Modular Sofas in 2026: Comfort, Layout and Fabric That Actually Work
Modular sofas continue to dominate interior trends in 2026. They are practical and when chosen well become a strong focal point in a living room while helping maximise space.
A well-designed modular sofa can offer multiple configurations, adjustable headrest heights, and different seat depths. This makes it easy to tailor the sofa to suit different households, whether you are accommodating taller family members or working within a compact apartment layout.
When people are uncertain, comfort is usually where clarity begins. Height, seat depth, and support matter more than whatever is trending at the time. A sofa needs to work for the people who live with it every day.
Recliner sofas remain popular for comfort, but they often come with design compromises. Their bulk can dominate a room, and unless you choose a battery-operated version, electric recliners can restrict how and where a sofa is placed. In many homes, this limits layout flexibility and affects the overall flow of the space. For this reason, a low-profile, simple design is often the preferred choice for many clients.
How to Style a Modular Sofa with Cushions
For leather sofas, I always recommend high-quality feather cushion insert paired with linen or cotton covers. Feather inserts sit better on leather and help prevent cushions from moving or slipping. Foam cushions would be my last choice. I rarely recommend them at all, whether for fabric or leather sofas, due to their lack of flexibility and finish.
For those who prefer a less-is-more approach, a single cushion style in one colour is often enough. Cushions are not only about comfort. They play an important decorative role and remain one of the simplest ways to introduce interest without overworking the sofa.
Choosing the Right Sofa Fabric and Colour Without Compromising Style
One of the most popular upholstery choices for modular sofas currently is bouclé, particularly in a warm ivory tone. For those willing to move beyond safe choices, colours such as burnt orange or olive are emerging as alternatives that bring personality to a room.
That said, bouclé is not for everyone. While it is popular for its good looks, some people find it less comfortable than expected. Over time, it can also begin to show wear, with small pulls appearing, especially in high-use areas or homes with pets. Like any fabric, bouclé suits certain lifestyles better than others. It works best in lower-traffic spaces or for clients who value texture and appearance over daily use.
For those looking for durability and ease of maintenance, other fabric options may be more practical. For example, polyester-based fabrics are often underestimated. Many of the newer options are extremely durable and feel surprisingly soft. They hold their shape well and are easier to maintain, making them a strong choice for everyday living.
Linen and linen blends bring a relaxed, natural feel to a sofa. While beautiful, they tend to crease and show wear more visibly over time, which some people love and others do not. When blended with cotton, linen gains better durability while maintaining breathability, making it a more robust option than pure linen alone.
Bouclé sits somewhere in between. Once again it offers texture and visual interest but requires a little more care. It suits those who prioritise look and feel over heavy use and are comfortable with a fabric that develops character rather than staying pristine.
When it comes to sofa fabrics, the choice is often about how a home is lived in. Polyester and other man-made fibres suit busy households and everyday use, offering durability. Linen and cotton blends appeal to those who value natural textiles and a softer, more relaxed finish. Bouclé is best suited to people drawn to texture and visual interest, and who are comfortable with a little more maintenance.
Leather as an option is a conversation I will cover in a separate article, as it deserves.
Article written by Marina Mura
Moodboards curated by Author
Find your ideal style | E: marinamura@moodblogs.com
Moodboard image credit:
Globewest; Oz Design; Coco Republic, Trit House, Lounge Lovers.
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