From Sofa to Side Tables: How Upholstery and Wood Furniture Work Together

There’s a certain magic that happens when upholstery and wood furniture complement one another. One brings softness, comfort, and curve; the other grounds, adding structure and warmth. Together, they create the layered, collected spaces we love - rooms that feel lived in, loved, and beautifully balanced.

With our Wood Furniture Sale running February 15 - March 15, it’s the perfect time to think about how these two categories of furniture work hand in hand to shape a room.

 

 

Start with the Anchor: Upholstery Sets the Tone

Every great room begins with a place to land whether it’s a sofa that invites you in, a pair of chairs that frame the conversation, or a chaise that softens a corner. Upholstery sets the tone: color and pattern introduce personality, silhouette defines the style direction, and texture adds depth and comfort. Whether you lean classic, tailored, or a little more relaxed, your upholstered pieces create the foundation for everything that follows.

 

 

Let Wood Furniture Bring the Structure

Once the upholstery is in place, wood furniture steps in to shape the room. These are the pieces that add warmth, balance, and a sense of grounding. Side tables bring function and symmetry, coffee and cocktail tables anchor the seating area, and chests or consoles offer both storage and visual weight.

 

Wood brings structured contrast to the softness of upholstery, creating that layered, collected look that feels both intentional and effortless.

 

 

Mixing Materials: The Secret to a Collected Look

The most inviting rooms blend materials with ease. Upholstery provides the opportunity to run wild with color, pattern, and texture, using textiles to create the look and feel that feels right for your space. Wood furniture also offers an array of color and finish options, and an additional material to work into and balance out a space. The mixing of all of these materials in just the right way for you is what makes the magic!

 

 

A few simple tips I find myself revisiting to make mixing materials feel effortless.

First, contrast or “design tension” always works in your favor; soft upholstery naturally shines when it’s paired with the structure of wood.

 

Use a variety of finishes to keep the room feeling layered rather than matched. This adds visual interest and character, and works toward a look that feels collected with intention.

 

Pay special attention to scale and remember, elements of design are relative – what didn’t work in one spot might be perfect for another. Mix it up then mix it up again until it feels right.

 

When upholstery and wood furniture play well together, the whole space feels more dynamic. The same two frames in different fabrics and finishes can take on completely different feelings and fit a variety of spaces.

 

 

Finish with the Details That Make It Yours

Once the big pieces are in place, the fun begins. Lamps, trays, books, art, and textiles soften the edges and light up the space with your personality. Pillows and throws tie your upholstery to the wood tones around it. A vase of fresh greens or a botanical print adds an organic touch which is especially welcome this time of year. These finishing elements are where your style shines.

 

 

 

A Beautiful Time to Refresh

If you’ve been dreaming about a new coffee table, nightstand, or dining piece, our Wood Furniture Sale (February 15–March 15) is a wonderful time to bring your room into balance. Pair it with the upholstery you love, and you’ll have a space that feels grounded, comfortable, and beautifully complete. Until next time - happy decorating!