One of the most significant investments in the UK that you’ll probably make when it comes to your sitting room is a sofa. This is the reason you should think about what you need and want in a sofa before you buy one or a couple. Here’s how to choose the right one for your sitting room, whether you’re visiting shops or looking for sofas online.
Check for Durability
Do you have children? Then a sofa in a neutral colour probably won’t work for you. Consider a sofa with a darker colour and subtle pattern instead. As a general rule, it’s best to stick with synthetic fabrics since they’re more durable, cleanable, and colourfast. Tightly woven fabrics, as well as heavy fabrics like leather, are also better suited to endure more wear and tear. Don’t go for damask, brocade, velvet, and satin as these require more care and frequent maintenance.
Consider Sturdiness
Generally speaking, most high-quality sofas feel and look heavy. Check out sofas with frames manufactured with hardwood such as oak, maple, birch, alder, or high-quality marine or hardwood plywood. Hand-tiered, eight-way springs are very common in high-quality furniture, but S-shaped ones can offer the same level of sturdiness and comfort.
Examine the Frame and Joints
Look for sofas with double-dowelled joints and corner blocks that should be screwed and glued instead of stapled. The legs should be a part of the frame and not just attached to it.
Pick Your Cushions Wisely
Majority of cushions contain a polyurethane foam core because denser foam is heavier and usually lasts longer. Take note that in lower-quality sofas, cushions contain only the polyurethane core. If you want high-quality cushions, opt for those containing poly-down, which have batting and down, all down-feather cushions, and spring-down cushions that contain a spring core surrounded by feathers and foam.
Get Just the Right Size
Before you get excited about a sofa, you need to take into account your sitting room’s proportions. Figure out what depth, length, and height would look the most ideal in your sitting room. If you are not sure, mock up the sofa’s dimensions on your sitting room floor using blue painter’s tape or plain masking tape.
Make Sure that the Sofa Complements Your Sitting Room’s Aesthetic
If your sitting room is on the contemporary side, opt for a sofa with understated upholstery and sleek lines. If it leans more toward the traditional, opt for a sofa with tufted cushions or skirting, a contoured back, and rolled arms.
Don’t Forget About the Arms
If you’re planning on spending most of your time lounging on your sofa, ensure that it has ample space in between the arms. If you have a tiny sitting room, opt for a sofa without arms or with low arms to make the space appear larger.
Purchasing a sofa is a crucial and possibly costly investment, so you need to weigh your options carefully. The advice given above can help you make the best decision and ensure that you make the most out of your money.
