Buying Guides
Selecting the right sofa
A sofa is likely to be one of the most important purchases that you will make for your home. Usually it is the main focal point of a living room, the place in your home which is used for entertainment and relaxation. It can be a big investment, but by getting it right a sofa will last a very long time, even a life time.
One of the most used pieces of furniture in your home, we do so much on the sofa. We sit with friends and family, relax and snooze on them, watch TV, work we even eat on them! So it is important when choosing a sofa that it is one that reflects and best suits your needs and lifestyle.
So what do you need to consider when choosing a sofa that is right for you?
Two, Three, Four Seater
For small spaces two seater sofas are the obvious choice. Consider having two matching sofas facing one another in a symetrical layout. A symetrical layout works in any size or shape of room because it visually balances the space. Don't push furniture up against walls, even in a small space allow a piece a little breathing room, this can also make a room feel bigger.
Arrange furniture in such a way that conversation areas are created. Position sofas and chairs close enough that people can converse easily. If a room is large create multiple conversation areas. Three and Four seaters are a popular choice for families and if you have plenty of room and like to stretch out and get comfortable.
Modular & Corner
Modular sofas are ideal for any size home and have the flexibility of creating a configuration that best fits the space. They are also a very good option to consider if there are any access issues for delivery. Different elements can be combined to best suit your needs. Corner sofas are a popular choice for accommodating several people, encourage sitting together and are great for lounging with your feet up. Using a matching ottoman can be a clever way of creating a corner sofa whilst giving the flexibility of removing it for more space or to use as a table.
Love Seat, Chaise and Daybeds
Don’t forget a chaise or day bed, they can be an ideal choice for an office or in bay window to create a lovely little nook to steal a moment to relax and unwind. This piece of furniture negates the need for a seperate chair and footrest, stylishly performing both functions in one.
If you are looking for a timeless piece of furniture that works in every space a daybed or chaise can easily be moved around different rooms for years of enjoyment.
Fabrics
If you have children or pets woven mixed fabrics offer durability. Other interesting options are boucle, recyclable eco-fabrics and microfibers that are easy to clean, these fabric types will withstand the wear and tear of a busy family home. If you are considering a piece with removable covers a smooth cotton fabric could be washed when required. Make sure that any dark, natural fabric is kept out of direct sunlight, as it will fade. The higher a fabrics Martindale rate the higher its ‘toughness’ and its resistance to abrasion. Velvets offer a touch of luxury, whereas chenille is a more hardwearing alternative.
The way you plan to use your sofa will partly dictate the upholstery fabric you choose. Will your sofa sit in a busy room where you entertain, do you have children? Will food and drinks be consumed near by and possibly spilled? Do you have pets?
Size
Size is important, the sofa you choose should be proportionate to the room so as not to overwhelm and make the space feel smaller. Try using masking tape or sheets of paper to map out the size of the sofa onto the floor and get an idea for how it might feel in the space. How many people do you need to seat? Most importantly, will you be able to physically fit the sofa into the room? Are there any access issues like tight corners or narrow doorways?
Leather sofas are durable and can last a long time with proper maintenance. Leather has a classic and timeless feel and comes in many colours and finishes to suit different styles. Leather is easy to clean and maintain, you can easily wipe away spills with a damp cloth. Faux leather is a great vegan alternative that is really durable and timeless.
Style
Every sofa should be comfortable whether it be soft and slouchy or high backed firm and smart. We all like something different. If you can’t bare to see feather filled cushions in a ‘relaxed’ state or just don’t have the time for plumping then a sofa in a modern fabric with a memory foam filling may be a smarter option.
Low arms work best if you like to stretch out and rest your head. Very tall people may prefer a sofa with a higher back to provide neck support when sitting and someone shorter may prefer a compact version with a shallower seat which will be better to accommodate their leg length.
Light colors will show marks more quickly, a good middle ground is a grey or taupe-colored sofa. Both are easy to work into just about any color scheme, and are dark enough to hide stains and marks.
Popular Sofa Brands