Searching for some new seating and not sure where to start? First up it’s important to think about your space and what size and model would suit it best. Here’s a few tips to get you well on your way to shopping like Goldilocks and finding the sofa that’s juuust right for you.
Measure up
Avoid re-enacting the famous Friends ‘PIVOT’ scene by checking your dimensions, particularly if you know there are small spaces to navigate. First of all, start with the room in which the sofa, loveseat or armchair will be positioned so you can see what fits. Mark out the dimensions of your favourite models on the floor with masking tape or newspaper – these can be found on each product page. Then measure the route to that room including your front door, hallway, internal doors, stairs and lifts. Use our Will It Fit Guide to help you.
Space matters
Make sure not to overpower a room with furniture that’s too big. Instead create the illusion of more space with smaller pieces such as a 2-seater sofa along with an armchair, or a compact corner sofa if you’re in need of extra seating but can’t fit two sofas. Also think about ways you can maximise the space you do have – adding a loveseat or armchair into a bay window or an awkward alcove can turn it into a useable and stylish space.
Consider your other furniture
Think about the layout of your room and how you would position your new seating. Is there a focal point it would face? Are there any pieces of furniture that need to stay where they are and have doors or drawers that need to open? Are there radiators or windows you need to consider?
For a living room, if you have a small space an L-shaped layout can work best (a sofa and armchair) or if you have a larger space you could try two sofas face to face. If you’re adding a comfy seat to a space such as an office, a love seat provides all the comfort of a sofa on a compact scale to fit with your existing furniture.
Who will be sitting on it
When buying new furniture it’s important to think about your lifestyle. Consider the size and make-up of your family, how do you spend your time? If your house is always full, you may want to go for a 3 or 4-seater, or a corner sofa where you can all lay back and relax. Or, you might want to snuggle up close on a love seat? Are you a social butterfly and can’t wait to finally have your friends round? In this case you might need more seating than you expect, and an extra armchair could be handy.
Once you’ve worked out which sizes and layouts would suit you best, you can start thinking about specific models and fabric options and get your samples ordered!
