Corner Sofa | The Oak Furniture Land Blog - Style and Inspiration for your Home Style and Inspiration Thu, 10 Jul 2025 14:50:22 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.2 https://www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/cropped-OFL_Leaf_Stem_RGB_Green-32x32.png Corner Sofa | The Oak Furniture Land Blog - Style and Inspiration for your Home 32 32 How to choose a corner sofa https://www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk/blog/general/how-to-choose-a-corner-sofa/ Thu, 10 Jul 2025 14:50:22 +0000 https://www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk/blog/?p=29420 Corner sofas, often called L-shaped sofas or modular corner sofas, are the modern home’s best friend. Their clever design makes them ideal for open-plan layouts, cosy flats, and everything in…

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Corner sofas, often called L-shaped sofas or modular corner sofas, are the modern home’s best friend. Their clever design makes them ideal for open-plan layouts, cosy flats, and everything in between. More than just a seat, a corner sofa brings people together, encouraging social interaction while maximising floor space. It’s this blend of practicality and contemporary style that has made them one of the most popular choices for living room seating.

Whether you’re furnishing a snug space or creating a sociable centrepiece in a family home, a corner sofa ticks every box by offering comfort, flexibility, and a layout that makes the most of your room.

Read on for helpful tips on finding the perfect corner sofa for you and your home.

Different types of corner sofas

Juno corner sofa

Not all corner sofas are created equal, and understanding the different formats can help you choose the right one for your home.

L-shaped sofas are perhaps the most recognisable, with their neat right-angle shape that tucks easily into corners, making them ideal for traditional living rooms. U-shaped sofas, by contrast, are better suited to larger spaces and sociable layouts, as they provide ample seating and an immersive, enveloping feel.

For those who like to change things up or move frequently, modular sofas are an excellent choice. These come in individual units that you can rearrange, add to, or reduce as your space and lifestyle evolve. If lounging is a top priority, a chaise corner sofa adds that extra legroom without overwhelming the room.

Eloise right hand chaise sofa

You’ll also come across left-hand and right-hand facing options, terms that refer to which side the longer section or chaise sits on when you’re looking directly at the settee. Choosing the right orientation is key to ensuring the piece works with your space.

How to measure for a corner sofa

Malvern modular sofa | @ourhomeatwillowcroft

Getting your measurements right is essential when buying a corner sofa, and it’s easier than you might think. Begin by measuring the floor space where the sofa will go, both the width and the depth. It’s important to account for features like radiators, windowsills, and alcoves, so nothing gets in the way once your new sofa arrives.

Many people find it helpful to mark out the sofa’s footprint with masking tape or use newspaper to create a floor template. This gives a clearer sense of how much space it will take up and whether it will obstruct movement in the room.

Beyond the sofa’s destination, don’t forget to measure all access routes, including doorways, staircases, and tight hallway corners. Some homes require a bit of creative thinking, such as opting for sofas without arms or modular pieces, which can make delivery easier. It’s always worth referring to our Will It Fit guide prior to purchasing for added reassurance.

For more handy tips, check out our guide to arranging your corner sofa layout.

Corner sofas for small living rooms

Inca corner sofa | @lifeathumber19

If you’re working with limited square footage, you might worry that a corner sofa could dominate your space. In reality, the right sofa can actually make a small room feel more spacious and more functional by maximising the area available, such as 3 seat corner sofas.

Positioning is everything. Placing the sofa against two adjoining walls is the most space-efficient layout, creating a defined seating zone while keeping the rest of the room open. Alternatively, consider “floating” the sofa slightly away from the wall with a rug underneath to help zone the area, a technique that works especially well in open-plan settings.

Choosing a slim-armed or low-profile design with elevated legs can also help the sofa feel lighter in the space, like our Thornley sofa collection.

Which materials to consider

Ezra corner sofa

Your choice of material plays a huge role in how your corner sofa looks, feels, and performs over time. Fabric corner sofas remain the go-to for comfort and warmth, with textured weaves and soft-touch finishes offering a homely appeal. Velvet, meanwhile, has surged in popularity for its luxurious appearance and deep, rich tones that add drama to a space.

If you’re looking for something more low-maintenance, leather corner sofas are a classic choice. They’re durable, easy to wipe down, and add character with age.

Think about your lifestyle when making your selection. Households with allergies may benefit from smoother surfaces like leather or tightly woven fabrics that don’t trap dust. And if spills are a concern, removable and washable covers could be a game-changer.

Make the most of storage

Eastley chaise sofa bed

A growing number of corner sofas now come with smart storage solutions built right in. These are ideal for stashing throws, games, and anything else you want to keep close to hand but out of sight. For those without a guest bedroom, a corner sofa bed provides the perfect solution, offering a spacious seat by day and a comfy sleep spot by night.

These multi-functional options are ideal for homes where every square inch counts, combining everyday comfort with occasional flexibility.

How to style a corner sofa

Malvern modular sofa | @budgethomeinterior_

Styling a corner sofa isn’t just about cushions and throws; it’s about creating a visual anchor for your room. Start by choosing a colour palette that complements the rest of your decor. For example, a grey corner sofa can be a beautifully versatile base, letting you play with colour pops like rust, sage, or denim blue.

Cushions add texture and depth by layering different sizes and patterns for a curated look. Add a tactile throw over the chaise or armrest for warmth and softness.

In open-plan spaces, your corner sofa can help define distinct zones. A well-placed rug beneath it instantly grounds the area. Pair it with a coffee table, side tables or even an accent chair to create a balanced, inviting setup.

If you need a little extra inspiration, read our blog post about how to style your sofa.

Ready to transform your space? Explore our full corner sofa range online or visit one of our showrooms to narrow down your choice. We’d love to see your sofa selection, so don’t forget to tag us on Instagram or TikTok using #OakFurnitureland and #GrowYourHome.

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7 ways to style your Malvern Sofa https://www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk/blog/general/7-ways-to-style-malvern-sofa/ Mon, 09 Sep 2024 13:01:06 +0000 https://www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk/blog/?p=28798 With comfort and cosiness now a top priority in our homes, the Malvern sofa has taken TikTok by storm, thanks to influencer @fernoxleybrowning. Celebrated for its versatile modular design, comfy…

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With comfort and cosiness now a top priority in our homes, the Malvern sofa has taken TikTok by storm, thanks to influencer @fernoxleybrowning. Celebrated for its versatile modular design, comfy cushions, and timeless appeal, you’ll find it’s the ideal sofa for cosy movie nights, morning coffees, hanging out with friends, or just generally unwinding with a good book. Think soft, sumptuous style you can really sink into, just bliss!

Whether you’re looking to create a cosy corner or make a bolder statement, here’s how you can style this sofa to suit your aesthetic.

1. Create a cosy corner

Malvern 3 seat corner sofa | @terracetwentythree

To transform your Malvern sofa into the ultimate cosy zone, focus on layering textures. Begin with a soft, oversized throw draped over the armrest or back of the sofa. Choose cushions in a mix of fabrics — think velvet, wool, and faux fur to add depth and warmth. Consider adding a small side table or console table to hold your favourite book and a cup of tea. Position a floor lamp with a warm, ambient glow beside the sofa to create a snug, inviting space. The modular sofa design allows you to rearrange pieces to fit perfectly into any corner, making it an intimate retreat.

2. Make it modern

A coffee table and sofa-living room furniture-wooden coffee table painted neutral-neutral walls-neutral 2-seater sofa

Malvern 2-seater sofa | Henley coffee table

The Malvern sofa is perfect for achieving a modern farmhouse look. Start by selecting the neutral-toned version of the sofa — think soft greys or beige. Pair it with wooden accents, such as a wooden coffee table or a rustic sideboard. Add cushions in natural fabrics like linen or cotton, and finish with a chunky knit throw blanket. Incorporate greenery, such as a potted fiddle leaf fig, to bring the outdoors inside. The key is blending rustic charm with modern comfort, to create a space that feels warm yet sophisticated.

3. Keep it classic

Oak Furnitureland Malvern grey fabric corner sofa with blue and cream scatter cushions.

Malvern 4 seat corner sofa | @budgethomeinterior_

This sofa’s timeless design makes it easy to keep things classic. Stick to a soft, neutral colour scheme with beiges, creams, and greys. Complement the sofa with classic furniture like a tufted ottoman or a traditional coffee table.

Oak Furnitureland grey Malvern corner sofa in white living room.

Malvern 4 seat corner sofa | @inside.our.roost

Use soft, elegant fabrics such as silk, velvet, or linen for cushions and curtains. Add a few well-chosen accessories like a ceramic vase, a traditional mirror, and a subtle rug, to complete the look. This style is all about understated elegance and comfort.

4. Frame with colour

Malvern 4 seat corner sofa | @lifeatourabode

The neutral side of the Malvern sofa’s fabric choices provide the perfect canvas for experimenting with colour. Surround your sofa with bold artwork, vibrant cushions, or colour-drenched walls. Choose a colour palette that reflects your personality — whether it’s calming blues and greens or vibrant oranges and pinks. Incorporate accessories like vases, picture frames, and lampshades in complementary tones. This approach allows the sofa to remain the centrepiece while infusing the room with energy and character.

5. Embrace the dark side

Oak Furnitureland Malvern charcoal corner sofa in a traditional living room with built in shelving styled with glassware.

Malvern 4 seat corner sofa | @laurahomeandlifestyle

For a statement style, consider selecting the Malvern sofa in rich, moody tones. Opt for the sofa in charcoal or brown fabric, and pair it with dark wood or painted living room furniture and lighter accessories to lift the look.

Malvern 5 seat corner sofa | @livingwithdom

A marble coffee table or a set of sleek, dark nest of tables can elevate the aesthetic. Add depth with opulent cushions and include statement lighting to enhance the ambience. This style exudes sophistication and is perfect for creating a stylish, modern living space.

6. Introduce pattern

A corner sofa and footstool-living room furniture-cream corner sofa-matching storage footstool

Malvern 5 seater corner sofa | @ourwelshhomeuk

If you want to add a touch of personality to your living room, introducing patterns is a great way to do so. Start with patterned cushions or throws featuring designs such as florals, geometric shapes, or even animal prints that contrast with the sofa’s solid colour. A patterned rug beneath the sofa can also anchor the space and add visual interest. Consider wallpapering a feature wall behind the sofa with a bold print that ties the room together. When mixing patterns, stick to a consistent colour palette to avoid overwhelming the space, and let the Malvern sofa be the grounding element that ties it all together.

7. Add an armchair

Malvern swivel armchair | @daisygraceappleby

Enhance your seating arrangement by pairing the sofa with the Malvern swivel armchair. This curved style beautifully complements the sofa’s plump shape and adds additional seating options to the room.

Malvern armchair | @thedalleyedit

For a cohesive look, opt for the armchair in the same colour or a similar tone. If your sofa is neutral, a bold-coloured accent chair can become the room’s focal point. Place the armchair opposite the sofa to create a conversational layout, ideal for entertaining guests or relaxing with family.

By following these interior design tips, the Malvern sofa can be the centrepiece of any living room, no matter your design preferences. Share your sofa styling with us on Instagram and tag #OakFurnitureland #GrowYourHome.

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Choosing the right sofa for your home https://www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk/blog/general/choosing-the-right-sofa-for-your-home/ Mon, 11 Apr 2022 12:15:44 +0000 https://www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk/blog/?p=18023 The perfect sofa is an investment that needs to fit your home and your lifestyle so we’ve put together some expert advice to make it easier to curl up in…

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The perfect sofa is an investment that needs to fit your home and your lifestyle so we’ve put together some expert advice to make it easier to curl up in comfort.

While it’s tempting to get excited about colour and choosing whether to go for classic or modern sofas, we recommend getting the practicalities out of the way first to ensure you find the best settee for you and your home.

Measure up

Grey Jenson sofa with black throw over arm. White and grey cushions. Black slippers on the floor. Modern decor

Jensen sofa | @biancawildinghome

The scale of the room will influence your scheme. Would a large or small sofa work well, or might a loveseat and footstool be better for the space? Here are a few things to consider:

  1. Plan where you want your new sofa design to sit and measure the space carefully. These dimensions will mean you choose the right length, depth and height of design. Our Will it Fit guide is particularly useful for working out which styles will fit your chosen space.
  2.  As well as being able to move around the room, you’ll also need to open the drawers on your sideboard and get to the bookshelf, so think about any other furniture that’s already in the room.
  3.  If you have narrow doors and hallways or low staircases, you’ll need to factor this into your decision. We offer split sofas that can make delivery easier.
  4. If you’re unsure how your sofa will look in your home, use our handy Augmented Reality feature that lets you visualise how our furniture will look in your home.

Comfort and quality

Grey Morgan sofa with brightly colour accent cushions. Pastel green wall with bright art.

Morgan sofa | @poursomecolouronme

It goes without saying that when you’re relaxing, quality and comfort are key. You want the furniture you love to last and withstand everything life throws at it. Keep the following in mind before you make any decisions:

  • Using hardwood in the frame makes it robust and checking that joints are screwed and glued will mean your sofa won’t squeak, creak, or warp.
  • It’s also important to ask about seat construction. Rather than using fabric webbing, which can stretch and sag over time, look for seat cushions which are supported by heavy gauge serpentine springs. These will ensure the seat cushions are well-supported and help with shape retention and overall comfort.
  • If you prefer something that’s low maintenance but still super comfy, go for a sofa that doesn’t need you to plump the cushions.
  • You want lounging to be as laid-back as possible, which is why you won’t want to worry about whether putting your feet up will damage your couch. Choosing genuine leather upholstery or a great-quality fabric will mean your sofa looks as good as it feels, day after day.
  • Now you know you’re set on a comfy sofa that has an enduring quality and scores high in the comfort stakes, you’re ready to think about the fun part.

Sofa shapes and styles

Beige Gainsborough sofa with green throw. Dog on the sofa. Fern plant at the side with wood accents around

Gainsborough sofa | @valleyhome_

While some of us are drawn to fresh clean lines, modern Scandi-style, or a mid-century look; others want to sink into a more traditional sofa or stretch out on a versatile, modular pillow-back. We offer a variety of styles to suit you and your home.

Corner sofas

Dark blue Evie sofa with cream and beige cushions. Situated in a pale room with boho decor

Evie sofa | @mybraxtonhome_

Looking for furniture for an awkward corner? Left or right-hand corner sofas are a clever solution that lets style and comfort take centre stage while helping you make the most of your space. Plus, they are the perfect choice for putting your feet up and lounging at the end of a long day.

Modular sofas

Grey Malvern sofa with white and grey accent cusions. Dark grey velvet footstool with a defusor on top

Malvern sofa | @budgethomeinterior_

Offering even more flexibility to play around with the layout, modular designs allow you to create the couch that works for you. These are great in open-plan areas or for busy families. Look for armchairs and footstools in the same styles, so you pick and choose the pieces that best suit your needs.

Sofa beds

Snooze sofa bed | Parquet side table | Parquet sideboard

Guest rooms often double up as home offices or other functional spaces, but this doesn’t mean visitors have to make do with a blow-up mattress. Our high-quality sofa beds are a brilliant solution, as their dual purpose means they’re as cosy to sleep on as they are to sit on. Choose from pull-out sofa beds or chaise styles that include in-built storage, ideal for keeping spare bedding ready to welcome guests.

Leather sofas

Lucca sofa | Islington tallboy

Both stylish and practical, leather sofas are easy to care for and, provided they’re well made, they age beautifully. Ours are carefully built using pocket springs to support the cushions, making them even comfier and more durable. We offer a range of styles in different finishes and always ensure the whole settee is upholstered in the best quality 100% leather, so it looks great no matter how you position it.

Recliner sofas

Brunel sofa | Maine side table | Maine sideboard

Kick back and relax at the touch of a button. Our electric recliner sofas use the highest quality steel mechanisms and motors. Their space-saving design means the sofas and chairs can be used close to a wall, with only a marginal gap needed for clearance.

Try before you buy

Oak Furnitureland grey Jasmine sofa with grey and white cushions in monochrome living room.

Jasmine sofa | @littlehouseofannie

We want you to be smitten with your new sofa design. You can do all the research, but nothing beats taking a seat and getting comfy. Set aside some time to visit us in-store and we’ll help you put together a shortlist of luxury sofas to try.

Need some inspiration? We have a range of sofas, armchairs, loveseats, accent chairs and footstools to choose from. Browse online and explore our collection of unique designs.

If you’re already sitting comfortably on one of our sofas, we’d love to see how it looks in its new home. Share how you’ve made it your own and tag us using #OakFurnitureland and #GrowYourHome on Instagram.

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How to choose the right colours to pair with your sofa https://www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk/blog/general/how-to-choose-the-right-colours-to-pair-with-your-sofa/ Fri, 16 Apr 2021 11:03:22 +0000 https://www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk/blog/?p=21874 Greys, browns, blues, whites… There’s myriad sofa colours on the market, but what is the best colour sofa to buy? When it comes to your living room, your sofa is…

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Greys, browns, blues, whites… There’s myriad sofa colours on the market, but what is the best colour sofa to buy? When it comes to your living room, your sofa is often the focal piece of furniture and the rest of the room’s design tends to reflect this is based around in some form, be it the sofa’s physical shape or the shade of its upholstery. Do you want your sofa to blend in beautifully with its surroundings or act as a statement piece? We’ve run down the best colour options to help you make your mind up.

What colours go with a brown leather sofa?

If you’re looking for the best colours to pair with a brown leather sofa, then you’ll want to opt for an earth tone colour palette. Brown has a reputation for being a dull, monochromatic colour, but we couldn’t disagree more! There’s such a rich selection of brown shades: tan, honey, chocolate, the list goes on.

Here are the brown leather sofa colour schemes we’re loving at the moment:

  • Beckon in the sunshine with sand-inspired whites and yellows
  • Go for the urban feel with modern blacks and off-whites
  • Add feeling with textural browns, think exposed brick and natural or rustic oak furniture
  • Soak up earthy terracotta and/or deep fuchsia to add an understated warmth

Need a bit more inspiration? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at our brown leather sofa guide.

Oak Furnitureland brown leather Turin armchair in a green room.

Turin armchair | Romsey console table

If you love earthy hues and Mediterranean-inspired shades, we think you’ll love our Turin sofa range. The round shape of the cushions and armrests beckon relaxation, while the brown leather complements warm colour palettes, demonstrating just how vibrant a sofa of its kind can be in the right living room.

Dexter Brown fabric sofa
Dexter 2-seater sofaDexter storage footstoolOriginal Rustic console table

If maybe you’d love a brown sofa but leather isn’t your thing, then these shades will also pair well with a fabric version. Take inspiration from our Dexter range of sofas that exhibit traditional design features, which makes any of these pieces perfect for classic living room interiors – think modern manor house with layers of neutral blues and greys. As brown is such a touchstone of colour when it comes to room design, with Dexter, the devil is in the details such as the button stitching, tartan accenting and ornate, hardwood feet.

What colours go with a grey sofa?

Want to know the best colours to pair with a grey sofa? Then you’re in luck! We struggled to find any colours that don’t go with a grey sofa. That’s because grey living room colour schemes are oh-so on-trend thanks to their versatility and elegance.

But here are the ones that make our favourites list:

  • Prettify your interiors with pastels such as lilacs, baby blues, soft pinks
  • Citric colours, like lime, tangerine, lemon, will add a zest of life
  • Blacks and off-whites carry on the neutral theme
  • Get inspired by natural eco-systems, like the jungle or seaside

Texas grey fabric corner sofa
Texas left-hand corner sofa

The silver fabric upholstery of our Texas sofas has an ever-so-slight violet tinge which gives it a super soft edge. Our painted furniture ranges would be ideal with a Texas sofa, as would modern-retro style collections like Romsey with its sunny natural oak disposition.

Zociac leather corner sofa

Zodiac 5-seater modular corner sofa

On the other hand, slate grey is having its time in the spotlight, so you may be tempted by the contemporary cool of our modular Zodiac sofas. Ideal for large living rooms with loads of natural light, pair with jewel tones like jade or opal to inject some rich pops of colour that will complement the sleek upholstery.

Bramble grey floral sofa

Bramble 2-seater sofa

See, we told you grey was versatile! Make a loud and proud statement with a printed grey fabric, like you’ll find here in our Bramble sofa. As we value the individuality of every home, Bramble comes in a variety of plain and patterned body fabrics as well as 10 different colour combinations. Patterned greys are a really great option for a neutral living room that doesn’t want to stick to monochromatic or grayscale shades.

What colours go with a black sofa?

If you’re opting for a black sofa in your living room colour scheme, much like with dark grey, we would recommend black is paired with either light colours across the walls and floors, or with lots of natural lighting so your room feels less shadowy (unless the gothic look is what you’re striving for!).

There are a few palette options available to help bring out the best in a black sofa:

  • Block-like monochrome, especially when it’s art deco-inspired
  • Keep it understated and add soft tones like ivory, pastel blue or light matte grey
  • Add splashes of amber and daring reds for a bold contrast
  • Choosing gold/ metallic accenting or mustard hues will add warmth
  • Adding inky navy tones will create an eclectic feel

What colours go with a blue sofa?

Blue is the statement, characterful colour choice. Whether you’re opting for a cooling powder blue, blue and white stripes or an electric pop of velvet blue, this colour will always make an impact. But it’s how you style it that will determine how bold you want your statement to be.

Whether you go for luxurious blue walls and floors, or white and wood to soften your blue sofa, there are lots of different design schemes that makes a blue sofa a winning choice, some you might be surprised at:

  • Seaglass shades to add an element of serenity and interest
  • Burnt orange feels like an opposing colour, but it’s actually a show-stopping combo!
  • Retro beach colours (think whites, reds and sandy yellows) are a friendly, welcoming interior scheme
  • Metallic hues, particularly silver, copper or brass, add edge and depth

Oak Furnitureland blue velvet Montgomery sofa and armchair in living room with green walls.
Montgomery 2-seater sofa and armchair | @rachelducker

If opulence tickles your fancy, you’ll be sure to fall in love with the sumptuous style, shape and touch of our Montgomery sofa range. Designed to pay homage to the iconic Chesterfield style, the velvet upholstery is a contemporary twisteffect that makes room for Montgomery in the modern living room.

What colours go with a beige sofa?

Your living room doesn’t always have to be bold to be beautiful, nor does beige need to be boring. A neutral beige sofa fabric can span the shades of taupe, grey and cream and is truly chameleonic when it comes to home design, but remains attractive without shouting look at me!

Here are some beige sofa colour scheme ideas:

  • Cottagecore, florals, forest greens, natural and rustic oak, is one of the biggest interior design trends at the moment
  • Scandi neutrals are a cool, contemporary look
  • Incorporating stone adds contrast
  • Prints and patterns such as peacock or polka dots allow you to express your personality

Malvern Modular beige two seater sofa
Malvern modular 2-seater sofa

Our Malvern modular sofa range is effortless, it’s lovely and laid-back thanks to its trendy shape and boho-inspired upholstery. With a crisp sofa like Malvern, you can tactfully embrace splashes of colour while maintaining a truly palliative tranquil ambience that will never go out of style.

Can you mix sofa colors?

We certainly advocate mixing sofa colours because sofas are a long-term investment. If you love shaking up your home style, your sofa needs to be flexible and versatile as you swap out new prints, pillows and throws each season. Mixing and matching sofas with accent chairs and armchairs is also a fantastic way to express yourself and your eclectic tastes. Shop our full range of sofas online today.sofa

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How do I choose a sofa for my living room? https://www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk/blog/general/how-do-i-choose-a-sofa-for-my-living-room/ Tue, 16 Feb 2021 15:00:42 +0000 https://www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk/blog/?p=21770 Buying a sofa can be a big investment and is often the statement piece for your living room. You want to find something that is comfortable enough for lounging and…

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Buying a sofa can be a big investment and is often the statement piece for your living room. You want to find something that is comfortable enough for lounging and reading, yet maybe also big enough to entertain family and friends. That’s why getting it right is worth a little extra time and research to find the perfect one.

When selecting a sofa, there are a number of things to consider: the size, shape, style and colour will all factor into your decision. All the choices can seem overwhelming, but we’ve put together the following expert advice to make it easier for you to curl up in comfort.

  • Measuring up your space
  • Ensuring ultimate comfort and quality
  • Selecting your sofa style
  • Mixing and matching with your living room furniture

Measuring up your space

Brighton corner sofa, trend accent chair, bridnle side table, brindle large sideboard in large blue living room

Brighton corner sofaBrindle side tableBrindle large sideboard

The size and scale of your room should be what motivates your choice. For example, do you have enough space for a sprawling corner sofa or would a loveseat and footstool work better? Don’t forget to consider the architectural layout of your home, such as bends, windowsill height and any declining ceilings.

How do I choose a sofa size?

  1. Before you even begin to browse the market, decide the appropriate place for your sofa to live and measure this space carefully. Having a ready set of dimensions means you can choose a sofa length, depth and height that is fit for purpose.
  2. Think about the other furniture that’s already in your living room or that you plan to put there during the redesign process. As well as being able to move around the room, you’ll also need to be able to open sideboard drawers, access the bookcase or manoeuvre around other pieces of furniture or accessories in the space. Measuring up your living space can be a bit tricky, so head over to our sofa sizing guide for more detail or alternatively, for general living room measurement guidance, we’ve highlighted key things to consider here.
  3. A really important measurement that some people can overlook is the doorway height and width. Can you even fit your sofa through the hallway? The diagonal depth of your sofa will help you work out if your sofa will fit through the door. You can turn yours on its side or twist it into the doorway, else split sofas can make delivery easier.

For more on sofa shapes, see our guides to corner sofas and sofas and loveseats.

Ensuring ultimate comfort and quality

Jensen sofa | @hollypmcgowan

It should be a given that relaxation is optimised by quality and comfort. Not only do you want a beloved space to cosy up in the evening, but you want the furniture you invest in to stand the test of time, taking everything that life – especially in a busy family – throws at it.

How can you tell if a sofa is good quality?

  1. Make sure to check the frame and joinery
    Cheaper frames tend to be made from plastic, metal or pine which can warp after a few years, meaning your sofa will become worn and old much quicker than you might hope.
    If the frame wobbles or twists when you move it from side to side, or it seems lighter than expected, it’s unlikely to be made from a durable hardwood frame such. Alternatively if you’re unable to go into store, check the item description for details about the materials.
    At Oak Furnitureland, all our sofa frames are made from hardwood, so that you can love it for years to come.
  2. Check the sofa seat construction
    When shopping, ask the experts about seat construction. Rather than using fabric webbing that can stretch and sag, look for seat cushions that are supported by heavy gauge serpentine springs. Supporting seat cushions in this way will help with shape retention and overall comfort.
  3. Check the quality of the fabric
    With laid-back lounging, you shouldn’t have to worry that putting your feet up will damage your sofa. Choosing genuine leather upholstery or a high quality fabric will mean your sofa looks as good as it feels, day after day.
  4. Types of sofa fillings
    The best type of sofa filling depends on preference and aesthetic. Most sofas are made from either foam, feather, fibre or are a mixture of fillings.
    Foam provides firm support and keeps its shape for longer and if you have some mobility issues, you might find a foam sofa easier to get up from.
    If you’re after that ‘sink in’ feeling, then fibre might be your preferred option. It can require a bit more upkeep to keep the fibre preserved but will certainly be nice and comfy. Plus if you have certain allergies or sensitivities, this might be a good option.Feather filled is by far the softest option as it moulds to your shape and creates an incredibly plush and relaxing sofa experience. Much like fibre, feather requires regular plumping and some may find a predominantly feather sofa doesn’t provide enough support. Often you’ll find a combination of foam and fibre filling as it provides support from the foam but give a layer of softness from the fibre too.

Selecting your sofa style

Grey sofa with yellow throw and patterned cushions

Jensen 2-seater sofaHove nest of tables | @laurie-homeandgarden

You may be drawn to clean lines and its associated schools of design (Scandi or mid-century, for example), or you have a desire to sink back into a more traditional high-back sofa. Else, the needs of your home might require a versatile, modular pillow-back. While personal taste is, of course, a key factor in your decision making, don’t forget to consider your practical needs and lifestyle choices.

So, what should you think about when choosing your sofa’s style?

1. Choosing a sofa for your sizing needs

Brighton corner sofa in a neutral living room.

Brighton corner sofa | @lockdown_lifestyle

In cosier living rooms, you don’t want your sofa to swallow up your living space. At the same time, you don’t want to sacrifice style either – even if it’s just you and your partner enjoying a movie night, or you have a friend round for a glass of wine. All our sofa ranges come in a variety of sizes so if you’ve fallen in love with a particular three or four seater sofa but don’t have the room or need for it, there’s always a space-saving 2-seater sofa available for those who seek a more compact size.

Choosing a sofa for a family home? Accounting for the number of people in your household, as well as friends and extended members of the family who come to visit is particularly important. For a more customisable look, opt for sofa sets offering space for the whole family. If you love hosting and socialising, then a corner sofa could be for you. At Oak Furnitureland, we understand that every home is different and has its own unique requirements, which is why we also offer modular sofas so that you have the opportunity to personalise one of your home’s most important pieces of furniture.

2. Picking a sofa for your functional needs

When it comes to picking out your sofa, you’ll need to think about the most appropriate upholstery for your lifestyle needs. Whether you’re a parent who is forever mopping up spills, or you like to put your feet up at the end of the day, durable leather that can be easily cleaned may be for you. Quality fabric sofas may offer an alternative, particularly if you’re looking for something a bit more resistant to pets and their tendency to scratch upholstery!

For the host with the most, a sofa with dual-functionality – either in the living room or another location in the home such as the bedroom, spare room or office – may be your best choice. Traditionally an unstylish piece of furniture, our sofa beds are designed in-line with our bestselling sofa ranges, so never look out-of-place in your interior design scheme. They’re also equally designed with comfort in mind, providing a great night’s sleep for guests when they come to stay.

3. Selecting a shape for your style

Yellow sofa and grey armchair with colourful cushions

Evie 2-seater sofaEvie loveseat | @our_self_build_ni

If you lack the floorspace for a corner sofa or you wish to create a cohesive look without using just one sofa, a sofa set could be a brilliant option for your home. There are plenty of ways to mix and match living room seating such as by using different pieces from different ranges or different coloured fabric from the same range. Else, create a fully put together look with a selection of matching sofas and armchairs from the same collection. The possibilities are seemingly endless!

Beige sofa and footstool with grey cushions and throws
Gainsborough 3-seater sofa | @19_insidegemshouse

Stretching out head-to-toe on a corner sofa is an ultra-comfy option, but sometimes you want a little bit of help to put your feet up. For this, we have two options. The first is the ever-popular recliner sofa. Our electric recliners use the highest quality steel mechanisms and motors. Their space saving design, means the sofas and chairs can be used close to a wall with only a marginal gap needed for clearance. We also have a manual operation for layouts that aren’t close to a power socket.

Alternatively, your personal taste may sway more towards a stylish footstool to be a part of your sofa set. An ultra comfy place to kick back, many of our footstools also contain secret storage compartments to help you organise your space. Who doesn’t love a smart storage option!

Mixing and matching with your living room furniture

Selecting a sofa is a major life decision and you want it to look beautiful in the context of your home design. If you prefer subtle interiors, you may want to opt towards a neutrally coloured upholstery and furniture that matches – for example, grey fabric and a selection of pieces from one of our painted furniture ranges.

As the sofa is the centrepiece you might, however, want to make more of a splash. Statement-making options include richly coloured upholstery, printed geometrics in the soft furnishings and accessorising with accent chairs. Pairing your sofa with bold furniture from painted, hardwood or metal ranges is perfect for creating an on-trend contrast.

Ready to pick out your new sofa? Browse our wide range of sofas now to find the perfect fit for your home. And don’t forget to show us your new looks over on Instagram using #OakFurnitureland.

The post How do I choose a sofa for my living room? appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

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