You’d think it would be a walk in the park choosing the right sofa for your living room ? Well, I have 5 tips for finding your dream sofa.
Because there’s actually quite a lot to consider before making such a purchase and it’s one of the most important pieces of furniture in the home. You need to have a really clear idea of dynamics, colour schemes and style by the time you click on the ‘buy’ button so hopefully if you’re thinking about a new look living room sometime soon this post will be useful for you.
Size of the room.
If you have a large living room you may want to have a few different seating options but if you want a sofa to be the main focus then how about a big comfy centre piece with lots of character. You can use this as inspiration for the rest of the look. Or an L – shaped settee / corner sofa is perfect for using up space ( and keeping kids and guests happy ) and generally works in most big rooms.
For a more compact area think about what kind of feeling you want to achieve. Would you prefer the sofa to be the focal point ? If so a two seater in a bright hue to draw attention ( will talk about this more in a minute )
You could instead have a couple of snuggler chairs that accommodate more than one and look super cute. These are a great alternative to full sized sofas if you’re happy to double up.
Colour scheme.
If you’re just replacing the sofa and keeping the same colour palette then it’s an easy job and you’ll know exactly what to search for. But if it’s a makeover then a very good idea is a moodboard – Pinterest is a great place to start. Start a board pinning lots of finds and then whittle down to what will work with your sofa choices.
When it comes to choosing a colour then it is important to think about the overall impact this will have.
Strong reds through to most yellows are generally energetic and uplifting just like this Hollie Love Seat, and and will draw attention. Although pink is nurturing. Greens and blues will offer calm and are also inviting. Neutrals will also give a sense of serenity and are timeless.
I’d always lean towards being a bit daring with colour ( of course ) but it has to work for you and be something you’re not going to grow out of anytime soon.
Let’s not forget that stronger colours and patterns will also cover a multitude of sins …
Textiles.
Do you want a tactile piece of furniture that you can recline on ? Durable fabric that will last for as long as possible ? It’s always good to have the opportunity to feel the fabric and maybe add it to a moodboard. If possible order some swatches and a good company will be happy to supply these.
Lifestyle.
Well, this is fundamental. Because your style says so much about you. But also the style the sofa needs to fit your lifestyle and how it functions. Can you lie down easily and watch TV … or is it perfect for socialising with friends ? Can you fit all your kids on easily.
If you need an extra bed in the house for guests then maybe try out a sofa bed. Like this Sloane 3 seater.
Brand.
With a sea of companies out there it can be difficult to know which will deliver it’s promises and most importantly present you with the sofa of your dreams without any stress ! All of these sofas and chairs are from Darlings of Chelsea who have a very good reputation for the quality of their hand crafted furniture and offer ‘ award winning customer service ‘ .. and 4 showrooms. You can find out more about them here.
Hopefully my ideas here will have made your next sofa adventure that bit easier …
So which is your favourite out of all the sofas and chairs here ? I am drawn to the Stirling sofa with deep buttons. Love the studs and opulent look.
Do leave me a comment under this post – as always would love to hear from you.
Lucy x
This is a collaboration with Darlings of Chelsea – all opinions as ever are my own.
All images copyright Darlings of Chelsea.
You have found the most beautiful sofas here lucy!!!! I love the green chesterfield style one and the pink cutie!!! You know I’m a sofa obsessive! Great tips too!
Oh thank you! I love the green one too. It was easy to pick them :) x
Great advice Lucy! I’ve build my living room around my sofa, but often ponder what I’d opt for if I had budget for a new sofa just now.. x
Great tips and so true – there’s more to think about than finding the right colour. The size is so important and can be deceptive when you sofas in large showrooms.
Lots of great advice! I’m rather smitten with that green chesterfield but that little pink one is rather adorable as well xxx
Lots of great tips here. I’m a serial sofa collector, so just perfect x
I really really want a snuggle chair, I want a room with one in that I can stop, relax and read a book in.
I wish I had a home large enough to accommodate different sofas for different purposes. It’s so hard to choose just one.
Lovely choices Lucy but the Zesty orange does it for me!
Ash xxx
Thanks for sharing the awesome tips here. All the sofa style are so classic and elegant.
Great tips – love the green Chesterfield! x