Benny Blanco's oversized, patterned sofa is a bold living room focal point – it's making me reconsider my own couch
The songwriter's large, floral, green sofa is a show-stopping focus in his living space, making the case for statement furniture
When it comes to living room decor, I typically prefer to keep furnishings simple and neutral. I tend to implement color and pattern with accessories such as rugs, hanging art, and candles.
However, Benny Blanco's showstopping sofa has me reconsidering my living room design ideas. His large, green patterned sofa, as seen in a snap shared by his interior designers, Dana Vitrano and Rachel Leigh Ward of bonVivant Interiors, is the perfect foil against his white walls. A piece of art hanging above serves as another focal point in the space.
The designer revealed that the living room sofa is custom upholstered with House of Hackney fabric, but many printed and patterned sofas on the market do not require a DIY. Whether you try to customize an existing sofa or purchase a pre-patterned one, styling is key to ensuring it looks sleek and appealing.
A post shared by DANA VITRANO + RACHEL LEIGH WARD - bonVIVANT INTERIORS (@bonvivantinteriors)
A photo posted by on
First and foremost, when incorporating a statement piece sofa in a space, it is paramount to consider the size of the room. While Blanco's sofa is considerably large, a couch of this size might look out of place in a room that just barely fits it. Ensure that there is ample empty space surrounding the sofa, so that it does not appear that it has been squeezed in.
Additionally, consider the existing styling of your living space. Are the walls painted a bright color, or an eggshell hue? Do you already have an eccentric coffee table, or a bold bookcase? If so, a statement sofa, like Blanco's, might look too busy in a space that is already favoring unique decor.
I recommend placing a statement sofa in a neutral (and modifiable) space. That's not to say that it has to be boring though; textured, natural materials such as rattan and linen pair beautifully with the softness of a sofa, and would look especially beautiful next to a deep green one like Blanco's.
It is also important to choose a pattern that speaks to you. Florals are a classic for a reason, but they are not for everyone. Plaid and stripes are also fantastic options, and can make a space feel preppy or coastal depending on the sofa's color palette.
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We love Blanco's ornate, nature-inspired sofa, and the specks of gold can easily be paired with gold accents in a living space, such as a lamp, picture frame, or even coffee table legs.
Alternatively, for those who are not ready to embrace a fully patterned sofa, try experimenting with colors and textures instead. Velvet sofas are trendy yet timeless, while we have seen colors such as orange and pink pop up as part of the enduring dopamine decor trend.
Below, find a statement sofa and some neutral accessories to achieve the Benny Blanco look.
Marled Texture
The price is right on this neutral rug that's just as affordable as it is chic and versatile. To me, this would look perfect paired with a colorful sofa for a striking contrast.
Ambient
Featuring dramatic curves and an elegant blue finish, this piece is a delicate accessory for any living room table. Pairs well with a blue sofa.
I also recommend keeping throw pillows and blankets to a minimum with a statement sofa, so that it remains a clear and uncluttered focal point in the living space.
No matter your decor style, a patterned sofa like Blanco's can give your home an elevated, design-led feel.
Hannah is Homes & Gardens’ News Editor, with a focus on celebrity style and entertainment content. She got her start in media as a digital editorial assistant at ELLE Canada, and has since written about lifestyle and culture for publications such as Nylon and i-D.
Her love of film is rivalled only by one with a great soundtrack, and she hopes to someday decorate a Nancy Meyers-worthy kitchen.
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