Choosing the right sofa for your space is one of the hardest interior design decisions. A sofa becomes the key focal point for your room, and it’s likely where most time will be spent, so how do you ensure you’ve got it just right? Swyft’s Head of Creative, Kelly Collins, trained in Interior Design and reveals her 5 top tips when choosing a new sofa.
1. Size matters
“Quite possibly the most important question has to be, ‘does it fit?’. Many urban homes have tight entryways which can be tricky to navigate. It’s especially important to consider when living in flats, as even if the sofa is spot on for your room, there’s no use if it’s not able to get through the door or up the stairs. Some sofas might look great on Pinterest, but realistically it’s important to think about what fits your space both in terms of getting it through the hallway and also in its final destination.”
2. What look do you want?
“A sofa is an investment piece, so it’s understandably nerve-wracking to make a final decision. Essentially, you have the option to go one of two ways: statement or neutral. A statement sofa in a bold orange velvet is bound to add character to a space, but the impact can be added just as well with bold cushions and throws. If you aren’t too sure, why not try a neutral tone and go bigger on the accessories. Make sure you do your research to check if they have the fabric colours you want, as well as textures, and style.”
3. Go with the flow
“It’s important that your sofa flows nicely with the design of the room. Modular sofas are a great choice for rooms that need to serve more than one purpose, as you can create just about any shape, from the popular L style to a curvy U. Try separating off a section of the living room with a chaise to make the sofa work for you in the space you have. If the space is smaller, try a sofa that’s raised off the ground to create a more weightless illusion.”
4. Form and function
“As important as style is, don’t forget to consider it’s function. What will you be using the sofa for and where will it be positioned? Will it be directly in front of the TV for chilling and lounging? Or perhaps, if you entertain quite a bit, you may want it spaced out for socialising with family and friends. If you need to seat a large number of people, why not choose a three-seater sofa with an Ottoman option for perching. If you move your spaces around a lot, modular sofas are perfect as modules can be added or removed whenever the sofa needs to be reconfigured.
5. Focus on a solid frame
“If you plan to make a lot of use of the sofa, make sure you invest in a good wood frame. Be wary of particle board or metal construction, but a solid hardwood frame is a good option. Also, take note of the guarantee before you commit – always opt for manufacturers who offer at least a 15-year guarantee.”
We hope this helps put you on the right path to finding your perfect sofa for your space! This has been a sponsored post but as ever we never recommend brands that we don’t absolutely love or trust!
