Sofa Buying Guide: How to Choose the Perfect Piece
Sofa Buying Guide: How to Choose the Perfect Piece?
A sofa, also known as a couch, is a piece of furniture designed to comfortably accommodate several people. It is typically located in living rooms, lounges, or drawing rooms, and serves as the primary seating area for family, friends, and guests in your home.
Although it comes in a range of different styles and sizes, a sofa typically consists of a long upholstered seat with a back and arms, providing support and comfort for sitting or reclining. Popular choices for sofas may include leather and velvet sofas which complement the chic luxury aesthetic, but if that is not your cup of tea, be assured that there is a wide variety of materials out there that can be used to make your sofa fit in with your aesthetic.
When making a purchase, it may feel like the quality of your sofa is the most important factor, but choosing one that complements your interior design is equally important. While quality is crucial, it's also essential to find a balance between aesthetics and functionality. This is because, as the focal point of the space, your sofa not only anchors the room decor but also creates a warm inviting spot for relaxing and socializing.
The style and material of your sofa greatly influence the ambiance of your living area. Whether you opt for a timeless, classic theme or a sleek, contemporary approach for your interior design, keep in mind that as the main centerpiece, the look and feel of your sofa can either make or break the overall aesthetic of your room.
Moreover, a good sofa can also impact the flow of the room and influence how you and your guests interact within the space. Thus, we highly recommend you take your time and give careful thought to selecting the ideal sofa for yourself, because the perfect sofa set is essential to establishing a harmonious and hospitable ambiance in your home.
While we agree that making this choice may be a difficult task for you and would probably require you to make a checklist of all the components that make a perfect sofa, let us assure you that it is not an impossible feat to achieve.
That is why we have compiled for you the best strategies to make the best sofa purchase in 2024. Here’s all that you need to know and consider before buying a sofa or your living space!
Table of Contents
What makes a sofa comfortable?
What to Consider Before Buying a Sofa?
What is the best height for a sofa?
Will a sofa fit in your room if it is for your room?
How Deep Should an Average Sofa Be?
What angle should a sofa back be?
Which type of sofa is most comfortable?
What should be the minimum space between the sofa and the wall?
What makes a sofa comfortable?
Firstly, let’s explore the comfort factor. A good sofa comprises several elements that make the experience of its users relaxing and comfortable.
First and foremost, the quality of the cushioning and upholstery materials has a considerable impact on the level of comfort that your sofa provides. Cushions filled with down or high-density foam offer support and softness, while long-lasting upholstery materials like linen, cotton, or leather improve tangible comfort and longevity.
The breadth and depth of the seat are also quite important; a shallower seat encourages an upright posture, while a deeper seat facilitates a reclining and more relaxed posture. The sofa's depth and height should be in line with your body size to guarantee that your legs and back are properly supported. A sofa that is disproportionately deep or shallow might cause discomfort and strain among its users.
To further prevent discomfort, it is also important to be mindful of the construction of the sofa frame since it also affects the comfort level of your sofa. In this case, you may consider investing in long-lasting, robust oak frames that have stronger joints that provide stability and longevity, preventing the sofa from sagging and causing discomposure over time.
Moreover, when comfort is your priority, consider spending on ergonomic sofa designs. The primary objective of ergonomic design is to create products that are both comfortable and effective to use by taking into account how the human body moves and interacts with them.
When it comes to sofas, ergonomic design refers to building them in a way that minimizes strain and discomfort by supporting your body's natural posture and movements. For instance, a sofa with properly cushioned armrests and a nicely angled backrest can support your arms and back properly, improving your posture and lowering back strain even after long hours of sitting.
Similarly, an ergonomic sofa would also pay special attention to the depth and height of the sofa seat, designed in a way that allows your feet to rest comfortably on the floor while keeping your knees at a comfortable angle.
By enabling natural and comfortable seating positions, ergonomic design can highly enhance the overall comfort of your seating arrangement and can be a great option to invest in.
What to Consider Before Buying a Sofa?
Without a doubt, a lot of considerations go into buying a perfect sofa for yourself, from its style and color to the material and fabric, and your desired aesthetic. Let us line out a range of considerations that you need to make when making your best sofa purchase.
Choosing the right sofa involves more than just comfort. Consider the size and scale of the sofa in relation to your room, ensuring it doesn't overcrowd or underwhelm the space. Match the sofa style to your room decor, balancing factors like shape, color, and material. Prioritize durability with a sturdy frame and upholstery that can withstand everyday use.
Next, think about how you intend to use the sofa. Do you desire additional features like storage or reclining seats? Consider whether you plan to use it primarily for lounging, entertaining, or occasionally even sleeping, this will define the functionality of your sofa.
Finally, consider maintenance. Selecting upholstery that is simple to clean is a smart choice, particularly if you have children or pets. Long-term, stain-resistant fabrics can save you a ton of trouble.
By bearing these points in mind, you may choose a sofa that is not only long-lasting and comfy but also useful.
If you still haven't sorted your thoughts, let us elaborate on these intricacies for you a bit more.
Lifestyle
Firstly, you need to take your lifestyle into account when making a purchase. If you lead the life of a popular socialite, regularly hosting guests and throwing parties, you would want to get a sofa that is both highly durable and luxuriously chic. Such a sofa would not only add to the visual charm of your room but would also be a pleasure to sit on for your guests.
Similarly, if you have a busy household with children or pets, you should choose a sofa that's easy to clean and resistant to wear and tear. Opting for stain-resistant fabrics or leather can be a smart choice in this case. Alternatively, if you have a more minimalist lifestyle and value simplicity and clean lines, you might prefer a sleek, modern sofa that complements your aesthetic.
Furthermore, if you are a frequent break-taker and require a pleasant place to take periodic naps, a sofa with a well-built frame and supportive cushioning can be more appropriate as it allows you to maintain proper posture, reducing the risk of discomfort or strain on your back and neck
The ultimate goal of a sofa should be to provide comfort, functionality, and style that are specific to your tastes and activities to enhance your lifestyle. Investing in a sofa that suits your lifestyle can do wonders for your overall well-being and happiness at home, and can immensely help you in achieving a cozy and practical living area.
However, choosing a sofa that suits your specific lifestyle isn't exactly an easy task, and may require you to make a range of decisions from selecting the right sofa type to considering budget constraints, choosing suitable fabric, and making appropriate color selections.
So have your checklist ready because from here on, we will be breaking down all the major factors that will come into account when you match your sofa with your lifestyle.
Sofa Type
Your lifestyle will dictate the functionality and configuration of the sofa that suits your needs best. As mentioned before, the type or style of your sofa is invariably connected to the kind of life that you lead.
Rest assured, our collection boasts a wide variety of sofas, each with distinct features and benefits that are guaranteed to meet your lifestyle requirements. Certainly, when it comes to sofas, several types cater to unique needs and preferences. Let's have a look at them:
Chesterfield Sofas
If your lifestyle is inclined toward luxury and grandeur, you should lean more toward Chesterfield sofas. In light of their exquisite craftsmanship, elegant design, and historically sophisticated associations, these sofas are frequently regarded as luxury sofas.
Composed of high-end materials such as leather or premium fabrics, Chesterfield sofas usually include elaborate detailing such as intricate button tufting, curled arms, and decorative nailhead trim.
The traditional charm and timeless appeal of Chesterfield sofas contribute to their reputation as luxury furniture pieces that can elevate the aesthetic of any living space. They are also wise investments for anyone looking to elevate the look of their home decor due to their classic designs and durable craftsmanship.
Designer Sofas
Ideal for people who appreciate elegant, sophisticated, and high-end design, designer couches appeal to people who value fine craftsmanship and are prepared to spend money on pieces that make a statement and express their unique sense of style.
They are made by well-known designers or premium furniture brands and boast of distinctive styles, premium materials, and superb craftsmanship that are particularly suited to the unique lifestyle of their customers.
If you have a creative mindset and prefer a personally designed and curated home environment, a designer sofa that matches your style may be a more suitable option for you. That is because these sofas often take creative liberties in their designs and are more unique and artsy than your conventional sofa types.
Modular Sofas
Modular sofas consist of individual sections or modules that can be arranged and rearranged to create various configurations, such as L-shaped, U-shaped, or even standalone seating units.
These sofas are highly suited to people who value versatility and flexibility in their living space, and for those who are looking for creative ways to redesign their homes.
For those who love to host gatherings, modular sofas provide the flexibility to create intimate conversation areas for small gatherings or expansive seating arrangements for larger parties. Whether it's a cozy movie night with friends or a lively cocktail party, modular sofas can be adjusted to meet the needs of any occasion.
Additionally, modular sofas allow homeowners to adapt their living spaces to changing needs and preferences over time. As lifestyles evolve and households grow or shrink, modular sofas can be reconfigured to maximize space utilization and accommodate new living arrangements without the need to purchase additional furniture.
Three-seater sofas are standard-sized sofas that can usually comfortably fit three persons and are available in a range of designs, from modern to classic allowing you to choose a style that complements your decor and personal taste.
They are ideal for individuals, couples, or small families with modest homes or apartments. These sofas provide plenty of seating without taking up too much space, which makes them great for people who live in urban areas or have little space for fancy furnishings.
For such people, investing in a high-quality three-seater sofa is a wise decision that will yield years of comfortable use and satisfaction. Such an investment wouldn't only prove one's appreciation of quality, but would also work as a practical solution to the need for a long-lasting and reliable centerpiece for any living space.
Cluster Sofas
Suited to those who prioritize socializing and creating a welcoming atmosphere in their living space, cluster sofas are ideal for family rooms, entertainment areas, or spaces where people gather to relax and converse in an intimate setting
They are designed to provide a cozy and intimate seating arrangement by grouping multiple smaller seating units. They often include a combination of sofas, loveseats, and armchairs arranged in a cluster formation.
Their adaptability of cluster sofas enables customization to meet the unique requirements and tastes of the homeowner, whether it is by moving the arrangement to fit various activities or by adding more sitting units for larger parties.
Sofa Fabric
You need to have a good understanding of the qualities and benefits of all kinds of sofa fabrics to make an informed choice that improves the comfort and style of your living area.
Whether you value durability, softness, or easy maintenance, there is a sofa fabric to suit your taste and lifestyle. So let us line them out for you:
Cotton
Cotton is a versatile and breathable natural fabric that offers a soft and comfortable feel. It comes in a variety of textures and colors, making it suitable for various decor styles. It is Ideal for casual and relaxed aesthetics and complements homes with a cozy and inviting atmosphere. They are well-suited for families or individuals seeking a comfortable and easy-to-care-for seating option.
Linen
Linen is a durable and sophisticated natural fabric known for its crisp texture and elegant appearance. It offers a slightly rustic yet refined look to furniture upholstery. Linen sofas complement chic and timeless aesthetics, adding a touch of understated luxury to modern or traditional interiors. They are suitable for those who appreciate classic elegance and prefer low-maintenance furnishings.
Microfiber
Microfiber is a synthetic fabric made from finely woven fibers that mimic the look and feel of suede or leather. It's highly durable, stain-resistant, and easy to clean. Microfiber sofas are perfect for busy households with children or pets, offering practicality without compromising on style. They suit contemporary or transitional aesthetics and cater to individuals seeking both comfort and functionality.
Velvet
Velvet is a luxurious fabric with a soft, plush texture and a rich, lustrous appearance. It adds a touch of glamor and sophistication to any room. Velvet sofas are ideal for those who appreciate opulence and luxury in their living spaces. They complement elegant and eclectic aesthetics, adding a statement piece that exudes elegance and indulgence.
Leather
Leather is a classic and durable material prized for its timeless appeal, luxurious feel, and easy maintenance. It develops a rich patina over time, adding character to the piece. Leather sofas suit both traditional and contemporary aesthetics, offering versatility and sophistication. They cater to individuals seeking refined elegance and a touch of heritage in their homes.
Color Selection
Choosing the perfect color for your sofa makes a big difference in the overall visual and aesthetic appeal of your living room.
Neutral colors like cream, beige, and gray are timeless and versatile options that work well with any interior design style. They offer a sophisticated and elegant look while creating a calming ambiance in your home. Neutral colors also blend seamlessly with a wide range of accent colors, allowing you to create a unique and personalized look.
Alternatively, strong and commanding colors such as burgundy, emerald green, or navy blue bring personality to the space, establishing a focal point and giving the room a bit of a flair.
To achieve harmony and balance in your home, choose a sofa color that takes into account the room's size, natural light, and current color scheme. Additionally, to give your sofa more depth and visual interest, don't be scared to experiment with different textures and patterns.
For more clarity, you can check out a detailed guide from Exohom on how to choose a sofa color.
Budget
When buying a sofa, it's crucial to consider your budget carefully. Determine the maximum amount you're willing to spend and stick to it to avoid overspending.
Keep in mind that the price of a sofa can vary depending on factors such as size, material, brand, and additional features. Consider the long-term investment value of the sofa and prioritize quality and durability within your budget range.
However, even if you are on a tight budget, you can still find a sofa that matches your requirements. For further clarity, we have lined out the generic sofa budgets for you:
High Budget Sofas
These sofas are premium, often boasting of the highest quality of material and craftsmanship. Ranged from 13,000 to 16,000 AED, these come in a range of different designs. Castor 3 Seater L-Shape Sofa is one example priced at 16,200 AED at Exohom.
Crafted from high-quality, comfortable materials, this sofa boasts both style and comfort. Its wood frame offers robust support, ensuring durability over time. The seats and backrest are upholstered with soft Suede fabric, which not only provides comfort but is also waterproof and easy to clean.
Mid-Budget Sofas
This sofa range falls between 10,000 to 12,000 AED, offering a balance between affordability and quality, making them a popular choice for many homeowners. These sofas provide decent craftsmanship, durable materials, and comfortable seating options without the hefty price tag of luxury sofas.
While they may not have all the bells and whistles of high-end options, mid-budget sofas come in a variety of styles, designs, and upholstery materials to suit different tastes and preferences. Whether you're looking for a classic fabric sofa, a sleek leather option, or a versatile sectional, mid-budget sofas offer a range of choices to help you furnish your living space affordably without compromising on style or comfort.
Examples include the Agena L Shape Sofa Off White (11,900 AED), the Maffiee Extended 3 Seater Sofa (12,750 AED), and the Cluster 4 Seater Sofa (10,570 AED), all offering the perfect quality on an economical budget.
Low Budget Sofas
For luxurious sofas, a lower budget would ideally range from 6.000 to 9,000 AED. These sofas may not be your ultimate glamorous purchase but they can still be a good buy. Unlike what you may expect, you can find a variety of commendable sofa options in this price range, ranging from beautiful Chesterfield sofas to stylish designer pieces.
While they may not feature high-end finishes or premium materials like genuine leather or solid wood frames, low-budget luxurious sofas often utilize cost-effective alternatives such as faux leather, velvet-like fabrics, or high-quality microfiber. Despite their lower price point, these sofas prioritize comfort and aesthetics, with plush cushions, tufted detailing, and stylish silhouettes reminiscent of more expensive counterparts.
Low-budget luxurious sofas are a practical choice for budget-conscious shoppers who still desire a chic and upscale look for their living space. Exohom has a ton of amazing sofa designs such as the Viking Chesterfield Designer Sofa at 7,900 AED, the Cetas Cream Designer Sofa at 6,500 AED, and the Seyfert Boucle Luxury 2 Seater sofa tagged at 8,950 AED.
What is the best height for a sofa?
Once you’ve landed on a sofa that connects with your lifestyle and aesthetic, you will now want to look into the more functional and equally as important aspects of your purchase. These would include the proportions, use, comfort, and durability of your sofa.
So for starters let us define the best height for a sofa. A sofa should ideally be 17 to 19 inches (43 to 48 centimeters) high from the floor to the top of the seat cushion. Most people find this height to be standard and comfortable, as it allows for effortless sitting and standing without straining the knees or the back.
However, personal preferences and body proportions may differ, therefore it is essential to evaluate the comfort of a sofa before purchasing it. Take some time to sit on the sofa and evaluate its support, firmness, and overall feel before making a purchase. This will ensure that you find a sofa that not only looks great but also provides the comfort you need.
Ultimately, the secret to guaranteeing a comfortable seating experience in your house is selecting a sofa height that corresponds with your mobility and comfort requirements.
How long is the average sofa?
As with other factors, determining the length of the sofa also requires you to balance functionality with aesthetics. Finding a good sofa for your living space would require you to find a match that fits your personal preferences as well as the dimensions of your room.
The length of the average sofa may vary depending on factors such as style, design, and manufacturer specifications. However, a standard sofa typically ranges from 6 to 8 feet long.
This length comfortably accommodates three people seated side by side, making it a popular choice for living rooms and family spaces.
Before you determine the length of your sofa, it is important to measure the area where you'll place it, and choose accordingly. A sofa that is too long can overwhelm a small room, making it feel congested and restricting movement around the room. On the other hand, a sofa that is too short may leave empty or awkward spaces in your seating area.
To ensure the perfect fit, measure the dimensions of the room and consider the placement of other furniture pieces, such as coffee tables and accent chairs. Leave adequate space around the sofa for easy movement and access to doors and windows and you'll be good to go!
How will you use your sofa?
This question again ultimately ties in with your lifestyle choices. Think about how you'll be using your selected sofa. Would it be a centerpiece for your drawing room where you invite guests and host parties? Or are you looking for a more casual option for your living space, to comfortably lie down for a movie night or use it for your lazy afternoon naps?
If you prioritize relaxation and comfort, opt for a sofa with plush cushions and deep seating, and look for features like reclining capabilities or chaise lounges for added relaxation options. Consider materials such as soft fabrics or leather that offer both comfort and durability.
For those who frequently host gatherings or have a busy household, a sectional sofa or a sofa with a spacious seating area may be more suitable. Sectional sofas offer flexibility in arrangement and can provide ample seating for large groups. Choose durable upholstery and easy-to-clean fabrics to withstand regular use and spills.
If your sofa will primarily serve as a decorative accent or focal point in your living space, focus on style and design. Explore different shapes, colors, and textures to complement your existing decor and reflect your taste. Consider statement pieces with unique features or detailing to make a bold visual impact.
Ultimately, understanding how you will use your sofa will help you narrow down your options and choose a piece that meets your specific needs and lifestyle. Whether it's for relaxation, entertainment, or style, selecting the right sofa ensures that it enhances your living space and meets your expectations.
Will a sofa fit in your room if it is for your room?
To ensure that the sofa fits perfectly into your room, you will have to go through a range of steps including taking the dimensions of your room and your sofa, planning the layout and arrangement of the sofa within your room, and inspecting the accessibility of your house in transporting the sofa to your room.
Here are a few things to keep in mind if you're confused about whether a sofa would fit well in your room or not:
- Measure the Space: Determine the room's length, width, and height before placing the sofa. Take into account any obstructions, including windows, doors, or furniture, that could change where the sofa is positioned.
- Measure the Sofa: Check the length, width, and height of the sofa, taking into account any parts that stick out, like the legs or armrests. To make sure the sofa will fit comfortably without taking up too much area, compare these measurements to the available space in the room.
- Think About Clearance: To avoid making the space feel claustrophobic and to allow for strolling paths, leave enough space surrounding the sofa. Make sure there is at least 18 inches (45 centimeters) of space available between the sofa and any furnishings or walls.
- Visualize Placement: To see how the sofa will fit in the room, draw the dimensions of the piece on the floor using painter's tape or cardboard cutouts. This will enable you to assess the sofa's size and choose where in the room it would work best.
- Inspect Delivery Access: If a delivery of the couch is required, make sure that there is enough room for the delivery staff to move the sofa into the room. Take measurements of the doorways, hallways, staircase, and lifts to make sure the sofa can be transported easily.
- Think About Your Current Setup: Along with determining the right measurements for your sofa, consider the current theme and furniture arrangements in your room. Evaluate if you're refurbishing your room or if you want your sofa to fit the current setup and make your purchase accordingly. This will require you to note the color palette, theme, furniture, and overall aesthetic of your room, and then purchase a sofa that either fits in well with everything or stands out in a complementary way.
How Deep Should an Average Sofa Be?
An average sofa's depth is between 30 and 40 inches (76 and 102 centimeters). For most people, this depth offers a comfortable seating space with enough support and legroom. However, when determining the optimal depth, personal preferences and the intended use of the sofa must be taken into account. This is because as humans our choices vary, while some people choose shallower sofas for a more upright seating position, others might prefer deeper sofas for relaxing and reclining.
According to medical research, sofas that are too deep, too low, or both frequently provide insufficient back support, which encourages slouching. Initially, you might not feel any signs of discomfort at first, but prolonged sitting like this can cause fatigue and tension in the muscles and joints, making it more difficult to do tasks while seated. You can lessen the depth of a seat by placing a cushion or pillow behind your back.
If the sofa is too low, a relatively inexpensive solution is to raise the seat height with another cushion or by adding high-density foam beneath the sofa cushion. To lift your knees to the same level as your hips when seated, you may alternatively place blocks beneath the base of the sofa. That said, it would be much wiser to invest in a sofa design that takes ergonomic factors into account and allows for a good posture while sitting.
What angle should a sofa back be?
The angle of a sofa's back can vary, but generally, it should recline at an angle of approximately 100 to 110 degrees from the seat. This slight recline helps maintain the natural curvature of the spine, providing support to the lumbar region and promoting comfort.
Medical sources cite that if you're lounging with your feet up, place a tiny cushion behind your lower back and utilize cushions to support your knees, to further preserve the natural curve in your spine. This will help ensure that your body is properly aligned, reducing strain on your back and promoting a comfortable, relaxing experience.
The specific angle of your sofa seat may depend on individual preferences and the design of the sofa. Ultimately, you should choose a sofa with a back angle that feels comfortable and supportive for your needs.
Which type of sofa is most comfortable?
Many people find that sofas with deep seats, plush cushions, and supportive backrests offer the highest level of comfort. Moreover, styles such as sectional sofas, which provide ample space for lounging, or sofas with reclining features can also enhance comfort.
When purchasing a luxury sofa, it's essential to consider the correct dimensions to ensure both comfort and aesthetic appeal. Pay attention to details such as the height, depth, and width of the sofa to ensure it fits perfectly in your space and provides optimal comfort.
Luxury sofas often come with customizable options, allowing you to select the dimensions that best suit your needs and preferences. Before making a purchase, measure the space available in your room and take into account your body proportions and preferred sitting posture to ensure the sofa's dimensions align with your comfort requirements.
By carefully selecting the correct dimensions and features of your luxury sofa, you can create a comfortable and inviting living space that reflects your style and enhances your overall well-being.
What should be the minimum space between the sofa and the wall?
The minimum space between a sofa and the wall depends on several factors, including the size of the room, the size of the sofa, and personal preference. However, a general guideline is to leave at least 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 centimeters) of space between the back of the sofa and the wall. This gap makes your space more inviting and cozy instead of leaving a bunch of dead space in the middle.
Additionally, leaving some space between the sofa and the wall can help prevent the sofa from rubbing against the wall and causing damage to both the sofa and the wall paint or wallpaper.
The exact amount of space needed, however, will vary depending on the specific dimensions of the sofa and the layout of the room. It's essential to carefully consider the overall flow and function of the space when determining the distance between the sofa and the wall.
Where to buy luxury sofas?
Having outlined all the essentials you need to keep in mind before making a sofa purchase, we are now at a juncture where we decide where to buy your perfect sofa. Don't worry, we have got you covered.
Exohom Furnishing and Interiors is home to an exclusive collection of luxury sofa designs that can perfectly fit into the aesthetic of your room, and give you the comfort that you’re looking for.
Our wide range of luxury sofas is tailored to your needs and preferences, offering an in-depth variety from luxury chic to modernist minimal. Get your checklist ready and let Exohom place the best sofa in your living room.
