SELECTING A SOFA FOR A SMALL LIVING ROOM

A small living room can be the perfect cosy space to relax and unwind if you’ve got the right sofa and the ideal layout. While you’ll want a sofa that’s big enough to properly relax on, you won’t want it to overwhelm the whole room.

Here’s a guide to help you choose a sofa that will fit perfectly in your small living room.

What’s the best style of sofa for a small room?

SoFo sofa with legs.

Modular sofa

Modular sofas are made up of single seat-sized units that can be configured to suit your room. With a modular sofa you can select sofa sections to fit your room shape and size.

Corner sofa

A corner sofa is ideal for a small space as it can fit neatly into a corner and provides lots of seating without taking up too much room. A corner sofa can also be a perfect lounging sofa.

Sofa with legs

A sofa with visible space underneath allows light to pass through and gives the illusion of more floor space.

Sofa with low arms

A sofa with low, or no, arms will create the illusion of more space. Chunky arms can take up a lot of space and make the room look cluttered.

Snuggler

A snuggler or love seat is an oversized armchair that provides a cosy space for two. This type of chair could be the ideal option if you don’t need to seat many people.

Tips on choosing a sofa for a small living room

Reuben compact sofa

  1. Decide how many people you need to seat – we recommend the number of people in your household, plus one.
  2. Measure your space – take accurate room measurements and map out where the sofa will go. You can use masking tape to mark out the best location.
  3. Position your sofa - carefully select an area to place your sofa. Maximise floor space by placing the sofa against a wall or in a corner and make sure it doesn’t obstruct any pathways or walkways.
  4. Measure the doorways – check the measurements of your doorways to check whether your new sofa will fit through them!
  5. Choose your sofa fabric colour carefully - neutral colours and lighter hues can create the illusion of a large, open space. However, a darker shade can make the space feel cosy.
  6. Consider multifunctional pieces – a sofa with built-in storage compartments can help keep your room clutter-free making it feel more spacious. And a sofa bed will double up as sleeping space for guests maximising the use of your room.

What to avoid when choosing a sofa for a small living room

G Plan Riley sofa close up

Clunky designers, overly ornate or patterned sofas, overstuffed cushions and heavy fabrics are best avoided in smaller rooms as they can clutter the space.

Your sofa is a central piece of furniture in your living room, so take your time in selecting one that not only fits your space but also suits your style and comfort needs.