Life, Styled
The sofa is often one of the first things we notice when entering the living room since it tends to be the largest object in the room. We love to stretch out to watch TV or curl up under a blanket to read a book. Sometimes it also ends up being the quick solution to an additional place to sleep when in a bind. Designers have verified that this is a key piece of furniture for the living room, making it a sizable investment when the time comes for it to be replaced. As it is so important to the design, it stands to reason that there should be some things considered before making your next purchase. What things, exactly, should you look for before finalizing your choice, and what makes a sofa perfect for your home? Read on to find out some helpful tips that can assist you in picking your next sofa.
Sofa Style
Style is a crucial component when selecting a sofa, as it can significantly impact the overall mood of the room. There are multiple options available from traditional to contemporary, plus several elements that can influence the overall look and feel of the sofa, including:
- Color
- Material
Each plays a part in the selection process and matters. Color often has the greatest impact as it can make a bold statement or unify the entire area. It also corresponds to a style, such as sea colors like teal and gray, which work well with a coastal vibe, while neutrals pair better with a farmhouse or minimalist design style. Patterns can also be important, adding visual interest and harmony to your living room. Be careful to balance your pattern choice; too many patterns can disrupt the room’s flow. These two choices should be coordinated with the overall look and style you want to achieve here. Material is another factor to consider in the sofa equation, especially as it relates to the style. Ask yourself whether you prefer a traditional fabric couch or something more modern, such as leather. Exposed metal armrests and elevated legs are also an option if you are looking for contemporary vibes. Many are also blending different styles to create a look all their own, such as the grand millennial look, so don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Checking out the local antique and flea market could yield some interesting results, providing you with not only an amazing sofa but one that will make your guests look twice as they enter. Knowing what style you want in your living room plays a crucial part in the selection process, as it provides guidelines to follow. Be sure to take some time to prepare before heading out the door and to the store.
The Right Size For Your Sofa
Size is everything when it comes to picking your next sofa; selecting one that takes up too much space leaves you cramped and feeling stressed. Choosing a sofa that is too small will make it feel as if the room swallowed it. Balance can be achieved if you keep these things in mind:
- The size of your room, both width, and height
- Accessories
- Depth of sofa
- Layout
- Doorways
Before buying the first couch you see, take time to go through this process. Evaluate the available space you have and look at your current sofa. Did you like this size? Did it work well for your living room? Would you prefer something bigger or smaller? This provides a starting point for when you begin searching for a new one. If what you had worked well, you can try to find something similar in style and size. However, if there were issues, it is best to figure them out so you can adjust your next find.
Layout is also something that needs to be considered before purchasing a sofa. Will it be against a wall or out in the open? This can influence the size and even style of the sofa you buy. Do you need an L-shaped sofa to fill the room nicely? If you do, be sure to know where you want the corner piece to be. The location of windows in a room also factors into the placement of a sofa. Measurements should be at the top of your priority list when selecting a new sofa. This will include height, width, length, and even depth. It is always better to measure numerous times before finalizing your purchase and finding out that it doesn’t fit the way you thought it would. Don’t forget to measure your doorway as well, since a new sofa won’t do you any good if you can’t get it in the room. Always take the necessary time to prepare a list before beginning your sofa shopping expedition.
Which Sofa Season Are You In?
When it comes to buying a new sofa, there is one final thing that should be considered, and that is what season you are in. Do you still have young children at home? What about pets? Do you entertain on a regular basis? These are important questions to ask because they will impact your final decision on which sofa is right for you. One of the most critical parts of the decision process will be fabric selection. If you have young children at home, choosing a stain-resistant fabric for your sofa will save you a significant amount of time on cleaning and maintenance. It is also a better choice to opt for darker colors or patterns, as they conceal dirt more effectively. This is inevitable, given that a drink will likely be spilled or your pet will jump up with messy paws. There are also certain cushions that won’t sag as quickly as traditional ones do and can also be rotated to extend the life of each cushion even more.
Don’t forget to factor in the main use of your sofa, will it be used for entertaining guests on a regular basis? Or will it be in a second living room, family area, or even in an entertainment room? This helps you narrow down your choices and understand which sofa will give you the best use and function for your family. Try to avoid picking a sofa solely because you love it; take a moment to go through your list of needs and see if this is the one that will work for you right now.
In our final part of the selection tips series, we want to focus our attention on lighting. Good lighting can make a difference in the room; no one enjoys struggling to see around the shadows cast by insufficient light or the glare of one placed too low. Here’s what should be on your list of things to look for when selecting your lighting.
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