Call it a pillow call it a cushion, whatever you prefer to refer to it as, these little accessories can really update the look of any living space. You will usually find a variety of affordable accent pillows that can fit any budget whenever you feel the need to change the look of your room. If your room uses a neutral color palette then pillows are a great accessory to add a splash of color and texture.
When selecting your accent pillows don't shy away from mixing patterns, but be mindful that there should be just one common color used throughout all of the pillows. This same communal color should be found elsewhere in the room, perhaps in a painting or as the motif on a vase or other decorative item. This will really give some unity to the room and will tie all of your decorative items together. Also, if you are combining patterns with each other remember that the key is to select patterns that will complement one another; a stripe can compliment a geometric and a plaid can even work well with a floral pattern.
Accent Side Tables
There really are no "rules" to this mixing and matching as long as each pattern is complementary and not overpowering while staying within the same general color scheme. You can also use a variety of different sizes as the pillow to pillow size ratio isn't really important, just make sure that the pillow to sofa or bed ratio is proportional. Throw pillows and accent pillows often work will together because of the unique oblong shapes that you may find in throws adds a nice mixture to the standard right angled accent pillow. Try a combination of two accent pillows with three throw pillows with the fifth being centered and one of each variety on either side for an even but varied look on your sofa.
A good mixture of pillows can really add a level of interest and depth to a room. Even outdoors on the patio, an ordinary bench can become something extraordinary with the addition a few well selected accent pillows. Add two or three Aubusson pillows to your bench and you have an instant Victorian vintage look that you and your neighbors will adore. Oversized toss pillows can even be used in place of the traditional sofa, when gathered around a coffee table they make a very hip and chic setting space. Mix it up, have fun, but whatever you do: don't paint when you can simply decorate.
