How to Bring the Statement Sofa Trend Home, According to Interior Designers

There’s nothing more luxurious than having a piece of furniture in your home that you want but don’t necessarily have need. While options abound, 2026 is definitely the year of the couch—and if you’re not already familiar, here’s what you need to know.

Created by Jodie Hazlewood, founder of interiors studio The House Upstairs, the lounge sofa is exactly what the name suggests: a piece designed for presence and purpose. This isn’t the reliable, addictive staple you’ll rely on for your Netflix marathons. Instead, it’s more likely to live in a more formal corner of the home and only be called upon to provide services occasionally.

Because it’s not subject to daily wear and tear, a sofa that’s used occasionally offers rare creative freedom. Practicality is more about personality; think of interesting silhouettes, tactile embellishments, bold prints and fabrics chosen for beauty rather than stretch. Forget about wear resistance and easy cleaning. This is your chance to indulge, experiment and have fun designing. Interior designer Martin Brudnizki says: “One of the joys of using occasional sofas is that you can be more expressive with fabrics such as mohair, patterned linen, moiré, and even something slightly quirky can feel completely appropriate.” Nasia de la Haye, managing director of interiors studio Lorfords Contemporary, says there is no denying they are a luxury item and their rise signals a renewed interest in conversational seating. “They are not designed to sprawl but to connect, encouraging people to sit down, talk and engage.”

Where to place them? Really, anywhere. “I often use them at the end of the bed, especially if I don’t have a separate dressing room,” Brudnitsky says. “They’re perfect for storing clothes, enjoying a quiet moment or taking a nap with a book.” They can also be tucked into a corner of the living room, placed in a wide hallway (where they make it easy to put on shoes), or placed under a window to create a picturesque nook with cushions.

Still, they are impressive enough to stand on their own, says Lucy Hammond Giles, director of Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler. “An occasional-use sofa doesn’t have the functional requirements of a TV sofa, so you don’t even need a floor lamp or side table,” she points out.

Properly seduced? This is fashion magazine The editor now recommends the most noteworthy leisure sofas.

ruffled man

A ruffled sofa is sure to turn heads, bringing a touch of English country charm to any space. This style is a more subdued take on the trend that’s both popular and beautiful, and looks even better with either plaid or floral patterns. “With a hint of Dali’s iconic Lips sofa, the Haseley sofa has a sculptural feel that can easily be tucked into a chat nook or placed next to a window,” suggests Hammond Giles. No matter where you put it, they have to be seen.