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How to pick the perfect sofa for your small living room
Learn how to choose the right size sofa for your space. From types to tips, this guide will help you design a stylish, sophisticated space.
Go for fashion & function
Today’s vast selection of pieces means you don’t have to compromise seating space or style. Be strategic in maximizing the area you have, focusing on size-appropriate, visually appealing, multi-purpose pieces.
Solidify your vision for the space
Do you entertain a lot? How many people do you want to seat comfortably? Do you have a growing family? Answering these questions will help you determine the size and style of the pieces you pick.
Fabric color matters
Lighter colored sofa fabrics help to make a room appear bigger. Use darker colors to create a more cozy, intimate spot (pair with brighter pieces to maintain balance).
Furniture placement
Try to keep 12 inches of space on either side of your sofa. This adds the visual illusion of greater space. Additionally, round tables (as opposed to square table on either side of a sofa) can make a room feel less crowded.
Consider room size, layout & flow
Start by choosing the right shape and size. How is the space being used? You want family and friends to be able to walk freely without bumping into things. To avoid overcrowding, armless pieces can be a space-efficient choice.
Location, location, location
Furniture should have clean lines & proper proportions to avoid overwhelming the balance of the room. A few thoughtful pieces are better than a mishmash of 
larger furnishings meant for a space 
twice the size.
Weigh your options — 4 types to try
Sofas
They create the visual illusion of greater space. Additionally, round tables (as opposed to square table on either side of a sofa) can make a room feel less crowded.
Love Seats
This cozy two-person option maximizes space. Need more seating? Two loveseats, depending on the model/brand, can take up less space than one big sofa.
Futons
Looking for sleek, comfy seating and space for guests? This dual-purpose piece is less bulky, takes up less space, and doubles as a bed. A chaise is another smart option.
Sectionals
Many models provide just as much seating in less space than a sofa and chair combination. This choice is also very easy to rearrange. Ideally, place along the longest wall in the room.
