How to Master Layering in Interior Design
Layering is one of the best-kept secrets of interior designers who know how to create truly exceptional homes. It’s how you craft those magazine-worthy homes that feel both stylish and inviting.
More than just piling on pillows, this thoughtful design technique adds depth, warmth, and personality to any space.
In this guide, I’ll share how I approach layering — breaking it down step by step so you can create a well-balanced, beautifully styled home that feels uniquely yours. Let’s dive in!
1. Furniture: Building the foundation
Selecting key pieces
Before you rush off to buy the first trendy armchair you spotted on Instagram, take a pause to consider the function of your room.
I like to ask my clients — “how is the room going to be used?”
Love hosting dinner parties? A large dining table and chair set for 8 might be your top priority. Obsessed with movie nights? A comfy couch takes center stage. These anchor pieces define the room's style and layout.
I also remind my clients to pay attention to scale and proportion — balancing larger items with smaller ones to keep the room feeling harmonious. And don't be afraid to mix things up with pieces of varying heights to keep things interesting.
Creating conversation areas
Arranging furniture is like setting the stage for life. Think about how you and your guests naturally move through the space.
I love creating cozy nooks with a sofa and a couple of armchairs for intimate chats, or a sectional sofa for larger gatherings.
And don't forget about seating options! A mix of benches and ottomans gives everyone a comfortable spot to relax.
@hamiltonhaven5 creates a cozy space by the fireplace with the Dawson Extended Sofa Set.
Similarly, @athomeontheboulevard centers the seating area around the fireplace with the Amber Bouclé Swivel Chairs and a comfy sofa.
Mixing and matching styles
Who says you have to be a minimalist or a traditionalist? Feel free to blend furniture from different styles and eras to create a space that truly reflects your personality. Love that vintage dresser but also have a modern furniture piece like the eclectic Duncan Round Coffee Table you adore? Go for it!
The key is to find common threads that tie everything together. Maybe your vintage and modern pieces share a similar color palette or have clean lines in common.
You can also create cohesion with a recurring motif, like a geometric pattern, or using similar materials, like wood, with a consistent finish.
2. Textiles: Adding texture and warmth
Layering rugs
I’m all about layering rugs to define spaces and add visual interest. Rugs are like artwork for your floors, and layering them adds another dimension to your overall interior design.
They are also fantastic for defining zones, especially in open-concept homes. Start with a larger rug to anchor your main seating area, then layer a smaller rug on top to introduce a new design, texture, or a bit of color, and have fun experimenting with different materials.
A natural fiber rug, like our Ventura Jute Area Rug, layered with a plush wool rug creates a lovely contrast that will elevate any room. Just make sure the rugs complement each other and the overall color scheme of the space.
Adding a simple rug like the Cora Wool Area Rug can make a big difference in the bedroom, like what @taylorrochelled did. Also pictured: The Dalton Storage Bed and Freida Performance Bouclé Bench.
@kristensellentin creates a calm and cozy space by placing the Inez Wool Area Rug in the living room along with the Dawson L-shaped Sectional Sofa Set.
Pillows and throws: The finishing touch
Nothing says “welcome” like a soft throw on the sofa or a mix of pillows with different patterns and textures. It’s one of the simplest ways to bring personality and comfort into a room.
A soft throw draped over the arm of your sofa is an open invitation to relax, and a collection of well-chosen pillows adds plush luxury and visual interest. Don't be afraid to mix and match patterns and colors to create a look you love.
Window treatments: Framing the view
Window treatments are often overlooked but play a big part in layering. They frame your view, control the amount of light entering the room, and add texture and color to your space.
If you want to enjoy natural light while still having privacy, try one of my favorite methods — combining sheer curtains with heavier drapes.
You can also play with the length and design of your curtains to create different moods. Dramatic floor-length curtains can add a sense of grandeur, while shorter curtains with a playful pattern can create a more relaxed feel.
3. Décor: Injecting personality and style
Wall décor: Making a statement
Your walls are a blank canvas waiting to be filled with your personal style. Gallery walls are my go-to for adding personality — mixing artwork, photos, and mirrors to tell a story. Mix and match different frame shapes and sizes to create a dynamic display.
When choosing your wall décor, think about the overall theme and color palette of the room. A cohesive collection creates a sense of harmony, while a few unexpected pieces can add a touch of whimsy.
Accessories: Adding character
Accessories are the storytellers of your home. They reflect your travels, hobbies, and memories. Incorporate decorative objects, like sculptures, vases, and candles, to add character and a curated feel.
A well-styled coffee table or sophisticated Sloane Shelf with brown accents can be like a mini-museum of your life. I prefer to group them in odd numbers (like three or five) for a more balanced look.
And don't forget about trays and bowls! These handy items help corral smaller objects and keep things tidy.
@juthamat.by.jem complements the Crescent 6-Drawer Dresser with vases, books, and a wavy floor lamp.
@homewithharper adds even more freshness with a potted plant on a wooden tray to their outdoor space. Pictured: The Sorrento Outdoor Sofa and Outdoor Coffee Table.
Plants: Bringing the outdoors in
When it comes to layering in interior design, plants are the finishing touch I never skip. They bring a sense of life and freshness to your home and can even purify the air.
Incorporate a variety of plants in different sizes to enhance the natural beauty of your space. Don't forget that the pots and planters themselves can contribute to the overall aesthetic.
Just remember to consider the light conditions and care requirements of each plant. A low-maintenance succulent might be perfect for a sunny windowsill, while a shade-loving fern could thrive in a dimly lit corner.
4. Lighting: Setting the mood
Ambient lighting: Creating a base
Lighting is not just about making sure you can see; it's about setting the mood and highlighting all the beautiful details you've brought into your home. The right lighting can make your colors pop, your textures come alive, and your entire space more inviting.
Think of your lighting in layers, just like the rest of your design. Start with ambient lighting to bathe your room in a welcoming glow. Overhead fixtures, like chandeliers or flush mounts, are perfect for this purpose.
Dimmer switches are a must to complete your ambient lighting scheme. They give you the flexibility to adjust the brightness and create different moods throughout the day.
Task lighting: Illuminating specific areas
Once you have your ambient lighting sorted, it's time to think about task lighting. Task lighting is essential for activities that require focused light, like reading or working. Table lamps and floor lamps are your go-to for task lighting.
Place task lighting strategically where you need it most. A stylish Blanc Arched Table Lamp next to your favorite armchair can complete the look with flair while providing illumination for your bedtime reading.
Accent lighting: Highlighting features
Accent lighting adds drama and dimension by highlighting specific features in your room. You can use wall sconces to showcase artwork, picture lights to illuminate your favorite photographs, or track lighting to draw attention to architectural details.
To create a cozy atmosphere, choose bulbs with a warmer color temperature. This creates a relaxing environment, perfect for unwinding after a long day.
If you're looking for a more energizing feel, especially in task-oriented spaces like kitchens or home offices, consider using bulbs with a cooler color temperature to promote focus and concentration.
Recommended read: The Best Lighting for Every Room in Your Home
Creating a space you love
Layering in interior design is about taking a room from feeling flat and one-dimensional and transforming it into a multi-faceted haven of comfort. Understanding the interplay of elements — furniture, textiles, décor, and lighting — and how they contribute to the overall ambiance allows you to create a space that’s visually captivating.
Ultimately, the most rewarding aspect of layering is the sense of accomplishment that comes with infusing a personal touch into your home.
Frequently asked questions about mastering layering in interior design
How can I use layering in interior design to make a small room feel bigger?
Layering can actually help to make a small room feel more spacious. Use a light and airy color palette, incorporate mirrors to reflect light and create the illusion of depth, and choose well-designed furniture with legs to give the impression of more floor space.
What are some common mistakes people make when layering?
Some common pitfalls include overcrowding a room with too many accessories, choosing furniture that's out of scale with the room size, and sticking to just one design style.
To avoid these, be mindful of the overall balance and flow of your space. Don't be afraid to edit and curate your décor, ensuring each piece has a purpose and contributes to the overall aesthetic.
How does layering contribute to the flow of a room?
By strategically placing furniture, rugs, and décor, you can guide the eye through the room and create a natural path for people to follow. This is important because good flow makes a room more inviting and functional. It allows people to move easily through the space and encourages interaction and conversation.
