I’m an interiors expert – the five sofa mistakes making your living room look cheap, and how to fix them

IT might be the star of your living room but even the most expensive sofa can look cheap if you style it wrong.

In fact, when it comes to your favourite spot to sit, the smallest details can make a big difference.

Sofa and interior expert Kayleigh Stafford has revealed that there are five sofa mistakes that make your space look cheap.

But fear not, Kayleigh – of Snappy Sofas  – has also revealed how you can fix the mistakes to elevate your space almost immediately. 

Here, she tells us what interior faux pas you could be making without even realising it.

Choosing the wrong sofa size

A sofa that’s too big can overwhelm the room, and one that’s too small can feel out of place.

“This is why it’s important to measure your space accurately before buying a sofa”, Kayleigh says.

“Your sofa shouldn’t completely fill a space. As a general rule of thumb, you should leave at least 30 inches for walkways and it’s wise to think about other furniture.

“For larger rooms, a three-seater or sectional sofa can add balance while smaller rooms work well with a two-seater or loveseat.

“Style is important, too – sleek and low-profile sofas suit contemporary homes, while rolled arms often look best in traditional spaces.”

Using too many cushions

Sofa cushions are essential for comfort and personality but too many can make it look cluttered.

If you’re unsure about how many to have, Kayleigh’s rule is “odd numbers work best”.

She adds: “Limit yourself to five cushions for large sofas and three for smaller ones.

“Don’t be afraid to mix fabrics like velvet, linen and cotton to add texture but try to keep the colour palette complementary.

“For a stylish look, opt for subtle patterns or solid colours and then use one bolder cushion as an accent piece.”

Ignoring sofa legs 

Sofa legs play a crucial role in the couch’s overall look, according to sofa queen Kayleigh.

She insists: “Mismatched styles, plastic and even scuffed legs can all cheapen the look of your sofa.

“Consider swapping old legs for modern metal or wooden alternatives. Or you could paint scuffed legs to give them an instant boost.”

Forgetting the surrounding space 

A sofa that doesn’t fit in with the surrounding space will always feel off.

Don’t push your sofa up against a wall, as it will make the room look cramped. Instead, bring it out slightly.

Kayleigh adds: “Other furniture should complement your sofa, so consider a well-placed coffee table for extra functionality and style.”

Skipping sofa maintenance 

Dirty and sagging sofas can make the whole room look tired.

Be sure to vacuum your sofa frequently to remove dust and debris and plump cushions daily to restore their shape.

Stains should be spot-cleaned immediately, and you could also consider slipcovers to protect your sofa and give it a quick refresh without breaking the bank. 

Kayleigh tells Fabulous: “Whatever style you choose, your sofa sets the tone for the rest of the room.

“With this in mind, it’s worth putting in extra effort to style it right. And when you do, your space will be transformed into a stylish haven that everyone can enjoy.”