What does a sofa need in order for it to last in your home for 20 years?
A sofa that lasts for several decades (which we should of course aim towards) needs both structural integrity and emotional relevance. For me, that means a strong, well-made foundation, solid craftsmanship, durable upholstery, covers that can be washed and components that can be renewed, paired with a design that resists trends. As a mother and someone who works from home, my sofa carries daily life in all its layers. I look for pieces that can absorb change without demanding attention, aging kind of gracefully rather than becoming outdated.
From an interior design perspective, is there a perfect spot to place a sofa in your space?
Rather than a perfect spot, there is a thoughtful one. I always start with the architecture. In my mid-century home, the sofa responds to proportions, sightlines, and natural light. It should anchor the room while maintaining openness. Never interrupting circulation or views toward the landscape. A well-placed sofa creates a sense of pause and orientation within the space, rather than acting as a barrier.
What’s your secret to mixing modular pieces so they feel cohesive and personal rather than just “functional”?
Cohesion comes from restraint. I limit the palette, in tone, texture, or geometry and then introduce variation through placement and context. Modular pieces feel personal when they are composed, not assembled. I like to offset clean, architectural modules with tactile elements or one unexpected proportion. The goal is a composition that feels intentional, not mechanical. With the Torio I decided to pair two tones and play around with colour which definitely adds a touch of personality, fun and depth to the room.
Are there any small modular hacks you love that instantly change the vibe of a space?
Subtle shifts make the biggest impact. Reconfiguring depth, slightly breaking symmetry, or floating a module away from the wall can transform how a room feels. I also love introducing a single contrasting module by using different colours to create visual rhythm. It’s a quiet gesture, but it changes the entire narrative of the space.
How do you adapt your modular sofa when your needs shift, for example, when life at home feels more work, rest, or full-on play?
Modular furniture mirrors the fluidity of daily life. During work-heavy periods, I need structure and clarity: upright seating, defined zones, a sense of order. When rest or family time takes over, the arrangement softens: modules come closer together, creating generous surfaces for lounging and play. I value furniture that adapts intuitively, without needing to be redesigned for each phase of life. And there's also the chance of bigger life changes. For example moving to another place like we just did. And with a modular sofa I make sure that the furniture still fits the place, maybe just a little re-arranged.
How can you design a space that is safe and calm for the whole family, while also making modular choices that accommodate kids’ needs without compromising on style?
Calm interiors are built on a solid base: in materials, proportions, and durability. Rounded forms, grounded silhouettes, and robust textiles naturally support family life while remaining visually refined. I avoid overly precious finishes and instead choose materials that invite use. When a space is designed to be lived in fully, it becomes calmer - even with children. And having a sofa with washable covers definitely helps to keep the space clean and tidy.
Which colours do you predict will be the new interesting ones for sofas and surroundings?
I see a shift toward complex, softened tones drawn from nature and architecture. Colours like warm clay, muted olive, mineral grey, soft tobacco, and washed indigo are becoming increasingly relevant. They feel grounded, and timeless, especially in spaces that value longevity over instant impact. These hues sit beautifully alongside wood, stone, and natural light, making them ideal for contemporary yet enduring interiors.
Pictures by Jaclyn Locke