Design Tips & Tricks

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2022-03-08T09:41:00-06:00

Sectional Sofas: Measuring & Shopping Tips

2021-04-06T13:49:00-05:00

Looking for a way to maximize the seating in your living space? Sectional sofas are larger, often modular, couches that include two or more sections with different features. They are a great way to increase seating, while also grounding the room. Since a sectional sofa takes up a lot more room than a standard couch, measuring is key. Plus, there are a lot of different sectional pieces to choose from. Read on for our helpful guide to measuring and shopping for a sectional sofa.

How To Measure Your Room For A Sectional Couch

When measuring for a sectional, start by surveying your room and determining the best place for your sectional to sit. Think about whether you’ll want your couch to sit against a wall, by windows, or float in the center of the room. Consider any hallways or doorways you’ll have to move your furniture through, as well. Keep in mind the different parts of a sectional you’ll want and if any of those pieces will require extra space (like a chaise or recliner). That way you have a good idea of the dimensions and space required for it to fit.

If you already have a sectional in mind, look up the dimensions online. Then, use the dimensions to measure your room to make sure the sectional will fit. The measurements should include the following:

Height
Width
Depth
Seat Height & Width

If you don’t have a sectional in mind already, take some time to measure the space in your room where you want the sectional to be to determine the maximum space you can work within. Measure the following in your room:

Maximum height you can fit
Maximum width you can fit
Maximum depth you can fit
Preferred seat height & width

Visualizing the Space

Use blue tape on your floor and walls to outline where your sectional will be. This will help you visualize the space and what it will look like. Keep in mind that different sofa styles will take up more visual space than others. For example, an overstuffed English Roll Arm may appear larger than a sleek Tuxedo couch sectional even if they are the same dimensions.

Measuring Your Sectional Sofa Seat

Determining your preferred sofa seat height and depth is important. It’s the part that you sit on and will set the stage for your whole sofa experience. Some people prefer a nice, deep couch seat they can curl up into, while others want to be able to lean back without getting swallowed by the sofa.

The other measurement to consider is seat height. This determines how far your legs will be from the ground. To measure the couch seat, place your feet and ankles at a 90-degree angle on the floor. Then measure from the bottom of your thigh to the bottom of your ankle. For households with people of varying heights or seat depth preferences, aim for a good halfway mark you can all agree on.

Types of Sectional Sofas

When you’re shopping for sectionals, there are many different types, shapes, and pieces to consider – and all of these can impact the dimensions. Keep an eye out for words or phrases like the following in sectional product descriptions to help guide your search.

Configurations of a Sectional Sofa

L Shape: An L-shaped sectional has one side that is longer than the other. This is one of the more common sectional shapes and can be great for entertaining.

U Shape: This shape is typically larger than the other shapes and features two corner sections. Many people use a U-shape sectional in media or game rooms for maximum comfort and seating.

Chaise: A smaller sectional option, this shape is usually a standard sofa but with a chaise on one end. This is the perfect sectional solution for smaller spaces.

Symmetrical: A symmetrical sectional sofa is one that is the same on both sides. This is a great option for people who want more seating options, but don’t want a bunch of different sectional pieces mixed together.

Pit: Pit sectionals are typically U-shaped with additional cushions that fill in the open space in the middle. These sectionals are ideal for media rooms or if you simply want as much sofa space as possible.

Parts of a Sectional Sofa

Right Arm Facing (RAF): A piece of a sectional couch that has an arm on the right side when you are facing it.

Left Arm Facing (LAF): A piece of a sectional couch that has an arm on the left side when you are facing it.

Recliner: Some sectionals allow for the addition of one or more recliners. These work like standalone recliners and allow you to lean back and extend your legs. Make sure you consider the extra length or width of a fully reclined recliner in your measurements if you choose to include this piece.

Armless: Any part of a sectional designed without arms, usually meant to sit between pieces with arms. Think of it as a connecting piece.

Corner: Corner pieces typically have backs on two sides, forming a 90-degree angle. Sectionals usually have one corner, but larger sectionals can have two.

Chaise: Designed as either LAF or RAF, this sectional piece is made with deep cushions and a long, protruding seat to allow for legs to stretch out.

Sleeper: Many sectionals offer a sleeper option. Like a standard sleeper sofa, this piece includes a fold-out mattress that turns your sectional into a bed.

Ottoman: Some sectionals have the option to add an ottoman. Ottomans offer additional foot resting space, and some include additional storage. Just remember to include it in your measuring!

Console: These pieces include cup holders and storage consoles in the armrest of your sectional and are a must for media rooms or home theaters.

Design Tips: How To Choose The Perfect Throw Pillow

2021-04-01T07:41:00-05:00

The throw pillow (also known as an accent or decorative pillow) is a classic part of everyone’s sofa set-up. And they’re not just about comfort. Throw pillows are a great way to add some design flare to your couch and your living room, too. Today we’re talking all about throw pillows, how to choose them and how many to choose. But first, let’s dive into some ground rules.

The Four Rules of Choosing Throw Pillows

Mix and match to your heart’s content but do it with a plan in mind.
Make sure the different textiles, sizes, patterns and colors complement each other and don’t compete.
Take inspiration from key elements of your living space (i.e. your couch, an accent wall, wallpaper)
Combine patterns and prints with neutrals or plain colors to break things up.

Types of Decorative Accent Pillows

Just like there are different types of couches, there are several types of throw pillows to choose from. The difference is that with pillows, you can mix and match to create a combination that really brings life to your couch. In order to do that, we’ve got to have a basic understanding of the decorative throw pillow options available to us.

Square Pillows

Square pillows are a classic throw pillow shape and are probably the most common you’ll come across. You really can’t go wrong with this shape and it can fit many styles depending on the size, color and materials you choose.

Round Pillows

Round pillows are a great way to add a bit of decoration, especially to more traditionally styled couches. Some may come tufted with a button in the center, while others may be ruched, pleated or flat.

Bolster Pillows

The bolster pillow is a cylindrical pillow that offers back or neck support in addition to style. Use fabric that matches the upholstery of your couch for a more traditional look or throw in a pop of color to modernize the space.

Box Pillows

The box pillow is characterized by flat sides, creating a box-like look. Usually the flat sides are narrow, so the pillow is still able to lay flat. These pillows are great for more modern couch styles that rely on sharp, crisp edges. They can also be used as floor pillows, too.

How Many Pillows To Use On Your Couch?

There’s no hard and fast rule for how many decorative pillows to add to your sofa. It really can come down to preference. Some people prefer lots of pillows in different shapes and sizes, while others prefer one to two simple pieces to add a bit of color. Use other pillows in your house to test what multiple pillows would look like on your couch and consider how the volume of pillows could impact comfort or the number of people the sofa can seat.

Types of Throw Pillow Fill

Polyester

Polyester is a synthetic material and probably the most common fill for throw pillows. This fiber filling tends to be cheaper, lightweight and well insulated, but can often leave your pillow feeling very warm. Some pillows are made with more natural outer fabrics, but filled with polyester, to cut down on costs.

Down

When a pillow is filled with down, that means it’s made with the feathers of a goose or duck. Down filled pillows are typically fluffy, light, and great for people who need more natural fabrics – but they can be expensive. Down pillows come in a rating system that describes the quality and amount of down inside.

Foam

Foam pillows are more common in bed pillows but can be used for couch pillows as well. Since foam holds its shape better than polyester and down, it’s great for circle and bolster pillows. There are even memory foam throw pillows available for maximum couch comfort.

Finishes, Textures & Edges

Once you’ve decided on the shape or shapes you want to use, it’s time to consider the different ways each shape can come to life. Remember, you can mix and match, but it’s important to not overdo it. Your pillows should complement, not compete with each other.

Knife Edge Pillows

A knife edge seam is when the two edges of fabric come together in a clean, straight line without any fancy trimmings. This is the most common way a pillow is finished.

Flanged Pillows

When a pillow has a flange edge, it has a 1/2’’ to 3’’ decorative border around all edges, usually constructed with the same fabric the main pillow is made with. This style is a classic and perfect for more traditional spaces.

Welted or Corded

A welted or corded pillow is one that has a rounded edge on the seam, usually accomplished with a cord that is covered in the same fabric as the rest of the pillow. This gives a nice, tailored look and is great when paired with couches that are similarly tailored or feature crisp lines.

Tassels and Pompoms

Tassels and pompoms are very popular right now and can add a boho, beachy, whimsical or childlike look depending on the size and color you choose. Consider mixing a tasseled or pompom pillow with more simple pillows for a good contrast in styles.

Common Throw Pillow Materials

There are a ton of materials to choose from, each with their own pros and cons. Feel free to mix and match here as well, while keeping some additional rules in mind. First, try not to mix fabrics that are very clearly in different styles like burlap and velvet, or faux fur and corduroy. Second, try not to mix too many textiles together without a clear design in mind. Instead, choose 1-2 you like the best and work from there. You could end up with four different fabric types, which is great for a contemporary look. Or, for a more traditionally look, you can get custom throw pillow covers that match identically to your couch’s upholstery fabric.

Here are some common pillow fabric types to start your creative wheels turning:

Cotton – A classic, casual fabric that’s easy to clean
Polyester – Super durable, versatile fabric, great for traditional looks
Burlap – A rustic, country feel and an easy way to add texture
Linen – Great for a light, beachy look
Velvet – Elegant and adds warmth to the space
Satin & Silk – Sleek, but high-maintenance fabrics that are good for traditional styles
Chenille – Delicate, soft, more formal fabric that can often shed
Faux fur –?A great way to add personality and drama
Leather – Sleek, sophisticated and stylishly modern
Suede – Soft, modern way to add style and drama
Wool – cozy, think fabric that’s great for patterns
Sequin – a fun way to add flair and texture to contemporary styles

Color & Patterns

Color and patterns can tone down or jazz up a space. While you’re considering your options, think about the different parts of the room you want to call attention to (it’s not always your couch). For example, you could match your throw pillows with a colored accent wall or to an heirloom piece of furniture. However, you can use your couch as your main inspiration. If you have a more muted couch color, your throw pillows are a great place to bring in a pop of color or use a funky pattern to add some flair. One the other hand, more neutral pillows can be used to balance a bolder couch color or complement a classic, clean style.

Patterns can be a fun way to play with your design palette, too. Consider mixing pillows with patterns of similar colors or choosing different colors of the same pattern. Your living space can be a source of inspiration here, too. Your throw pillows could match the pattern of your wallpaper, boho tapestry, etc.

Fabric Textures

Different textures can change the look of a pillow dramatically. Consider a velvet circle pillow, for instance. When made with pleats and button center, it can give off a more regal, decadent feel. When made smooth with a knife-edge finish, it’s a more contemporary look. And when made to match the upholstery of your couch, it’s more traditional.

15 Couch Styles: History, Design & Shopping Tips

2021-04-01T06:57:00-05:00

When looking for the sofa of your dreams the first shopping criteria that come to mind might be things like color, material, and size. While these are all very important, the thing you should consider first is what couch style you are looking for. There are several different sofa styles to choose from and each has its own unique personality, look and history. We’ve gathered them together in this comprehensive couch guide to make your shopping experience as seamless as possible.

Traditional Couch Styles

For the purposes of this style guide, we’ve gathered all couch styles originating before the 19th century in the traditional section. Note that any of these more classic styles can be made in a modern way and are by no means outdated or unfashionable. In fact, these couch styles have been around for hundreds of years for a reason – they are timeless.

1. The Bridgewater

If you’re looking for a classic couch style for your living room, look no further than the Bridgewater. It is noted for its low arms and high back and often features a slipcover (although you can opt for an upholstered look instead). This style is usually found in a more traditional design and is a great option for those seeking comfort above all else.

2. The Camelback

More traditionally minded people may prefer the stately aesthetic of a camelback couch. Its main feature is having a back that is higher in the center and tapers down to the arms of the sofa. Originating in the late 1700s, you’ve probably seen one or two of these classic couches at your local museum. But outdated it is not. This look is easily modernized and can be a great centerpiece if upholstered with a bold color or patterned fabric.

3. The Cabriole

While this style can be seen in both traditional and modern styles, the Cabriole is a classic couch that has been around for centuries. The Cabriole features a back and arms that are equal in height, and distinct legs in the cabriole-style. In fact, the long line along the back is continuous and curves gently as it reaches the arms. These arms scoop around the sitter and provide a cozy, intimate feel.

4. The Knole

Similar to the Cabriole, the Knole features a back and arms that are all the same height. While the Cabriole features one smooth, long line, the Knole is angular, making it a more modern take on the traditional style. Because the equally tall sides almost act as backs themselves, this couch provides intimate seating and is great for long conversations. Invented around 1640, the Knole was initially not a couch at all, but designed as a double throne, allowing king and queen to sit side by side.

5. The English Roll Arm

You probably know someone right now who owns an English Roll Arm sofa. It’s a very popular choice and has been around since the 1800s. This couch has a slightly sloped back, low curved arms and a matching curved bottom. Some English Roll Arms have detachable cushions on the back, while others have cushions that are connected to the furniture. It’s a comfortable, traditional style that is great for homes with soft lines and a more classic feel.

6. The Chaise Lounge

This style comes to us from 16th century France and was designed as a place for the upper-class to rest and relax. In modern times, it’s a great place to snuggle up with a book or take a quick nap. The Chaise Lounge is characterized as a long reclining chair with a high back and one arm, but often with none. It’s great as part of a sectional (more on that below), as a secondary couch, or as the main seating in a bedroom.

7. The Chesterfield

A Chesterfield-style couch is charactered by quilted or tufted fabric with arms and a back that are equal length. The quilted material can either isolated to the back and arms or all over the piece. The first couch to be commissioned in this style was requested by Philip Stanhope, the 4th Earl of Chesterfield (1694-1773).

8. & 9. Divans & Daybeds

Divans and daybeds are not interchangeable but share key features. The divan was primarily used in the Middle East and made its way to Europe around the 18th century. It’s known as being a tufted mattress-like sofa with no arms or back that is often pushed up against the wall and can be used as a bed at night. Popular in ancient Greece, a daybed is also bed-like, but features a low back, two arms and a twin-sized mattress. Oftentimes, contemporary daybeds feature a trundle underneath for even more sleep space. Or, you can make your daybed look like a traditional sofa by choosing matching upholstery for the mattress and pillow cushions.

Contemporary Modern Couch Styles

Although most traditional couches can be contemporized and fashioned with a modern flair, the following styles are more recent designs for those with a love of cleans lines and simple, eye-catching aesthetics.

1. Mid-Century Modern

An American design style that was active from 1945 to 1969, the mid-century modern aesthetic is defined by clean, simple lines and the use of modern materials. Sofas in this style are pretty recognizable and are often referred to simply as “modern”. A mid-century modern couch is perfect for those who like a simple, minimalistic look with no frills – literally.

2. The Track Arm Sofa

The track arm sofa is one with boxed arms and clean lines. This one is less of a true distinct style, and more of a feature. You can have track arms on various different styles to achieve a modern look. For example, you can contemporize a classic Chesterfield look by adding track arms.

3. The Tuxedo Couch

Tuxedo couches first appeared on the scene in the 1920s. This style was originated in Tuxedo Park, New York – yes, it’s the same place that invented the tuxedo suit. This style is known for its very square shape, with arms and back at the same height and exposed legs. The Tuxedo Couch gives off a very modern, sleek vibe and is great for those seeking a modern look with a bit of history.

4. The Lawson

If you’re looking for comfort, then a Lawson-style sofa could be the one for you. Created in the early 20th century for financier Thomas W. Lawson, the main goal of this sofa was to find comfort in a modern design. Similar in look to the Tuxedo Couch, this style features a back made up of pillows that can be detached from the frame – perfect for moving around to create the most comfortable seating possible.

5. The Futon

While the futon was originally invented by the Japanese as a traditional style of bedding, the modern futon sofa was designed by William Brouwer in 1982. Characterized by a foldable cushion on top of a simple frame, this is a great option for smaller spaces and helps provide additional sleeping space for guests.

6. Contemporary Couches

Most current couches that aren’t strictly modern are really just contemporized versions of traditional styles. For example: a velvet green Cabriole with metal legs, a tufted Farmhouse-style English Roll Arm, or a Mid-Century Modern daybed. That means that you can easily modernize any of the traditional styles to match more modern home décor.

Modifications & Extra Features

As mentioned earlier, you can modify almost any style to achieve the look you are going for or to modernize a classic shape. Here, we’ll discuss some common sofa vocabulary as well as extra features and modifications couches may have.

The Settee & The Loveseat

You may see these words attached to one of the styles described in this article. What do they mean? A settee typically describes a sofa that fits more than two people, while a love seat is a sofa designed for two people. In fact, in England, the word settee is usually used interchangeably with sofa, so think of it as your standard-sized couch. Loveseats are great as secondary seating, accent pieces or in smaller living spaces. Consider these sizes when shopping for your next sofa!

The Sectional

A sectional sofa is one comprised of several sections to create a longer, usually L-shaped couch. People often opt for a sectional in their main living area or media room to maximize the number of people who can sit at one time, as well as provide a variety of seating options. It’s technically not a design style; it is more of an expression of a style. For example: a sectional might be made up of several different sofa types in one style. You may choose a Mid-Century Modern sectional that connects a traditional three-person sofa with a chaise lounge at the end.

The Recliner

We all know what a recliner is. But it’s important to point out that it is not a couch style, and more of an additional function or feature you can add to many couch styles. Take a standard English Roll Arm sofa. Oftentimes, you can find this style as a recliner. Or, that Mid-Century Modern sectional we talked about could have a recliner as one of its sections.

Sleeper Sofas

Different from the futon sofa, sleeper sofas have metal cots built into the seat of the couch. The cot can be pulled out after removing the top seat cushions to form a standard-sized bed. You can find sleeper-style sofas in a variety of styles – so you can find one to fit your living room’s vibe or include it as part of your sectional. Plus, a sleeper sofa is a good addition to a living room that needs to act as a guest room on occasion.

Couch Materials

Now that we know the different couch styles and extra features, it’s time to consider materials and fabrics. Sometimes, the materials used is what sets a couch style apart from others. For example, a Cabriole sofa made with whicker or rattan could give off a more boho furniture style, while one made of dark wood and fabric upholstery would feel more Victorian.

Choosing the right materials can also help you add to the overall design of the room your couch will be in. Consider if you want natural fibers or synthetic fabrics for the upholstery. Real hard wood legs or metal? Decorative accents on the arms or a smooth, simple slipcover for the whole piece? While you may not be designing a couch from scratch, knowing your design preferences can help you on your search.

Couches & Pets

For couch-shoppers with pets (or kids) at home, durability is just as important as comfort and feel. Many people assume leather will scratch easily; however, it can actually stand up well to animal claws, spills and other accidents. Plus, there are lots of leather options to choose from: bonded leather, full leather, and vegan leather. If leather isn’t your thing, consider microfiber over natural fabrics if you have pets at home. Microfiber works well with animal claws, while the weave in many natural clothes is easy to claw through.

Common Couch Material Types

Ratan
Whicker
Leather
Silk
Linen
Leather
Wool
Cotton
Polyester
Nylon
Acrylic
Velvet
Metal
Hardwood
Plastic

How To Find The Perfect Sofa: Measuring & Sizing Tips

2021-04-01T06:55:00-05:00

After you choose the sofa style you want, it’s time to determine the size you’ll need. Getting the right sized couch can make a big difference in your living space, so it’s important to measure correctly. Plus, you’ve got the whole “fitting the couch through the front door” issue to consider. Whether you already have a couch in mind or just want to explore your spatial options, we’re here to help! Below is a simple guide for measuring your space and finding the perfect couch size for you. You’ll notice we’ve talked a lot about the potential size of your sofa. Why? It’s simple. Are you ready? First, let’s gather our supplies.

Couch Measuring Supplies You’ll Need

Tape measure
Twine
Blue painter’s tape
Notepad
Pen/pencil
Smartphone (optional)
A buddy (optional)

How To Measure Your Room For A Couch

Now that you have your supplies, it’s time to start measuring. Start by measuring the height and width of any doorways or hallways your couch will have to move through on its journey to its final home. If you have tight turns in your future, consider measuring the diagonals your couch will have to fit through as well. This is where a buddy might come in handy.

Next, identify the space where you want your future sofa to sit. Then measure the following dimensions and note them down in a notepad or on your smartphone:

Height (how tall you want your sofa can be)
Width (how wide you want your sofa can be)
Depth (how deep you want your sofa to be – more on this later)
Diagonal length (length from the back of one end to the front of the other)

Note: for awkward spaces like weird corners or tight crannies, you can use twine along the length of an area and then measure the twine with the tape measure.

Measuring Your Sofa Seat

When measuring, don’t forget to consider the height and depth of the couch seat, too. The couch seat is the part that you sit on –?and it’s often the most important part of your future couch experience. Some people prefer a nice, deep couch seat they can curl up into. Others prefer a shorter seat that allows their back to touch the back of the couch easily with their feet touching on or near the ground.

Another key seat measurement is seat height. This is the height from the floor to couch seat. To measure the couch seat, place your feet and ankles at a 90-degree angle on the floor. Then measure from the bottom of your thigh to the bottom of your ankle. For households with people of varying heights or seat depth preferences, aim for a good halfway mark you can all agree on.

Visualizing the Space

After measuring, use blue painter’s tape on the floor and walls (if applicable) to outline the both the sofa area and the maximum space it can fill. This will help you get a mental picture of what the space will look like with your future couch in it. If you already have a particular couch in mind, consider using this method to bring it to life in your home before you make the final purchase. You can also use a mobile app or photo editing software to mock-up what your living room will look like – but if you use this method, it’s important to get the proportions right or you’ll be unhappy with the result.

A Bigger Couch Is Not Always Better

Just because you have space for a large couch doesn’t mean you should get one. It’s a common mistake people make. They either opt for the largest couch they can fit in their living room (for comfort, of course!), but once it’s sitting there it looks too big. Or, they choose a small sofa that’s overstuffed or bulky and it ends up feeling too big. For example, if you choose a couch with large arms or ones that angle outward, if can impact both the look and actual size of the sofa itself. These are all things to consider when choosing the proper sized couch for your space.

Sizing Up Sleeper Sofas

When shopping for a sleeper sofa, you’ll have to consider both the couch frame and the mattress when extended. Sleeper sofa mattresses come in sizes similar to bed mattresses but are a few inches shorter.

Queen
Full
Twin

What about recliners?

When measuring for a recliner couch, depth is even more of a crucial factor. You’ll need to determine how much space will be needed to fully extend the footstool and recline the couch back. You might benefit from researching standard recliner sizes and using those to visualize what one may look like in the space.

What size should I get?

Okay. You’ve measured the space – now it’s time to pick the right size. There are several sizes to choose from, so get creative! Consider what different sized couches can bring to your space and what your specific needs are. If you already have a sofa size and style in mind, this is the time to confirm dimensions to make sure it’ll fit.

Note: When you’re couch shopping online, don’t take the size in the product name for granted. Look up the exact dimensions in the product details to confirm it will fit your measurement criteria.

Full-size Couches

A standard sofa usually seats around three people and can be six to eight feet wide. These are great when used as your main seating option or the centerpiece in your living area.

Apartment Size

A smaller version of the full-sized sofa, an apartment-sized couch is perfect for smaller homes like condos, efficiencies or apartments. These are usually six to eight inches shorter than a standard couch but can be up to 20 or 30 inches shorter depending on the style. Plus, the seat may have less depth.

Loveseats

Loveseats are designed to comfortably seat two people and are great for smaller spaces. Alternatively, they make great secondary seating or accent pieces in bigger living areas. Some use loveseats in entryways or hallways as a comfier alternative to a bench. Love seats are usually four to six feet in width.

A Chair and a Half

If you’re looking for a cross between a chair and a sofa, then the chair and a half is your pick. This option is bigger than a chair, but smaller than a love seat. It’s a perfect way to add additional seating with a bit more wiggle room for your guests. These are usually less than four feet in width. Choose one with a pop of color or fun pattern to add some flair to your décor.

Sofa Size Chart

Standard three-seat sofa: 79” width x 38” depth x 34” height
Apartment size: 71’’ width x 38” depth x 34” height
Loveseat:?63” width x 38” depth x 34” height
Chair and a half: 45’’ width x 38” depth x 34” height

How to Choose the Right Couch Fabric & Materials for You

2021-03-08T11:51:00-06:00

When it comes to choosing the materials for your couch there are more than design preferences to consider. Today we’re going to walk you through how to choose the best materials for your lifestyle and the pros and cons of different couch materials. But first, consider the following questions:

Questions to Ask Before Choosing Sofa Materials

How much wear will I expect this couch to handle?
Does my couch style preference warrant certain fabric types?
Do I have pets or young kids to consider?
Is ease of care or cleaning important to me?
What is my maximum budget?

Popular Upholstery Fabric Options

Leather Couches

Leather is a sleek, classy way to dress up your sofa. The pros of leather couches are that they are durable and can last longer than most fabric sofas. Leather holds its shape well over time and can be made resistant to cracking and peeling. Instead of fading or wearing over time, leather often gets even more comfortable. The con of leather is that it’s one of the more expensive options and may not be within the budgets of most couch shoppers. If want the look of leather on a smaller budget, consider micro leather, also known as vegan or faux leather. Though durable, faux leather does not last as long as real leather and can puncture or tear.

Silk Couches

Silk is a natural fiber that has a very elegant appearance that can bring a regal feel to your home decor. Common in more traditional sofa styles, silk can be patterned or plain. It’s on the more expensive side and stains easily, but its durability can make it worth the investment if cared for properly. Pro tip: silk fibers wear down easily when exposed to sunlight, so avoid putting your sofa near a large window.

Polyester Couches

As a synthetic fabric, polyester is typically on the more affordable end of sofa upholstery options. It’s also very durable and is resistant to scratching. Although hypoallergic, it doesn’t breathe as well as more natural fibers and may irritate sensitive skin. Polyester upholstery is typically used in outdoor furniture, although it can be found in a variety of indoor couch options as well.

Microfiber & Microsuede Couches

Microfiber is a synthetic material that is usually made up of different polyesters. You can get it in almost any color and some micro-fabrics even mimic the look of leather (hello, microsuede!) This material is durable, water and stain resistant, and doesn’t collect dust, making it great for couches that need to withstand a lot of wear and tear. The cons? Microfiber can be a pet hair magnet and while resistant to stains, untreated ones can cause bigger problems. All in all, this is a great option for households with pets or kids who don’t mind synthetic fabrics in the home.

Linen Sofas

You’ve probably heard of linen being used in clothing, but it’s used in sofas, too! Linen is a light, natural fiber that is very elegant and antistatic. Linen can lend a luxurious feel to your sofa design, especially if you’ve chosen a more traditional style. This material can be on the pricier side and is often reserved for more formal living areas where it won’t endure heavy wear. However, it is easy to spot-clean. You can also consider a removable linen couch cover for even easily cleanability.

Wool Sofas

Wool is a natural fiber that is often used for upholstery, but usually in a blend with other materials. Wool sofas are durable, naturally flame retardant, and resistant to mold and bacteria – which is great for those with allergies. The disadvantages of wool couches are that wool can easily pill and must be dry cleaned (no liquid cleaners for this sofa). Also, while wool couches are growing in popularity, there are limited styles and colors to choose from.

Cotton Cloth Couches

Cotton is another natural fiber cloth on our list and a great option for people with a variety of sofa needs. Cotton is very versatile and can vary from thick and sturdy denim to light and airy muslin, depending on the weave and length of fibers. A perk of cotton fabric is that it is very breathable and will allow heat and moisture to move away from your body (think of wearing a cotton shirt versus a polyester one). A cotton cloth couch is also durable; it easily resists pilling and is usually machine washable. The downside is that cotton wrinkles easily and is not good with stains.

Velvet Sofas

Velvet is an elegant, luxurious material that is actually not a material at all. Velvet is really a term denoting weave, not the material it’s made of. In fact, velvet can be made with polyester, cotton, silk and more. Depending on the material used to make it, a velvet couch can either be very durable (polyester) or super high maintenance (silk). Regardless of material, velvet does stain easily. The good news, however, is since the weave is not raised, it’s hard for velvet to snag or gather hair and dirt. Check the care instructions on the couch before you buy it to make sure it meets your needs and your lifestyle.

Frame and Accent Materials

The upholstery of your future couch is just half of the material considerations you’ll have to make. Many couches have additional accents or pieces that are customizable. We’ve listed the most common below:

Metal

Metal is very common in more contemporary-style couch frames and vary between gold or silver finishing. Good examples of this style are Mid-Century Modern or Tuxedo couches. The pros of metal it that it is very strong and lasts a long time. Mixing metal with more elegant fabrics can give your sofa a classy, modern look that really makes a statement.

Hardwood

Most sofa styles have wooden frames and the option of hardwood feet, arms or accents. The benefit of wood is its versatility. The price of your couch may vary depending on the type of wood used in its frame (pine is typically cheaper but less durable). In terms of more visible parts like legs and arms, each wood stain, carving, and finish can exude a different style, making it very easy to pair with your couch style of choice.

Rattan & Wicker

For a more boho, beachy or natural look, choose a whicker couch made of rattan. Rattan is a reed-like palm that is native to Asia and its strong and sturdy. You can pair it with a patterned cloth upholstery for a fun and festive look. Wicker is a more affordable, but less durable, alternative to rattan. Wicker refers to a certain weaving process and can be made out of rattan or another natural or synthetic material. Both rattan and wicker couches offer a lot of personality and are good options indoors and out.