Walking into a large box store for furniture can feel both overwhelming and often disappointing. Stores will stock dozens of pre-made sofas made to fit into any household. The end result can be dozens of models in neutral colors that all look the same. Even with plenty of choices, it can still prove challenging to find a sofa that fits your space and style.
If you’re looking to break from the mold of mainstream design or just want to find a sofa that suits your lifestyle, a custom sofa might be for you. From the fabric material to the layout and size, you can tailor your own sofa to your specifications. If you want the perfect piece to fit your apartment lounge space, something for the family to relax on for movie night, or a sleek, comfy set for your gaming time, check out these tips to help you design your own sofa.
- Choose the Right Material for Comfort and Durability
The first thing most shoppers do when checking out a new sofa is give the material a feel. Just like when buying a pre-made sofa, the first thing to consider when building your custom sofa is what material is right for you.
Choosing the right material is not just about comfort. Shoppers should consider the fabric’s durability and how much upkeep they’re willing to invest. For families with pets or children, this could be a primary concern. Thankfully, Bassett has a comprehensive breakdown of the different fabric types and materials used in sofas, ranging from natural to synthetic.
Many natural fibers, such as linen, silk, and leather, are more vulnerable to staining and wrinkling and might be best suited for low-traffic areas or show pieces. Wool and cotton, however, prove more durable with a little help and upkeep.
Synthetic fabrics combine the style of natural fabrics with better durability. Polyester, nylon, and vinyl are some alternatives that are resistant to staining and wrinkling.
- Choose the Layout and Style That Suits Your Needs
While box stores might offer a handful of models, most of these contemporary and sectional sofas have been around for a long time. With centuries of design come centuries of styles and choices. The variety of sofas might make shoppers’ heads spin, but LuxDeco has a friendly guide to different sofa styles, with a breakdown of where these designs originated and what they are traditionally used for.
Before building your custom sofa, consider where it will go and what you will use it for. For a more classic and elegant look, consider a traditional style, such as a camelback sofa. For a unique set piece and personal lounging, you might even consider a daybed, a bed-sofa hybrid that hails back to the Middle Ages. If you want a sofa for the family to share, a contemporary, sectional sofa might be the best pick.
If you are unsure of what style works best for you, DreamSofa’s website has a sofa-building tool that lets users explore styles from modern to classic. Spending some time on their site, which offers a variety of customizable, modular options, could help guide you to the sofa that best suits your needs.
- Consider the Size and Fit Before Committing
Modern living spaces come with challenges. While everyone might dream of a large, plush sofa, it is best to consider how this might fit into your space first. Thankfully, one of the upsides of buying a customizable sofa is that you don’t need to measure a pre-made piece against the length of your living room. With customized, modular pieces, you can design the perfect fit for your home.
For those with spatial challenges to work around, Better Homes & Gardens has this article to help you make the most of your space. As shown in the article, the orientation of your furniture matters just as much as the size. Consider how much footroom you’ll need to get around your sofa on a daily basis. If you have a lot of empty space to fill, consider a U-shaped sofa with long footrests.
The Sofa You Need in the Style that Suits You
Shopping for furniture can be exhausting. Finding the perfect piece for your lounge space that also speaks to your personal style might not always be possible with pre-made models. Thankfully, customized sofas offer an alternative for those looking for more options. By choosing the right material, style, and fit, you can design a sofa that will bring a smile to you and your guests for years.
Written in partnership with Tom White.
