Whether you’re curled up with a good book or catching up on Netflix with the kids, a good sofa or settee is the perfect spot for some relaxation time. But with so many styles, fabrics, colours and patterns out there, choosing the right one can be mind-boggling. To help you out, we've put together a definitive guide covering essential factors to consider when buying this key piece of furniture. From the logistics of getting it into your home to the best styles to choose for your lifestyle, click or scroll through for more...
First things first: don't even think about looking at style, colours or fabrics before you measure the space where your sofa will sit correctly. A beautiful sofa is a hero furniture piece worth investing in, so think how disappointing it would be if it doesn't fit the space when your new couch finally arrives.
There are various ways to measure the space for positioning a sofa. Take note of the width, depth and height of the sofa and use a tape measure to measure up the space it is intended to sit. To get an idea of how the sofa will look, map out the footprint and place masking tape and newspaper on the floor. Or, for a true visualisation stack cardboard boxes on the floor. Also, note the dimensions of existing furniture so you won't overcrowd the space.
We know you'll be sitting comfortably once it arrives. But, will your sofa be in its permanent room position? A sofa pulled away from the wall can make a room feel more expensive. In an open-plan room, a large corner sofa can be a practical room divider to zone spaces. And where space is limited, opt for a compact version that will sit neatly against a wall to make the space feel more open. Once the ideal spot is chosen ensure there will be plenty of space around the rest of the room once the sofa is in position. Is there enough walk-around space in high traffic rooms? Can windows or doors open fully or are sockets, radiators or storage compromised?
Your choice of upholstery will have a huge impact on the rest of the room so it's important to choose wisely. Looking at sofa fabrics in a shop with artificial light, or worse online, will not offer the true likeness of how colours and pattern will look in situ. It's vital to order swatches to judge the finish and shade in the correct light and against carpets and wallpaper. Most retailers offer free or low-cost samples to be delivered to your door. Also, consider practical elements. Busy family or pet lovers will benefit from fabric that's easy to spot clean. Or better still choose removable covers that are easy to clean.
A sofa is built to last a good few years so it must sit with your lifestyle. Before investing consider how you intend to use it. Do you enjoy naps and lounging in front of the TV? Then choose long, wide and cushioned seating. Do you have a large and busy family? Go for a big and practical corner version that accommodates lots of bottoms in one sitting. Or, if you're looking for a refined option that's for formal occasions, a sofa with a high back rest will favour upright positions.
Your sofa will likely be the focal point of your living room, so picking the right colour is important. Do you want to make a bold statement, or blend your new couch seamlessly into your existing scheme? Make sure your chosen piece works for your room, and for your family life too (a white or cream sofa does not mix too well with grubby fingers).
The sheer amount of sofa styles can be overwhelming. Your choice will depend on all of the above points; the volume and design of your room, the size of your clan and the logistics of delivery, too. Whether you want a giant corner couch the whole family can pile onto or a sleek chaise longue perfect for some me-time, here's the lowdown on some key styles and how they'll work in your space...
There are many sofas out there that are good value for money and on trend too – but be sure to do your research. Check your chosen sofa has a good amount of padding and filling (but try to avoid versions with low-quality foam). Finally, inspect the fabric – is it of adequate quality? Cotton and synthetic microfibres are usually a durable option. If you're browsing bargains online, if possible, test your finds at a store before you take the plunge. This stylish, mid-century style Andy sofa doubles as a sofa bed and will set you back less than £400 ($490).
Thanks to online and express shopping you can now order a 'flat-pack' sofa that's easy to build delivered to your door in a box. This is a great option if your property has tight hallways, multiple staircases and narrow doorways. Who can forget that Friends episode when Ross needed to 'pivot' a sofa up a staircase? He should have ordered a sofa in a box!
Designers love to take an essential piece of furniture and play with its form, so this kind of sofa will surely make a statement. If you're after a bargain, look away now, since you'll pay extra for the careful craftsmanship. Sofas of this calibre are usually made with the highest quality materials Linara linen, for example) – that's perfect if you're after the height of style, but best avoided if your couch will be subject to lots of wear and tear.
Usually designed with a pair of individual seat pads and backrests, two-seater sofas are perfect for smaller areas or as an extra addition to a large living room. Before buying, consider how often you entertain: even if you live alone or with one other person, you may want some extra wiggle room for visiting friends and family. On the other hand, it will open up extra space within a room too.
If you're in need of some extra room right now, or you're planning to grow your family eventually, plump for a three seater. Big seat cushions and generous proportions make them a comfortable place for the whole clan to relax. Choose a hardwearing material to protect against sticky fingers: leather or vinyl are good choices.
The classic sofa set is perfect for keeping a scheme coherent and coordinated. They usually consist of sofas of various sizes and matching armchairs and footstools, all in the same style and fabrics. Buying pieces from a single set is great if you're hoping for a bargain, since you often get a discount when buying more than one item from the same range.
The chaise longue (also spelt chaise lounge) was originally designed to contour to a person's back, so someone can comfortably spread out and recline on it. They'll usually have a backrest and an arm at just one side, and considering how slim and streamlined the design, chaise longues are excellent options for hallways and bedrooms, and also windowseats. Plump for hardwood legs for extra durability, since you'll want this piece to have staying power.
These are chaise longues with a modern update, these L-shaped sofas are designed to allow a person to sit comfortably with their feet up. Carefully consider your space: if you're in a smaller flat or apartment, will the extra length impede any other furniture or take up unnecessary space? If not, then they're a great way to add some extra comfort to your couch. You can choose right- or left-handed options depending on where you want the chaise part to sit.
If you want the ultimate in relaxation, a recliner sofa could be the way to go. First up, you'll need to choose between electric or manual. Especially if you've elderly family members, for ease of use, an electric recliner with a simple button may be best – some even come with mod cons such as a USB port to charge your smartphone. However, if budget is a concern, a manual option will be easier on the pocket. Think about your space, too: do you have enough room for a jutting footrest? If not, best forgo a recliner altogether.
Large corner sofas are perfect for families. Choose foam-filled cushions with stain-resistant fabric that will withstand plenty of wear and tear. Also, make sure you measure your room carefully to check a large sofa is suitable and don't forget to take into account the door frames and entrance halls your sofa will need to pass through. Most big corner sofas are delivered in sections, but it always pays to double check.
Modular sofas are similar to corner sofas, made up of sections that can be pulled apart and rearranged. Due to their design, they're a great choice for rooms with open-plan layouts – the sections mean you can zone off different areas, and chop and change the look. Opt for this model if you need versatility or are planning a move in the not-to-distant future.
Practical for large families U-shaped sofa provides plenty of room for all. The horse-shoe configuration is usually made up of sectionals for easy placement and customisation. The other benefit is that it can be easy transformed into separate seating options at different times.
A Chesterfield sofa is very easy to recognise. It has refined, rolled arms the same size as its back, which is then fitted with deep, regimented buttons to create a tufted, tailored look. Often upholstered in leather with sculptured feet, it's a grand piece of furniture. This style is best for a touch of luxury, so these sofas don't often come cheap. Best avoid if you've little ones or pets.
Sofa beds are a practical solution for guests and are a dream if you're short on space. The beds will pull out in different ways and at different angles, so ensure you plump for an option that works in the room you have. You'll want to check how easily the bed folds out and stows away, too, so it's best to go to the store to make your selection. You should also test the built-in mattress for comfort and spring quality before you buy.
Is it a tiny sofa or is it a very large armchair? Whichever category you lump it in, the love seat option is best for couples, or those living alone, and can be easily manoeuvred into small spaces. It's also ideal paired with a two-seater if you don't have space for a full three-seater. Pick a light colour to open up a small room.
With curves hitting homeware design hard this year, it's no surprise that curvaceous pill-shaped seating styles are on the interior trends for 2022 sofa hot list. This capsule curved chaise lounge ticks all the boxes upholstered in a warm neutral tactile fabric.
Committed to design and quality, supreme designers like Ercol offer timeless craftsmanship that oozes sophistication and style. You'll need to be prepared to invest more than the usual high-street prices but you get what you pay for. Those with a trained designer eye will be instantly impressed by your new living room asset.
Cabriole sofas are easily distinguished by an exposed wooden frame, continuous back and arms; distinctive curved legs and no separate back cushions. This modern-day take, is chic and compact so is ideal for bedrooms or a hallway.
Style is the main benefit of a traditional sofa. Usual attributes include curved edges, plump cushions and smaller refined arms. They're usually upholstered in classic fabrics such as velvet – these materials are not always easy to clean, so are best avoided if you've got little ones. However, velvet stands up well to pet-induced wear and tear thanks to its tight weave and low pile and also hair can be brushed off.
Sleek and minimal yet not lacking in comfort, modern sofas tend to have slim metal feet. A benefit is some extra floor space beneath the couch: especially if you have children, or a small living area, as you could line this space with sleek, scheme-fitting storage boxes.
Wood-framed sofas are usually beautifully crafted and can add a touch of mid-century elegance to a property. The blend of wood and fabric suits conservatories, since the natural tones blur the boundaries between the outside and inside. The slender wooden arms will fit easily into compact spaces, too. If you go for this option, be prepared for some extra maintenance, though – the wooden parts may well need treating in order to protect them from sun damage.
As the name suggests, a pillow-back sofa has a set of large pillows along the backrest, in place of traditional sofa cushions or pulled fabric. This look is laid-back and the style is comfy, but remember you'll need to put in some extra effort to keep this design looking neat, so it's not ideal for uber-busy lifestyles. A benefit is that the cushion covers can be easily removed and cleaned when necessary, and you can also change up the design if you wish.
Classic-back or straight-back sofas have backrest cushions that are square and flat along the top. They're often filled with feathers or foam – the latter is less maintenance, since feather-filled options usually need more plumping.
The track-arm or square-arm sofa has, just as the name suggests, straight-lined, right-angled arms. Modern in style, choose this design if you need your sofa to fit neatly into corners or if you need help sectioning off an open-plan living space.
Scroll or curved arms are associated with classic-style sofas. The sturdy design offers great support, so they're a good option if you or a family member has limited mobility. This style of sofa is more at home in larger living rooms, since the rolled arms are wide and will take up more space. The overall result will be timeless, practical and comfortable.
Ideal for traditional and timeless looks the characteristics of an English roll arm sofa are a deep seat, curved, rolled arms, and a tight back. Its legs are usually sculpted wood and often on castors.
An armless modular sofa is perfect if you need versatility – and the streamlined design will help open up a small space. Check you can find the perfect position for this design, though – since there's only one surface to lean back on, you'll need to make sure the sofa is pointing in the right direction.
A loose-cover sofa, with its removable fabric layers, is a perfect option if you've got pets or young children. The covers can be whipped off and washed regularly to remove dog or cat hair, or the remnants of the little ones' lunch. On the style front, the sofa gives off a relaxed, rustic vibe, especially when paired with some statement scatter cushions.
Fabric sofas are an inviting yet practical fabric choice. There are many finishes to choose from, so it's important to consider what is suitable for your home – if you have children go for a hardwearing fabric that is tightly woven. Ask your sofa manufacturer what the fabric's Martindale Rub Count is. The Martindale Test involves rubbing a piece of worsted wool cloth in a circular motion on a flatly mounted fabric sample until the test fabric shows a change in appearance. This is its abrasion rating: the higher the rub count, the more durable (and probably expensive) the material.
Tactile and sumptuous, velvet upholstery is super luxurious. However, this glamourous material can be a little more high-maintenance than others. Over time it can lose its sheen or fade, so it will need some TLC to keep it looking its best. Soft brushing and vacuuming regularly will help. Due to the delicate nature of velvet, specialist dry cleaning is recommended for big spills and stains: never use water or liquid to clean it as it will stain the material easily.
A linen sofa is a beautiful choice for many reasons. It's constructed with natural fibres and doesn't loosen over time. It's easy to keep clean, wonderfully comfortable and of course, is super stylish. It's a practical option for many households.
For an inviting and tactile sofa boucle fabric makes a cosy and on-trend sofa upholstery choice. The looped yarn and visual texture and soft comfort. Surprisingly it has a low-liquid absorption so is easy to maintain and spot clean.
Leather is tough, durable and even looks better with age, so it's a great option if you want your purchase to have longevity. It's a perfect choice for family living as the material can be wiped down too. Every hide is different and you can choose from various shades ranging from pale tan to rich chocolate.
Be sure to choose a sofa that's suitable for the whole family, including pets. Look for upholstery that includes a hidden protection layer to resist snagging. Some also have easy clean, stain resistant technology. Smooth finishes will prevent pet hair from sticking to fibres.
Pressure from environmentally friendly consumers means sofa manufacturers are finding innovative ways to make sofas sustainable. Upholstery fibres are being made from recycled plastic and construction is becoming more sympathetic towards furniture that can be recycled and re-used.
Sofas don't have to be one colour. Floral patterns make a pretty choice for country living rooms and are a beautiful way of bringing the outside in. From classic all-over prints to more contemporary designs, florals are an uplifting choice.
Choosing a sofa with striking patterns can make a real statement in your living room. Be sure to take a look at samples and swatches in both natural and artificial light to ensure you make the right choice for you. Match up the cushions for a together look.
A striped sofa is smart and bold, and it can be a refreshing change from plain finishes. Teamed with nautical accessories, it's a perfect choice for breezy, coastal schemes.
A red sofa is a daring but ultimately rewarding choice. Pillar-box shades were popular in the 90s, but they now turned a more pleasing rich ruby tone. A striking sofa is a great way to inject personality into a rented property, if you're not able to paint the walls, for example.
On trend neutrals such as a clean, crisp, white or cream sofa is a daring choice. It acts as a beautiful blank canvas on which to layer up a colour scheme – but it's not recommended for young families or animal lovers. But if you're set on neutrals, layer with plenty of throws or choose washable covers.
Royal or midnight blue are bold colour choices for a sofa, sophisticated in classic rooms and smart in modern spaces. If the idea of a daring sofa shade leaves you apprehensive, remember you can tone down the room scheme with a muted throw or curtains. Can't choose between jewel shades? Some companies have created clever apps that allow you to see what your new statement sofa will look like in your home before you buy.
The new neutral, a grey sofa is versatile since it can make a room feel warm and cosy, or equally cool and calming. Stone grey is a great backdrop tone for lifting accent colours and it will be a firm favourite for the foreseeable future.
Finally, couches are not just for the living room. Choose an all-weather, rattan or weaved sofa for your outdoor patio or terrace that's stylish, but hardwearing too. Carefully plan where you'll place it too – to keep your sofa in top condition for longer, avoid sitting it in direct sunlight, and, if possible, bring it indoors in the winter.
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