3,848 Sofas

What size sofa do I need?

Obviously factoring in the size of your household is a crucial step in the decision-making process. There is no point in buying a cute two-seater when there are four people in the house. You are basically inviting an argument every night of the week about who sits where! So consider how many people you’ll need to seat. Then look at the amount of available space and the dimensions of that room. Where is the best place for a sofa? Lounges with long walls are ideal for three-seater sofas or wider modular sofas, the latter giving you several seating options and ways to break up an open-plan living area, while adding a more contemporary feel. But if the room is a bit smaller then perhaps a corner sofa or ottoman sofa would be more sensible. Don’t forget to allow for walking space; a sofa is not a climbing frame. If you live in a studio apartment or one-bed apartment with finite floor space, but you require somewhere to host a guest, then a sofa bed or futon would be a smart option. Also consider how a sofa’s distinguishing features might cause problems when placed in your living room: large roll arms obstructing side tables; long backrests in front of windows that obscure views to the outside world; a recliner sofa that you can’t stretch out on because of the radiator behind it. Get the measuring tape out, and use masking tape to help you to visualise the size of the sofa in relation to your living space. A sofa can easily dwarf a lounge and become overbearing.

Which style of sofa is best for my house?

This depends on current décor of our home. A drawing room in a period home with Victorian fireplace and wood floorboards demands something refined and artisanal like a Chesterfield sofa for afternoons spent entertaining. However, couch potatoes and TV addicts will prefer a comfy, chunky three-seater or four-seater sofa with inciting curves and a little more give. If you like to move things around from time to time and redecorate, it’s best to go with a contemporary corner sofa or modular sofa that is more easily maneuverable and less tied to a particular era or trend. While the more chic and daring among you might like to perch on something more impactful, like an origami sofa bed.

What is the best upholstery and colour for my sofa?

Size and shape are not the only determinants of your sofa style. Colour and material are also important. Black and brown leather sofas are incredibly versatile, durable and won’t show dirt as easily as lighter options; great if you have messy kids or even messier pets. Choose from a number of finishes – aniline (authentic, finely textured, and polished), distressed or waxed. More affordable options include leather effect or microfibre upholstery, both of which can be easily wiped down with a damp cloth. Tight-weave fabric sofas allow you to have some fun by mixing and matching in relation to curtains, cushions and rugs. Light colours such as beige and cream can give the illusion of space while darker shades such as aubergine will make you feel snug. But if you’re looking for a bold counterpoint to the rest of the room, opt for a vibrant colour such as red or blue. Or play with these two tricks and have a light neutral sofa, in lived-in linen perhaps, offset by a series of bright cushions. A more lustrous and opulent option is woven jacquard, incorporating palm leaf patterns and the like. Those more concerned about cleanliness and hygiene should look at sofas with removable covers.

What is the best cushion filling for sofa beds, leather sofas, corner sofas and fabric sofas?

The short answer is to try out each and see for yourself. Foam gives a springy feel with good support, and it’s very low maintenance, but it will flatten over time. In contrast, fibre cushions should be plumped every day in return for giving you a softer and more comfortable feel. Feather-filled upholstery offers an even softer sit but is more expensive and also requires daily plumping. Generally, if your sofa is going to be more than an expensive ornament, it should provide a good level of support and longevity and be able to withstand day-to-day punishment. Kids jumping about is a classic example. Try something with dense foam fillings and pocket-sprung seat cushions and take it from there.