Time to get rid of your leather sofa! Interiors expert says ‘bland and bulky’ couches are officially passé – this is the seating you should have in your living room instead

They were once the sign of a well-to-do, ‘grown up’ living room – but an interiors expert has confirmed that leather sofas are officially passé.

Whereas they used to signal luxury with an opulent and long-lasting material, which was also easy to maintain as it didn’t trap any dust or pet hair, it seems its ‘elegance’ is no longer in vogue.

Instead, Jordana Ashkenazi has advised home-owners to opt for something warmer with more character.

‘Clients are swapping bulky, square leather pieces for sculptural shapes, tactile fabrics and upholstery that feels inviting from morning coffee to evening wind down,’ she told the Daily Mail.

She also revealed that those in the market for a new sofa no longer have to sacrifice comfort for durability – and now with ethical factors at play, and a fashion for brighter colours, leather is no longer the designer’s best friend. 

‘The mood has shifted. Spaces are becoming more layered, more expressive and ultimately more human, and furniture choices are reflecting that change,’ she explained. 

Instead of warm and inviting, Jordana has exposed how leather sofas are bland and uniform and revealed the superior alternatives on offer. 

And for those who can’t bear to say goodbye, the interior expert has also revealed the best way to restyle leather to update and brighten your home. 

1. Textured weaves with a touch of bouclé

According to Jordana, textured fabrics are leading the way, bringing warmth and depth without overwhelming a space. 

The expert suggests adding a small touch of bouclé which can work beautifully as an accent.

To ensure your sofa is timeless, use the textures sparingly rather than covering the entire sofa – that way it won’t appear trend-driven and will last the test of time. 

2. Linen-blend upholstery

While many may have opted for leather in the hopes that it would look effortless and neutral, Jordana has revealed that for that truly ‘undone’ look, opt for linen. 

‘Linen mixes bring an effortless, slightly undone look that suits light, neutral British interiors,’ she explained. 

It also acts as the perfect breathable fabric to layer with cushions and throws.

3. Matte performance velvets

Homeowners might be tempted to sway to the other extreme when removing leather from their homes, but Jordana advised against jumping in feet-first for a velvet sofa. 

Instead, she suggests opting for something lighter. 

‘Today’s durable, matte finishes in caramel, taupe or olive feel luxurious but still contemporary, and many come with advanced stain resistant technology,’ she told the Daily Mail.

4. Modular fabric sofas

To break up a room and add some flexibility to the space, ditch the rigid L-shaped leather sofa.

In a family home, Jordana explained that flexibility is key.

She recommended opting for modular pieces to allow layouts to ‘evolve’ – a particularly helpful tip for open-plan living spaces. 

5. Curved or sculptural silhouettes

Move away from trying to seem architectural in your furniture choices, Jordana advised. 

Avoid harsh edges and corners and soften the space to achieve a cosy home. 

‘Rounded sofas in softer fabrics feel more design-led and welcoming, helping to soften architectural spaces and reflecting the move towards more organic, character-led interiors,’ the expert explained. 

6. Faux leather and vegan alternatives

But, if you simply cannot part with your leather, there are ways to update it. 

Jordana said that for those who still love the sleek aesthetic, they should invest in new-generation faux leathers.

She explained they offer a similar look but feel more modern. 

‘With a softer feel and more versatile colour options, faux leathers appeal to clients who want the style without using real leather.’