Ashley Furniture: Your Guide To Sofa Styles

There’s nothing better than curling up on your sofa to relax and recharge after a long, busy day. Buying a sofa is an important decision for you and your family. Not only will you spend a lot of time lounging on it, but your sofa also shapes the look and feel of your living room and overall home. Ashley Furniture shares this useful sofa buying guide to help you make the best decision.

Find the sofa type that is best for you

There are many factors to consider when finding the best sofa for you. Before you start shopping, think about what’s most important to you when it comes to buying a couch.

While some people may prioritize style above all else, others may hold comfort as the most important sofa feature. Your budget and the size of the room will also play a role in which sofa works best for you. Once you’ve boiled down your sofa must-haves, you can start your search.

Sectional or sofa

Before diving into sofa styles, you’ll want to choose the type of sofa you want. Most couches fit into two categories: sectional or traditional sofa. When deciding between the sectional or sofa, the main thing you’ll need to consider is the size and shape of the room.

Traditional Sofas

Traditional sofas typically have three seats. These sofas are an excellent fit for couples or families that want a comfortable couch that still offers a polished look. Being rectangular, these sofas fit well in most rooms, making them an excellent option for most spaces.

Sectional sofas

Sectional sofas are couches with two or more joined sections. While these types of couches may not be as sleek as the typical sofa, they are large and comfy, making them ideal for families. However, their size and U-shaped or L-shaped design can make them difficult to place in certain rooms.

How to choose a sofa

Now that you know the essential sofa types let’s talk about how to choose a sofa that’s a good fit for you. Here are some of the elements to consider when choosing your new sofa:

Personal tastes and styles

With so many different types of sofa out there, one of the best ways to initially narrow down your options is to consider the style. Knowing how to choose a sofa style that fits your tastes and preferences will help ensure that the new couch you buy fits your general aesthetic.

Do you like the sleek look of the 60’s style mid-century modern design? Or do you prefer the dramatic look of a chaise lounge? Look at all of your options and see which appeals to you most.

You’ll also want to think about the colours and types of fabrics you prefer. The sofa will likely be the centrepiece of your living space, so choose a colour you love that complements the rest of the room.

Shape and size

Beyond just colours and sofa styles, you’ll also need to consider the shape and size of the room you’re putting it in. Be sure to measure the space so that you can quickly spot the sofas that will best fit your room.

In addition to size, you’ll want to think about the placement. Where do you plan to put the sofa? Measure the size of that area, and choose a sofa with a shape that complements the room without taking up the whole space.

Frame Materials

Another element to think about when you’re choosing a sofa is the frame. The sturdier the frame, the longer the sofa will likely last. A wooden frame will be the sturdiest, especially one that’s made of high-quality wood like maple, oak, cherry, pine, or cedar.

Beyond what the frame is made of, you might also consider the construction of the couch. How is the frame constructed? How are the legs attached to the frame? You’ll want to look for construction that appears structurally sound and sturdy.

Pros and Cons of Sectional Sofas

Sectional sofas can be a great option for anyone who wants a large, comfy couch that fits a lot of people. However, sectionals aren’t for everyone. If you’re considering this type of couch for your home, here are the pros and cons:

Pros:

Sectionals are a great option for families because they fit more than three people.
A sectional gives you the opportunity to spread out on the couch without crowding others.
If you entertain often, sectional sofas are an excellent place for friends and family to gather.
Sectionals often feature comfortable fabrics and a reclining seat, making them super comfortable.
Sectionals help create a more relaxed and informal environment as compared to a standard sofa.

Cons:

Sectionals aren’t a good fit for every living space, which means you may have to replace them if you move.
The sectional’s large size can be a negative if you have a smaller space or a room with an unusual shape.
Sectional shapes can be difficult to arrange in some rooms due to the U-shape or L-shape.
Sectional sofas are comfy but often don’t look as sleek and professional as more traditional styles.
Due to their size, sectionals can be challenging to move if you ever want to re-arrange your space.

Best types of sofas for small spaces

When you have a small space to work with, buying the right type of sofa becomes all the more important. You’ll want to find an appropriate size for your space while still meeting your comfort and style needs.

The loveseat is one of the best types of sofas for small spaces. This type of sofa is smaller than the traditional and sectional sofas, and it’s designed to seat two people.

Loveseats are a great option for those who live in a studio apartment or a space with tight square footage. The loveseat is also ideal for smaller rooms that may need a sofa, like a nursery or office space.

At the end of the day, you want to choose a sofa that makes sense for you and your family. As long as it fits, is comfy, and you love it, then it’s the right sofa for you!