The Colours, Shapes and Details Defining 2024

Sofas are getting bigger. Generous corner sofas are taking up half of our living spaces, small armchairs are being replaced by the larger loveseat, and modular sections are multiplying. 2024 serves only to hasten us in this direction, as we all lean into the joys of lounging.

The direction of travel for sofas looks quite uplifting – a cheerful pink is emerging, as is some joyful pattern, and designs are often finished with a nostalgic ruffle.

Here we look at 2024's biggest sofa trends, as well as the pieces and brands leading the charge.

The new neutrals

The evolution of Scandi-inspired design, from cool and minimalist to cosy and cocooning, informs an array of warm neutrals in 2024. Greys are (finally) being swapped for earthy beiges, contemporary off whites and taupes that sit so well with the natural materials and modest decoration of Scandi homes.

Stripes will work wonderfully on a neutral sofa – these wide-set, pencil-thin stripes are a gentler take on the more imposing pinstripes.

One of the joys of a warm neutral is its susceptibility to natural light – if you have an upholstery with a slight sheen like a velvet, uplifting pink and green undertones can be revealed over the course of the day, only to modulate into warming peaches and yellows at night.

Retro detailing

Retro influences very much began in our kitchens – we've seen traditional design details like farmhouse sinks, pantries and sweet café curtains return en masse. These nostalgic design nods have made their way into the rest of the home in the form of decorative detailing like gingham, scalloped edges and ruffles.

Applied to a sofa, they add a bit of fun and whimsy to our homes, reminding us that on occasion, neither form nor function matter in the slightest.