The science of seating: How to pick a piece of furniture that’s tasteful but functional

In the design-forward world we’re living in, it’s hard not to appreciate a visually stunning space. This awareness has extended to our homes as well, with people increasingly looking to do up their living spaces, keeping aesthetics front and centre of it all. What often gets lost in translation though, is striking the right balance between design and functionality when it comes to picking out your furniture. In fact, having the right ergonomic design is more important than you think. After all, we spend a chunk of our time at home—whether it’s work, relaxation or simply unwinding on a favourite armchair or the trusty couch. 

So, what exactly should you look out for? According to Swati Gupta, furniture designer, founder and principal designer at Bluedot Design, a Mumbai-based furniture company, there are a few things worth keeping in mind when picking out pieces for your home. She recommends prioritising ergonomics first, to ensure that your seating supports your posture. “Consider fully upholstered sofas with a medium density foam which will retain its form for longer and is very comfortable at the same time,” she suggests. Bear in mind that when you’re looking for furniture that supports both reclining and seating, options like modular sofas, recliners and chaise lounges are worthy picks, Gupta adds. A tip? If you still want to go with a low-back sofa, try adding large cushions to give your back some support. 

At Wootique, Dhruv Parekh who specialises in handcrafted wooden furniture, suggests combining different types of seating when designing your living space. “A plush sofa paired with comfortable armchairs and vibrant floor cushions can create a layered look. This not only offers different seating heights but also makes for easy lounging and socialising.” He adds that recliners are typically a great option as they adjust to your angle, giving your lower back the support it craves to reduce slouching.

Dr. Dishant Dabas, HOD of the Rehabilitation Unit at PSRI Multispecialty Hospital Delhi, points out a growing concern related to the rise in muscular disorders, especially among millennials. To a large extent, this has to do with how we spend our time sitting at work or simply relaxing at home. He suggests prioritising the depth and height of your furniture first. “For example, the depth of your sofa or chair should be ideal for lumbar support. Similarly, choosing furniture with more height will help avoid putting strain on your back and joints. “I often advise my patients to consider adding wooden blocks to the base of their bed to help raise the height. This way, you’re not compromising on style and aesthetics.”

Wootique’s James Bond chair is just that. Inspired by one of the James Bond movies, the hammock design makes this chair multi-functional,  says Parekh. For Gupta, it’s their Kyapitara bench which is the Japanese translation of the word "caterpillar". The bench’s unique design features a pattern reminiscent of a caterpillar's body. Each cushion mirrors the gentle, rounded segments of a caterpillar, creating a flowing rhythm across the bench while the grid-like wooden structure helps ensure stability and balance. 

Style meets functionality

Finding the right pieces of furniture for your home doesn’t necessarily mean you have to compromise on tasteful designs. Taral Jadhav, founder of Mumbai-based Do It Up Interiors, shares that bold, statement pieces can help create a focal point and visual contrast. “When it comes to shapes and proportions, we’re seeing a lot more curves and fluid forms. This ensures more angles while a linear piece of furniture could be limiting,” she says. Jadhav adds that it’s also worth choosing furniture keeping in mind the duration and type of activity you will be using it for. For instance, watching television on your bed sitting against a cushioned headboard or working on a chair with comfortable back support.

While the love for neutrals and monochrome palettes isn’t waning anytime soon,  Parekh points out that we’re now witnessing a surge in vibrant colours and intricate patterns. Rich jewel tones and traditional Indian motifs are making a statement, almost as a nod to the festive spirit, he says, adding that textured fabrics such as velvet, boucle, and linen are trending too. “They not only add depth and richness but also invite comfort—perfect for curling up with a good book and a cup of chai.”

Lead image: Akula Madhu

Also read: Give your home a cosy makeover with these luxury decor pieces