A space with too much wood furniture or too many upholstered pieces can feel off balanced. Plus, it’s hard to relax in a space that only features hard surfaces or know where you put your drink in a space that lacks them altogether!
It’s the magic of the two working together that gives you all the livable and lovely layers to make your space feel like home.
Here are some things to consider.
To match or not to match legs, that’s always a question we get when we’re curating a space with upholstered and wood furniture. And the answer is a very helpful, “Depends!”
Depends on what, you may ask? A number of things, of course! How formal is your room and the furniture pieces within it? Do you like matchy-matchy or prefer a more collected look? What material and color is the flooring in your space? Do your upholstered pieces show a little leg or a lot? Does your space need pieces that carry a lot of visual weight or options that aren’t quite as “heavy”?
Your answers to these questions (among others) can guide you as you curate the right combination of pieces for your spaces.
As much as we love playing with color, we don’t shy away from a neutral moment or monochromatic look. Pairing similar-toned wood and upholstery pieces creates cohesion and serenity within a space. Although you may not be throwing in bold colors, a subtle contrast allows for endless experimenting with color, pattern and texture in both wood and upholstery pieces.
Monochromatic palettes are perfect for creating a calm, sophisticated atmosphere. Even though you’re working with a limited color range, the variations in shade and texture within the space create a rich and layered look. Play with different fabric textures and weights on your upholstery to add depth to your space.
Similarly, natural variations in wood grain can provide visual interest and complexity without being overwhelming. With the wide variety of options in both fabrics and wood finishes, from stains to paint in every imaginable color, you can create a monochromatic look that’s all your own.
Wood furniture is so much more than basic brown boxy shapes. While wood furniture does often feature straight lines and wood grains, wood furniture is anything but basic! Don’t underestimate the impact of interesting wood grains on your overall space and don’t be shy when it comes to mixing them into your space.
The beauty of burl wood lies in its intricate and unpredictable patterns, making each piece truly unique. A burl wood coffee table or dresser can serve as a statement piece in any room, drawing the eye and adding a touch of luxury. Pair a dark burl piece with a creamy boucle upholstered piece for an elevated contemporary look. Mix light burl pieces with soft feminine velvets for a look that skews glam or take it in a more preppy direction by mixing it with bright, happy textiles.
With texture and warmth, burl wood pieces can be seamlessly added to a space and make the most impact when not overdone. Treat the wood as a pattern or decorative element when mixing in upholstered furniture, and don’t be afraid to play around.
Bamboo’s natural lightness and flexibility make it a versatile addition. Its casual elegance works well in indoor and outdoor settings, seamlessly blending with various decor styles.
For a coastal look, pair bamboo furniture with light, airy fabrics in whites, creams, and blues. Mix bamboo pieces with bold, patterned upholstery for a more eclectic look, or Asian toiles for a colorful yet sophisticated arrangement. And of course, bamboo accents always look just right in a British Colonial-inspired space or paired with block print. The key is balance — selecting upholstery that complements or elevates bamboo’s natural texture and warmth rather than competing with it — to create a harmonious and inviting space.
