The sofa: it’s the focal point of your living space, and the piece of furniture that’s at the centre of all the action. Whether you're refreshing an existing space or setting up somewhere entirely new, choosing the right sofa is paramount. It's not just about aesthetics—your sofa is where you lounge, entertain, nap—and sometimes even eat dinner. It needs to cater to your lifestyle, fit seamlessly into your home, and reflect your personal style. That can seem like a tall order, but we’re here to offer some advice on selecting a piece that you’ll love for years to come. 

In this guide, we will explore seven different sofa styles, delve into various sofa sizes and profiles, and provide tips on how to find your forever sofa. We'll also share some valuable maintenance advice to help you keep your sofa looking pristine for the long haul. Take a seat, get comfy—and let’s dive in. 

Low Profile 

When you’re looking for something sleek and modern, the low profile sofa is a contender. As the name suggests, these pieces sit closer to the ground and are characterized by their low back and seat height. They often feature clean lines and minimalist designs, making them an ideal choice for contemporary settings. And because these sofas create a sense of openness, they are well suited for rooms with low ceilings—or if you simply want a less unobtrusive piece for your space. 

Deep Seated 

For ultimate comfort, deep-seated sofas are the way to go. These sofas don’t skimp on seating space and have ample room for lounging, relaxing, sprawling, and cuddling. They are perfect for those who love to curl up or lie down on the couch with a good book or movie. And because deep-seated sofas often come with plush cushions, they are a great choice for family rooms or casual living areas. 

Pillow Arm 

Pillow arm sofas are the definition of comfort, designed with large, cushioned arms that invite you to sink after a long day. These sofas radiate a cozy, welcoming vibe, making them ideal for casual settings where relaxation is key. The soft, rounded arms enhance comfort and add a gentle touch to the room's overall aesthetic, creating a low-key, comfortable environment. 

Angled Arm 

These sofas have arms that slant outwards, offering a stylish and modern twist to traditional designs. Angled arm sofas are endlessly versatile and can fit into both contemporary and classic interiors. And, the angles work double duty, adding a dynamic visual element while providing a comfortable armrest for lounging. 

Exposed Frame 

Exposed frame sofas reveal part of their structure. This style has a way of highlighting the piece’s craftsmanship and adds a unique, decorative element to your space that you don’t often find with traditional sofas. Depending on the mix of materials, exposed frame sofas can be a great choice for modern and eclectic interiors alike. 

Pillow Back Sofa 

If you’re after a laid-back, casual look, a pillow-back sofa offers that in spades. These styles come with removable back cushions that are ideal for sinking into. Known for their comfort and versatility, these sofas allow you to rearrange the cushions for optimal support. They're great for family rooms and informal living areas where comfort is top priority. 

Track Arm 

Contemporary and streamlined, track arm sofas feature straight, squared-off arms that lend a tidy and clean look. This style is often found in modern and transitional interiors, and their striking lines make them a versatile choice that can complement a variety of decor styles. 

Loveseat 

A loveseat is a small sofa designed to seat two people. It's perfect for small spaces, cozy nooks, or as additional seating in larger rooms. Loveseats are versatile and can be paired with other seating arrangements to create a cohesive look and optimal layout for socializing. 

Small Sofa 

Also known as an apartment sofa, a small sofa is slightly larger than a loveseat but more compact than a standard sofa. It's ideal for urban living, studio apartments, or any space where square footage is at a premium. The right small sofa can help you balance seating, comfort, and space in your home. 

Sectional 

These sofas can be L-shaped, U-shaped, or even custom-configured to fit your space. They are perfect for open living areas and offer ample seating for families or entertaining guests. As an added bonus, they create the perfect corner seat for putting your feet up and lounging.  

Modular 

Modular sofas take flexibility to the next level with individual pieces that can be arranged and rearranged to suit your needs. This type of sofa is ideal for those who like to change up their living room layout frequently or need adaptable seating solutions. Modular sofas are also great for unconventional spaces because they can be shaped in diverse arrangements.  

Daybed 

A daybed serves as both a sofa and a bed, making it a versatile addition to any home. It's perfect for guest rooms, home offices, or smaller apartments where multifunctional furniture is essential. And, daybeds often come with unique frames that add a decorative touch to your space. 

Assessing Your Space 

Before you start shopping, it's crucial to evaluate your living space. Measure and map out your space first. It’s also a good idea to use painters tape to map out an area for your sofa and determine what feels right. Don't forget to consider the other pieces in your space, such as lighting, occasional chairs, and other adjacent furniture pieces. Here are some key points to keep in mind: 

• Proportion and Scale: Ensure the sofa's size is proportional to the room. A large sofa can overwhelm a small space, while a tiny sofa might look lost in a spacious living room. 
• Traffic Flow: Leave enough space around the sofa for easy movement. Consider pathways and doorways to ensure your new sofa won't obstruct them. 
• Room Layout: Think about how the sofa will fit with other furniture pieces. Will it face a fireplace, TV, or window? Visualize the arrangement to ensure it suits your space and how you want to use it. 

Considering Comfort and Use 

Most of us spend a lot of time on our sofas, whether it's for lounging, entertaining guests, or simply relaxing after a long day. So, it's not enough that a sofa simply looks good. Comfort is also paramount when selecting the right sofa because it directly impacts how you enjoy your living space. With this in mind, let's delve into key aspects you should keep in mind to find a sofa that not only complements your decor but also offers the level of comfort you want for your space: 

Seat Depth 

The depth of the seat affects how you sit. Deep seats are great for lounging, while shallow seats are better when you want to sit upright. It’s a good idea to consider how you’ll be using your sofa—and test different seat depths to find what feels right for you. Shallow seats might be best suited to a formal sitting room, while deeper seats work well in a casual setting.  

Cushion Firmness 

Sofa cushions come in various firmness levels, from soft to firm. Soft cushions are cozy and inviting, which means they’re perfect for relaxed settings. Firm cushions provide more support and maintain their shape better, so they’re ideal when you want something more buttoned up. Soft cushions are great to sink right into, while firm cushions make it easier to stand back up off your sofa.  

Fabric 

The fabric you choose for your sofa affects both comfort and durability. Natural fibers like cotton and linen are breathable and comfortable but might require more maintenance. Synthetic fabrics like polyester and microfiber are durable and stain-resistant, making them great for families and pets. Performance fabrics offer the best of both worlds with a blend of comfort and durability. If you have a busier household with kids and pets—or if you like snacking and drinking on your sofa—performance fabrics are a great choice. 

Back Support 

Back support is crucial for comfort, especially if you spend a lot of time on your sofa. High-back sofas offer excellent support, while low-back sofas provide a more casual feel. If your sofa tends to double as a home office, a piece with ample back support is ideal. And, if you primarily use your sofa to snuggle down for movie nights, you might prefer something with a bit more cushion. 

General Maintenance 

Regular Cleaning: Vacuuming your sofa regularly removes dust and debris so it doesn’t get embedded in the upholstery. Use a soft brush attachment to avoid damaging the fabric. 

Spot Cleaning: Clean up spills immediately. Blot (don’t rub) with a clean, damp cloth, and use appropriate cleaning solutions for your sofa’s material. 

Fluffing Cushions: Depending on what style of sofa you have, you may need to regularly fluff and rotate cushions to maintain their shape and comfort. 

Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can fade fabrics. Whenever possible, position your sofa away from direct sunlight or use curtains to protect it during the height of the day. 

Special Care for Different Fabrics 

Leather 

Different types of leather will have slightly different care requirements, so when in doubt, follow the instructions you were given at purchase. But in general, leather care comes down to three things: 

Cleaning: Wipe down leather sofas with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals. 

Conditioning: Use a leather conditioner every 6-12 months to keep the leather supple and prevent cracking. 

Protection: Keep leather away from heat sources to prevent drying and cracking. 

Fabric 

Depending on the type of fabric on your sofa, care might differ slightly. But here are some best practices for keeping your fabric sofa in good shape: 

Vacuuming: Regularly vacuum fabric sofas to remove dust and prevent dirt from embedding in the fibers. 

Spot Cleaning: Use fabric-specific cleaners for stains. Test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first. 

Cushion Covers: If your sofa has removable cushion covers, check if they are machine washable or need professional cleaning. 

Performance Fabrics 

While performance fabrics tend to be a bit more durable and stain resistant, proper care will help keep them in great shape: 

Spills and stains: These fabrics are designed to be stain-resistant, but it’s still important to clean up spills promptly. 

General Cleaning: Follow manufacturer instructions for regular cleaning to maintain the fabric’s performance features. 

Choosing the perfect sofa is a blend of aesthetics, comfort, and functionality. By understanding different sofa styles and types, evaluating your space, and considering your personal needs, you can find a sofa that’s just right for you. Remember to maintain and care for your sofa to keep it looking beautiful for years to come.