I’ve always believed that colour isn’t just decoration — it’s an expression of who we are. It carries memory, meaning, and mood.
So when I designed my recent collection of bold upholstered furniture with Robert Langford, I wanted each piece to feel like a statement — something that commands attention, but never overwhelms a room.
These designs are made to be noticed. But styling them should never feel intimidating.
In this post, I’m sharing my personal approach to working with bold furniture — from how I style statement chairs and ottomans in my own home, to tips on wall colours, textures, and soft furnishings that bring balance and harmony into vibrant interiors.
Design is storytelling — and colour is my language
“Whether it’s a single bold piece or a room filled with heritage textures, styling with intention transforms your home into a narrative.”
– Eva Sonaike
Every room tells a story. And the pieces you choose — from a patterned pouffe to a custom banquette — become the chapters.
When I style bold designs, I always start with the emotion. What do I want this room to feel like? Once I’ve identified that, I let one key piece take the lead — and everything else flows from there.
For me, styling begins with choosing that one focal point — the item that holds the emotional energy of the room. It might be a Swivel Chair in Ife Beige or a bespoke coffee table upholstered in Imole Green — but the process is always the same: give that piece space, and build around it with calm and intention.
Once I’ve chosen the statement, I start layering in softness — wool rugs, velvet cushions, raffia lampshades, natural wood.
The asa collection is perfect for this. It was designed as a subtle, calming companion to more vibrant patterns. The muted tones and gentle geometry create harmony without competing.
Other favourites I return to time and again are Koja Yellow, Koja Blue, and Batik Sky, Beige and Sage — all of which work beautifully alongside stronger statement pieces.
Repeat colours — gently
If your statement piece includes several colours, pick one or two to echo subtly throughout the room. I might repeat a soft green in a vase or artwork, or match a pink tone in a cushion or napkin.
This technique creates cohesion without making the space feel overly “coordinated.” It allows the design to feel natural and layered — rather than overly styled.
Choose wall colours and wallpapers that support, not compete
One of the most effective ways to keep a bold piece from feeling overwhelming is to pair it with the right backdrop.
For paint, I often recommend:
· Warm whites (not stark)
· Taupe or mushroom tones
· Muted olive or sage greens
· Dusty pinks or powder blues
If you’re ready to try patterned wallpaper, go for something with a soft repeat and tonal variation. Options like asa Lilac or Batik Beige are both calm and full of texture — the perfect way to add interest without stealing focus. The key is simple: let the walls support the furniture, not compete with it.
Don’t be afraid to contrast styles and textures. A graphic pouffe in front of a linen sofa. A structured, modern chair next to an antique wooden table. These moments of contrast are where a room really comes to life — and where bold pieces begin to feel curated and intentional.
The pieces in this collection were designed to bring cultural richness, warmth and narrative into your home. They’re handcrafted in the UK, upholstered in our signature West African fabrics, and made to be lived with and loved.
They’re bold, yes — but always elegant. And styling them doesn’t require perfection. Just a little bit of curiosity, and a willingness to play with colour and contrast.
I’ve created a free Colour Guide full of my personal tips, styling suggestions, and colour pairing advice to help you bring balance and boldness into your home — effortlessly.
Inside, you’ll discover:
· My top 5 colour styling principles
· Examples from my own home and client projects
· Ideas on mixing patterns, textures and tones
· Calm colour palettes to pair with vibrant prints
👉 Download the Colour Guide here and begin styling with confidence, clarity, and joy.
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