It hasn't gone unnoticed, in our trend-spotting travels to the US' and Europe's most famous furniture fashion shows, that so-called kidney bean sofas are having a moment.
In recent weeks, this sociably-shaped silhouette has captured the attention of press, designers and celebrities alike – including Chrissy Teigen and Kate Hudson, who have shared images of their curved sofas to the world via their social feeds.
This sofa trend has recently been spotted in the home of another yet another fashionista – Khloé Kardashian – whose gray-toned seating taps into an enduring color trend, too.
'Kidney bean-shaped sofas have become popular in the design world due to their ability to introduce organic forms,' says design expert James Scaife. 'Unlike traditional straight-lined sofas, their curved silhouette adds softness and fluidity to the room. These curves bring dynamic energy and visual interest, creating a welcoming ambiance.'
But with all the talk about the color replacing gray in 2023, has Khloé picked out the wrong shade for her couch? As James explains, soft neutral choices, like Khloé's, are remain in demand.
'The subtle elegance and timeless appeal of neural hues effortlessly blend with various interior styles. This ensures the longevity of your sofa as design trends continue to evolve.'
Naturally, Khloé Kardashian's Calabasas mansion is not likely to feel compact – but if you're working with a small living room, James says this shaped furniture allows your space to feel more 'optimized' – and its shape works surprisingly well in cozier corners.
'Curved living room sofas excel in optimizing space utilization because their unique shape allows them to fit into corners effortlessly,' he says. 'And they can capitalize on awkward spaces – making them an excellent choice for rooms with limited square footage. By hugging the contours of a room, kidney bean-shaped sofas maximize seating capacity – all while maintaining a visually appealing interior design.'
And, whether you choose to decorate with neutrals like Khloé or you opt for a more vibrant coloring, the shape benefits remain the same.
'The rounded design of these sofas fosters better social interactions among individuals. The curved shape naturally encourages face-to-face conversations and a more inclusive seating arrangement,' James adds.
'Whether you're hosting a lively gathering or enjoying quality time with family. Kidney bean-shaped sofa effortlessly promotes a sense of togetherness and conviviality.'
For Kardashian-approved inspiration, we recommend one of the three sofas below.
Created by esteemed designer Leanne Ford, this curved sofa is the perfect kidney bean shape, so sought-after by designers. Striking for its sculptural curves, the piece offers a seat that finds a balance between formal and lounge-friendly.
Showcasing a hint of wood, this sofa is a twist on the otherwise ultra-soft furnishing. The Marlow is both artful and sophisticated with its curved silhouette. It's also spill-resistant, which is great if you're prone to the occasional party.
With soft, feminine edges, this sofa pays homage to the curved bouclé trend, with a difference. Anthropologie created the sofa to replicate one of Vladimir Kagan's most iconic designs – the result is a therapeutic piece with a rosy twist.
