The art of cushion arranging

 Yes, there really is an art to cushion arranging - whether on your sofa, armchair, bed, or even in your garden. Shimu is well-stocked with gorgeous cushions and textiles for every scenario (see the Talani range pictured above)

What’s a sofa without a stylish cushion arrangement? What's the point of a bed if you can't flop into a cloud of fluffy cushions? Not only are cushions functional essentials, they’re also a way to dress up, dress down or totally refresh your interior. A new set of cushions can revive an older sofa or make your bed or daybed look even more inviting.

If you love cushions but haven’t quite got the knack of artful arrangement, read on for a few pointers on how to get the look.

Create a strong base

Start by placing two large matching cushions on each end of your sofa, in either a solid colour or a print -  a couple of Shimu's large striped Miao cushions make the perfect base.

Layer up

Happy with your base? You can now move on to the fun part, which is layering with cushions that are slightly smaller in size and with a different pattern or texture. Matching patterns and colours will create a more formal look, while contrasting prints give a more eclectic feel. Try colourful prints alongside silk and brocades mixed in with simple printed linens, like the Kalli linen collection from Shimu.

Add something different

The more the merrier when it comes to mixing smaller scatter cushions, so aim for about 5 to 7 cushions. Make your collection interesting by playing with colour, pattern and texture. Include a cushion that is totally different to all the others, perhaps in a different shape or shade. The Miao textured bolster ticks all those boxes. The Miao collection of cushions also look great grouped together on Shimu's Oriental Country Lattice bed.

Balanced asymmetry or tailored?

Asymmetrical balance is fun – on one side, choose one patterned cushion and balance it on the other side by echoing the colour scheme with 3 or 4 plain cushions.

For a tailored look, think mirror image. Place the largest cushion at the back, angled in the crook of the sofa between the arm and the backrest, then place the medium in front of it (slightly offset away from the arm) and the smallest in front of that (again slightly offset towards the arm). Replicate the look in the opposite corner with the same cushions.

Plain and simple

If pattern is just not your thing, then go for cushions that are bold in colour or vary in texture – Shimu has a great range of beautiful silk, brocade and beaded cushions that add elegance to any interior, whether bedroom or living room.

What to choose for a conservatory?

If you’re lucky enough to have a conservatory or orangerie in your home, you’ll probably spend a lot of time winding down and relaxing in there. Add to the relaxed atmosphere with tactile soft furnishings that you can snuggle up with.

There’s no reason why you can’t accessorise your outdoor furniture in the same way you do indoors by adding throws and a cushion or two. The Mobali and Etawah ranges from Shimu include matching throws and are perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.