Sofas might be universal, but how they’re styled, shaped, and used? That changes wildly from country to country. What’s considered cozy and chic in Melbourne might be totally different from what’s trending in Milan, Tokyo, or Cape Town. And honestly, that’s what makes global design so exciting—it’s a melting pot of culture, comfort, and creativity.

So if you're looking to refresh your space or just want a little design inspo, here's a trip around the world—no passport needed—through the lens of one piece of furniture we all know and love: the sofa.

🇮🇹 Italy – Sleek and Sculptural

In Italy, where design is practically a national sport, sofas lean modern, minimal, and molto bello. Think low-profile frames, soft leather upholstery, and curves that feel more like sculpture than furniture. Comfort is key, but it’s delivered in a refined, almost effortless way.

Italian living rooms often feature neutral tones like cream, taupe, or deep grey, but with a focus on luxe materials—matte velvet, supple leather, and brushed metals. Brands like B&B Italia and Minotti have made this sleek sophistication a signature look.

We styled a space last year inspired by Milanese design using a curved ivory modular paired with a glass coffee table and black metal accents. The result? Clean, polished, and very la dolce vita.

🇯🇵 Japan – Minimalism Meets Purpose

Japanese interiors are all about simplicity, functionality, and harmony with the space. Sofas in Japanese homes are usually compact, low to the ground, and often come with built-in storage or multi-functional features. It’s all about doing more with less.

Fabric choices lean toward natural materials—cotton, linen, or woven textures in soft, earthy tones. The aesthetic is calming and clutter-free, with every piece of furniture placed intentionally.

We once had a customer design a reading nook with a low-profile two-seater in soft grey linen and a floor cushion tucked underneath. Inspired by a Tokyo apartment, it became a favourite quiet corner—simple, serene, and beautifully understated.

🇸🇪 Sweden – Cozy Meets Clean

You can’t talk about sofa trends without mentioning Scandinavia. The Swedish take on lounge furniture is equal parts comfort and practicality, wrapped in soft tones and warm wood finishes. Think pale fabrics, wooden legs, and cushions you can sink into for hours.

The word “lagom” (not too much, not too little) guides most Scandinavian designs. Sofas are straightforward in shape—often modular or slightly angled—with thoughtful details like hidden storage or washable covers.

One of our showroom setups was based on this look: a light beige 3-seater with oak feet, layered with muted blue cushions and a pale wool rug. It felt instantly cozy without being overstyled.

🇲🇦 Morocco – Layers, Texture, and Colour

Moroccan interiors are vibrant, layered, and full of personality. Sofas here often double as daybeds or are built-in, surrounded by cushions in rich, saturated tones—think terracotta, indigo, saffron, and emerald.

Materials matter: handwoven textiles, leather poufs, embroidered pillows, and brass or wooden accents are all part of the look. And patterns? The more, the better.

We helped a client reimagine their living space with Moroccan flair by adding a low, cushion-heavy sofa in dark teal, mixed with textured rugs and a carved wooden coffee table. It was bold, warm, and unlike anything else in their home—and that’s exactly the point.

🇧🇷 Brazil – Indoor-Outdoor Blends

In Brazil, the line between indoors and outdoors is often blurred. Living rooms open up to patios, verandas, and gardens, and sofas are designed to be flexible, breathable, and relaxed.

Expect to see natural fibres like rattan, cotton, and wood mixed with colourful upholstery or tropical prints. Modular sofas are popular here too, especially in open-plan homes that embrace easy, laid-back entertaining.

One of our team members visited São Paulo and came back inspired by a breezy white linen sofa with palm-print cushions and a cane side table. We recreated it in our studio for a summer look that felt sun-kissed and welcoming.

🇦🇺 Australia – Effortless and Relaxed

Closer to home, Aussie style is all about livable comfort with a touch of coastal ease. Sofas tend to be big enough for the whole family, often in earthy tones like sand, clay, and eucalyptus green.

You’ll find a lot of linen and cotton upholstery, timber frames, and a mix of vintage and contemporary decor. Open-plan homes mean sofas often serve multiple zones, so sectionals and chaise lounges are common.

We recently worked with a family who wanted “something comfy, but still stylish.” We set them up with a soft grey modular sofa, layered it with textured throws, and added a jute rug underneath. It hit that sweet spot between casual and curated.

🇺🇸 United States – Big, Bold, and Built for Comfort

In the U.S., the sofa is the centrepiece of the living room—and it’s often supersized. Think oversized sectionals, deep seats, and enough room to stretch out with the whole crew (plus the dog).

The American trend leans toward comfort-first, but with a strong eye on style. Plush cushions, reclining options, and performance fabrics like microfiber or stain-resistant weaves are popular choices.

One customer took inspiration from a New York loft look—mixing a charcoal grey L-shaped sofa with exposed brick, industrial lighting, and vintage accents. The result? Warm, urban, and effortlessly cool.

A World of Inspiration, One Sofa at a Time

What’s exciting about sofa trends from around the globe is that they don’t just reflect fashion—they reflect lifestyle. Whether it’s minimalism in Japan, rich textures in Morocco, or breezy comfort in Australia, the way people style their lounges says a lot about how they live and relax.

So next time you're thinking of switching things up, why not borrow a little inspiration from abroad? A curve from Italy, a cushion from Brazil, a texture from Sweden—you never know what might spark something new in your space.