How to Choose the Perfect Sofa for Your Living Room
The sofa is the most important piece of furniture in your living room — and likely the one you'll spend the most money on. Getting it right the first time saves you the hassle (and expense) of replacing it. Here's how to approach the decision with confidence.
Start With the Space
Before you fall in love with a style, measure your room. As a rule of thumb, your sofa should take up no more than two-thirds of the available wall length. Leave at least 90cm between the sofa and a coffee table, and 45cm on either side for circulation. A sofa that's too large will make a room feel cramped; too small and it looks lost.
Choose the Right Configuration
The most common configurations:
- 2-seater: Ideal for smaller rooms, apartments, or as a secondary seating piece
- 3-seater: The most versatile — works in most living rooms and sleeps guests comfortably
- L-shape / modular: Perfect for larger spaces, families, and those who love to lounge. Modular sofas can be reconfigured as your needs change
- Chaise lounge: A dedicated lounging sofa — best suited to rooms where the chaise won't block traffic flow
Consider the Fabric
Your lifestyle should guide your fabric choice more than aesthetics alone.
- Linen: Breathable, natural, beautiful. Best in lower-traffic spaces and households without pets or young children
- Boucle: The texture trend that isn't going anywhere. Warm, tactile, and surprisingly durable — but can snag on sharp objects
- Velvet: Rich and luxurious, but shows indentations and requires more care. Works beautifully in adult spaces
- Performance fabric: Engineered to resist stains and wear — ideal for families and pet owners without sacrificing style
- Leather: Timeless, durable, and easy to wipe clean. Develops a beautiful patina over time
Think About Legs and Height
Legs affect both the visual weight of a sofa and how easy it is to clean underneath. Shorter, wider legs (or no legs) give a heavier, more grounded look — higher, tapered legs feel lighter and more contemporary. Seat height matters too: 43–48cm is comfortable for most adults; lower sofas have a more relaxed, lounge-room feel.
Don't Rush the Decision
A sofa is a 10+ year investment. Take the time to consider all options, and if possible, see the piece in person before committing. Our team is available for design consultations if you'd like guidance — get in touch.







