cosy sofas | 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 cosy sofas | 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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10 common mistakes when buying a sofa https://www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk/blog/general/common-mistakes-when-buying-a-sofa/ Tue, 15 Oct 2024 14:15:26 +0000 https://www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk/blog/?p=21818 Buying a large piece of furniture is always an investment, but when it’s something as pivotal to your domestic life as a comfy sofa, there is the added pressure for…

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Buying a large piece of furniture is always an investment, but when it’s something as pivotal to your domestic life as a comfy sofa, there is the added pressure for it to be perfect because you use it every day.

Size, shape, number of seats, upholstery, quality and colour: what should you look for when buying a high-quality sofa? Well, here are 10 mistakes to avoid.

1. Impulse buying

Large grey modular corner sofa in a new build living room with a fireplace and elegant accessories.

Morgan modular 5-seat corner sofa | @homely_rose

No matter how good a sofa looks online, try to see it in person before making a commitment, if possible. It may be a different size than you thought, have more of an unusual shape than you’d imagined, or not be very comfortable at all. Even if you aren’t able to visit the store in person, you can arrange a video appointment to see it in a real-life setting or request some fabric swatches to compare with the rest of your living room furniture.

2. Not considering your lifestyle

Oak Furntureland Ashby sofa in neutral living room with pale green walls, cosy accessories and neutral details.

Ashby sofa | @ourruralnest

If this sofa is for decorative purposes and perhaps sits in a room that you don’t use much, then comfort might not be as important a factor as its look and aesthetic. However, if it sits in front of the TV, you’ll want one that is completely sinkable and optimised for lounging. Tall people, in particular, need to consider factors like the length of a settee and whether it leaves enough room for them to stretch out and relax.

3. Ignoring sofa construction

There are many pros and cons to consider for a couch that goes way beyond its placement in the room layout or the cushion colour. Before you begin to browse, think about whether you have a preference for foam or feather pillows and make a list of pros and cons based on your home life. For instance, you may have an allergy to feather fillings or require the orthopaedic benefits of foam technology. Either way, do your research about how your new sofa design is built, and you’ll never have a point of complaint.

4. Selecting the wrong upholstery material

Oak Furnitureland light green sofa and matching storage footstool in a light-filled garden room.

Dalby sofa | Dalby footstool | @mo_morshuis

Much like the way the settee is constructed, the upholstery material it’s made from will also need to suit your lifestyle and family needs. For example, if you have young children or pets, you may want to avoid fabric sofas, as they tend to soak up stains more easily than the smooth finish of a leather sofa. Or, if your living room can get hot and humid, avoid materials that lack airiness and tend to get sticky and unbreathable.

5. Not thinking about longevity

Ask yourself, how long will you need your couch for? If you think you’re likely to shake up your style in five years, opt for something ultra-trendy, like a modern sofa. However, if you think this will likely be a long-lasting investment, you might want to choose a more traditional sofa style that won’t look outdated over time.

6. Failing to measure properly

Inca sofa | @paintitprettyhome

Measure, measure and measure again! It’s all well and good if you think a sofa will look great in your home, but if it swallows up your space, it’ll leave you feeling claustrophobic and uncomfortable. Scale is key here. Width, depth and height are all really important measurements. To give you an idea of how a large or small sofa is going to look in your home, use tape to map out the exact dimensions on the floor, so you know what it’ll be like proportionately.

Take a look through our full living room measurement guide.

7. It can’t get through the door

You’ve done it: you’ve found the luxury sofa of your dreams and it fits your home layout! But wait – when it arrives, it can’t fit through your front door – nightmare! Always account for the access points of your home: your front door, hallway and any doorways or staircases that lead to your lounge. This is why the depth measurement is particularly key, it can help you work out if the settee needs to be tipped on its side to get through these access points. Alternatively, enquire which sofas are sold in compartments and can be assembled in your living room. Find out more about our sofa sizes.

8. You haven’t sized up your space

Evie corner sofa | @mybraxtonhome_

So you’ve ticked the boxes of floor space, height and the depth of the doorway, but will this sofa be right for your living room layout? Have you read the fine print – is the corner sofa that’s arriving left-handed or right-handed? Is there an alcove that needs to be accounted for (i.e. can a tall person sit there without knocking their head)? Will the coffee table fit in front of it while leaving space to walk around it? It pays to be ultra-precise and very picky about every detail.

9. The colour is all wrong

Cream corner cofa with muted gallery wall above and two young children looking up at the pictures.

Willoughby corner sofa | @new_mummy_jess

Due to the prominence of the sofa in a living room scene, the colour you choose for your couch will depend on whether you want an understated or statement interior scheme. Go for a complementary colour for a blended look, something that pops in an otherwise neutral scene, or a bold shade in a more eclectic home. As mentioned, we recommend getting hold of fabric swatches because what looks great in the showroom might look completely different when immersed in your home setting.

10. It’s bad quality

Blue corner sofa in living room full of plants.

Evie corner sofa@insideeightyone

High-quality sofas are worth the investment for three reasons: they look fantastic, they feel fantastic and they will keep looking and feeling fantastic for years to come. Choose a brand you trust that puts care into its product design. For example, all our settees are built with hardwood in the frame, which not only makes for a more comfortable spot for our plump-free pillows to rest on, but also ensures they are built to last. Luxury sofas may seem more expensive initially, but they end up costing less in the long run.

Want to know more about choosing a sofa for your home? Read our post on finding the right sofa for your living room, then start shopping for our full range of high-quality and comfy sofas. Tag us in your new seating styles on Instagram with #OakFurnitureland #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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How to create a reading nook https://www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk/blog/general/how-to-create-a-reading-nook/ Mon, 08 Aug 2022 11:51:56 +0000 https://www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk/blog/?p=26071 Whether you’re already an avid reader or are trying to up your book count, having somewhere that you enjoy sitting back and relaxing with your favourite book is a must…

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Whether you’re already an avid reader or are trying to up your book count, having somewhere that you enjoy sitting back and relaxing with your favourite book is a must in any home.

If you’re searching for ideas to help you create that perfect reading nook, we’ve got real home inspiration that all bibliophiles will love.

Take a seat

First things first, make sure you have somewhere you can happily spend hours sitting with your nose in a good book. Our sofas and armchairs are made with comfort in mind but also look good so you can easily create a stylish reading spot in any room.

Armchairs are a popular choice for cosy corners as they can slot into vacant spaces in open-plan kitchens, conservatories, home offices or even spacious landings. We have a wide choice of colours and styles, with loveseats ideal if you want an extra roomy seat to curl up on with your latest read.

Oak Furnitureland aqua blue Brighton retro-style sofa with geometric patterned footstool and matching scatter cushion.

Brighton sofa | @our_tyrone_29

If you’re craving somewhere to stretch out and put your feet up, opt for one of our sofas paired with a coordinating footstool. You’ll definitely get through your book club list when you’ve got somewhere that you can sit and unwind in the evenings.

Storage at its finest

Oak Furnitureland Boston oak and metal bookcase filled with colourful books and styled with plants.

Boston bookcase | @sandpiperbarn

You’ll need somewhere to keep your reading collection and our wide range of bookcases are perfect for organising them in style. Arrange by colour to create a visually appealing home library or choose to alphabetise or order by genre.

If you don’t have room for a large bookshelf, we also have smaller styles or ladder shelving that are perfect for fitting into alcoves, corners or more compact spaces.

Time to accessorise

Oak Furnitureland Jasmine pale grey armchair, with tonal cushions and throw, in an elegant cream living room corner.

Jasmine armchair | @mrs_roobottom_home

Once you’ve got the foundations of your reading nook, dial up the cosiness with soft lighting, throws and scatter cushions.

Our lamps are perfect for adding an ambient glow, with the option of floor or table styles that can easily warm up your space. Add comfort underfoot with a tactile rug and you’ve got all the ingredients for your reading nook.

Best bookstagram accounts to follow

If you’re in need of book club ideas or just want inspiration for your next read, discover some of our favourite bookstagram accounts to follow on Instagram.

The Breakfast Book Club

Having read and enjoyed several of Emily Woosey of @thebreakfast.bookclub’s suggestions from the best summer reads blog she compiled for us, we can definitely say she’s got good taste in books. Emily has her own monthly book club that you can join along with, and she also has more in-depth reviews on her blog.

Reese’s Book Club

With the ability to spot a bestseller a mile off, @reesesbookclub is the one to follow for top picks that often make their way to the screen. Actor Reese Witherspoon is the founder of the hugely successful book club that focuses on titles with female lead characters. She’s gone on to produce TV and movie adaptations of several big hits including Big Little Lies, Where the Crawdads Sing, and Daisy Jones & The Six.

The Colourful Chronicles

If you’re looking for ideas for all the family, @thecolourfulchronicles is a rainbow-filled feast for the senses. Run by avid reader Kelly, you’ll find beautifully styled recommendations for adults and children alike. There’s also plenty of inspiration for gifts, along with fun decor ideas for your own home library.

Amy’s Bookshelf

Enjoy picking up recommended titles from @amybookshelf’s selection, with spoiler-free reviews covering a variety of genres. She also runs a separate book club account, @_amysbookclub, that has a monthly read followed by a Zoom discussion with like-minded book enthusiasts. Perfect for inspiring us all to read more.

Beth’s Book Club

You’ll definitely be adding to your TBR (to be read) pile after browsing @bethsbookclub_’s feed. If you’re not sure where to start, the reels are a really useful entry point as they handily break down recommendations into categories such as best thrillers, books that broke my heart, and many more. Plus, there’s also a brilliant book club to sign up to.

We’d love to see your reading nooks. Share your homes by tagging #OakFurnitureland on Instagram.

 

Lead image: French Farmhouse bookcase | @hausfifteen

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