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The pillow formula that transforms any room

  • The pillow formula that transforms any room
    The secret to mastering the art of throw pillows? The 2-2-1 ratio. Simply adorn your sofa with two square pillows of one size and pattern on the ends, then add two smaller pillows in a different pattern next to them, and, finally, add one rectangular pillow for the center. The graduated sizing is aesthetically pleasing, while contrasting patterns and colors add whimsy. Check out these perfect pillow arrangements from our friends at Houzz then use the inspiration to turn an ordinary room into a showstopper.
    http://static1.glo.com/photos/Original/121644_Original.jpg
  • The pillow formula that transforms any room
    Heather Freeman created the painting above her sofa to complement the soft colors and patterns of this cozy five-pillow arrangement.
    http://static2.glo.com/photos/Original/121646_Original.jpg
  • The pillow formula that transforms any room
    The 2-2-1 ratio also works on beds. Rather than arrange the pillows from the outside in, as you would on a sofa, position them from back to front for a similar eye-catching effect.ON HOUZZ: Rustic or Coastal? Discover Your Decorating Style
    http://static1.glo.com/photos/Original/121647_Original.jpg
  • The pillow formula that transforms any room
    Both sofas in this modern Texas living room feature the same throw pillows in the 2-2-1 arrangement. Velvet teal and gold fabrics take a cue from the plush, multicolored chevron rug to create a unifying theme.ON HOUZZ: Go-To Sources for Pretty Pillows
    http://static.glo.com/photos/Original/121648_Original.jpg
  • The pillow formula that transforms any room
    Consider using only two fabrics in the 2-2-1 formula. Here, you'll find that the center bolster pillow's toile fabric smartly matches that of the ends pillows, while a solid gold throw grounds the two patterns.ON HOUZZ: How to Master the Throw-Pillow Mix
    http://static2.glo.com/photos/Original/121650_Original.jpg
  • The pillow formula that transforms any room
    While this is technically a 2-2-2-1 ratio, the effect is the same. Take note that the middle pillow is in the same fabric as the room's striped upholstered chairs—this is a great way to tie the whole space together.
    http://static2.glo.com/photos/Original/121649_Original.jpg
  • The pillow formula that transforms any room
    Worried about mixing too many patterns? You can get a similar look just by playing with colors. Both sets of these square pillows feature a trellis pattern, but their different hues keep things interesting. The center pillow adds a new fabric while featuring both shades to create harmony.
    http://static.glo.com/photos/Original/121651_Original.jpg
  • The pillow formula that transforms any room
    Don't be afraid to get creative! The pillows on the ends may not feature the same pattern, but using similar coloring and size will still help you get the 2-2-1 effect.ON HOUZZ: Find an Interior Designer in Your Area
    http://static2.glo.com/photos/Original/121652_Original.jpg
  • The pillow formula that transforms any room
    Celerie Kemble's Hot House floral pillows set the tone for the space. Using rust and blue in the middle pillows picks up on the same color scheme of the floral fabric to add balance.ON HOUZZ: Revive Your Living Room With New Pillows
    http://static2.glo.com/photos/Original/121645_Original.jpg
  • Comments
    * When using Facebook Connect your image and name may display on Glo. All privacy settings are controlled by Facebook.
  • Comments
    * When using Facebook Connect your image and name may display on Glo. All privacy settings are controlled by Facebook.
  • Comments
    * When using Facebook Connect your image and name may display on Glo. All privacy settings are controlled by Facebook.
  • Comments
    * When using Facebook Connect your image and name may display on Glo. All privacy settings are controlled by Facebook.
  • Comments
    * When using Facebook Connect your image and name may display on Glo. All privacy settings are controlled by Facebook.
  • Comments
    * When using Facebook Connect your image and name may display on Glo. All privacy settings are controlled by Facebook.
  • Comments
    * When using Facebook Connect your image and name may display on Glo. All privacy settings are controlled by Facebook.
  • Comments
    * When using Facebook Connect your image and name may display on Glo. All privacy settings are controlled by Facebook.
  • Comments
    * When using Facebook Connect your image and name may display on Glo. All privacy settings are controlled by Facebook.

  • Pillow Talk

    1 of 9

    The secret to mastering the art of throw pillows? The 2-2-1 ratio. Simply adorn your sofa with two square pillows of one size and pattern on the ends, then add two smaller pillows in a different pattern next to them, and, finally, add one rectangular pillow for the center. The graduated sizing is aesthetically pleasing, while contrasting patterns and colors add whimsy. Check out these perfect pillow arrangements from our friends at Houzz then use the inspiration to turn an ordinary room into a showstopper.

  • Work of Art

    2 of 9

    Heather Freeman created the painting above her sofa to complement the soft colors and patterns of this cozy five-pillow arrangement.

  • Sweet Dreams

    3 of 9

    The 2-2-1 ratio also works on beds. Rather than arrange the pillows from the outside in, as you would on a sofa, position them from back to front for a similar eye-catching effect.

    ON HOUZZ: Rustic or Coastal? Discover Your Decorating Style

  • Perfect Match

    4 of 9

    Both sofas in this modern Texas living room feature the same throw pillows in the 2-2-1 arrangement. Velvet teal and gold fabrics take a cue from the plush, multicolored chevron rug to create a unifying theme.

    ON HOUZZ: Go-To Sources for Pretty Pillows

  • Double Take

    5 of 9

    Consider using only two fabrics in the 2-2-1 formula. Here, you'll find that the center bolster pillow's toile fabric smartly matches that of the ends pillows, while a solid gold throw grounds the two patterns.

    ON HOUZZ: How to Master the Throw-Pillow Mix

  • Fine Lines

    6 of 9

    While this is technically a 2-2-2-1 ratio, the effect is the same. Take note that the middle pillow is in the same fabric as the room's striped upholstered chairs—this is a great way to tie the whole space together.

  • Set the Tone

    7 of 9

    Worried about mixing too many patterns? You can get a similar look just by playing with colors. Both sets of these square pillows feature a trellis pattern, but their different hues keep things interesting. The center pillow adds a new fabric while featuring both shades to create harmony.

  • Size Matters

    8 of 9

    Don't be afraid to get creative! The pillows on the ends may not feature the same pattern, but using similar coloring and size will still help you get the 2-2-1 effect.

    ON HOUZZ: Find an Interior Designer in Your Area

  • Flower Power

    9 of 9

    Celerie Kemble's Hot House floral pillows set the tone for the space. Using rust and blue in the middle pillows picks up on the same color scheme of the floral fabric to add balance.

    ON HOUZZ: Revive Your Living Room With New Pillows

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