4 Ways to Try the Curved Furniture Trend That's Everywhere Right Now

When designing any room, choosing furniture that looks good is a key concern, but having furniture that feels good is arguably even more important. As we've taken to our homes for refuge over the past few years, comfort has become paramount, and furniture styles are starting to adapt. Curved furniture was recently called out as a top design trend in reports from both Pinterest and Zillow, and rounded corners, soft edges, and arched shapes are popping up at furniture retailers ranging from high-end luxury to budget brands.

Just as the pandemic led to a renaissance of slouchy loungewear, people now want their homes to feel "as comfortable and cozy as their stretchy outfits of choice," the experts at Zillow note in their 2022 home trends report. Furniture styles including curved couches and circular accent tables help achieve this effect by offsetting the boxy dimensions of a room and giving the eye a natural place to rest.

The appeal of curved furniture comes down to simple psychology: Our brains are inherently drawn to circular forms and curved lines, which are associated with safety and calm. Sharp objects and pointy shapes, on the other hand, signal danger and can trigger responses of fear and anxiety. After a stressful couple of years spent mostly at home, it's no surprise that people are seeking out comfort in their furniture choices.

To embrace calm in your own living spaces, try these decorating ideas that make the curved furniture trend feel even cozier.

1. Choose curved furniture in soothing colors.

Enhance the calming qualities of curved furniture with colors that feel equally soothing. Look to nature for inspiration, and bring in hues reminiscent of the earth, forest, or sky. Apply these colors through the furniture itself, or establish a serene backdrop with walls, window treatments, flooring, and more in tranquil tones.

2. Form a circular furniture arrangement.

Achieve a cohesive look with a furniture arrangement that follows the contours of your curved furniture. For a laidback seating group, assemble furniture in a loose circle around a central point. In this living room, a curved sofa and two chairs circle a round coffee table to create a cozy furniture arrangement that's ideal for conversation.

3. Mix in natural textures.

Curved forms appear often in nature, so borrowing other elements from the outdoors is a natural way to round out this trend. Incorporate organic texture with furniture and accessories made from materials such as wood, stone, and natural fibers. Combine various rugged, smooth, nubby, and soft textures to re-create the balance found in the natural world.

4. Create a comforting corner.

Curved furniture is ideal for spaces designed for relaxation. Select a chair or chaise with plush cushions and rounded edges to set up a cozy nook for reading or lounging. Add some houseplants, wall art, and a comfy pillow for a peaceful, personalized alcove.