Buying a Sectional Sofa: A Buyer’s Guide
The word “sofa” is derived from the Arabic word “suffah,” which means “sitting platform.” The earliest sofas date back to the 1600s in Europe. Sectional sofas are popular these days as a family-friendly alternative to traditional two- and three-seat sofas. Continue reading for a step-by-step guide to purchasing a sectional sofa, covering the different types of arrangements.
What Is the Purpose of a Sectional?
A sectional sofa is a fantastic piece of furniture that provides more sitting than standard sofas. Sectionals perform well in both large and compact rooms, allowing you to fit the most seating into a tiny space, especially if you push the sectional up against a corner.
Sectionals are ideal for family rooms and basements because they allow you to lounge or put your feet up. One of the best aspects of purchasing a sectional sofa is that it can be used to divide an open floor plan into several regions. A sectional divides your living area from your dining room, for example. Read on to learn about the factors to consider when purchasing a sectional.
Calculate the Size of Your Area
When purchasing any piece of furniture, but especially sectionals, knowing how much space you have to work with is critical.
Make sure your sectional will not extend past a wall or leave insufficient space in front or behind it. This isn’t to say that sectionals are exclusively suitable for large spaces. If you’re working with a smaller space, you’ll probably just need to think about the arrangement you’ll require as well as the design. This manner, your sofa won’t take up too much room in your already cramped living room.
Take a look at the dimensions of a sectional sofa.
Sizes can be deceiving, both online and in a showroom. Not just the length but also the depth of a couch should be measured. Sectionals typically have a lot of seat depth, so measure it and compare it to your current seating to see if it’s enough or too much. On either end of a sectional sofa, there is usually a chaise. Make sure you take a measurement of the piece’s length. Some versions may cause your feet to hang over the edge if you are tall.
Choose a configuration.
Sectional sofas can be used in a variety of ways. There are numerous configuration options to consider. Certain shapes would work better in your location, so consider about what would be best.
Sectional in the shape of a L
An L-shaped sectional, as the name implies, consists of two sofas joined in a L to make a 90-degree angle. On one side, there are usually three cushions, while on the other, there are two cushions. However, there are other possibilities. This design looks great against a wall or floating in the midst of a room.
Sectional in the shape of a U
For a large family, a U-shaped sectional is ideal. There’s plenty of room to spread out and plenty of seating. This sectional is perfect for a large space or if you don’t want to deal with armchairs or other seating options. The U form allows two persons to sit at the arms of the top of the U, facing each other.
Sectional Chaise
A chaise sectional has a chaise on either the left or right side of the couch, similar to a typical sofa. You can put this sectional almost anyplace a standard sofa would go. The advantage of this sectional is that you can lay down with your feet elevated. It can also be utilized to seat an additional person on the chaise’s edge.
Sectional with a Curve
A curved sectional is a visually beautiful and soothing piece of furniture. It encourages lively conversation and is a terrific option for those who enjoy hosting. This sectional can’t be pushed against a wall, so it’s perfect for open-concept living rooms or huge rooms.
Sectional Modular
Modular sectionals are becoming increasingly popular as a result of the numerous alternatives they provide when the mood strikes. The majority of sectionals are made up of sections that join and stay together. Modular sectionals, on the other hand, can be changed in numerous formats as often as you wish. Pull apart sections to create extra ottomans, or push pieces together to create a chaise. Typically, these come in five pieces that can be combined in a variety of ways. If you want variety and want to get the most out of your sectional, this is a perfect option.
Sectional Sleeper Sofa
Then there’s the modern-day version of a pull-out sofa. Sleeper sectionals may accommodate up to a Queen-size bed for overnight visitors. Some models have a pull-out bed, while others may be converted into a bed by rearranging the parts.
Consider the flow of people in the room.
Another thing to think about is how your space will be used. Walking around a chaise on the wrong side of the room is a pain. Select a chaise on the side of the room with the least amount of foot traffic. Also, make sure you order the correct chaise! The chaise is on your right-hand side when you face the sofa if you are facing it.
Consider the Materials for Sectional Sofas
Fabric options for sectional sofas include leather, microfiber, polyester, and performance textiles. Fabrics that are stain resistant or machine washable may be desirable if you have young children. If you have cats, you should stay away from leather that is easily shredded. Most retailers sell a stain-resistant sealer that may sometimes even cover rips and tears.
Final Thoughts on Purchasing a Sectional Sofa
Thank you for taking the time to read this! If you want to optimize your seating, want more comfort and space than a standard sofa, and want useful furniture, a sectional sofa is a smart investment. Now, have a look at our sectional selection to locate the right fit for your living room.
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