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?

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

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

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.