Purchasing a beautiful new house or apartment is one thing, the next step is to decorate it. One major purchase you will need is a couch (or sofas if you have a large living space) and it is worth putting in the time and effort to find just the right one for your space and your needs.
Quality sofas do not come cheap but will look good and wear well for many years to come. The options are endless and can be confusing. Should you choose a traditional Chesterfield style sofa, a modern modular design or a streamlined Scandinavian mid-century modern design?
Your sofa can also make a significant statement in your living space (indoors or out) with bright coloured or patterned upholstery or be more neutral and understated to allow artworks, rugs or other furniture pieces to stand out.
These days, there are also outstanding sofa designs specifically for outdoor spaces such as a patio or outdoor room to add comfort and style to outdoor living.
Here are some tips to help you as you go on the hunt for your perfect sofa:
- A Matter of Size
The size and shape of the sofa you choose may be limited by the size of your living area and its shape. If you watch television from the sofa, it will need to be placed with good sightlines to the television.
Your space may allow for the placement of two matching sofas facing each other with a rug and coffee table between them. You may only have room for a single sofa placed against a wall and be able to add a pair of armchairs to the arrangement or you may find that your needs are best served by an L-shaped or modular sofa. For some spaces, a curved sofa forming a semi-circular shape is ideal.
A good trick is to use sheets of paper spread on the floor to cover the area where your couch needed to be placed. Use this method to define the size and shape of the sofa you require. This will also help you visualise your overall seating arrangement with sofa, armchairs, coffee table and lamp tables.
- A Matter of Style
Don’t make the mistake of buying a couch just because you like the look of it or it is on sale at a bargain price. After carefully considering the size and shape you require to fit your living space, you next have to find a suitable style to fit your décor.
If your overall decoration scheme is modern and contemporary, select a sofa with streamlined modern lines. For a more traditional scheme incorporating antiques a traditional skirted sofa with rolled arms would be more appropriate. For smaller spaces, timber-framed mid-century modern sofas give a feeling or lightness and more space.
- A Matter of Colour
Brightly coloured modern sofas upholstered in hot pink and emerald green are currently on trend. To choose a statement colour like this, however, takes great confidence and a deft hand with home décor colour schemes.
For a safer option, you will not tire of over many years of use, choose a warm grey, soft cream or camel and use cushions to add colour and pattern that can be readily updated when your décor needs a refresh.
- A Matter of Texture
When it comes to choosing the upholstery fabric for your new sofa, think about comfort and whether the sofa needs to be family-friendly. A luxurious suede couch, for example, will not look good for long if there are kids and pets about! The leather is one option that is timeless and also easy to maintain. Otherwise, choose fabric that is soft on the skin but durable and easy to clean.
- A Matter of Versatility
Sofa beds are a great choice if you don’t have a guest room, doing double duty as a bed when overnight guests make an appearance.
Many modern sofas and sofa beds also offer extra advantages such as hidden storage space that is super valuable in a smaller apartment.
- A Matter of Quality
When purchasing a sofa, keep in mind the old adage that ‘you get what you pay for’. A cheap sofa will need to be replaced in a couple of years, while a high-quality sofa could last you a lifetime. Define your budget and buy the best quality sofa you can afford. A top quality sofa will also be more comfortable as well as more durable and will stay feeling good and looking good for many years to come. It’s a worthwhile investment.
- A Matter of Time
When buying a major item such as a sofa that will impact your lifestyle for years to come, it is important not to impulse buy or be pressured by salespeople on the showroom floor. Take your time. Sit in the sofa for a while and test it out for comfort. Shake the couch to see that the frame does not move and is sturdy and well-built. Ask about the frame construction and stuffing used.
By shopping smart, you will end up with a sofa or sofas that will enhance your décor and bring you comfort and joy for many years to come. Your perfect sofa awaits.
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