Five Tips for Selecting Your Perfect Sofa Size and Appearance

When purchasing living room furniture, the sofa ranks among the big ticket pieces in a home. From size to colour, learn some insider tips on how to select the perfect sofa.

Accurate Measurements Are Vital 

The first step when selecting a new sofa is to measure the room's ceiling height and space available. A large sofa can fit into a smaller space when the room is balanced by the sofa's height and shape. One way to test out a sofa before purchasing it is to cut a paper template the size and shape of the potential sofa, place it in the desired location, and then evaluate how it balances with the other furniture in the room.

Height, Width and Length of the Sofa

If the ceiling is eight feet or lower, a low-profile sofa will fill the space more naturally. If the ceiling exceeds eight feet, a high-backed sofa provides a better balance. Lifestyle may play a role in the size of the sofa as well. When looking for a sofa that's long enough for a nap, designers often recommend a length of at least 90".

Balancing the Living Room Furniture

Since the living room is usually the most trafficked room in the home, the sofa is vital to the room's spirit and activity. For a traditional design, the sofa should have a scroll arm. The arm should be square to match with modern aesthetics. Also, be sure to keep an abundance of space among tables and chairs to ensure easy movement throughout the room.

Proportion Is Important With a Sectional

An L-shaped sofa can overwhelm a room. As a result, a sectional sofa with a tight back should be upholstered with attached fabric and padding—with no loose cushions. This will create a more streamlined profile for smaller spaces, which can be enhanced with throw pillows and accent pieces.

The Sofa's Colour and Look

In choosing the sofa's colour, take cues from other elements in the room. Some designers recommend upholstering the sofa in the same solid colour as the wall or curtains to create a cohesive design. Alternatively, choosing an accent for the sofa can make a bold statement but should be balanced with complementary colours in the chairs and rug.

For more than 40 years, Nordesign has been the leading source of stylish, high-quality furniture for the entire home in Western Canada. Visit our showroom to see the full range of our dining, recreational and living room furniture and accessories at affordable prices. Please call us at 403-252-8220 or fill out our contact form.

Three Things to Consider When Choosing Fabric for Your Sofa

When choosing the perfect upholstery for new living room furniture, homeowners must think about a range of lifestyle factors and preferences. Keep these three considerations in mind when selecting fabric for a custom piece.

1. Colour  

While the choice of colour is mostly an issue of preference, lifestyle factors come into play for those who have children or pets. Darker fabrics effectively hide stains and spills, which makes them appropriate for more casual living spaces. These hues also work well in media rooms or home entertainment areas without a lot of natural light. Lighter colours lend living room furniture an air of sophisticated elegance for a more formal space. Bright white and natural colors have also been receiving more attention lately and may be worth looking into for busy homes. Blues and greens are an excellent way to add a pop of colour for those who are shy about bold hues.

2. Fabric Makeup

Natural fibres, which include cotton, silk, linen and wool, feel softer against the skin but don't hold up as well as synthetic blends. For furniture that will look great for years, opt for natural fibres that are combined with acrylic, polyester or viscose. Also, consider the weave of the fabric. Thicker weaves are more textured and provide a casual look, while smoother fabrics accentuate more formal living spaces.

3. Durability

For living room furniture that will stand the test of time, opt for patterns that are woven into the fabric rather than printed on the surface. Microfiber protects from wear and tear if you have pets or expect the piece to get heavy daily use. It also has antimicrobial properties that prevent allergen build-up. Fabrics with fade-resistant properties are best for use in rooms with a lot of natural light. 

Visit Nordesign in Calgary to explore our furniture showroom, which features thousands of quality pieces including custom sofas and sectionals.