How to Buy the Perfect Couch
How to Buy the Perfect Sofa
The sofa is the centre of gravity in a living room. It’s where you nap, host, binge, sprawl, snack, scroll. It says something about your style, and it also gets everyday use. So, when it comes to choosing the right one, there’s a few things you definitely want to get right.
Measuring Your Space
Before you start browsing, take the time to measure your space. Knowing the dimensions of your room can save you from a lot of hassle later. Map out the area where your sofa will live and pay attention to any architectural details that might get in the way, like narrow hallways, low ceilings or built-in shelving.
Don’t forget to measure stairwells, elevators and outside pathways to make sure your chosen piece can actually make it to your front door. If you’re working with a specific layout or tight dimensions, consider using painter’s tape to outline the sofa’s footprint directly on the floor. This gives you a clear sense of how it will sit in the room.
If you’ve already found a piece you like, our How to Measure guide can help you confirm it’s the right fit. And if you’re still browsing, our Find Your Fit tool lets you filter by size, style and more.
Finding the Right Sofa Type
Now that you’ve measured your space, it’s time to think about what kind of sofa actually works for it. The right piece should feel like it belongs in both the way it looks and functions. Here are some things to consider:
Lifestyle
Are you someone who loves to host? Do you stretch out solo with a book and a blanket? Need something compact for a small space or a sofa that can multitask? Getting clear on how you’ll use your sofa is the first step in narrowing down your options.
Room Layout
A too-big sofa can make a room feel cramped. A too-small one can appear underwhelming. Look for something that feels balanced in your space. Leave enough room to move around comfortably and think about how it fits in with other pieces, like accent chairs, floor lamps or a coffee table.
Comfort
From seat depth to cushion firmness, comfort is personal. Some people like to sink right in, others prefer a firmer sit. A deeper seat is great for lounging, while shallower seats make it easier to sit upright. If you’re not sure what you like, try testing a few styles in person.
Common Sofa Types
Once you know what you’re looking for functionally, you can start to explore different types of sofas. Below are the most common options, each suited to different spaces and needs.
Sofa
The classic sofa comes in two- or three-seat configurations, plus apartment size. A standard pick for most living rooms, sofas are flexible enough to suit just about any layout. They come in a wide range of styles and sizes to fit different spaces and tastes.
Loveseat
Essentially a scaled-down sofa built for two. Loveseats are perfect for smaller rooms, cozy corners or as a companion to a full-size sofa. They’re also a great way to add extra seating for entertaining.
Sectional
Ideal for larger living rooms or open-concept layouts, sectionals comfortably seat several people. This type is great for lounging, hosting or dividing up a large space. Just make sure you have the square footage to make it work.
Modular
If flexibility is the goal, modular sofas are worth considering. They’re made up of individual modules that can be rearranged into different configurations, so you can customize your setup as your needs change.
Sleeper
Sleeper sofas do double duty by offering a spot for overnight guests without the need for a dedicated guest room. These come in a range of sizes, and the latest versions even have clever one-pull mechanisms that don’t require you to store any cushions.
Making it Yours
Choosing a sofa that fits your space is key, but how it fits into your room’s story is just as important. Take a look at what’s already in your space: the shapes, textures and overall vibe. Your sofa should feel like a natural part of that story.
Colour
Colour ties the room together. Classic neutrals like beige, cream and soft grey are timeless and easy to work with. If you want to go bolder, our blog post on decorating with colour & pattern has tips for that, too.
Fabric
Fabric plays a big role in how your sofa looks and feels. A leather sofa gives your room a completely different vibe than a nubby bouclé. If you’re going custom, swatches are a smart way to test how a fabric works with your existing palette.
Design Features
Cushions, arms and legs all shape the look of a sofa. Plush cushions are more relaxed, while tighter ones look sleeker and free up space. Curved arms add softness, while straight or slim styles lean modern. Raised legs help make a room feel lighter and more open.
Trends
It’s fun to stay aware of what’s current, but don’t let trends steer you away from what fits your style. A sofa is an investment meant to last, so focus on classic shapes with your own personal twist. Small details—like choosing a specific fabric or opting for a contrast leg finish—can make a big difference in making the piece feel like yours.
When you're searching for the perfect piece of furniture, size is just as important as style. Learn how to measure furniture and your home to make sure you choose the right pieces for you and your space.
Tired of searching for “the one”? Find Your Fit lets you narrow the selection by size, colour and price to find the right seating for your home.”
Ready to meet your options in person? Request swatch samples from our most popular fabrics and leathers or visit your nearest Urban Barn to see the entire range of custom materials.