You are free to do whatever you want with your living space. Think of it as a blank canvas, even if there is still some culture and old furniture you need to get rid of.
Once flooring and wallpaper are decided, one of the most important choices for your living space is the furniture. What kind of sofa do you want? There’s a lot to choose from, so whether you are fully furnishing a brand-new home or looking to update your current setup, you might need some advice on which sofa is right for you.
With so many options, all with unique features, styles, pros and cons, it can be both exciting and overwhelming. So in this guide, we’re going to explore various different types of sofas, so you can decide which ones will be perfect for your fresh space.
Different Types of Sofas
Sectional Sofas
Sectional, or modular sofas, can be versatile. They are popular for larger living spaces and have multiple sections so you can rearrange the sofa into different shapes and configurations.
The flexibility of their design means that you can have an L shaped sofa but change which side the L is on (so it looks like an upside down or reversed L shape). These sofas can come in U shapes as well, meaning they can accommodate a significant number of people.
This is a great choice for family gatherings or entertaining guests. The fact that you can separate sections means that it’s also easier to store the sofa for times such as moving, transporting or temporary downsizing.
Chesterfield Sofas
These kinds of sofas have a very classic, sophisticated design that is timeless. Chesterfield sofas feature details such as rolled arms, deep buttoned tufting, and often have leather upholstery.
They are classic pieces that add a touch of elegance in any room and are perfect if they fit the rest of your aesthetic. You might be going for a look such as vintage, regal, classic, retro or something else.
Chesterfield sofas are a great choice for more formal or traditional living spaces or settings. They may also feature elegant sofa legs and matching furniture and footstools.
Expect colours such as brown and deep red for these sofas, but there may also be brighter colours in different fabrics in the same traditional style.
Sofa Beds
You may question the quality of these sometimes, but sofa beds can be great. They are ideal for homes with limited space, and great for those who often host overnight guests. Sofa beds are a highly practical option, a two in one solution and space saver.
The pull-out mattress will seamlessly transform any room into an extra guest bedroom. These sofas come in many different styles, higher budget ones may ensure better comfort and function.
Mid- Century Modern Sofas
Mid-century modern sofas feature clean lines, tapered legs, and a minimalist approach to their design. They are inspired by the aesthetics of the mid-20th century.
These sofa styles bring a retro vibe that fits into contemporary spaces. They can feature bold colours and geometric patterns. They also commonly have wooden sofa legs and may have a small amount of space underneath them, for storage if you wish, or for cats to hide.
Loveseats
Loveseats, as the name would suggest, are a little more intimate. Not just particularly reserved for romance, these sofas are compact and only feature two seats.
This means they are great for smaller living spaces or can act as a secondary sofa that compliments a larger one in a bigger room.
These sofas come in various styles, traditional or modern. Compare them with other seating options or use them as standalone pieces.
These sofas are great for smaller people, couples who like to always be close, kids, or one person that likes a lot of space!
Tips for Choosing Your Ideal Sofa:
- Consider Your Space – Before you make any decisions, assess the size and layout of your living space. Take measurements and visualise the flow of foot traffic. This can help you with your choice of sofa size and shape.
- Define Your Style – Think about what style you want for your entire living room. Is it modern, minimal, traditional, or a mix of styles? Choose a sofa that fits that. Even if you mix styles, look for a unifying theme between everything, even if it’s subtle. There can be such a thing as matching too much, after all.
- Prioritise Comfort – Style is important, but a sofa is no good if it isn’t comfortable. Look into seat depth, cushioning, and backrest height online, and test as many different sofas if looking in store.
- What Fabric? – Fabric helps to determine things like comfort, durability, and maintenance, it can also dictate colour. So think about what fabric you want. Again, test fabrics in store, you may change your mind. Make sure you test the quality of the sofa, no matter what fabric you choose. And consider how easy it is to clean, especially if you have kids or pets. You may decide you want something resistant and low maintenance.
Final Thoughts
A sofa is an investment, so you want to make sure you get the right one. By considering style, comfort, maintenance, and durability, you’ll be able to narrow down your search for the perfect one. Budget wisely and test as many different styles as you can. And don’t forget, you can always enhance your chosen sofa with a little bit of DIY upholstery if you feel like you need to.
