Buying a sofa is a significant investment, and it is essential to make the right choice. A sofa is not only a piece of furniture but also a centrepiece of your living room. It is where you will spend most of your time relaxing, entertaining guests, and spending time with family.

With so many options available, buying a sofa can be overwhelming. It is a big decision and requires careful consideration. This guide aims to provide the necessary information to help you make the right decision when buying a sofa.

Two-Seater Sofa

Sofa Styles

There are various styles of sofas available, from traditional to modern. The most common styles are:

  • Chesterfield: A classic style with tufted upholstery and high-rolled arms.
  • Lawson: A simple, modern style with squared-off arms and a straight back.
  • Camelback: A traditional style with a curved back and high arms.
  • English Roll Arm: A traditional style with a low back and rolled arms.
  • Mid-Century Modern: A modern style with clean lines and tapered legs.
  • Sectional: A modular style that can be arranged in different configurations.

Types of Sofas

There are several types of sofas available, each with its unique features and benefits:

Two-Seater Sofas

As the name suggests, two-seater sofas are designed to seat two people comfortably. They are a popular choice for small living rooms, apartments, and bedrooms. Two-seater sofas come in various styles and materials, including leather, fabric, and velvet.

Three-Seater Sofas

Three-seater sofas are designed to seat three people comfortably. They are a popular choice for larger living rooms and family rooms. Three-seater sofas come in various styles and materials, including leather, fabric, and velvet.

Modular Sofas

Modular sofas are made up of different sections that can be arranged in various configurations. They are a versatile option that can be customized to fit any living room.

Two-Seater Sofa
corner sofa

Corner Sofas

Corner sofas are designed to fit into the corner of a room, making them a space-saving option. They come in various shapes and sizes, including L-shaped and U-shaped. Corner sofas come in various styles and materials

Sofa Beds

Sofa beds are designed to serve a dual purpose as a sofa and a bed. They are a popular choice for guest rooms and small apartments.  With a sofa bed, you can transform your living room into a guest room in a matter of seconds. Sofa beds come in a variety of styles and sizes, making them a versatile option for any home.

A good quality sofa bed will provide a comfortable sleeping surface for your guests without compromising on style. Whether you have a small apartment or a large family home, a sofa bed can be a practical and stylish addition to your living space.

Reclining Sofas

Reclining sofas have built-in recliners that allow you to lean back and relax. They are a popular choice for movie rooms and family rooms. A reclining sofa is the perfect way to unwind after a long day and enjoy ultimate relaxation in the comfort of your own home. Reclining sofas come in a variety of styles and materials, from classic leather to modern fabric designs, so you can find one that suits your personal taste and home decor.

With features like adjustable headrests and footrests, a reclining sofa can provide a customized seating experience that is tailored to your needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a cosy spot to watch your favourite movie or just want to kick back and read a book, a reclining sofa can be a versatile and comfortable option for any home.

reclining sofa
storage sofa

Storage Sofas

Storage sofas have built-in storage compartments that allow you to store items like blankets and pillows. They are a popular choice for small living rooms and apartments. With built-in storage compartments, a storage sofa can be a practical and stylish solution for small spaces or homes with limited storage options.

Storage sofas come in a range of styles and materials, so you can find one that fits seamlessly with your home decor and personal taste. Some storage sofas feature hidden compartments, while others have open shelves or drawers, providing plenty of options for storage.

Whether you’re looking to streamline your space or simply want to keep your living room tidy and organized, a storage sofa can be a smart and stylish addition to your home.

Sofa Fillings

The stuffing of a sofa is an essential factor to consider when buying a sofa. The most common types of sofa fillings are:

  • Foam: This is the most common type of sofa filling. It is durable, supportive, and comfortable. Foam sofa filling can provide excellent support and comfort, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a firmer seating experience. Foam fillings are available in different densities, from soft to firm, and can be customized to meet your specific comfort preferences. Foam fillings can be hypoallergenic, making them a great option for those with allergies or sensitivities.
  • Fibre: Fibre sofa fillings come in a range of densities, from soft to firm, allowing you to choose a filling that suits your preferred level of support and comfort. Fibre fillings don’t tend to break down or lose their shape over time, making them a durable and long-lasting choice for your sofa. Fibre fillings are also hypoallergenic, making them a great option for those with allergies or sensitivities.
  • Feather: A feather sofa filling can provide a luxurious and plush seating experience, perfect for those who love to sink into their sofa. Feather fillings are typically made from a blend of down and feathers, giving them a soft and fluffy texture that feels incredibly comfortable. Feather fillings are also incredibly durable and can retain their shape over time, making them a popular choice for high-end sofas.
leather sofa

Leather Sofa Buying Guide

Leather sofas are a popular choice for many homeowners. They are durable, stylish, and easy to maintain. When buying a leather sofa, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the quality of the leather is essential. High-quality leather is soft, supple, and has a natural patina that develops over time. The thickness of the leather also matters. The thicker the leather, the more durable it will be.

Secondly, the type of leather used to make the sofa is important. Full-grain leather is the highest quality leather and is made from the top layer of the hide. It is the most durable and has a natural texture and colour variations. Split-grain leather, on the other hand, is made from the lower layers of the hide and is less durable than full-grain leather.

Finally, the style of the sofa should match the decor of your living room. Leather sofas come in different styles, from traditional to modern. Choose a style that complements your living room decor.

Sofa Shapes

Sofa shapes are also important factors to consider when buying a sofa. The most common sofa shapes are:

  • Backs: The back of a sofa can be high, low, or medium. High backs provide more support, while low backs offer a more modern look.
  • Seats: The seat of a sofa can be deep or shallow. Deep seats provide more comfort, while shallow seats offer a more formal look.
  • Legs: The legs of a sofa can be exposed or hidden. Exposed legs offer a more modern look, while hidden legs offer a more traditional look.
  • Arms: The arms of a sofa can be curved, straight, or rolled. Curved arms offer a more traditional look, while straight arms offer a more modern look.
corner sofa
Opulence mattress frontal

Sofa Mattress Type

If you are buying a sofa bed, the type of mattress is a very important factor to consider. The most common mattress types are:

  • Innerspring: Innerspring mattresses are the most common type of mattress. They are supportive and comfortable.
  • Memory Foam: Memory foam mattresses conform to your body and provide excellent support.
  • Air Coil: Air coil mattresses have an air mattress on top of a coil spring system. They are comfortable and supportive.

HOW TO...

How to Measure a Sofa

To measure a sofa, you must measure the length, width, and height. The length is the longest dimension of the sofa, the width is the distance from one armrest to the other, and the height is the distance from the floor to the top of the backrest.

How to Measure for a Corner Sofa

To measure a corner sofa, you need to measure the length, width, and height of each section of the sofa. You also need to measure the space where you plan to put the sofa to ensure it fits

How to Measure for a Sofa Bed

To measure a sofa bed, you need to measure the length and width of the sofa when it is in the closed position. You also need to measure the length and width of the bed when it is in the open position.

Corner Sofa Shapes

There are three common corner sofa shapes:

  • L-Shaped: An L-shaped corner sofa has two sections that form an L-shape.
  • U-Shaped: A U-shaped corner sofa has three sections that form a U-shape.
  • Curved: Curved corner sofas have a unique shape that adds interest to any room and can create a cosy seating area.

Common Mistakes When Buying a Sofa

Some common mistakes to avoid when buying a sofa include:

  • Choosing the wrong size or shape for the room.
  • Not considering the durability of the fabric.
  • Not testing the comfort of the sofa before buying

What Type of Sofa Should I Buy?

The type of sofa you buy will depend on your needs, lifestyle, budget, and decor. If you have a small living room, a two-seater sofa or a modular sofa may be a better option. If you entertain guests often, a corner sofa or a sofa bed may be more suitable. If you have young children or pets, a leather sofa may be a better choice as it is more durable and easier to clean.

What Color to Choose?

The colour of a sofa is an essential factor to consider when buying a sofa. Neutral colours like beige, grey, and white are versatile and easy to decorate around. Bold colours like red and blue make a statement and can add personality to a room.

What to Look for When Buying a Sofa?

When buying a sofa, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the frame of the sofa should be sturdy and made from high-quality materials such as hardwood or metal. The seat cushions should be comfortable and supportive, and the upholstery fabric should be durable and easy to clean. Finally, the style of the sofa should match the decor of your living room.

What is The Difference Between a Sofa and a Couch?

The terms sofa and couch are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference between the two. A sofa is a piece of furniture designed for sitting, while a couch is a piece of furniture designed for lying down.

When is the Best Time of Year to Buy a Sofa?

The best time to buy a sofa in Ireland is during the summer months. Most furniture retailers offer discounts and promotions during this time to clear out their inventory and make way for new stock. The period between Christmas and New Year is also a good time to buy a sofa, as many retailers offer sales and discounts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, buying a sofa is a big decision and can be a significant investment for your home. It’s important to consider factors such as size, style, and material to find a sofa that suits your needs and preferences. Be sure to measure your space carefully, and don’t forget to consider the practicality of a sofa bed or storage options if needed. When choosing upholstery, think about the durability and maintenance required, and remember that leather sofas are a classic choice that can add sophistication to any room.

Avoid common mistakes such as buying a sofa that is too small or compromising on quality. By taking the time to research and consider all aspects of buying a sofa, you can find a comfortable and stylish piece that will last for years to come.