Choosing the right sofa

A sofa isn’t something you replace often. It’s a considered decision – one that shapes the atmosphere of your living space and becomes part of your daily life for years to come. Whether you’re designing a room around it or adding it to an existing set-up, the right sofa should feel intentional, timeless and tailored to your lifestyle. While it’s tempting to make your purchase based on trends, it’s important to make the decision based on how you live in your space; once you know the answer to this question, the decision will become easier.

Before you explore styles and fabric, start with accurate measurements. This step is essential – not just for aesthetic reasons, but for practicality, too. Measure the space where the sofa will be placed. Measure doorways, hallways and staircases – especially if the sofa needs to be moved upstairs. Account for surrounding furniture like side tables, rugs and shelving. Leave 45cm between the sofa and coffee table – enough space to walk through and close enough to reach the surface comfortably. Measuring ensures that the sofa is proportionate to your room, fits through access points and supports a harmonious layout.

If your sofa is too large, it will dominate the space and make it look and feel smaller. It will also disrupt the flow of a room. A too-small sofa will be just as detrimental to the balance of your space. It will weaken visual impact, which will make your space feel scattered. You also run the risk of your space feeling empty, and not in a minimalist way.

When you measure the area and choose a sofa that’s the right size, the result will be a well-balanced space, with a sofa that acts as the anchor point of the room, as it should be. 

Your sofa should reflect how you live. If lounging is part of your daily rhythm, opt for an L-shaped or modular design. The Azura and Conran modular sofas are designed for comfort and versatility, allowing you to create seating arrangements that adapt effortlessly to your space and lifestyle. With their generous proportions and flexible configurations, they're ideal for everything from relaxed family evenings to entertaining guests. For a more refined setting, the Savoy and Antwerp sofas offer sophisticated silhouettes with enduring appeal. Whether it's the relaxed elegance of Savoy's linen slipcover or Antwerp's inviting curved profile, both designs bring comfort and style to formal living spaces.

Choosing a sofa with your end goal in mind also makes this decision easier.

Choosing a sofa with your end goal in mind also makes this decision easier.

Avoid choosing a sofa based on looks alone, as trend-driven colours and prints can quickly date a space. Instead, opt for tones that will remain relevant across seasons and styles – beiges, browns, greys and rich greens. If you’re craving colour, layer it in with accent pillows, throws or a statement rug. It should never fade into the background – it should be a loved centrepiece.

Fabric plays a vital role in both function and style. Leather is a classic choice – durable, elegant and easy to maintain. It resists spills and wears beautifully over time. The Hugo sofa showcases leather’s enduring appeal. Linen offers a soft, breathable texture and ages gracefully, developing a warm, lived-in character. The Paulo sofa is a perfect example of the understated luxury that linen exudes. A polyester-covered sofa is a practical choice thanks to the fabric’s durability, stain resistance and vibrant colour retention. It’s easy to maintain, holds up well in busy households and can mimic the look of luxe fabrics – making it ideal for high-traffic living spaces.

Many of our sofas are upholstered in premium Hertex fabrics, offering a wide range of textures, colours and styles to suit different interiors. Popular options include Slouch and Scandi, each chosen for its comfort, durability and timeless appeal. Featured on the Hamlet and Serenity sofas, Slouch boasts a relaxed, lived-in look, making it an effortless choice for contemporary living. The Scandi fabric, featured on the Majestic sofa, is finished with FINX fabric protection, providing water- and stain-resistant properties while helping to guard against bacteria and odours. Easy to care for and designed for everyday use, Hertex fabrics retain their beauty for years to come. Explore our sofas upholstered in Hertex fabric here.

There’s no easier way to make your home feel truly personal than by adding thoughtful decorative touches. The layers you build onto your sofa can transform it from feeling bare into a focal point full of character, instantly making your living space feel more like home.

Scatters do more than just look good – they bring both visual interest and added comfort. Whether you’re after extra back support or simply enjoy something to hold onto while you relax, they work hard for you every day.

When styling your cushions, think in layers. Place the largest, most comfortable cushions at the back, and arrange smaller ones in front so they don’t get lost behind the bigger pieces. Keep it balanced – you should still be able to sit down comfortably without needing to clear the sofa first.

A throw is an accessory that’s as practical as it is beautiful. Keeping one within reach adds instant comfort when you’re unwinding, while also enhancing the overall look of your space.

Drape a throw over the back or arm to soften the lines and introduce texture; it creates a relaxed, inviting feel that draws you in. Switch things up with the seasons: opt for a plush, cosy fur in winter, and a lighter-weight throw during summer for an effortless update.

Styling your sofa doesn’t stop at the seat itself – it’s equally about what surrounds it.

Add a side table to create both function and visual balance. A piece like the Stoneleaf side table, with its sculptural silhouette, solid mango wood base and matte honed marble top, sits effortlessly beside your sofa while adding a refined touch. The Sandpiper offers a great alternative with a similar versatility.

When it comes to your coffee table, choose a design that complements your sofa in tone, material or shape. This helps tie the space together and creates a cohesive, considered look rather than everything feeling mismatched.

Finally, don’t forget to ground your space with a rug. Not only does it anchor your seating area visually, but it also extends the comfort, so when your feet touch the floor, the sense of relaxation continues.

If you’ve found your perfect seat, rest assured that you won’t have to wait long before you can have it in your home. All of our sofas are in stock and ready to ship. Just remember to measure up!