What to Look for When Searching for the Perfect Sofa
What to Look for When Searching for the Perfect Sofa
Investing in a new sofa can feel like a big undertaking. A sofa is the focal point of any living room, the first thing that catches a visitor’s eye, and hopefully, a spot where you’ll enjoy plenty of time relaxing with friends and loved ones.
But, what should you look for when you’re trying to find a new couch? Comfort and aesthetics are both equally important when searching for your next furniture piece, so keep these guidelines in mind while you shop for the divan of your dreams.
Proportion
It’s important to consider how your new couch will stack up against the room it’s in, especially if you live in a smaller space like an apartment or a condo. You might want a sofa you can sprawl out on, but if that means you can’t fit another chair or ottoman in the room, you should probably consider downsizing.
The shape of the couch should also come into play — a sleek, modern design can make a room feel larger, but a sofa with exposed arms and legs can give the space a lighter, more natural feel. If you have plenty of space to fill, feel free to go larger and rounder to make the room cozier. A couch with rolled arms and plenty of cushions can really make a house feel like home.
Function
Deciding what function you want your sofa to serve will help you pick out the perfect shape and style for your space. Will your couch be used mostly to entertain guests? Or is it a spot to relax and watch TV after work? Are you hoping for a sleek settee, or something that can be pulled out into a crash pad for friends from out of town? You’ll want to take all these factors into consideration when you pick out a design.
If you’re looking for a couch that can do double duty hosting guests, there are plenty of options for stylish and comfortable futons. If you’re hoping to style your home as a hot gathering spot for all your friends, you may want to try rounded or kidney bean shapes that can be arranged in a circle.
Color
The perfect color can be elusive when you’re looking for just the right piece. Almost any color can be made to look beautiful if properly styled and cared for, so keep your mind open, but also keep the tone of your home in mind. Bold colors and patterns can be tricky to incorporate, but if the rest of your living room follows a limited palette, a pop of color can be just the thing to spice things up. Don’t be afraid to bring home swatches to make sure your favorite shades look as good in your living room as they did in the store.
Fabric
From the upholstery to the stuffing, you’ll want to make sure your couch suits you inside and out. Crushed velvets, treated linens, and leathers are generally considered the most practical upholstery materials. An antique velvet sofa can be a bold statement piece, while a sleek, linen couch will give your living room a neat, timeless look. Smooth, buttery leather provide an elegant touch as well, while still being easy to clean. More delicate or easily damaged fabrics like silk or cotton can create a beautiful effect in your living room, but you may want to steer clear if you have pets or little ones running around the house.
Filling
What’s inside the couch is equally important as the outer upholstery. You can find a range of price points for couch filling, ranging from basic foam to top-of-the-line goose down. Down cushions are by far the most comfortable, but can be pricey and will require regular fluffing to prevent clumps. Investigate all your options — with a little work, you’re sure to find just the right mix of affordability, comfort, and simplicity.