How do I find the perfect sofa for my space?
studio Oliver Gustav
Is there any other month that defines routine quite like September? Maybe it’s the change of season as we head into shorter days or the return to school that has us feeling on edge, in need of more structure after the endless days of summer. Email alerts entice us to try out new courses or renew lapsed gym memberships and before you know it, we are counting down the next 16 weeks to dare I mention the ‘C’ word.
When it comes to home renovation projects, this timeframe also becomes a shared deadline for many. Despite years working in an industry focused on customer service delivery, I could never quite figure the reasoning for the pursuit of an end-vision associated with this one particular day! It’s so much more than that however as we generally tend to work better under pressure with an end date in sight. December 25th is a holiday with which we are all familiar since childhood and is a definitive, festive day each year, most of us look forward to. The added bonus of the extended season into New Years’, allows us reap the rewards and celebrate upon project completion no matter how large or small our undertaking.
Given my own recent purchase of a sofa this summer, it seemed like a good a time as any to look at the considerations when making this key investment and setting the mood for our space. Probably our most prized (fitting) possession, it not only speaks of you but of where we most likely come to retreat as we close out each day, taking the effort in its procurement all the more worthwhile.
So what should we consider when investing in this piece of furniture where beauty is equally as important as function? In this months’s blog, I decided to post in two parts given the level of detail I deemed worth the consideration. In the below, I look at the factors that will assist you reach that right decision for your space and how these vary in their order of merit, depending on your circumstance. In my second part next week, I conclude with helping you source that perfect piece and how I eventually decided on the model that was right for me.
1.Style, colour and shape; Let’s face it, most of us probably begin our search here before even considering some of the more important factors below. Given that my recent purchase was very much style driven opposed to its budget focussed predecessor, it is an important factor when determining the atmosphere you wish to create when setting the tone for your space. Though difficult to condense a vast subject, some considerations might include how your Sofa will tie in with new or existing pieces for example? Is it consistent with your current scheme, following the lead of pre-selected fittings on a new build or will this purchase dictate the remaining style throughout your home? Look at seat height, depth, back height, arm width and leg base (if visible), all of which impact the style. What is the shape? Does it suit the profile of the room? Is the upholstery patterned or plain? Will you choose a statement or neutral colour? Every detail will inform the mood you wish to create in your space or collaboratively speaking, will spark joy in the sofa that speaks of you.
2.Seating/ Sofa Positioning; Probably not the most obvious but before you even consider dimensions, you need to decide where the sofa/sofas is/are going to be situated in your room. If you are in the middle of a new-build, then room layouts will be pre-determined including a confirmed seating arrangement that suits your needs. Do you have an open or a closed plan arrangement? If you are relocating or live in an existing build, you may still have some design scope, what are you aiming to achieve? Inviting, engaging, comfortable or do you seek formality?
3.Size; Having the required measurements before you begin your search will not only save you time but will assist you with decision-making and avoid disappointment not to mention costly mistakes. Apart from requiring the width, depth and height of your proposed new couch you also need to consider seat height, seat depth, back height and arm width which are probably more conducive to style below. (If you are still unsure and have difficulty visualising, it is worth cut some card to the required size and position it within the room, cleared). It is equally important that your fitting is the correct size for a small as well as a for a larger space and not too imposing, overbearing or too small.
4.Stage of life; This generally tends to affect your level of investment. Are you renting or a first time homebuyer for example? An empty -nester, retiree, single or in a relationship? (compromise!) starting a family or already have a young family? Depending on where you are in life will depend on how you wish your couch to endure. Are you seeking for example, something comfortable yet inexpensive to tie you over during the toddler years or are you at the later stage where you can finally invest in your forever sofa that you’ve long sought after? Once you’ve established this, your goals will become clearer.
5.Function; This might seem obvious but if you’re fortunate to have different zones in your home, then you might require each to perform differently. Is the sofa for your TV room for example? Den, office (home or otherwise), kitchen/living or for your main living space? This will determine the level of comfort you require, the style you seek and the wear and tear it will necessitate. What are your boundaries regarding pets, smaller members and not so small members of the family? Have you a relaxed attitude or do you lean towards a more strict no shoes/ pets/jumping on the couch policy? This will also dictate the quality of the frame, cushions and upholstery you select.
6.Finish; Function, stage of life and deciding which is more conducive to your lifestyle should all assist with choice given the many available options here. Speak to your supplier to learn about the available fabric selection, martindale index (measures a fabric’s resistance to abrasion or ‘rub’ test) and pricing grades which will vary between models. Apart from material range including leather, nubuck, wool, velvet, linen and various blends to name but a few, you also have the option of built in stain repellent or removable, washable covers etc. It is also worth request fabric samples if available.
*7.Lead-in times; If you are working to a time constraint, familiarise yourself with some European manufacturer delivery times which may vary anywhere between 8 – 12 weeks from order date, minimal! These have greatly varied in recent times however given material shortages, rising fuel costs and current socio-political crisis, if you do seek delivery before the 25th, then contact your retailer today requesting an approximate cut-off time. They can generally estimate this from previous years or offer you a more definitive date. If you are still undecided closer the order date, then you need to determine the level of risk you are willing to take on your project, to meet an end date that may otherwise be flexible.
Join me on my journey next week to finally discovering the sofa that spoke of me.
Where do you seek help with your short-term project?