The trend that’s taking the edge off furniture
Smooth contours and rounded edges are the new shapes in decor
While the straight lines of mid-century modern furniture are still wildly popular, curves are energizing many living rooms and bedrooms. “Interiors are richer and more balanced with a mix of shapes,” says interior designer Marie Burgos of Marie Burgos Design in New York and L.A. Having contrasting shapes in one space actually creates harmony. If you’re thinking of adding some curves to your home’s decor, check out these answers to common questions:
WHICH FURNISHINGS ARE AVAILABLE IN CURVY SHAPES?
Much of the furniture centres on the living room with essentials like couches, chairs (swivel, wingback), coffee tables, ottomans, rugs and lamps. But the trend is finding its way to the bedroom too with shapely bed frames, dressers, and upholstered benches.
HOW CAN CURVED FURNITURE WORK IN YOUR CURRENT DECOR?
If your living room has modern furniture with sharp edges, a curved coffee table or armchair will visually help soften the room’s look. “Integrating curves into a straightline decor is a great way to highlight the new pieces by bringing an unexpected shape in the space,” says Burgos. “I like to bring in curves, if not in the seating, at least with round tables, curvy light fixtures, or curvy art.”
CAN A PIECE OF CURVED FURNITURE BE A ROOM’S FOCAL POINT?
Absolutely. If you bring in a large-scale piece like a curvy sectional, position it in the middle of the room so it can take center stage. Surround it with both curved and straightedge accent pieces.
DOES IT TAKE UP MORE ROOM THAN STRAIGHTEDGED FURNITURE?
Not really. “Curved sofas and chairs come in the same dimensions as straight-line sofas and chairs,” says Burgos. “They are just displayed differently in a room so they have the advantage of visually softening existing corners or edges.”
IS CURVY FURNITURE CONSIDERED FEMININE?
According to Burgos, it has a more feminine approach in that it brings softness to an interior. But, she says, all genders benefit from curves in a room: “It brings balance to the space,” she says. “The feminine feel of the curve is not always obvious, depending on the type of furniture, the material, and the colors. A round black marble coffee table or a curved deep blue velvet sofa chair would not be considered feminine.”