Tips for Choosing a Sectional Sofa

After struggling for a few years to keep my white sectional sofa white, I finally caved in and chose a new one that will be easier to live with. It arrives in a couple weeks but I thought I’d share tips for choosing a sectional in case you’re in the market for a new one.

Photo by Bejnar’s Fine Furniture

 

You’ll find a variety of styles and colors, but a few things are consistent when considering a sectional sofa to purchase. First and foremost, measure your space and know what dimensions you’re working with. This may sound like a no-brainer, but it’s critical. Measure the doors that you’ll need to bring the furniture through to make sure it will fit.

Photo by Marc Williams Furniture

 

Consider fabric choice when looking at any furniture choice. I spied a beautiful creamy sectional by Magnolia Home in the store but quickly remembered the struggle to keep the white sectional clean. I immediately crossed that one off the list. 

Photo by Coats Homes

 

Know the difference between right-facing and left-facing sectionals. One side is longer than the other and it makes a difference which direction the sectional is facing. And if one side has a chaise lounge included, you need to make sure that wall is long enough to accomodate it.

Photo by Ard Bia Interiors

 

Consider the depth and height of seat. I sometimes like to sleep on the sectional sofa in our family room – especially during the summer. That means the seat needs to be wide enough for snoozing. Plus I like seating that you kind of sink into and although I’m short, I like a deeper seat so I can curl my legs up and off the floor.

Photo by Ali Ross Design

 

Choose a couple of colors you can live with. There’s nothing worse than falling in love with a piece of furniture only to find it’s not available in your favorite color. I like to have a couple of colors in mind so this never happens.

Photo by Mend

 

Arms or no arms?  I’m an arms person when it comes to chairs, sofas, and sectionals. Although I like the clean lines of a sofa without arms, I feel like something’s missing. You can find sectionals where one end has an arm and the other doesn’t – for those who are undecided. 

Photo by Giulietti Schouten Architects

 

Decide the shape of sectional you desire. You’ll find sectional sofas with ottomans, chaises, recliners, curved sectionals, or ones that have an angled end, also knows as a theater sectional. Most likely, your space constraints will determine the shape and style of your furniture.

Photo by Bejnar’s Fine Furniture

 

Finally, keep in mind the size and shape of your coffee table. You’re most likely going to snuggle your coffee table within the parameter of your sectional, so make sure you choose furniture that accommodates this. I would’ve loved to have a sofa with a chaise lounge attached but our coffee table is too big and I didn’t want to buy a new one.

Photo by Tom Stringer Design Partners

I purchased a traditional style sectional from Art Van furniture in a neutral tone that would go with my newly painted family room. I’m anxiously awaiting its arrival!

Have you purchased furniture recently and what tips did you find helpful?