The sofa is an important part of your living room. It is more than just a piece of furniture that takes center stage in your living room’s interior composition. It is also something that can make your home feel warm and cozy. Your sofa plays a significant role in your everyday life. It is where you hang out with your loved ones, entertain guests, cuddle with your partner, and lounge on a lazy Sunday while binge-watching Netflix. It is, in fact, the most used furniture in the house! Therefore, buying a new one must require careful thought and consideration.
If you’re tired of your old worn-out sofa and you’re thinking of buying a new one, we’re here to help you figure out what sofa best suits your living room and the kind of life you lead every day. Not all pretty-looking sofas are the perfect ones. Keep this in mind when going sofa shopping to avoid making an impulsive purchase. Some things to consider when choosing a sofa include the following:
Size
How big is your living room? Measure the space where you plan to put the sofa and make sure to choose a size that will fit comfortably. It's also a good idea to consider the size of your room and the other furniture to ensure that the sofa doesn't overpower the space. Consider the layout of the room as well and decide whether a sectional L-shaped sofa would be an ideal one or a tiny futon. Moreover, think about who’s going to be using the sofa. How many people are living in the house? Would a 3-seater sofa accommodate your family? Or would a 4-seater sofa be a much more practical choice? Ask yourself these questions when choosing the right sofa to purchase.
Style
Next is style. Think about the overall aesthetic of the room where the sofa will be placed. Are you looking for something traditional or modern? Do you prefer a certain type of armrest or leg style? If you plan to go for an industrial-styled interior, for example, choosing a leather sofa would be ideal for making the living room look sleek and edgy. Go for a simple fabric-upholstered sofa for a Scandinavian or contemporary look. If you want a regency-inspired interior space that screams opulence and grandeur, pick an ornate sofa with detailed frames and tufted armrests and backrests. On the other hand, a nice comfortable futon would fit your space just fine if you live in a tiny apartment and want a simple modest seating to complement a minimalist aesthetic.
Material
Sofas come in various materials, including leather, microfiber, velvet, and more. Each material has its unique feel and look, so choose the one that best suits your style. To determine the right sofa material to purchase, research its characteristics, maintenance, and pros and cons. If you have a pet, you need to consider that as well. Different materials have different levels of durability. For example, leather is generally considered more durable than other materials. Microfiber or velvet may be less durable, but they can be more resistant to stains and spills.
Comfort
Make sure to sit on the sofa before you buy it to ensure that it's comfortable. You will spend much time on it, so it is important to have a piece of furniture that will be comfortable for you and your family. A comfortable sofa will provide a relaxing and inviting space for you and your guests to sit, while an uncomfortable one can make it difficult to relax or entertain. Additionally, a comfortable sofa can help reduce the risk of back or neck pain caused by sitting in an uncomfortable position for extended periods. Also, it is important to note that comfort level can vary depending on personal preferences, body type, and size. Therefore, sitting on the sofa and trying it before making a purchase is recommended.
Functionality
If you have a small space, you may want to consider a sofa bed or a sectional. For instance, a sectional sofa may be better suited for large families or hosting guests, while a reclining sofa might be comfier for watching TV or taking a nap. A loveseat might be more appropriate for a smaller living room, while a sofa bed might be better suited for a tiny apartment or guest room. Some sofas come with built-in storage or other functional features such as cup holders or power outlets, which can be useful depending on your lifestyle and needs.