Whether in your sitting room, bedroom, or garden patio, cushions add a touch of cosiness and enhance your home decor. Plus, cushions are comfortable and can help improve your posture.
Fortunately, when you want to shop for cushions, UK stores stock a variety of choices. In this article we’re exploring everything you need to know about common cushion types, colour, size, and shape.
Cushion Types You’ll Find in UK Shops

The type or design of a cushion plays a big role in determining its use. Some cushions are designed for comfort, while others are best suited for decorative purposes. However, some designs are versatile and can be used for both comfort and decoration.
Throw Cushions
Throw cushions are popularly best known as sofa or decorative cushions. They are usually taller and wider than they are thick. If you’re looking to add style or aesthetics to your home, these are the cushions to go for. Also, they’re ideal for filling negative space in sofas, beds, and chairs.
Since throw cushions are primarily decorative pieces, you can find them in a myriad of patterns, colours, fabrics and textures.
Bolster Cushions
Bolster cushions support your body when you’re at rest. As such, if you constantly suffer from back or neck pain, these are the cushions to add to your couches and bed. Typically, they’re long and tubular or cylindrical. They contain firmer materials like memory foam or bamboo.
In most cases, bolster cushions aren’t enough alone. You can pair them with other cushions for decorative purposes.
Lumbar Cushions
The term lumbar relates to the lower part of your back. This gives you a clue that lumbar cushions lean more towards the functional rather than the decorative side. These rectangular-shaped cushions are designed to distribute body weight when sitting, relieving pressure from the spine.
By supporting the lower back, lumbar cushions help you maintain an upright posture, especially if you have to sit for a long period. This way, you’ll reduce tension and pain in muscles.
Besides using lumbar cushions in your office or home, you can also use them in your car or anywhere else you need back support.
Box Cushions
Box cushions have a flat top and bottom and sides connecting them. As such, they come in a rectangular or square shape. Usually, the corners give these cushions a formal appearance and fit better on window seats, dining chairs, benches, or upholstered furniture. For a less formal look, you can opt for loose covers instead of a tight, tailored fit.
Floor Cushions
Floor cushions are simply what the name suggests: cushions for putting on the floor. Generally, these cushions are versatile and can be used for decorating the floor or creating more sitting space. For decorative purposes, these cushions are available in bright colours and bold prints. They are mostly made of soft, lint-free fabrics such as cotton or wool.
Outdoor Cushions
Outdoor cushions placed on benches, decks, and patio chairs, are similar to indoor cushions. However, because of exposure to the elements, including rain, sunlight, and moisture, they’re made of tough materials such as solution-dyed acrylic or synthetic materials (like polyester).
Creating Harmony with Colour Schemes

Besides knowing about the different types of cushions, you also need to think about colour. After all, even if a cushion isn’t for decorative purposes, the colour can affect the aesthetics of your home.
When you shop cushions UK you’ll find plenty of different colour schemes available. Your choice will depend in part on the existing colour palette in your room and the type of furniture they’ll be used on. Some useful decor schemes to be aware of are:
- Monochrome colour scheme: When you want to achieve a minimalist look or to avoid the complexities of balancing multiple colours, you can’t go wrong with a monochrome colour scheme. Typically, you choose one colour and use its various shades, tones, and tints.
- Complementary colour scheme: Cushions in this category have highly contrasting colours like blue and yellow that complement each other. They can come in handy if you want to create a striking visual effect.
- Analogue colour scheme: In this case, you select three colours that follow each other in the colour wheel. Because of the close resemblance of these colours, you can achieve a smooth and flowing visual appeal.
- Patterns and solids: Although patterns and solids can have any colour scheme, they come in handy for decorative purposes. The solids help to create a simple backdrop that elevates the intricate floral or geometric designs in the decorated cushion.
Although you’ll have a variety of colour options, remember to match them with the colour scheme of the room they’re intended for. This way, you’ll avoid creating a busy atmosphere.
Choose a Cushion That Meets Your Intended Use
Adding cushions to your couch, bed, floor, or outdoor space can make it feel more welcoming. However, it’s essential to use cushion designs in the right way and, most importantly, to use colours that blend into your space for a balanced look.
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