Since the 1920s started changing the way people dress, Americans have gradually begun living more casually. In fact, formal dining and living spaces are almost a thing of the past. As our lives become more casual, our furniture does too. A sectional sofa is more relaxed and inviting than a formal sofa. It inspires lounging instead of perching.
Sectionals used to bear a similar stigma to the dad chair for being clunky space stealers, but modern sectionals are sleeker and smaller, even elegant. Plus, they can save space in a small living room by making separate footrests and recliners redundant.
Is a sectional right for your space? Here are some things to consider.
Consider the Basics
Sectionals come in 4 basic shapes: L-Shape, U-Shape, chaise, and curved. Different sectionals suit different seating needs and have different space requirements.
The L-Shape sectional can either be left arm facing, LAF, (when facing the sofa, the arm is on the left) or right arm facing, RAF (when facing the sofa, the arm is on the right). Typically, a sofa with a left or right arm is paired with an armless loveseat to create the L-shape.
A chaise sectional is often the best fit for a small space as it integrates the ottoman into the sofa. The chaise portion of the sectional can often be made reversible, providing versatility.
Curved sectionals make quite a statement. They also require the most space because they don’t make use of corner walls.
Consider the Quality
When making an investment as important as a sectional sofa, you want to go high quality. A U.S. made hardwood frame, double-doweled at each joint can’t be beat.
You also want to consider your couch’s suspension system. Tightly spaced sinuous springs or 8-way hand tied springs will provide a strong, comfortable base.
If you’re buying a modular sectional, don’t disregard its interlocking system. Look for metal connectors that stay put. Plastic will shift or break.
Measure Twice, Buy Once
Measure your space before you get your heart set on something too big. The sectional sofa dimensions standard is about 95″-98″ squared, and you have to leave room for foot traffic. To get an idea of how much room you’ll need, you can use painter’s tape to make a template on the floor.
Don’t forget the all-important measuring of the doorway. You want to be able to get your new couch into your house.
Redesigning Your Space
Something as big as a sectional revitalizes your living area. The main design consideration you’ll have to make is whether it will be wall-anchored or floating. A sectional sofa against the wall will have the least impact on walkways and allows for more auxiliary furniture.
Use the sectional to your advantage by making sense of your space. An awkward corner fireplace becomes a feature. Define zones in an open concept by floating the sectional between two spaces. Streamline traffic flow while keeping sight lines open by using the sofa as a natural boundary.
If furniture layouts have you stumped, an interior designer can draw up a floor plan and find a layout that works with your existing furniture.
Sectional Sofas Are More in Style Than Ever
Are you in the market for something that makes more sense of your space? Has it been a while since you’ve seen a sectional sofa? Come visit our furniture store in Fort Wayne! We’ll let you buy the model right off our floor or we’ll work to custom design something you’ll love for a long time.