Make a statement: how to choose a colourful sofa

Sometimes it pays to dare with colour, so why not give your home a style boost with a vibrant sofa?

Whether you're looking to create a peaceful neutral space, an energised palette or a pared-back Scandi vibe, the right combination of colours can transform a room.

"If you don't know where to start when choosing colours then look at your wardrobe," says Kate Watson-Smyth of interiors blog Mad About The House. "If you're comfortable wearing it you will be comfortable living in it."

While Brits continue their love affair with greys, neutrals and blush shades, colour pops are also increasingly popular.

One of the key interiors trends at this year's Milan Design Week was calming backdrops – think cool powder blues and stone or off-white neutrals – with vibrant accents of cherry, wine and brick red.

According to colour research carried out by sofa company DFS, 46 per cent of UK homeowners would like to use more colour, with blue, purple, green, teal and yellow named the five colours people would most like to use.

Scroll through the gallery above to see our pick of the best colourful sofas...

Five tips from DFS sofa designer Philip Watkin

1. A revitalising green sofa, paired with natural colours on the walls or flooring, is a perfect way to introduce colour without it becoming overbearing.

2. Teal is a versatile colour for the home and is popular if you’re looking to add a burst of energy to a living space. It is bold and has depth, but doesn’t dominate, making it a great choice for a range of different looks. If you’re after a rich colour palette that’s harmonious but a little unexpected, then try pairing teal with a mustard yellow to liven up a room.

3. If you’re looking for something a bit more muted then try purple, as it creates a calming and serene environment. Lavender or lilac,when paired with metallic accessories, transform a space and suggest glamour and indulgence.

Still in two minds?

4. For those keen to add a pop of colour to a neutral living room, start with a couple of colourful scatter cushions or an accent chair.

5. Use your sofa to introduce a statement colour to your living room and don’t be afraid to mix and match additional colours and textures alongside it. It’s simply about recognising the colours you love and forgetting any fears of getting it wrong.