The ultimate sofa buying guide
Chapter 1: Choosing the right type of sofa
Chapter 2: What to think about when buying a sofa
Chapter 3: Types of sofa fabric
Chapter 4: Choosing the right sofa leg
Chapter 5: Choosing the right sofa arm
Chapter 6: Sofa seats: Features and Characteristics
Chapter 7: Sofa back styles
Chapter 8: Sofa frame and base: Construction and composition
At The Lounge Co., we know that a lot of life happens on your sofa, so we want to help you find one that’s perfect for you and your home. Whether you want a cosy spot for movie night, a style statement for your lounge, or somewhere to entertain, this guide will break down materials, simplify design elements, and give you the knowledge you need to make an informed sofa purchase. So, take a seat and let us help you find your dream sofa!
Chapter 1: Choosing the right type of sofa
2 SEATER SOFAS
If your space is on the small side, but you still really want a sofa, then a 2 seater sofa is the smallest size available. 2 seater sofas usually have two small seat cushions and will accommodate two adults sitting next to each other or are the perfect size for one person to put their feet up and get cosy.
2.5 SEATER SOFAS
Despite the name, a 2.5 seater sofa has two seat cushions but is slightly bigger than a 2 seater sofa, offering more space to spread out. A great choice for smaller lounges, kitchens, or apartments, a 2.5 seater sofa offers value for money, as the smaller size means less raw materials. 2-and-a-half seaters can also be the best sofa to buy if you’re looking for a good match for a larger 4-seater sofa, as the two sofa sizes complement each other well, creating a harmonious pairing in a room.
3 SEATER SOFAS
A 3-seater sofa is one of the most popular sofas due to the balance of size, comfort, and price. You’ll find 3 seater sofas with either 2 or 3 seat cushions which are designed to comfortably seat 3 adults (or one lying down for an afternoon nap!). If you’ve only got room for one sofa in your lounge, then a 3 seater is a great choice as it is big enough to make a statement but won’t dominate the space.
4 SEATER SOFAS
If your lounge is on the larger side, consider a 4-seater sofa. This is the widest standard sofa offered at The Lounge Co., and is designed to accommodate up to 4 people. 4 seater sofas are great for families and make the perfect hub to get together for movie night. Because of their size, it’s always important to measure the space available and make sure such a large piece of furniture will get through doorways and narrow passageways during delivery.
CORNER SOFAS
This space-saving design incorporates a classic sofa with a 90-degree angle and a corner built in. Corner sofas provide seating on two sides, often forming an ‘L’ shape so that the sofa can fit snugly in the corner and maximise the space. You can opt for a corner-end sofa, which is wider than it is deep, or a true corner sofa, whose width and depth are the same and are a great choice if you’re often entertaining or need to seat a lot of people. If you’re lucky enough to have a large lounge, then a bespoke corner sofa might be the statement piece for you.
MODULAR SOFAS
Modular and sectional sofas are a type of sofa that comprise separate sections, or sofa units. Modular sofas are a practical choice that enables you to create a unique sofa to your exact requirements, which can be taken apart and put back together easily. This clever and practical design makes modular sofas easy to take apart, transport, and put together again. Modular sofa sizes can be tailored to fit your room exactly making it a great choice if your room has awkward measurements. Sofa units are firmly held together to keep the sofa in place and stop the pieces from sliding apart.
SOFA BEDS
Ideal for smaller homes and loungers leading busy, modern lives, versatile and multi-functional furniture like the sofa bed offers homeowners plenty of scope and choice. Designed for multipurpose living, this popular style of sofa folds out into a bed to create an additional sleeping space. This can be the perfect choice for overnight guests, providing a stylish seating solution throughout the day, and providing a simple and comfortable temporary bed whenever necessary.
Chapter 2: What to think about when buying a sofa
SEAT DEPTH
Sofas come in all shapes and sizes, and homeowners can often forget the importance of sofa depth. When deciding on the best sofa seat depth, consider a shallower seat if you would prefer to sit upright, with your feet on the ground. The best sofas for taller people are designed with a deeper seat, which generally offers more room to tuck your legs up and stretch out.
CUSHION FIRMNESS
Most sofas will come with a choice of cushion fillings, so it’s always good to know what you prefer.
Feather cushions, or fibre cushions, are soft and squidgy and the ideal choice for a deeper, cosier sofa. The soft and squishy texture of feather sofa cushions creates a far more malleable and soft seat that moulds around you when you fit down. This creates a cosy and relaxed seating environment but requires a little more maintenance compared to firmer cushions.
Feather and fibre cushions need to be reshaped to keep them tidy, and often need to be plumped up and straightened to regain their shape, in contrast to firmer, denser sofa cushions which naturally hold their shape.
Softer cushions offer a more relaxed, casual look and will shape themselves to the way you like to sit. If you’re after something a little more supportive, then foam is a good option that bounces back after you’ve sat in it.
Firmer cushions provide a neat, structured look and they tend to recover their shape without much plumping. Firm sofa cushions are best suited if you’re looking for a more sturdy and compacted cushion fit that offers plenty of support and a more consistent look and feel.
SOFA COMFORT AND SUPPORT
Sofa cushions go a long way to determining comfort and support, but the shape and height of a sofa will also make a difference. If you’re looking for a supportive sofa, choose a sofa style with a relatively high seat and back, as this style will offer more support to help your posture. A foam sofa seat will also help with structure and even comfort.
For a more relaxed sofa style that’s more about ‘lounging around’, choose a sofa style that's lower to the floor and easier to flop into. Sofa designs with low sofa arms mean that you can rest your head comfortably if you’re lying down. Sofa back height is important too - choose a sofa with a back that’s around neck height, as this will give you something to rest your head back on.
SOFA HEIGHT, LENGTH, WIDTH & DEPTH
Size isn’t everything when it comes to sofas, but you must measure the space available to make sure that your new furniture is going to fit. Sofa height refers to the measurement from the floor to the highest part of the sofa, such as the top of the cushions or the back. The width is usually the longest measurement and is the from the furthest points left to right as you stand and look at the sofa. Depth measures the distance from the front of the sofa to the back – so the front of the seat cushion to the very back of the furniture.
BACK SUPPORT AND ERGONOMICS
Firm sofa vs soft sofa
If you’re looking for a supportive sofa, then foam-filled cushions with a high seat and back will make you sit in a more upright position. Softer, fibre-filled cushions may feel comfy, but offer less support and need daily maintenance to keep them looking good.
Ergonomic sofa design
Everyone is a different size and shape and requires different levels of support. We’d always recommend giving a sofa the ‘sit test’ before purchasing to make sure you’re happy with the firmness of the cushions and that the design of the sofa suits you and your body.
Best sofas for back support
If you want a sofa to really support your back, then it’s wise to opt for one with lumbar support, or a reclining option to settle you into your perfect position.
SOFA COLOUR
What's the best sofa colour
The colour you decide on for your sofa is a personal choice. Modern sofas are available in a myriad of shades, from elegant neutrals to paintbox brights. Consider your interior decor, and what else is situated in the room your new sofa will be going into.
Choosing the right sofa colour
Neutral Sofas
You can’t go wrong with a neutral sofa. Neutral shades such as cream, ivory and beige suit both classic and contemporary interiors and can be accessorised with any colours you wish.
Green Sofas
Green sofas are becoming more popular as we enjoy adding a touch of nature to our homes. A moss green sofa will give your lounge a botanical edge, whilst an emerald green or teal sofa will add jewel-like decadence.
Black Sofas
A black sofa can make a real style statement. If colour isn’t your thing, then a black sofa will fit perfectly into a monochrome or minimalist interior.
Grey Sofas
Grey sofas are a great choice because of their versatility. There’s a grey for everyone; from light and airy dove grey to deep and dramatic charcoal. Darker shades are less likely to show dirt and stains, but paler greys can make the room feel lighter and add a touch of elegance.
Blue Sofas
Blue sofas have become increasingly popular in recent years. Pale blue sofas elegantly reflect the light whereas dark navy blue sofas add a richness to your room.
Brown Leather Sofas
A brown leather sofa is a style statement worth investing in. Leather is tactile yet durable, in shades of tan, caramel or rich chocolate brown, they add natural warmth to your home.
Brown Fabric Sofas
If you’re a fan of earthy tones, then a brown fabric sofa could be for you. Great for interiors where natural shades are the theme, a brown sofa is laid-back and easy to update with brighter colours from nature.
Pink Sofas
Whether you want to keep it light with a blush pink sofa or go bright with a hot pink or fuchsia sofa, pink is bright, joyful and will add a personal stamp to your lounge.
Light vs dark sofas
Do you want your room to feel light and bright or dark and decadent? Sofas in pale fabrics reflect the light and will make your lounge feel more spacious. They can be, however, harder to maintain in a busy family home. If you’re worried about keeping a light sofa clean, it’s worth considering Family-Friendly fabrics, which make it super-easy to wipe off everyday dirt and stains.
If you want your room to feel warm and inviting then a darker colour sofa may offer what you are looking for. Deep jewel tones add rich colour without being too vibrant and create a cosy vibe in your home.
Sofa colour combinations: Ideas and Inspiration
If you want to mix and match the colours in your lounge, then you can’t go wrong with choosing a neutral or grey sofa, which can be updated with scatter cushions and throws from season to season. Mustard yellow, blush pink and botanical green are all popular shades that will sit well with a grey or neutral sofa.
If you’ve chosen a brighter colour for your sofa, then a great way to choose a secondary colour is to go to the opposite side of the colour wheel. For example, orange cushions really zing on a navy blue sofa, whilst blush pink or coral look beautiful set against a dark green or teal sofa.
Chapter 3: Types of sofa fabrics
Choosing a fabric for your sofa is usually the most fun part of the process. Do you want to be neutral and timeless or go bold and make a statement? Ultimately, you should choose something you love and not be swayed by trends, as a sofa is an investment purchase that should last up to 25 years.
WHAT'S THE BEST SOFA FABRIC?
You need to be practical with your choice; a cream velvet sofa may look gorgeous, but will it stand up against a busy family and a muddy dog? Darker colours and textured fabrics are less likely to show stains and wear. Perhaps you might consider leather for your sofa? Leather sofas tend to be more expensive than woven fabrics, but it’s a hardwearing, natural product that’s easy to keep clean and just gets better with age.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST SOFA FABRIC
The best sofa material will truly depend on your personal style, individual taste preferences, and how you plan to use the sofa. For example, a family room sofa will need to be more robust and durable than a sleek sofa for the spare room that’s used occasionally. Good quality sofas are an investment, so take time to find the right sofa that suits your needs entirely.
Sofa Type
Sometimes the shape and size of a sofa will dictate which fabric looks better. If your taste is more traditional, you’ll find elegance in more muted colours or tactile fabrics such as tweed, wool, or chenille. Contemporary sofa shapes with clean lines and minimum fuss will look great in bold or bright colours and statement fabrics such as velvet or boucle. Smaller sofas may benefit from light, bright fabrics whereas a large corner sofa would make a statement in a darker shade or jewel-toned fabric.
Room décor
When purchasing a new sofa, it’s also important to consider your room decor to make sure your sofa style complements your existing décor. For example, if your living room style accents focus on Scandi minimalism, then aim to choose a neutral colour scheme and fabrics, such as wooden sofa legs and a muted colour palette. If your home has a vintage vibe, then choose a vintage sofa style that echoes the existing look and feel to create a charming and inviting space. Choose what you love, and think about what will complement your existing décor. We always recommend getting fabric swatches so you can see how the colour and texture will work in your room.
Cleaning, maintenance and stains
You should keep your sofa regularly maintained to help the look and longevity of the furniture. For fabric sofas, regular cleaning with a brush or a light vacuum will help keep them looking smart. If you spill something on your sofa, immediately blot the stain with a clean, dry cloth. Do not rub it in or use abrasive cleaners as this may leave a permanent mark. If the stain won’t budge, seek professional help. To clean leather furniture, dust the leather fabric with a soft brush and wipe it with a damp cloth. Do not rub the leather as this could damage the surface. We do not recommend any leather cleaning products as they may damage the leather.
Sofa location and usage
Where your sofa is located, and the type of usage it will get will help you to decide the best fabric for it. If it’s going to be used every day by the whole family (including the dog), then a darker colour in fabric that doesn’t show wear would be a good choice. Basket weaves, tweeds, chenilles, and textured velvets are all great at hiding minor stains and scuffs. If you’re purchasing a sofa as occasional furniture in a bedroom or hallway then you can get away with choosing a more delicate fabric such as silk or velvet and lighter colours like cream or pastels. If your sofa is in direct sunlight then we’d recommend avoiding bright, saturated colours that will fade more quickly.
Fabric composition and durability
All upholstery fabrics are designed to be durable. At The Lounge Co., we only offer fabrics that have undergone the Martindale test, an abrasion rub test to measure the durability of fabric before it starts to show wear and tear. All our fabrics are fit for general or heavy domestic use. However, some fabrics will naturally be more durable than others. Synthetic blends that include polyester tend to be hardier, or if you want something natural then leather, with its exceptional durability and ageless beauty is a great investment buy.
Comfort, softness and feel
A sofa is for sitting on, so you want it to feel soft and comfortable. Fabrics with a short pile such as velvet or cotton are smoother to the touch, whereas textured fabrics such as chenille or boucle are tactile and offer a warmer feel. You can increase the cosiness level on your sofa by introducing scatter cushions and throws.
Pets, allergies and children
Most of us have a pet, a child, or an allergy. Many have all three! Because of their daily use, sofas can be a haven for dust, bacteria, and pet hair. Before you purchase a sofa, it’s worth seeking out family and pet-friendly fabrics which repel stains, odour, and bacteria and are easy to keep clean with a damp cloth. Whether your sofa is wipe-clean or not, you should always maintain it by giving it a light hoover or brush and keeping the cushions plumped.
Cleaning, fabric stains and maintenance
There’s nothing more exciting than removing the wrap off a pristine sofa, but a busy family life means it probably won’t stay that way for long. The dye from clothing, food stains and muddy pets can all take their toll, so the best solution is to opt for a stain-resistant fabric for your new upholstery. These clever textiles have a built-in resistance to stains, odour and bacteria and if the worst should happen, you can keep your sofa looking as good-as-new with just soap and water.
Sofa maintenance tips
• With all sofas, plumping the cushions will help them to keep their shape, plus we’d recommend keeping your sofa away from direct sunlight to avoid fading, and away from radiators to avoid heat damage or warping.
• If you’ve opted for a ‘Family Friendly’ then make sure you follow the instructions for cleaning stains.
• Never use bleach or harsh chemicals on your sofa, and only put the covers in the washing machine if they are designed to be cleaned in that way.
• If your sofa isn’t wipe-clean and succumbs to stains, the preferred option would be to seek out a professional upholstery cleaner.
• Leave the bleach or the laundry detergent in the cupboard – they're likely to make your sofa look even worse.
• If all else fails, throws are your best friend! A strategically placed blanket will hide a stain or tear and stop your sofa from becoming a pet-hair magnet!
Should I buy a fabric sofa?
A fabric sofa provides a beautiful balance between style and value. If you opt for fabric, you’ll find a huge choice of colours and textures. Make sure you consider where the sofa is going to be and who is going to use it, certain shades and fabrics will show wear and tear more easily. If you’ve got a pet, then search out pet-friendly fabrics or add throws to your sofa to minimise any damage from your four-legged friend.
Should I buy a leather sofa?
Leather sofas make a real style statement and are naturally more durable than fabric sofas. However, a leather sofa is more of an investment, so think carefully before purchasing. A classic colour such as black or tan will make your sofa stand the test of time, and make sure you maintain the leather to keep it looking as good as possible.
Should I buy a velvet sofa?
A velvet sofa is stylish and sophisticated and at the top of many people’s interior wish lists. You may think that a velvet sofa would not be a great choice for a family home, but that’s not necessarily the case.
Family-friendly sofa fabrics at The Lounge Co.
If you’re worried about everyday dirt and stains, you should explore our best-selling collections of family friendly fabrics which repel stains, odour, and bacteria and can be cleaned in seconds with a damp cloth. At The Lounge Co., our ‘Family Friendly’ velvets are amongst our best-sellers. Available in a huge array of colours, these fabrics are smooth, soft, and super-easy to keep clean. If you’re worried about marks and scuffs, then choosing a crushed velvet or one with a slight texture will help to hide everyday wear.
Chapter 4: Choosing the right sofa legs
When was the last time you thought about sofa legs? We know it’s not the hottest topic, but there are lots of styles available, and they make a big difference to the aesthetic of your sofa...
WHAT STYLES OF SOFA LEGS ARE THERE?
Explore the most popular types of sofa legs, including key styles, shapes and materials, so you can find the perfect match and discover your favourite style.
Glides
Glides are used when transporting your sofa or for furniture that sits directly on the floor and doesn’t need a ‘show’ leg. They prevent the legs of a sofa or chair from scratching or damaging flooring and enable easy movement of your furniture around the room.
Sabre Sofa Legs
In the world of furniture, ‘sabre’ refers to a splayed leg that resembles a sabre (a curved sword). Sabre legs can be square or round, usually made of wood and frequently taper outward.
Bun Style Sofa Legs
A bun leg or foot is a flattened sphere popular from the 17th century. The bun leg often features traditional and country-style furniture, where its simplicity offsets elaborate designs.
Plinth Style Sofa Legs
When talking about sofas, a plinth-style leg is essentially a platform on which the sofa is placed. Plinths have a retro feel but are commonly used on modern, minimalist furniture. They are usually left as plain wood or covered with an accent material, complementary to the sofa.
Turned Sofa Legs
Turned sofa legs are the most decorative of all the designs. The pattern of a turned leg is created by rotating a piece of wood on a lathe and shaping using wood tools. Turned sofa legs often feature a castor on the bottom as a nod to traditional sofa design.
Stiletto Style Sofa Legs
As the name suggests, a stiletto-style sofa leg is long and thin, much like the heel of a shoe. This design can be seen on many contemporary sofas and can be crafted metal or wood, often with a metallic cap on the end to complete the look.
Integral vs unattached sofa legs
If a sofa leg is part of the overall sofa design and can’t be removed, then this is classed as an ‘integral’ leg. You’ll find these more often on modern styles of sofas, for example, plinth and platform legs which are joined directly to the base of the sofa. You'll find that most sofas feature legs that can be unscrewed from the sofa base, making production and delivery easier.
Best sofa legs for floorboards
If you have a real wood floor, then you’ll want to do your best to protect it. Sofa legs with a wider base will disperse the weight more evenly, and wood rather than metal is less likely to scratch the floor. Consider putting a rug under your furniture to protect the flooring, or you can purchase felt furniture pads to put on under the sofa legs to minimise any damage.
Best sofa legs for a carpet
Sofas are heavy pieces of furniture, so they’re going to make depression marks on a carpet. Sofas with wide feet or a plinth base will be less noticeable, but you can minimise the damage from sofa feet in several other ways. If you’ve got any spare carpet lying around, cut small squares and place them under the sofa feet. It’s also worth moving your sofa every couple of months and vacuuming your carpet every week.
At The Lounge Co., all our sofas are delivered without legs, reducing the overall dimensions of the furniture. Once the sofa is in place, the legs can simply be screwed in.
Chapter 5: Choosing the right sofa arm
Sofa arms come in all shapes and sizes. From classic to contemporary, low to high, here are some tips on choosing the best sofa arm style for you...
WHAT STYLES OF SOFA ARMS ARE THERE?
Explore the most popular types of sofa arms, including key styles, shapes and materials, so you can find the perfect match and discover your favourite style.
Scroll Sofa Arms
You’ll find scroll arms, which resemble an old-fashioned parchment scroll, on the more traditional sofa styles. They curve outwards from the base of the sofa and circle in on themselves at the top. Scroll arms can be pleated, piped, or plain and tend to give a grand feel to a sofa, encouraging you to sit upright with your arms resting on the sofa arms.
Flared Sofa Arms
Flared sofa arms angle outwards from the base of the sofa. They tend to have a slight curve to them but can be straight. You’ll often find these types of arms on contemporary sofa styles, the design of the arm means it’s usually fairly high, which can be good if you want to rest your arm or lie back and put your head against the sofa arm.
Square Sofa Arms
Square sofa arms, as the name suggests, are boxy and angular in shape. Most commonly found on modern sofas, square arms are clean and non-fussy, perfect if you’re looking for a contemporary, minimalist interior. Quiet often, square arms are lower than their more traditional counterparts, giving a streamlined look and a place to put your cup of coffee down.
Howard Sofa Arms
Howard sofa arms are low, rounded, rolled arms that are usually pleated. Howard sofa arms are regarded as classic and timeless, with a traditional, English country design. Howard sofa arms are neat and tailored and will give you more room to move when you’re sitting down on the sofa.
High Sofa Arms
If you’re looking for more support whilst seated, then choosing a sofa with high arms is a good idea. Offering greater back support, these sofa arms provide a modern look and a cosy corner to curl up in and are especially nice if you like to sit up straight while putting your feet up on the sofa./p>
Chapter 6: Sofa seats: features and characteristics
When it comes to sofas, the seat is arguably the most important part...
What is a sofa seat?
Essentially, a sofa seat is the bit that you sit on. Often sprung for comfort and with tailored seat cushions for extra padding and a finished look.
TYPES OF SOFA SEAT
Fixed Sofa Seats
A sofa with a fixed seat means that the cushion part that you sit on cannot be removed and is integral to the body of the sofa. Having a fixed-seat sofa means that you get a more streamlined look. Fixed cushions are also generally firmer, offering more support.
Cushioned Sofa Seats
You’ll find that the majority of sofas will come with cushioned sofa seats. This means that the cushions on top of the sofa base can be removed and replaced. Very important if your children are into making dens!
Fixed vs Cushioned Seat
Fixed sofa seats can give a more contemporary look with clean lines, whereas cushioned seats give a more relaxed, cosy vibe. Fixed seats tend to be firmer, but you can usually choose the filling for loose seat cushions, giving you a better choice of personal comfort. Loose cushions are also often reversible, which means you can turn them regularly to avoid wear and tear to your sofa. They’re also easier to clean or replace if necessary.
TYPES OF CUSHION FILLING
Sofas are all about comfort, which is why it’s important to find the right sofa cushion filling for your exact needs. We take time to perfect the inner linings of our sofas so they meet the highest standards of craftsmanship, design, and detail. The only question left to answer - feather, foam or fibre?
Feather cushions
Feather-filled cushions tend to last longer as they are made from high-quality materials.
• Will shape itself to the way you like to sit
• A naturally sourced product
Feather filled sofa cushions are soft, comfortable, and lightweight, making them a good choice for those who want a luxurious feel. Unfortunately, feather cushions can cause allergies in some people, and can also retain sweat and odours, so they may not suit everyone.
Foam cushions
Foam cushions are made with a premium foam core filling.
• Structured, even comfort
• Recovers its shape without much plumping
Foam sofa cushions offer a slightly firmer sit than fibre and feather cushions and can retain plumpness over time as the foam has excellent recovery characteristics. Foam cushions still need to be maintained, plumping and shaping once a week will keep them looking their best.
Fibre-filled cushions
Cushions that are fibre-filled are sumptuous and squishy. Unlike feather cushions, the fibre is designed so that the fibres don’t bind together, and the filling does not compact so quickly.
• Sumptuous, enveloping comfort
• A more relaxed, casual look
Unlike feather cushions, fibre sofa cushions can be better for people who suffer from allergies. Fibre cushions are soft and inviting and should be plumped daily to prevent flattening. To maintain maximum comfort and form, seat and back cushions should be redressed vigorously and rotated every day.
Find out more about sofa cushion depth, material composition and technical details in our sofa comfort guide.
How to choose the best sofa seat
If you’re investing in a new sofa, then it should last you up to 25 years. It’s worth getting to a store and giving some potential sofas the ‘sit test’ to gauge the kind of support and comfort you are looking for. It’s worth remembering that in a store, lots of people will have sat on the sofas, so the cushions will be slightly softer than when they arrive, pristine at your door. Give your sofa a few weeks to settle and shape itself for you.
Chapter 7: Sofa back styles
FIXED BACK SOFAS
A fixed-back sofa has an upholstered back that is integral to the sofa. It’s part of the body of the sofa and cannot be removed. You’ll find this kind of back on a Chesterfield sofa or more modern button-back designs. Because the cushions aren’t loose it gives a more streamlined silhouette and can be easier to keep clean and tidy.
Pros
• Lighter in weight
• A neater, tailored look
Cons
• Can’t turn or plump the cushions
• Not as cosy as loose cushions
SCATTER BACK SOFAS
A scatter-back or pillow-back sofa has several large loose scatter cushions at the back of the sofa rather than fitted, upholstered cushions. Whilst the cushions on a standard sofa always match the main sofa fabric, the more casual cushions on a scatter-back sofa could be a different fabric or have a pattern on the reverse.
Pros
• A casual look that is soft and cosy
• You can potentially change the cushion covers
Cons
• Can be messy and needs constant tidying
• Not the best choice if you need a supportive sofa
CUSHION BACK SOFAS
Most moderns are regarded as cushion-back. This is where there is a matching back cushion for each seat cushion that is tailored to the shape of the sofa. You can remove these cushions from the sofa, as they are either loose or secured to the inside back of the sofa with a zip.
Pros
• Offer comfort with tailored style
• Cushions can be removed to clean and maintain
Cons
• Can collect dirt and grime behind them if not cleaned regularly
• Can become misshapen if not maintained
HIGH BACK SOFAS
• A high-back sofa usually refers to a sofa that has a height of at least 85cm. You’ll more often find high backs on fixed or cushion-back sofas that can offer more support than a scatter-back.
• If you’re after a sofa that’s good for your back, then a high-back sofa is a good choice. The high back will support your neck and head and promote better posture. They also tend to be easier to get in and out of.
LOW BACK SOFAS
• Low-back sofas tend to have a more modern look because of their unfussy, simple lines. A low back will prevent a sofa from dominating a small space, however, low backs can also work in large or open-plan spaces as they create the illusion of greater width.
• Unsurprisingly, a sofa with a lower back won’t provide the same support as a high back, but they’re great if you want a more casual look and enjoy curling up or lying out on the sofa.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT SOFA BACK
• Your preference for a sofa back is a personal thing, depending on what kind of support you’re looking for and the type of vibe you want from your furniture. High backs give a commanding and tailored look whilst being more supportive.
• Low-back sofas tend to be more modern and casual and are great for family life. As with all sofa elements, we’d recommend testing out a few of your favourites in a store, so you can judge for yourself the style and comfort.
Chapter 8: Sofa frame and base: Construction and composition
UNDERSTANDING SOFA FRAME CONSTRUCTION
When it comes to sofas, you tend to get what you pay for. A cheap sofa may look like a more expensive one on the outside, but it’s often what’s on the inside that counts. The frame is what supports you and holds the sofa together, so what it’s made from and how it’s made is important. If you want a sofa to last, then it’s worth checking how the sofa was made and whether it comes with a guarantee.
BEST SOFA FRAME MATERIALS
If you want your sofa to be super-durable, then having a frame made from hardwood is the best option. However, many frames are made from softwood, which is good quality but not as dense as hardwood and may contain knots that can compromise the strength. You’ll find that most cheap sofas have a frame made from engineered wood such as MDF or plywood. This provides great value for money but will not be as long-lasting as a frame made from natural wood.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A SOFA FRAME
As with any furniture, you’ll find sofas with different levels of quality and craftsmanship. If you’re trying to lead a more sustainable life, then check where your sofa was made. Check from which wood the frame is crafted and ask about the construction.
Quality and craftsmanship
The strongest frames are crafted with proper joints, dowels, and corner blocks as well as being glued, screwed, and stapled together. Also ask about the support construction – the number of springs, like a mattress, will affect the support and comfort of the sofa. More modern sofas, particularly with a minimalist design will use a lattice web system, that utilised crossed bands of strong fabric as a support for the seat.
Sturdiness and durability
Sturdiness and durability are important factors in deciding on a new sofa. Ask questions about how your sofa was made and what materials were used. We always recommend visiting a store to judge the craftsmanship and comfort yourself. A sofa may look lovely online but not be what you expected if you haven’t seen it in ‘real life’ first.
Weight and movability
Sofas tend to be heavy objects, so if you need to regularly move your sofa then this is something you should consider. Furniture companies will be able to tell you the weight of each sofa, but it’s always important to have two people when moving one, as doing it alone could cause damage to the sofa, or more importantly yourself. Sofas are easier to move if they have glides or castors on their feet, and a sofa that’s raised on tall legs is easier to get a grip on than one that reaches the floor. It’s also worth having a look at modular or sectional sofas which are individual units that are joined together to form a whole sofa. These can be taken apart for delivery and to move around a room.
Read our sofa measuring guide for more tips on how to measure a sofa.
Delivery and assembly
It’s an awful feeling to buy a beautiful new sofa, only to get to delivery day and find you can’t get it into your home. Firstly, always measure the space available, plus any access points that will need to be passed. Sofas are heavy, so delivery companies will usually only take one past the first floor if there is a lift available. At The Lounge Co., we deliver our sofas without legs and back cushions making it easier to get them through doors and around corners. Once your new sofa is in place, many delivery companies will remove the packaging and put the legs and cushions on. It’s worth making sure whether this is offered, as it’s much easier for an experienced hand with the correct tools.
Warranty and lifespan
Always check whether your new sofa has a warranty or guarantee. At The Lounge Co., we offer a 25-year frame guarantee which should see you through the life of your sofa. If you have a recliner sofa or one with moving parts, you should be offered a warranty on those. It’s also worth considering taking insurance out on your new sofa, which is worked out depending on the size, and will clean, repair or replace parts or all of your sofa should it be accidentally damaged or stained.
Read more about The Lounge Co’s commitment to quality.
FAQs
What’s the typical lifespan of a sofa?
The lifespan of a sofa depends on the initial quality and craftsmanship of the furniture, combined with how well maintained and looked after it is. It’s worth investing in a sofa that has a decent guarantee; at least ten years is preferable, some companies even offer to guarantee their sofas for a lifetime.
How often should you change your sofa?
How often you change your sofa is up to you, but if you’ve spent your hard-earned money on a new sofa then you’ll want it to last. We’d recommend keeping your sofa for at least ten years, but your pocket and the planet should keep hold of your sofa for as long as possible. We understand that fashions change, but you can keep your sofa looking fresh with new throws or scatter cushions.
How much should I spend on a new sofa?
When it comes to sofas, a cheap one might seem like a good idea at the time, but it’s cheap for a reason. The quality and craftsmanship of the frame, upholstery, and fabric will be compromised for a better price. At The Lounge Co., we know that our sofas aren’t the cheapest, but we are confident in the British-made quality and offer a 25-year frame guarantee to back it up. We’d recommend spending as much as you can afford on a new sofa, it’s always worth checking for sales and special offers which happen regularly throughout the year. If you can't afford this big-ticket item in one go, then most companies offer some sort of interest-free finance.
What's the best time to buy a new sofa?
If you desperately need a new sofa, then there isn’t necessarily a ‘best time’ to buy one. If you have the luxury of time on your side, however, then it’s worth waiting to see if your favourite sofa gets reduced in the sale or is involved in a promotion like Black Friday. Don’t wait too long though, your preferred sofa model or fabric may sell out or get discontinued. Also consider that to take receipt of a new sofa means that you have to remove your old one – make sure you’ve got a plan in place to do that or purchase a new sofa when moving house so that your new sofa can be delivered to a new address.
How does it work when you buy a sofa online?
• If you’ve not bought online from a furniture company before, it’s always worth checking out the reviews from real customers and seeing what they have to say about their experience.
• We’d always recommend ordering swatches of your favourite fabrics to see how they look and feel in real life.
• We’d also recommend trying to get to a store to try out a selection of sofas, even if you then choose to go home and order online at a time to suits you.
• You can’t always judge size from a website, so you must always measure your room and check the dimensions of a sofa before ordering to avoid disappointment on delivery.
On The Lounge Co. website, you can view all our sofa shapes and sizes and configure them in any one of our huge collections of fabrics and leather. We offer a secure online payment system where you can choose to pay in full, pay a deposit on ordering and pay the rest before delivery, or spread your payment using interest-free finance.
For more information and advice on buying your next sofa, speak to our friendly team or visit us in store. Explore our entire collection of our bespoke, British-made sofas and find your perfect match with The Lounge Co.