Joanna Gaines' latest 'Fixer Upper' project has revitalized an outdated sofa trend for 2024, and it looks better than ever

A good sofa is an investment piece, and one that should be chosen for both beauty and comfort. It's possibly the biggest furniture purchase you'll make, so choosing the right living sofa is vital. After figuring out the style, size, and materials, there is the most fun part of all: picking a color. You'll want to love your living room sofa for a long time – reupholstering while less wasteful than buying new, can still be costly – and therefore the decision is an entirely personal one. Interestingly, however, many experts have seen a shift away from beige.

Interior designer Joanna Gaines is one step ahead of the sofa trends. The Fixer Upper co-host and owner of Magnolia has an undisputed eye for style, so it was a surprise to see a once outdated sofa trend has made its way back into the zeitgeist.

Where once a black sofa was the staple in a '90s bachelor pad, these days it is much easier to find beautiful versions of this once popular color. Done right, with the introduction of a sofa, it can add just the right amount of drama. Yes, the black sofa is back and more luxe than ever before. 

'It's very exciting to see customers enjoying midnight tones,' says Nicky Lane, chief product officer at Loaf. 'These deeper colors can be both playful and sophisticated and surprisingly easy to layer onto neutral tones.'

Black in the living room needs to tread a fine line. Overdo it and you're in danger of creating an austere room that drains energy rather than restores it. Do it well and discover a calming, contemplative oasis you'll always look forward to spending time in. This is a trend that indulges your urbane side rather than your inner goth. So, make do like Joanna Gaines and temper black with white or warm materials to keep the area from feeling gloomy. 

Far from binary, the aesthetic associations of black and white are rich and varied. Symbolizing balance and equilibrium, the pairing can also be used to isolate, capture attention and confuse; they are artists’ fundamental tools for capturing volume and form, and for architects to create rhythm and order. For a dramatic look, go high contrast with pure black and white; alternatively, for a softer take on monochrome, layer up a myriad of taupes and greiges. Whatever your temperament, both options make a great base for other furniture and collectibles.

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