ALBA (and the SOFIA, which we'll get to shortly) is the firmest of the sofas I tested, but still super comfortable, making it a good choice if you're looking for a stylish design with added support (though it does still feature a low-slung backrest). The modern, organic silhouette is Westwing's interpretation of the classic kidney sofa, and we've been talking a lot about the design qualities of bean-shaped sofas at Livingetc lately.

This wave-like sofa type can make a room flow more naturally compared to a more angular, structural L-shaped sofa, plus, sometimes it pays to go for something a little bit different, too. The ALBA also has a floating look, thanks to its hidden legs, giving it a more contemporary feel, and its wood frame and durable fabric make it a long-lasting option, too.

While not a modular sofa, it's available in 2-4 seaters, and also armchairs and ottomans. Plus, true to the Westwing sofa range, the ALBA comes in a range of fabrics, including bouclé, teddy, and woven patterned fabrics, as well as a great choice of colors — I particularly love the look of the ALBA in ochre teddy bouclé.

Wolke

One of the Westwing Collection's bestsellers, the contemporary, cloud-like WOLKE sofa is another iconic design in the sofa range. Firmer than the MELVA and deeper, but not as firm as the ALBA, this organic-shaped design has an elegant, sculptural quality. The wine-red fabric is a bold, trending sofa color, but there are plenty of other hues (and fabrics) if you want a more pared-back tone.

The teddy bouclé of the in-store sample was incredibly soft, and the sofa was definitely comfortable to sit on, but the curves of the already low-profile backrest make it feel even lower, so I wouldn't recommend it to someone looking for a sofa with ample back support. However, it's certainly a showstopper that will bring abundant character to any space.

Westwing describes the WOLKE sofa as being designed with a "sensorial focus on shape, form, and tactile experience", and I can agree with that. Plus, in 2026, sofa shape is more important than color. And while you can still make a statement with color, the WOLKE sofa proves that even without a bold color, its form speaks volumes about its presence in a space, large or small.

Sofia

I found the SOFIA similar in feel (firm) and style to the ALBA, though the SOFIA hugs you with its armrests while the ALBA sofa is more open. This design, like many in the Westwing sofa range, is complemented by its throw pillow collection for added support and comfort, and is just as versatile with its many available compositions.

SOFIA's rounded shape adds softness to a space and, especially in some of the sofa's larger configurations, creates an epic curved sofa design that will anchor a space in an inviting, welcoming embrace. Customer reviews share how easy the 'click system' is for assembling the modular parts and that, while the sofa feels hard to begin with, it gets a little softer over time.

SOFIA has also been awarded the "Blue Angel", which is the environmental label of the German government for low-emission and health-conscious furniture. Westwing explains: "It reduces the environmental impact throughout its life cycle and contributes to a healthy living environment by controlling emissions and adhering to strict chemical regulations." So you can feel as good about the planet with this sofa as you do when lounging on it.

Tribeca

While I don't think the showroom's sample of the TRIBECA sofa does it justice, and my photo even less so, it didn't have the same wow factor as the other sofa styles and also leans more traditional. It was very comfortable though, and provided ample back support, too.

There are fewer colors and fabrics to choose from in the TRIBECA range, but still six options in total, and I personally find the neutral hues look the most elevated. With firmer armrests and softer seating and backrests, it's designed for lounging. And what's great about this sofa is that the pillow covers are easily removable and washable, taking the stress out of family movie night!

One customer shared in a review of the sofa: "Great sofa! Now 1.5 years in use, with 2 children, like new! Stains are easy to wipe out. Just perfect! Would buy it again in a heartbeat!"

I also think it's great that Westwing offers free fabric swatches if you're undecided about which color or material will work best in your space, so that you can explore them with the rest of your furniture and decor and against the changing light throughout the day.

FAQs

Are Westwing Sofas Good Quality?

The good quality of Westwing sofas was evident when testing the range in the store, the design, feel, craftsmanship, as well as in its customer testimonials; plus, as part of the brand's commitment to quality, it also offers a 10-year Commercial Warranty, which provides replacement or repair of eligible items. This warranty is for Westwing Collection furniture purchased on or after the 1st September 2025.

The products also undergo rigorous testing in collaboration with Intertek, a leader in quality certification, and are crafted from carefully selected materials with durability and longevity at the forefront.

Westwing is also committed to sustainable product design, supporting responsible consumption and material sourcing, and considering everything from packaging and interchangeable parts to the recycling of finished products.

While not all of the brand's sofa offering was available to test in-store (and some of the sofas I tested are unavailable in the UK), there were still plenty of options to try — notably the ones I already had my eye on! If you want to explore another brand's sofa offering in depth, our editor, Hugh Metcalf, went in-store to test and rate John Lewis' sofas, who has also owned one of the brand's sofas.

If you need a bit more help on your sofa-buying journey, reach out to our Design Lab by Livingetc stylists — send them exactly what you're looking for, and they'll source pieces that fit your space and style.

And if you're interested in more of what Westwing has to offer, its latest tableware collaboration with Victoria Beckham is the "'little black dress' equivalent for your table", says our interiors editor, Emma Breislin.

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Dear Kim,

Inspired by your brief, I’ve curated a personalised edit of L-shaped sofas that bring together Scandinavian simplicity, mid-century character and modern design. With family life in mind, I’ve focused on spacious, comfortable options that give all four of you room to relax, while prioritising durable fabrics and practical finishes that can stand up to everyday use. All the selections are within your £1,000 to £2,000 budget.

If you'd like a little more support pulling everything together, take a look at Style, our room design service at Design Lab By Livingetc. We'd have a 45-minute one-to-one call to discuss your space, and afterwards I'd put together a full moodboard for your space, along with tailored product recommendations and a clear design direction.

I hope you find the selection useful and, most importantly, that you discover a piece that feels like the right fit for your home. I’d love to know which ones stand out to you.

Best wishes,

Iokasti

When I’m looking at the ideas emerging in living room trends for 2026⁠, I keep coming back to accent chairs as one of the easiest ways to bring personality into a scheme. And honestly, this is where the fun starts — when I’m sourcing pieces for clients through FIND at Design Lab by Livingetc, accent chairs are my favorite part. They're the room's little plot twist — a playful silhouette, an unexpected color or texture that makes you want to reach out and touch it.

Interior designer Krysten Ledet says an accent chair can do “something magical” for a living room, with the ability to “inject style, color, texture, and personality.” I know exactly what she means — sometimes one chair is all it takes to make a scheme feel more interesting, and yes, I’ll admit I’m very easily persuaded by a chair with a good sense of humor. Krysten's advice is to think about the arrangement before deciding where it goes. I’d look for a spot where it complements the existing furniture and brings in a little bold character, rather than squeezing it into the nearest empty corner.

An accent chair is also a lovely place to experiment if you’re ready to step slightly outside your comfort zone. "White brightens and adds a fresh feel, while black offers sophistication and depth,” says interior designer Floss Kelly. For something sunnier, she suggests yellow, green, pink, or orange to bring energy to a neutral room or complement a color scheme. Floss also recommends choosing a chair that relates to the room’s overall style — a mid-century silhouette can feel at home in a retro-inspired space, while a cleaner, more minimal design may suit a contemporary one. If your living room has a sofa and coffee table but still feels like it’s missing something, an accent chair can anchor the seating area and create a more intimate corner.

In this edit, you’ll find a mix of accent chairs that feel very Livingetc — cool, stylish, and full of character — from more budget-friendly finds to those that will burn a little more of a hole in your wallet, these are my picks.

I’ll always have a soft spot for the chair that brings a little surprise to a room — ideally one that’s comfortable enough to keep you there for a second cup of coffee. If you’d like help finding the right pieces for your space, take a look at Design Lab by Livingetc⁠ and for more ideas and inspiration, sign up to the Livingetc newsletter⁠.

Hi Elaine,

You gave a really useful set of proportions here, so I’ve focused the edit around dark timber, two drawers and a raised base, with pieces that feel substantial enough to work as proper bedside furniture rather than small occasional tables.

Your 80cm width / 60cm height sweet spot is quite generous for a bedside table, so I’ve included the strongest options I could find that come close while still keeping the mid-century, contemporary and transitional balance you’re after.

Stylist’s note
If you have the space either side of the bed, I’d definitely keep aiming for something around 60–80cm wide. A wider bedside table tends to feel much more intentional beside a larger bed, gives you more useful surface space, and has enough visual weight to anchor lamps, books and accessories without everything feeling squeezed together.

Of these three, I’d go straight to the Pottery Barn option first. It’s the closest to the proportions you asked for and sits really nicely between mid-century and transitional rather than leaning too heavily in one direction.

Hi Jane,

You’ve got such an interesting mix of old and new in the kitchen, so I’ve approached the dresser in the same way. With the 17th-century house, Georgian sash windows and original character on one side, and the black Crittall doors and screen bringing in a much cleaner architectural line, I think an unpainted dresser is a really natural bridge between the two.

I’ve focused on pieces with plenty of wood character and enough scale to hold their own beneath the vaulted ceiling. I’d also be careful not to go too pale or too “perfect” here. A little age, grain and variation in the wood will stop the dresser feeling too new against the rest of the house.

A couple of the options fall just short of your ideal 2m+ width, but I’ve included them because the overall proportions and material direction felt so right for the space.

Stylist’s note
For your kitchen, I’d probably choose between the second antique pine dresser and the Cotswold Co option depending on how much contrast you want.

The antique dresser gives you more history, warmth and imperfection, which I think would be particularly beautiful in a house of this age. The Cotswold option feels calmer and a little more Scandinavian, so it’s the one I’d choose if the rest of the kitchen already has quite a lot of visual detail. Either way, with those vaulted ceilings, I’d avoid anything that feels too delicate. This is one of those rooms where the dresser can afford to have some real scale and presence.

Color-blocked, inflated-looking tableware more akin to cartoon than real life, wavy mirrors that wink at the imaginative legacy of Memphis design pioneer Ettore Sottsass, and puzzle-like, chunky furniture that turn everyday actions into yet another excuse to stay silly, creative, and full of wonder. Over the last couple of years, Swedish designer Gustaf Westman has not-so-quietly built a visual empire off the back of his wacky sculptural objects, documenting them in overcrowded apartments stuffed with the unruly mess of everyday life, on the picture-perfect streets of the world's most sought-after destinations, and in leading department stores alike to viral acclaim.

Last September, when Westman released his first collaboration with Swedish homeware powerhouse IKEA, our website wasn't the only thing to be taken by storm. So were the entrances to IKEA stores across the globe, starting with our very own store on Oxford Street. Now, the Instagram-famous creative is back with another stunt of his: a 35-plus-piece collection authored for none other than Disney, designed in response to a recent trip to Disneyland Paris. My first question to Westman, then, had to be: Which Mickey & Friends character was your favorite as a child, and how did that influence the making of this Disney homeware line?

"Mickey Mouse was always my favorite, but really what interests me most about Mickey & Friends is the actual design of the characters," he tells me over email. "They are built from such simple shapes and colors, and it's very cool that Disney has created characters that you recognize in a second that everyone knows." For Westman, creating objects that are easy to understand is "the highest level of design you can achieve": "you immediately know what they are, but they make you feel something," he continues.

Launching in instalments beginning today, with the Mickey Tumbler, Mickey Cup, and Mickey Sofa as the first items of this series to be released, before landing online globally from November 15 at gustafwestman.com and Beams (Japan), the amusing drop sees him reinterpret the voluminous silhouettes of Mickey & Friends' strangely familiar characters through his just-as-whimsical vision across accessories, lighting, apparel, tableware, and furniture.

Of all designs, the modular-looking, towering Mickey Sofa exemplifies this eccentric take on interior classics. Closer to the back-in-vogue, oversized leather seating of the 1970s — think Mario Bellini's chubby Camaleonda, the cloud-like, polished chrome steel-detailed Soriana by Tobia & Afra Scarpa, and Mario Marenco's monolithic Marenco — than anything you'd find at any Disney store, it gives industry-rated materials a doodle-like, comforting aesthetic.

How does one abstract Mickey Mouse's signature outline into a sculptural piece of design worth queuing up for? Really, that's the question Westman asked himself when he set out to envision it. The answer is an eight-part surreal sofa that fits as well in the designer's otherworldly Stockholm apartment as in the sleekest, wood-panelled mid-century den.

The rest of the pieces are set to release at a free pop-up in Paris open October 30-November 1, after which the full collection will be heading to Tokyo (November 6-8) and New York (November 13-15) on another Gustaf Westman pop-up tour like the ones that have made him world famous. Fittingly, a curated selection of items will be available to purchase at Disneyland Paris.

Sharing Disney's same joy, playfulness, and optimism, Westman saw this partnership as a chance to test his quirky-cool homeware vision against the dreamlike imagery of a 102-year-old fantasy champion. In it, he found something more than childhood reminiscence — an opportunity to make iconic design feel inviting, accessible, and contagiously covetable.

"Working with Disney is a dream for any designer because people already have such a strong emotional connection to it," Westman explains. "That the characters are so iconic gave me a lot of creative freedom to deconstruct familiar elements and rebuild them into something new."

In Westman's hands, "instantly recognizable shapes, colors, and silhouettes become a springboard for unexpected new functional objects".

Pairing a love of eye-catching, glossy palettes with an eye for comfort-aiding softness and a toy-like, irreverent aesthetic, his Disney collection proves interiors need not be boring or restrained to feel sophisticated, no matter your age. When all else fails, the drop still manages to put a smile back on your face.

The Disney x Gustaf Westman collection launches globally on October 30 via gustafwestman.com and Beams (Japan).

Till the Wait for Disney x Gustaf Westman Is Over

Start collecting Gustaf Westman's irreverent range ahead of the launch of his new collection with Disney, and get on its proudly chunky designs.

If you're a fan of chunky designs, the latest chunky glassware trend is for you — which really is the chunkier the better.

And for more of the latest design news, subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter.

Dear Kim,

Inspired by your brief, I’ve curated a personalised edit of wall shelves that help make a small living room feel more spacious, while bringing in a little character. I’ve included a mix of traditional, modern and eclectic designs, with options that make use of vertical wall space without taking up valuable floor space. All the selections are within your budget, with a range of shapes and finishes to suit different interiors.

If you'd like a little more support pulling everything together, take a look at Style, our room design service at Design Lab By Livingetc. We'd have a 45-minute one-to-one call to discuss your space, and afterwards I'd put together a full moodboard for your space, along with tailored product recommendations and a clear design direction.

I hope you find the selection useful and, most importantly, that you discover a piece that feels like the right fit for your home. I’d love to know which ones stand out to you.

Best wishes,

Iokasti