Choosing a sofa isn’t just about picking the prettiest one or the one that’s on sale (though both are tempting, we get it). It’s about finding that perfect mix of comfort, style, size, and function—something that fits your life as much as your living room.
The sofa is where you binge-watch shows, chat with friends, sneak in afternoon naps, or maybe even eat dinner more often than you’d like to admit. So getting it right makes a big difference in how your home feels and functions. Here's how to find your perfect match without the stress.
1. Start With the Space You’ve Got (Not the Sofa You Want)
Let’s be honest—most of us have fallen in love with a gorgeous sofa online or in a showroom, only to realise it’s either too big or too small once we get it home. Before you even look at styles or fabrics, measure your living room.
And not just wall-to-wall. Measure:
- the width and depth of your available floor space
- doorways and hallways (to make sure the sofa can get in)
- the height of windowsills or radiators nearby
We once had a customer in Richmond who had to get her dream sofa hoisted through a second-storey window because it wouldn’t fit through her heritage terrace doorway. True story—and one that’s easily avoidable.
2. Think About How You Live in the Space
A sofa for a family of five with two dogs is very different from a sofa for a single person who loves sleek design and rarely entertains. So, before you pick anything, ask yourself a few honest questions:
- Do you nap on the sofa?
- Do you need something easy to clean because of pets or kids?
- Do you prefer sitting upright or lounging deep into cushions?
- Do you need space for guests to crash?
If your lounge is the main hangout zone, you might want a deep, cushy sectional or modular sofa with room to sprawl. If it’s more of a “sit and chat over wine” spot, a structured three-seater with a sleek profile might be your winner.
3. Style That Suits You (And Your Home)
Your sofa should feel like a natural part of your home—not a random statement piece that doesn’t match anything else. That said, it’s fine to let the sofa set the tone if you’re decorating from scratch.
Some popular styles:
- Modern/minimalist – clean lines, raised legs, neutral tones
- Traditional – rolled arms, tufted cushions, darker or richer colours
- Scandi – light wood, soft greys, simple silhouettes
- Mid-century – low profile, tapered legs, retro charm
Think about the pieces you already own—like your coffee table or rugs—and find a sofa that complements them. If in doubt, a neutral-toned sofa (grey, beige, tan) is a safe, versatile starting point. You can always add colour with cushions and throws.
4. Fabric Matters More Than You Think
The material you choose affects everything from maintenance to comfort.
- Leather: Durable, ages beautifully, easy to wipe down, but can feel cold in winter and sticky in summer. Great for modern and family homes.
- Linen/cotton blends: Soft, breathable, and ideal for that relaxed, coastal look. Best for lower-traffic areas since they can wrinkle and stain.
- Microfibre: Super easy to clean and pet-friendly. Not as ‘natural’ looking but great for busy households.
- Velvet: Luxe, stylish, and surprisingly durable if you go with the right type (performance velvet is a thing!).
One couple who bought from us in Northcote chose a deep navy velvet sofa for their light-toned living room—and told us later it became the unexpected star of the whole house.
5. Size, Configuration, and Functionality
Here’s where things get practical. Once you know your measurements, you’ll need to figure out what configuration fits best.
- Two-seater or three-seater: Ideal for smaller spaces, apartments, or secondary sitting areas.
- L-shaped or chaise sofa: Great for lounging and maximising corner spaces.
- Modular: Totally flexible—you can rearrange sections as needed.
- Sofa bed: Perfect if you regularly host overnight guests.
If you're working with a smaller living room, look for designs with slimmer arms and legs that lift the body off the floor—it keeps the space feeling open.
6. Test It Out (Seriously—Sit on It)
This might sound obvious, but it’s something many people skip when buying online. Sit, lie down, curl up—do whatever you usually do on a sofa.
If you're shopping in person, take your time. If you're shopping online, check if the company offers showroom viewing or generous return policies. Your dream sofa might look stunning, but if it feels like a bench or sags too fast, it won’t be your dream for long.
7. Don’t Forget the Extras
We’re talking legs, cushions, armrest height, and seat depth. All of these little details add up to make a big difference.
A sofa with high legs can make a room feel more spacious. Lower arms are great for lying down. Sofas with removable cushion covers are life-savers for spills and mess.
Even colour choice makes a big difference. Neutral colours offer versatility and longer-lasting style, while bold colours can add personality (but may date faster). You can always add vibrancy with throw pillows or a statement rug instead.
Picking the right sofa isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about finding something that fits your life and your style. The best ones become part of your everyday routine—where stories are shared, coffees are sipped, and tired feet finally get a rest at the end of a long day.
And when you get it right, you won’t just see the difference. You’ll feel it every time you sit down.