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When shopping for new seating for your living or family room, you may considering a sectional or a sofa and loveseat combo. These tips will help you decide between the two, and know what to look for when making your purchase.
Which One is Right for You?
Depending on your family size, amount of available space, and room configuration, most rooms can work with either a sofa or a sectional, so the decision is ultimately up to your preference. Even in a small living or family room, a sectional made up of a loveseat and chaise adds extra seating without taking up much space. If you want versatility, a sofa can be paired with a loveseat and/or chairs and arranged however you wish.
Things to Know When Buying a Sofa or a Sectional
Measure First – Before you even begin shopping, take measurements of the room you’ll be using the sofa or sectional in. As you’re measuring, consider the depth of the seats, and the length of the entire piece, including the arms. Keep in mind, a curved-corner sectional will take up more room than a square corner one.
Seat Cushions – Low-density foam cushions are soft and inexpensive, but high-density foam is firmer and will hold its shape longer. Hybrid and coil cushions offer even more support and durability.
Back Cushions – Pillow backs have removable cushions, and tight back styles have the cushions attached to the frame. Pillow back cushions can be cleaned or moved for sleeping, but can lose their shape over time if you don’t fluff them. Attached cushions won’t shift around, but can eventually become worn.
Upholstery – There are many grades of leather and fabric available, so you can choose from durable, easy-to-clean materials or high-end looks.
Designs – Stationary sofas and sectionals don’t move, while reclining or motion furniture reclines. Sleeper models have pull-out beds.
Sectional Specifics
Terminology – As the name implies, if a section has the arm on your right when you’re facing it, that’s called right arm facing (RAF). If it’s on your left, that’s called left arm facing (LAF). This is important, because you need to ensure your pieces will fit together correctly in your room.
Components – There are several types of sections you may see, including chair, corner chair, loveseat, chaise, and sofa. They may be armless or have left-facing or right-facing arms.
Price – Generally, sectionals with fewer pieces are priced lower. Of course, this means you’re also more limited in layout and configuration options.
Shapes – A standard sectional that’s L-shaped looks like two sofas, loveseats, or one of each that have been put together to form a corner. They work well for watching TV, especially if the L-shape is formed with a sofa or loveseat and a chaise. A curved sectional is similar, but the corner section has a curved back instead of square. Keep in mind, this style doesn’t leave much leg room for whoever sits in the corner, and they work best floating in the room instead of against walls. A U-shaped sectional looks like three sofas connected at the corners, but can also be formed with a chaise at one or both ends. This is a great choice for conversation areas, because everyone can see each other.
Whether you choose a sectional, sofa, loveseat, or chairs, Wichita Furniture can help you find the perfect pieces to fit your room, lifestyle and budget.
