If you conduct a survey on the topic of the most popular piece of furniture, most likely, 90% of respondents will answer that it is a sofa. And indeed, it is an embrace with this important attribute of the situation that signifies that the working day is over and it is time to rest. How to choose the right sofa for your interior? What should you pay attention to?
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On the sofa we relax after a long day of work, meet guests and communicate with loved ones... and these movie screenings are dear to our hearts! So a sofa is far from just furniture, it is a real friend or even a “family member”, and that is why its choice must be approached with special attention. After all, it’s not customary to send a friend to the trash heap, even if he catastrophically does not fit the interior or is pretty worn out. How to choose one for the living room so that it will serve you usefully for many years? A few simple tips will tell you which model to buy.
Why do you need a sofa?
For movie buffs. If you need a sofa for daily viewing of TV in a horizontal position, then opt for a deep corner model with additional poufs so that all your loved ones can sit comfortably.
Pictured: Popper sofa from Bontempi Casa.
It seems that this is absurdity, like, “Why is this?”, but this item really has many functions and one model is not capable of uncompromisingly performing them all. So you definitely need to answer this strange, at first glance, question before purchasing.
A large sofa in the living room, in addition to its venerable dimensions, has another obvious disadvantage. This is his absolute unpreparedness to meet guests. It is extremely inconvenient to seat friends on it, because in order to sit comfortably on such a model, you need to choose your feet. This pose does not look entirely aesthetically pleasing and is only suitable for those dressed in homemade knitwear. And your guests will not only be compromised by falling into your cozy big sofa, but they will also not be able to see each other, which means they will have to watch TV rather than have interesting conversations.
For the sociable. A small sofa with a straight back will help create a comfortable area for communication. It should be supplemented with a pair of armchairs, which are best placed opposite or at least at an angle of 45 degrees from our friendly friend. This layout will allow all family members or guests to be seated opposite each other and will create an atmosphere in which the TV will be superfluous.
A universal option. Of course, there is also a compromise - there are small sofas for the living room, on which you can sit comfortably both when watching a movie and when you need to seat guests. It should be a moderately soft and cozy model with a high, fairly straight back. Try sitting in a store - imagine yourself both in a familiar home environment, where you can sit comfortably and wrap yourself in a blanket, and as a guest who drinks tea and doesn’t want to spill anything because cozy sofa. If it’s comfortable in both roles on this very sofa, take it with confidence.
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I’ll tell you a secret - sofas for the living room can be easily soiled! You shouldn’t deny yourself the pleasure of enjoying boiling white or neon-bright upholstery because of the likelihood of one day spilling coffee. Even if this happens, the removable cover can always be dry cleaned. Moreover, this must be done regularly, and light-colored fabric will not allow you to evade this rule, unlike its gray-beige counterpart, which is ready to faithfully store dust and germs for years.
In the photo: sofa KM.SF3.NG.1 / 6 EOLO from Keoma Salotti.
If you are concerned about the cleanliness of your sofa, casually throw a blanket over it, it will help minimize scuffs and possible dirt. The color and texture of this fashion accessory can be very diverse. Fur and chunky knits are in fashion; in summer you can use blankets made from viscose knitwear.
The style of your interior will help you choose the fabric for upholstery. For English classics and high-tech interiors, leather or its artificial analogue is suitable, for Provence, Scandinavian minimalism and country linen is good. Fabrics with a slight sheen such as velor, velvet and satin are indispensable for neoclassical, art deco and American-style sofas.
An important touch
Pillows are the main decoration of the sofa. Their variety of colors and textures will enliven the interior. There are several schemes for their arrangement and combination. Let's consider the simplest one, consisting of accessories in three colors: one to match the sofa (it is better to use a similar shade or a different texture), the second to match the walls, the third is an accent, it can echo the rest of the textiles in the interior or other decor. We arrange them in three rows: first - additional color, the second - to match the sofa, the third - an accent. And your cozy friend is ready to greet you every evening in full dress.
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Oksana Fedorova
Sofas are one of the main and most expensive types of furniture. This is a multifunctional piece of furniture that bears a serious load. The Village decided to ask the experts how to choose the right sofa. Oksana Fedorova, co-owner and sales director of the online store and furniture manufacturer HomeMe, answers your questions.
What to look for when choosing a sofa
First of all, look at the quality of tailoring and check what the frame and filling are made of. You won't be able to see what's hidden under the upholstery, so the quality of the seams will tell you about the overall quality of the product. If they are sloppy, quality control in production is poor, which means the insides of the sofa leave much to be desired.
Be sure to ask the seller what the sofa frame is made of. There are three main types of frames: chipboard (compressed sawdust), plywood (glued layers natural wood) and metal frame. Frames made entirely of chipboard are very unreliable, since this material is intended for use in lightly loaded structures. It’s better to add 2–3 thousand and buy a sofa with a plywood frame or a metal frame.
The filler must be made of polyurethane foam of at least 25 density or a spring block. You should avoid cheap low-density foam rubber, which will sag after 2 weeks and cannot be restored.
I advise you to choose the fabric to your taste and pay attention only to its thickness. Too thin upholstery is another way to save money. Most likely, it will quickly stretch and stop holding its shape.
And the last thing is the quality of the transformation mechanism when it comes to a sofa bed. All mechanisms must be made of metal with a thickness of at least three millimeters, have high-quality painting and connecting elements. If the mechanism is painted carelessly, most likely the level of production where it is made is not the highest and there is a risk of breakdowns.
How to choose the right sofa based on the size of the room
The main criterion for selecting a sofa based on the size of the room is most likely the configuration of the sofa and its location. If there is a free angle, then corner sofa will perfectly fill this space and will not take up precious space in the center of the room. If there is very little space, then it is better to choose a straight two- or three-seater sofa. For small apartments there's a lot now compact sofas up to two meters wide, while transforming into a full double bed. This solution, as sales show, is most loved by buyers of small apartments.
Do I need to require a guarantee and for how long?
Warranty for upholstered furniture according to GOST it is 18 months, and, accordingly, each manufacturer is required to provide a minimum one and a half year warranty. The main question in how the seller will fulfill its warranty obligations. If you buy from a middleman, then most likely, if quality problems arise, you will be sent to the manufacturer and the hassle will begin. Make sure that the seller has its own customer service and in case of a complaint you will deal with him and not with the manufacturer.
Complaints in upholstered furniture are, unfortunately, commonplace, since the production of sofas is predominantly manual labor And latest technologies This area was hardly touched upon. The main thing is that the seller takes a responsible and conscientious approach to troubleshooting.
How much should a good sofa cost?
A medium-sized, non-leather corner sofa bed costs from 20 to 40 thousand rubles. I believe that this price range is currently optimal for the price/quality ratio. Companies that provide the proper level of service and product quality can fit into it.
A straight sofa bed will cost about the same, since when folded out, a straight sofa - like a corner one - forms a full sleeping place, and approximately the same amount of materials goes into their production.
I would not advise buying the cheapest sofas (in comparison with analogues from well-known manufacturers) on unknown sites: most likely, the sofa, although similar in appearance, has a low level of assembly and quality of materials and will fail very quickly. There will be no one to respond to your requests, as you will be redirected to the manufacturer of this product or, even worse, they will simply drag out the process in the hope that you will get tired of it faster.
In general, the sofa market is structured very simply. Large manufacturers with design bureaus and good specialists, invent new high-quality models of sofas, invest money in promoting the model. If the model turns out to be popular, then hundreds of small and medium-sized manufacturers begin to copy this sofa, making it cheaper due to the quality of the frame, filling and upholstery materials, offering it to the buyer at a lower price.
Of course, if the budget for purchasing furniture is strictly limited, then most likely this is a good decision, but if it is possible to add 10-20%, then I recommend buying high-quality furniture, because this is not a T-shirt or a hammer, but a complex product, subject to increased stress, where you spend a third of your life (for those who use it for sleep).
Where to look for a sofa: in online or offline stores
If you are looking for something specific, online stores are better: you can quickly find suitable model at a certain price. In regular stores, this is more difficult to do, since due to expensive rent, only
5–10% of the assortment. As a result, sales occur according to a picture from the catalog or from the words of the seller. The online store does not require prepayment. If the product is not suitable for our customers, we provide the buyer with the opportunity to refuse it upon delivery without giving a reason. Those especially responsible can preview the furniture in the showroom. If the buyer does not have specific preferences and wants to study pricing and product quality, then it is better to go to furniture centers, where the products of all leading manufacturers are presented in one place. You can get acquainted with the quality of the products, ask the price and understand who and what they are.
What Marketing Tricks Should You Not Buy?
The most common trick is to offer a super attractive price on a sofa that is out of stock. But customers will only find out about this when they come to the store. Such promotions attract interested buyers to showrooms, and then the bet is placed on sellers, who must redirect people to another product at the regular price.
Photos: Vika Bogorodskaya (1, 3), Olya Shangina (2)
Furniture in the house is an expression of the owner’s style, his ideas about convenience and comfort. Often, homeowners wonder how to choose a sofa for the living room, what criteria should be taken into account when purchasing.
Basic criteria for choosing a sofa for the living room
IN different rooms Upholstered furniture plays different roles. In a small apartment, this is both a sleeping area and a reception area. Its purpose is to be compact and comfortable for sleeping.
In another case, it is a bright, unusual accent in the living room that fits organically into the interior. For purchase suitable option all criteria must be taken into account.
Purpose of the sofa
Answers to the following questions will help you understand the purpose of this element:
- Will guests be accepted in this room?
- Is it used as a place for daily sleep?
- Will it be convenient to relax on it, for example, while watching TV?
- Will it be an accent or an inconspicuous but functional element?
Shape and dimensions
The size is determined by the number of people who can comfortably sit. Standard – designed for three people, its length is about two meters.
By drawing the living room plan and arranging the dimensions, you can easily choose the right option:
- direct. A universal choice, it can be placed either in the center of the room or along the wall;
- modular. Consists of several parts. In a couple of movements you get a straight model with a pouf or a U-shaped one for a large company;
- semicircular – attracts attention, is most convenient in home theater. It is also used for zoning studio apartments.
Frame and filler
From correct frame depends on the service life of the product and the maximum load it can withstand. There are several options for the frame:
- Solid wood. Robust, durable and environmentally friendly. Used for expensive models made in a classic style;
- Chipboard. Inexpensive, widely used frame. The disadvantages are quick failure, the use of synthetic impregnations that are harmful to health;
- MDF. A compromise material between chipboard and solid wood. Has all the characteristics of natural wood, at a lower cost;
- multilayer plywood. Durable, strong, drying-resistant frame. The service life of the product directly depends on the thickness of the plywood used;
- metal. Lightweight and durable. Used for the manufacture of non-standard shapes;
- Wooden beams complemented with metal inserts. Combines strength, environmental friendliness and light weight.
Having chosen the frame material, you should think about the filler. It should be comfortable for frequent use, last a long time and withstand heavy weight. The range of fillers is quite wide:
- Spring block. Optimal choice. Does not sag over time, withstands heavy weight, has flat surface. Often, the top of the spring block is covered with a layer of coconut. Straight sofas with an independent spring block are the best buy for daily sleep;
- Polyurethane foam. This filler adapts to the human body and is comfortable to sit on;
- Latex;
- Holofiber;
- Sintepon.
Besides stylistic decision And appearance, the upholstery carries a functional load. You should not skimp on this component; such frugality will result in over-upholstery in just a few years.
Both natural and artificial materials are used for upholstered furniture:
- Flock– pile fabric that requires special care;
- Tapestry. Practical, wear-resistant fabric, famous for its smooth shade transitions and pleasant tactile sensations. The tapestry should be protected from sun rays. Only dry cleaning (vacuum cleaner or dry cleaning) is allowed; washing and strong wetting are unacceptable;
- Velours. Tactilely pleasant, easy to clean. Used for covering complex frames, because does not stretch or sag. Subject to rapid abrasion of the pile. Can be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner brush; you can use a slightly damp cloth to treat stains;
- Chenille. Keeps its shape well and is easy to clean;
- Arpatek– durable, tolerates cleaning well, does not fade;
- Microfiber– has a Teflon coating, does not fade on clothes and does not fade in the sun. Not subject to abrasion, covers can be washed in washing machine. Microfiber does not require special care. Stains from its surface can be easily removed with a solution of soap or washing powder;
- Jacquard– has a complex and intricate pattern, high density and long service life. It is possible to remove stains using water and non-alkaline products. In case of severe contamination - dry cleaning;
- Faux suede. A high-quality analogue of natural suede, complemented by dirt-repellent properties. Resistant to ultraviolet rays, not prone to pilling. To keep suede clean, use special means. Impregnation with a water-repellent agent is carried out regularly. The suede pile is periodically combed with a brush or a special sponge;
- Faux leather. Completely imitates real leather due to high-quality embossing. It has pleasant tactile qualities and long service life. Really high-quality artificial leather is not inferior to natural leather; a cheap analogue will become covered with cracks after just a few years of use. Care involves removing stains with soapy water or clean water;
- Furniture fur. Spectacular, unusual material. Pleasant to the touch. Requires special care - only dry (chemical) cleaning is possible;
- Scotchgad– refers to jacquards additionally treated with protective impregnation. It is characteristic of him increased wear resistance, impregnation is used that repels dirt, dust and water. Special care not required. Stains can be removed with a light cloth soaked in a soapy solution; hand and machine washing without spinning is acceptable. At heavily polluted dry chemical cleaning is used;
- Thermo-Jacquard. Modern technology, allowing you to achieve a pattern of exquisite weave of threads on almost any fabric. The design is transferred using thermal transfer printing. The basis can be real jacquard, polyester, flock and other fabrics. The method of care directly depends on the foundation. Dry cleaning, bleaching and ironing at high temperatures are prohibited;
- Genuine Leather. Expensive and, at the same time, high-quality and durable material. With proper maintenance, this upholstery will last for many years. The skin is cleaned with a damp cloth or special products.
Sofa style
The interior dictates its own rules for the selection of furniture elements. Each of the designs is unique and determined only by the taste preferences of the owner.
Below are comparisons of interior trends and suitable sofa models/
French style. It has two directions - classical and modern baroque. In the first case, a modern, laconic design. The second one is luxurious, with expensive upholstery, gilding and curved smooth lines.
English. In this direction, voluminous models are appropriate, decorated with a “skirt” along the lower edge, having round armrests and wooden legs.
German. It is appropriate to use discreet, laconic models, stylized in the fashion of the 50s of the last century.
Modern Scandinavian style. The representative – mid-century modern – looks most advantageous in it. It is characterized by a rectangular shape, complemented by soft pillows and armrests. The legs are made of solid wood.
Classical. Chesterfield and cabriole are suitable for him. The first (chesterfield) creates an atmosphere of the 20s, is comfortable and laconic.
A special feature is the high, curved armrests, almost at the same level with the backrest. Cabriole is an elegant design made of solid wood. Distinctive feature– fine carvings covering the legs.
Mixing directions. There are sofas that complement any interior well. The most successful include: slipper, tuxedo and bridgewater.
Slipper– laconic, with fixed, rigid-shaped pillows. Optimal for small rooms.
Tuxedo- one of the most universal options. Its outlines are simple and strict, the back is of low height, and on the sides, flush with it, there are high rectangular armrests.
Bridgewater It has a high back with low (usually removable) armrests made in the form of bolsters. Suitable for daily relaxation for the whole family. Abundance gives special comfort decorative pillows in a single color scheme.
Color
When choosing a shade, the main role is played by color scheme walls Pastel colors bright, rich upholstery will organically dilute it. Room in dark colors will balance the furniture light shades. Let's list successful color solutions.
Brown. One of the win-win options. Pairs well with beige and cream color walls The combination of brown with yellow, green and blue looks unusual and fresh.
Grey. A wide range of shades (from light gray to graphite) allows you to choose the upholstery to suit any interior. Emphasizes the smoothness of lines and outlines.
Even the largest sofas (straight four-seater), made in gray color, will look compact and uncluttered. Red, yellow or lilac pillows are used as decor.
Black. This is the choice of minimalists. This furniture looks good in a spacious living room, surrounded by minimum quantity decor items. You can dilute the gloom with pillows in bright, rich colors (red, turquoise, yellow).
Green. Looks great against the background brown walls. For modern style Details in red, yellow or blue are suitable.
Red- a noticeable accent in the room. Companions for him are gray, beige, light green.
Blue- symbol home comfort, soothing and relaxing. It is very popular in interiors of all directions.
Blue. Suitable for decoration in marine theme, goes well with warm colors (red, yellow).
The article discusses the main parameters that should be taken into account when choosing a sofa for the living room. Based on them, it is easy to choose the ideal option. When purchasing, it is worth remembering that there are no universal models that suit everyone. The set of pros and cons is individual, it is based on taste preferences, functional and practical aspects.
The appropriate size is determined by the location of the sofa in the living room and the area of the room.
- For small rooms it is better to choose a straight line or - the latter can be placed compactly if placed against a corner. In addition, it can easily accommodate up to 3 people and will solve the problem of lack of space for seating and guests.
- For spacious rooms from 20 sq. m, you can choose modular upholstered furniture - the components can be moved and comfortable structures can be created.
Before buying furniture, make a selection of the products you like and study their sizes. Why draw a diagram with existing furniture and see how conveniently a particular product fits with its actual dimensions.
3. Living room sofa style
"Chesterfield"
It can be recognized by its twisted armrests, which are usually equal in height to the backrest, but today manufacturers allow themselves some deviations. “Chesterfield” will look interesting in, and will also fit perfectly into classic, shabby chic or eclecticism. Can decorate modern classics and a room in Art Deco aesthetics.
