Sofa or divan? However, you call it, it remains the centerpiece in any living space where you reach first after an exhausting day.
That’s why it is highly important to choose the right sofa. Upon buying a sofa it’s crucial to consider the color, fabric type, and many more peculiarities.
Style and quality are the main principles to take into account. Most common styles for sofas are chesterfield, mid-century design, contemporary and traditional.
What is a mid-century modern sofa?
This sofa stands by clean lines, boxy cushions, tapered wood legs, and low armrests. Mid-century has a modern retro feel. It is known for its tailored look rather than overstuffed.
What is a chesterfield sofa?
With rolled back and arms, both at the same height, a deep buttoned tufting, a Chesterfield sofa is a recognizable grand statement and suited to living spaces of classic style.
What is a contemporary sofa?
Modern sofas usually have loose back cushions. One per section of a seat and straight arms that are the same depth. Metal feet are a common addition.
What is a traditional sofa?
Traditional sofas come in all shapes and sizes. Most common sizes are often referred to as “Lawson” and “Howard”. They tend to feature low-rounded arms. Legs are rounded and wooden, sometimes on casters.
What is a country sofa?
Also known as a Bridgewater sofa, they have valances to cover the legs, low arms and removable fabric on the back and seats.
Types of sofa backs
Sofas are made of different parts that determine the overall look.
Let’s now get down to business and learn more about the types of sofa backs.
Fixed sofa back frame is upholstered and sprung, rather than using loose cushions. Offers clean, more formal lines with easy maintenance. Also tends to offer tight seats.
Scatter back sofa. The upholstered back frame of a sofa has loose cushions to give a more informal look.
Cushion back sofa. The conventional sofa is the cushion back. 2 or 3 box-sided cushions of an equal size will be placed across the bank.
Types of sofa arms
The design of a sofa arm may identify the sofa style. Low arms generally indicate the classic style and high narrow arms tend to signal a modern or contemporary sofa.
4 most well-known sofa arms are the following:
Scroll arms are synonymous with classic sofas and chairs. Pleating and inserting panels give a more traditional look.
Flared arms generally flare outwards slightly from the base
Howard arms Classic style where the arm is low and stops short
Square arms are the most popular shape for contemporary sofas
Types of sofa legs
Legs are so much more than support at the base of a sofa. Whether you’re picking the legs of a bespoke design you’re having built or you’re looking for a ready-made style, the legs set the scene. From elegant turned to bun feet, they totally influence how sofa looks.
Glides No visible feet, designed to make the sofa easy to maneuver. They are often covered by a valance.
Sabred legs. Wooden legs, usually tapered at the end
Bun feet. round, shallow feet for a subtle, low-profile look
Plinth. Some sofas are designed as if sitting on a platform – ideal for a streamlined appearance.
Turned legs. A classic wooden style which is turned on a lathe to produce a rounded leg. This style is often found on castors.
Stiletto. A very fine, thin, contemporary leg, normally made of metal for strength.
Types of sofa fabrics
Most common sofa fabrics are natural and faux leather, cotton, wool, and velvet.
Natural leather has some pros and cons. It is not temperature-resistant as compared to Ashley Homestore’s signature upholstery durablend which looks like leather but has a warm feel.
Cotton sofas are suitable for everyday use. Easy maintenance.
Wool sofas bring more warmth and texture. They require more care.
Velvety sofas announce a big comeback this year. It feels really subtle at the first touch but requires very careful care if a liquid is spilled.
American sofa seats are thrice layered (sintepon-sponge-sintepon) which is the best combination that ensures high quality.
Choosing a sofa shape – from sofa sleepers to corner sofas
After making the appropriate dimensions of the room, it’s time to choose the sofa. Whether you choose a sectional, a reclining sofa, a loveseat or a sofa, you have to understand what the room requires.
For instance, loveseats are ideal for small apartments due to their laconic look.
If you often receive guests, sofa sleepers are suitable to have as an additional sleeping zone.
In big houses is more convenient to have a sectional sofa that best matches the space.
Did you select any? If not, contact our designer for a free design consultation.