6 Things to Consider When Choosing a Sofa

A sofa can completely change the look and feel of your living room. It serves as a natural centerpiece and a main source of comfort for you and your guests. Here are six things to consider when trying to choose the right one for your home, from interior design expert Sylvia James at HomeHow.co.uk. 

1. Lifestyle and Needs 

Do you have children and/or pets? If so, a sofa that’s durable and easy to clean might best suit your needs. Choose a fabric like microfiber, which is both durable and stain-resistant. You can also consider removable covers for quick, easy cleaning. 

“If you prioritize ultimate comfort and relaxation, a plush, oversized sofa is the way to go,” James adds. “Consider a sofa with deep cushions, a high back and ample armrests. You might also want to add a throw blanket and some cozy pillows to enhance the comfort level.” 

For those who enjoy frequently entertaining guests, a sectional sofa offers ample seating and can be configured into different seating arrangements. 

2. Room Size and Layout 

“The size and layout of your living room will significantly influence the type of sofa you choose,” James says.  

A compact sofa or loveseat can suit a small space, avoiding overcrowding, or a modular sofa can work, as it can be configured to fit the room’s dimensions. 

For medium-sized living rooms, a standard-sized sofa or a sofa with a chaise lounge/sleeper sofa can maximize functionality. 

A large sectional sofa can anchor a larger space, but be careful not to let the sofa overwhelm the room. Consider the scale of the sofa in comparison to the rest of the space. 

“The layout of your living room also plays a crucial role in sofa selection,” adds James. “For open-plan layouts, a sectional sofa can be a great way to divide the space into distinct seating areas. In a traditional layout, a sofa facing a coffee table can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. For an eclectic layout, consider a unique sofa shape, such as a curved or L-shaped sofa, to add interest and personality to your living room.” 

3. Style and Aesthetics 

“The style of your sofa should complement your overall interior design.” 

A contemporary setting calls for a modern sofa with a clean, minimalist design. A traditional sofa with ornate details and/or plush cushions will suit a classic interior. Mid-century modern sofas can offer timeless appeal, and Scandinavian sofas can fit within both minimalist and cozy atmospheres. 

4. Comfort and Support 

“Comfort and support are paramount when choosing a sofa,” James notes. “A well-designed sofa can provide both physical and psychological comfort, making it the perfect place to relax, unwind and recharge.” 

A sofa with cushions that are too firm can be uncomfortable, but a too-soft sofa will lack support. Choose a firmness that suits your preferences while still providing support to your back and neck. 

Additionally, consider the depth of a sofa. A deep seat might be cozy and inviting, but it likely isn’t ideal for those needing lumbar support or those with shorter legs. On the other hand, a shallow seat may be suitable if you prefer to sit in a more upright position.  

When it comes to cushion filling, down-filled cushions feel soft and luxurious but often require frequent fluffing, as opposed to foam cushions, which offer more structure and support. A combination of both can offer the best of both worlds. 

5. Fabric and Material 

“The fabric and material of your sofa will significantly impact its durability, comfort and aesthetic appeal,” says James. She shares some notes on different materials: 

• Microfiber: durable and stain-resistant 
• Leather: luxurious, susceptible to scratches and stains, but can last if taken care of 
• Polyester: budget-friendly and relatively durable and easy to clean 
• Velvet: luxurious, soft and elegant 
• Linen: natural, breathable, relaxed and casual 
• Cotton: versatile and comfortable, suitable for a variety of styles 

6. Color and Pattern 

James explains that neutral colors help create a calm and serene atmosphere while allowing for more experimentation with different accent colors and patterns. 

Bolder-colored sofas can add a vibrant and energetic touch, creating a dramatic focal point. A boldly colored sofa should complement your existing décor and personal style, though. 

Lastly, patterned sofas can add both visual interest and texture to your living room. Consider the scale and color of the pattern. A large-scale pattern can overwhelm a small space, while a small-scale pattern can be overlooked in a larger room.