How to choose a couch for living room
8 Tips For Choosing the Perfect Sofa – Explore Home
Selecting a sofa is one of the most important furnishing decisions you can make! Think about it — so much of your home life centers around this one piece. Relaxing after work or on the weekend, watching TV, hosting friends and family, taking a nap… all activities that take place on the sofa! So, before investing in this key piece, read on for our top designer tips on how to choose the perfect sofa for your home.
1. Consider Your Lifestyle
Before diving into different sofa styles, take a moment to consider your lifestyle and what you may require from a sofa in day-to-day life. If you have a big family, a sectional might be the best choice for you. If you have pets or kids, it may be a good idea to opt for stain-resistant performance fabric upholstery. If relaxation and comfort are at the top of your mind, you may want to look at motion sofas styles that recline. Going into your shopping experience with a few key “must haves” in mind will save you lots of time and energy.
2. Determine Sofa Orientation
Another element to decide on before going shopping is how you plan to orient a sofa in your space. Will you be placing the sofa against a wall or will it be displayed in the center of a room where its back will be exposed? If you are looking for a sectional, where do you want the corner piece to be? Knowing these details will help to eliminate any options that don’t fit within your requirements.
3. Measure, then Measure Again
You can never measure too many times! A lot of errors can be made in this step of the process, so be sure you know exactly how large or small of a sofa your space can accommodate – including length, height and width. It is also important to take measurements of your doorways and hallways, because while a sofa may be the perfect size for your living room, it may not fit through your front door or through tiny stairwell landing spaces!
4. Be Selective with Upholstery Fabric/Leather Type
Choosing the right upholstery fabric or leather type for your lifestyle is vital.
Like mentioned before, if you have pets or small children, opting for a performance fabric selection is wise. It’s also essential to research the quality of the upholstery fabric or leather type for any sofa you like, including cleaning codes and upkeep recommendations.
5. Pick Out A Color That Works With Your Space
Now it is time for one of the biggest decisions yet… your sofa color! There are so many different directions you can take here, from a bright statement, to a detailed pattern or a reliable neutral. There really is no wrong or right with what kind of palette you select just as long as it is something you know you will love (and not get tired of) for years to come.
6. Choose a Style That Suits Your Home
Of course, another component to keep in mind is the existing furniture in your living space. If your side chairs, cocktail table and console all have more of a traditional flair, we suggest sticking within this style type for your sofa.
Similarly, a more contemporary home usually requires a modern sofa for a nice complement. However, based on your design comfort level, you can still mix and match between styles, just as long as the end result creates a cohesive, appealing statement.
7. Be Mindful Of The Arm Style
Arm styles of a sofa are often an afterthought, but they shouldn’t be! With many styles ranging from winged silhouettes to clean-lined angles, from rolled armrests to oversized and undersized, there are endless options that all offer different benefits. It’s also crucial to test out the arms of any sofa you like, to ensure they are sturdy and firm.
8. Test The Seat Cushions
Seat cushions come in many different shapes and sizes. If you are shopping for a livable comfort piece, you will want to look for more of a comfy, “sink-right-in” feel. But, if you are shopping for a formal sitting area, you may want to go with a firm, structured cushion that keeps it shape.
If you are feeling inspired to start your new sofa search, we recommend checking out our new custom upholstery program, which offers complete flexibility and design freedom when it comes to upholstery items. Simply select your silhouette and pick your favorite fabric from over 400 selections. With so many choices, you truly can build the sofa of your dreams!
Sofa scaling: tips for choosing the right sofa for your room
(Image credit: Future / Johnathan Gooch)
Correct sofa scaling is an imperative for a successful interior design, along with selecting its shape and color. After all, this piece of furniture is the main feature of most social spaces – which makes living room seating ideas all important.
‘Size takes precedence as it is crucial for the perception of a room volume to choose the most appropriate dimensions,’ says BIID registered interior designer Hedayat of Jam By Hedayat .
‘We make sure that any piece of furniture has enough circulation around it as well as space, so that it does not dwarf any design details or features in a room.
A sofa that is too large will engulf the room disproportionately and one that is too small will not serve its function.’
Below, we list the practical design rules for using scale in interior design along with expert advice from professional interior designers.
1. Consider the two thirds rule
(Image credit: Bee Osborn)
A sofa that’s the full length of the wall in front of which it is positioned could prove overbearing in a room scheme. But it’s also the case that a sofa can look too small.
One approach to getting the right proportions is to aim for a sofa that’s about two-thirds of the wall length.
If you’re using this tactic, bear in mind that generally sofas might be around 72, 84 or 96 inches (UK equivalents might be around 175, 210 and 240cm). Accordingly, two-thirds of the wall length in question might fall between two standard sizes. If that’s the case in your room, there’s the option to go a little above two-thirds of the wall length with the larger sofa size in order to seat more people.
Alternatively, choose the best couch for you that’s less than two-thirds of the wall’s length if the extra seating space isn’t required. Either way, there is room to adjust and an out-of-proportion sofa won’t be the result.
Opting for a bespoke sofa instead? You can commission precisely the length of design you prefer.
It is possible to choose a smaller sofa, however, perhaps influenced by the pieces of furniture nearby. ‘When scaling a sofa to a room as a rule of thumb we tend to make the sofa half the size of the wall it is going on to allow the space around it to breathe and also to place side tables with lamps on either side,’ says interior designer Bee Osborn of Studio Osborn .
2. Take sofa depth into account
(Image credit: Future / Jon Day)
Be aware of a sofa’s depth in addition to its length. The largest standard size sofa in a style that gives it a depth of 40 inches (around 101cm) might prove overly imposing without a generous room to occupy.
'Sizing down to a sofa with a smaller length but the same style isn’t the answer if the sofa takes up too much space in this dimension because the seat depth will remain the same. Instead, consider a different shape; more traditional and upright as opposed to modern and slouchy could be the answer,' advises Homes & Gardens Editor in Chief Lucy Searle.
3. Think purpose when deciding on sofa size
(Image credit: Future / Johnathan Gooch)
While the dimensions of the room are an essential factor when choosing the right sofa, how the room is used will also influence which sofa size is best.
‘In a TV, cinema or family room where family don’t mind sitting together we frequently use a big squishy corner sofa, often with a footstool which can be moved along for whoever wants to put their feet up and lounge or it can be moved aside,’ says BIID registered interior designer Amanda Meade .
When a room is used largely for entertaining visitors, two sofas facing one another can prove more sociable than one large version that puts sitters in a line, and the sofas will accordingly need sizing down with adequate space between and around them.
4. Select a sectional
(Image credit: Sims Hilditch)
Its L-shape means an additional dimension of a sectional needs to be considered. If the sectional has a chaise, you might want to plan on taking up no more than half of the length of the wall with which it is parallel.
A sectional will often work well as a room divider. ‘A large L-shaped sofa is a great choice for an open-plan space as it helps to delineate the sitting room area from the dining area or kitchen,’ says Emma Sims-Hilditch of Sims Hilditch
But a sectional can also be a fabulous choice for a small room because it’s more space efficient than a sofa plus armchair combination. In this case, choose one of dimensions that follow the perimeter of the room.
5. Factor in the sofa’s shape
(Image credit: Jam by Hedayat)
The shape of the sofa is also a key consideration. If the room has a low ceiling, opt for a sofa with a lower back to keep the design in proportion to the room’s height.
A design with a low back can also create the illusion of extra space below more usual ceiling heights.
How the living room is used can also be important. For a room that’s a library or den, you might want to opt for a taller sofa. ‘The higher backed sofa gives a feeling of a gentleman’s club,’ says Amanda Meade.
A sofa’s lines may be curved or angular. Depending on the other furniture choices in the room, the former may be preferable. ‘We like to use sofas with curved details in rooms to break too much angularity and allow for some softness,’ says Hedayat of Jam By Hedayat.
6. Pay attention to a sofa’s arms
(Image credit: Future / Paul Raeside)
As well as the overall form, or shape, of the sofa, focus on its arms. ‘We consider the height of the arms and the reach to the side for side tables,’ says Amanda Meade. ‘Bulky arms can often obscure the flow in a room.’
Pay particular attention to how the sofa’s arms will affect sight lines through the space.
They shouldn’t block the view of a window nor another of the room’s features.
7. Be aware of the impact of color
(Image credit: Caitlin Miller Photograph: Paul Craig)
The color you choose for the sofa will influence how commanding it appears in the room, so consider its hue in these terms as well as thinking about it as part of the space’s overall color scheme.
‘For this space (see above), I wanted to maximize seating without having a sofa that dominated the space,’ says BIID registered interior designer Caitlin Miller . ‘I ensured the sofa filled almost all of the back wall, while leaving space for a floor lamp and side table – which is important to bring cosiness to the arrangement and provide a location for drinks or a book while snuggled up.
The sofa wraps in front of the bay window allowing a sofa-back console that provides a great location for low level lighting. I left the space in front of the fireplace clear to keep the space light and uncluttered.
‘Pale grey was a perfect color for this space to continue the light, airy feel while contrasting with the rich, warm woods in the floor and coffee table.’
For a den, it might be desirable to choose a sofa color that’s bolder. ‘A large cozy sofa adorned with cushions can be a statement feature in a room, particularly if it is upholstered in a striking color like blue,’ says Emma Sims-Hilditch. ‘If the room is designed to be a comfortable space for relaxing or enjoying a film with the family then it stands to reason that the sofa should be a prominent feature of the room.’
Sarah is a freelance journalist and editor. Previously executive editor of Ideal Home, she’s specialized in interiors, property and gardens for over 20 years, and covers interior design, house design, gardens, and cleaning and organizing a home for H&G. She’s written for websites, including Houzz, Channel 4’s flagship website, 4Homes, and Future’s T3; national newspapers, including The Guardian; and magazines including Future’s Country Homes & Interiors, Homebuilding & Renovating, Period Living, and Style at Home, as well as House Beautiful, Good Homes, Grand Designs, Homes & Antiques, LandLove and The English Home among others.
It’s no big surprise that she likes to put what she writes about into practice, and is a serial house renovator.
How to choose a sofa for the living room
Before choosing a sofa for the living room, you need to decide in advance on the concept of the room and its features, as well as the number of people who will rest on it. It is this piece of furniture that will become the center of the hall, and the comfort of spending time depends on its quality.
The main criteria for choosing a sofa for the living room
Purpose of the sofa
The sofa in the living room can be used not only for receiving guests and family communication. Often it becomes a place for a good rest, and can even turn into a full-fledged sleeping place. Therefore, you need to consider in advance all the options for using upholstered furniture.
If the purpose of the product is varied, it is better to look at the models with transformers. They allow you to quickly, without problems and save space to organize a recreation area, active pastime, sleep.
Another solution is modular structures, consisting of several independent blocks.
Sofa shape and dimensions
Variety of shapes
- Straight. A classic solution for a sofa in the living room. Furniture takes up little space, easily becomes near any wall or even in the center of the room. They can be double, triple or quadruple. The option is selected depending on the area of the room.
- Corner. Allows you to use the space of the hall to the maximum. The solution is mobile, organic and easy to use. Good for a large family or frequent guests. Often can be turned into a bed.
- Modular. Reminds a constructor consisting of several parts. It can be transformed into a straight model with a pouffe, a corner solution, and can be displayed as a soft island. Many manufacturers offer to independently determine the modules. The best sofa for non-standard rooms.
- Transformers. They can turn into a full bed, equipped with tables and cabinets for storage.
Compared to modular, they have a holistic design. The change in shape is carried out by built-in mechanisms (electrical or mechanical). - Half round. It is rare, as it requires a large space for harmonious use. Suitable for modern stylistic solutions.
Irregular design sofas are used for exclusive interiors. For example, they can be oval, triangular in shape, have an unusual back and armrests.
Dimensions of furniture
When choosing the dimensions of the structure, it is important to pay attention not only to the dimensions of the room itself, but also to the number of people who can simultaneously use the sofa, anatomical features of the body. If we consider the standard options for dimensional indicators, the following types are determined:
- Babies. The smallest option, which is suitable for living rooms in small apartments. The width is from 0.7 to 0.8 m, the length is from 1.2 to 1.5 m. Such sofas do not fold out.
- One and a half.
Width (folded) is 0.7 to 0.9 m, length is 1.4 to 1.7 m. - Full size. Width (folded) is 0.8 to 0.9 m, length is 1.8 to 2.0 m.
Non-standard sizes are also available on request. The main role in choosing dimensions is played by the number of full-fledged seats, not counting additional elements (pouffe, wide armrests, cushions, etc.). Before you choose a sofa in the hall, you need to decide on these parameters.
Frame and filler
The durability and strength of the entire structure depends on the quality of the sofa frame. One of the most reliable and safe solutions is natural wood from species such as pine, birch, spruce, alder. Oak is not used due to its high weight and high cost.
More affordable option - MDF and chipboard. These materials are pressed, not solid, so their service life is somewhat lower. Metal frames with welded fasteners are rarely used on their own, but can become an integral part of a wood or MDF product.
As for the filler, there are several common options:
- Spring block.
The most durable and reliable option if the system has orthopedic properties and is made of high quality materials. Allows you to fully relax and gain strength thanks to proper back support. Withstands heavy loads. - Latex. This natural material is hypoallergenic, safe, does not accumulate dust. For a long time retains elasticity and softness without deformation.
- Polyurethane foam. Its properties resemble a spring block, but the durability of the material without loss of properties is no more than 6 years. It is used in transformer sofas intended for sleeping.
- Foam. The most affordable, but short-lived filler, which is rarely used due to the rapid loss of shape.
There are also models of sofas for the living room filled with holofiber, synthetic fluff, duralife, felt and foam rubber. The larger the sofa, the more stable the material should be.
Upholstery
Flock
Affordable, moisture resistant, durable material that does not accumulate static electricity and is easy to care for.
Used for standard sofa models. The fabric does not absorb odors, but wears out quickly due to the flock structure - the top layer of threads is glued to the base. Often, an anti-claw coating is applied to protect against exposure to pets.
Genuine leather
Expensive, but one of the most durable materials, which wears heavily and does not require special care. Does not pass moisture, does not absorb various pollution. It is not recommended to use in rooms with pets, which can damage the skin with their claws. It has a noble appearance.
Jacquard
A soft, semi-natural material that feels like silk. Easy to clean, UV resistant. The range is represented by a wide selection of colors and patterns. High density provides wear resistance of the fabric.
Chenille
Is one of the most common options due to its affordable cost and good performance properties. There are no pellets on the surface, and the special weaving structure does not absorb dirt and odors.
Velours
One of the most pleasant materials to the touch. The fabric does not stretch or deform, has a velvety and elegant appearance. The disadvantages include the complexity of care, as the surface quickly absorbs stains, and for cleaning you need to go only to dry cleaning.
Interior design
When choosing a sofa, it is important to push away from the chosen interior solution. This applies, first of all, to the design features and colors of furniture. For example, in a room you can place two sofas or a massive corner structure, a small transformer or modules, products with an ottoman, a table or original curved armrests.
As for the color palette, you need to rely on the range of finishes. For example, for classic options, a gray or brown high-quality sofa is suitable. In the presence of a calm, monochromatic finish, choose bright furniture models that will become an accent. And vice versa - the brighter the walls, the softer the palette of the sofa should be.
In addition, the location of the room on the south or north side is taken into account.
Which style to choose?
Chesterfield
This style is characterized by swirling armrests that run flush with the backrest. This option is perfect for shabby chic, eclectic, modern, loft interiors. Modern manufacturers offer custom varieties of Chesterfield sofas that suit the Art Deco aesthetic.
Mid-century
The style of this model appeared in the middle of the last century, when precise shapes and thin legs were in fashion. A rectangular sofa is well suited for retro, modern, modern classics. It will also fit well into the Scandinavian style, if you choose a plain upholstery in soothing colors.
Bridgewater
Rounded armrests in the form of rollers complemented by comfortable cushions. The main purpose of the model is maximum comfort. Well suited for classic, English style, as well as country (checkered upholstery) and Provence (floral upholstery).
It is a classic solution for the living room of an American home.
Sleeper
Simple and clear sofa model that comes without armrests and quickly turns into a comfortable sleeping place. Suitable for high-tech, minimalism, retro styles (if you choose the appropriate upholstery). Thanks to its small dimensions, it is suitable for small rooms.
Tuxedo
Thanks to its perfect geometry it is used for modern interiors. The back is straight, like the legs, the armrests are located on the same level. Upholstery can be fabric or leather. It will decorate the loft, American and Scandinavian styles.
Cabriole
Luxurious carved legs are complemented by a curved back and rich upholstery. The frame material is natural wood. It is used for expensive interiors in classic, modern, art deco, baroque styles.
Lawson
Universal, comfortable model with wide and low armrests and high back. Be sure to be supplied with pillows, has a deep fit.
You need to choose the right color and type of upholstery depending on the style of the interior.
Sofa material for room
Despite the variety of materials for the frame, upholstery and filling, there is an ideal combination that is affordable and has sufficient strength. The frame of the sofa for the living room is made of durable MDF, which can withstand a constant load.
In terms of filling, Styrofoam is the perfect value for money. But for the upholstery, either jacquard or flock with a protective “anti-claw” coating is selected. Also for a house with pets, chenille is suitable, which does not absorb odors. To protect the material, special covers are used.
Color solution
- Monochrome sofa. Matches the color of the walls, suitable for interiors in the style of minimalism.
- Neutral. We are talking about white, gray, beige, light brown, milky tones, which are perfect for cozy rooms.
- Bright. Used as a counterpoint to a calm, neutral finish.
The sofa should become a bright, rich accent, attract attention. But, he should not be too conspicuous, so as not to interfere with rest. - Calm. If the decoration and decor items are full of flowers, designers advise choosing a sofa in cool colors such as purple, blue, burgundy, dark gray. In this case, the colors can be contrasting.
The color of the sofa can be chosen from the color wheel used by professional designers and shops. This takes into account the palette of both plain bases and the pattern itself. The main thing is that the tones are combined with the chosen interior of the room.
Which sofa to choose for a small living room
Before choosing a sofa for a small living room, you need to decide on its location. In addition, it should be comfortable and as functional as possible.
Size
If the furniture is to be used for sleeping, the length of the seating area should be 5 cm longer than the person's height. It also takes into account the fact that when disassembled, it takes up much more space.
For a corner model, the optimal size is 2.6*1.5 m, for a straight model, 2.05*1.5 m, for a modular model, 1.75*3.85*2.13 m. All measurements are shown unfolded. As for the last solution, each module can have its own place in the room, and not be permanently in one place.
Transformation
Preference should be given to the Dolphin and Telescope mechanisms, which occupy the smallest area, while allowing you to quickly equip a bed. Often in such designs there is also a small box for bed linen or other things.
Design
Preference should be given to models with straight, clear lines, without decorative frills. The upholstery should be plain, the color palette should be light, but not too bright. If you want upholstery with a pattern, it should be small and not stand out too much against the general background. The legs should be chosen straight, low, which will not take up extra space.
How to choose a sofa for the living room. – Articles Anderssen
Upholstered furniture, as a rule, occupies a central place in the interior of the living room.
And the sofa is its main element. All family life takes place on it: joint rest, watching TV, meeting guests and relatives. And if the living room combines the functions of a bedroom, then the sofa should also combine the functions of a bed.
In order for upholstered furniture to serve you for a long time and retain its beautiful appearance and consumer qualities, choose carefully! Pay attention to the quality of execution of all details and elements.
Today we will tell you more about how to choose a sofa in the living room.
How to choose the right sofa for the living room?
Pay attention to the manufacturer and its reputation. The ANDERSSEN upholstered furniture factory is a reliable company with over 20 years of history. We have been producing upholstered furniture since 2000, we have certificates and patents. We value our reputation and the opinion of customers, so they come back to us again and again. Sofas come with an 18 month warranty.
In addition, the factory has its own service department, which is always ready to help you update the sofa even after several years of use - replace the mechanism, filler or upholstery.
Corner Sofa Jersey
Living Room Sofa Selection
A quality sofa comes with a price. Do not chase cheap furniture if you want it to last a long time. A sofa is a long-term investment.
Straight Sofa Jersey
In the living room, a sofa without a berth or with a berth for guests is often chosen. In this case, it is important to pay attention to models with a comfortable deep fit and soft pillows. They are convenient to meet guests, relax in front of the TV or spend evenings after work.
Corner sofa Jersey
If one of the main functions of the sofa will be a sleeping place, then choose a reliable transformation mechanism and a mattress with an orthopedic effect.
A good option in this case is a sofa bed with an accordion mechanism.
