Choosing a sofa is always a fun event for the whole family. Its appearance and quality depend not only on the durability of the purchased upholstered furniture and its appearance, but also on your comfort when using it.
Modern furniture factories produce a wide range of different sofas, the quality, design, categories of fabrics used are different. Sometimes it is quite difficult to make a choice. To understand which sofa is better to choose that best suits your needs and avoid mistakes, you must first clearly explain its purpose.
What are the requirements for sofas for an apartment and what is the difference between upholstered furniture designed for different rooms?
How to choose a sofa for your bedroom
When choosing a sofa bed for everyday use, you should focus on the quality and size of the bed. For daily sleep, a sofa with a spring mattress is the best choice for a sofa bed.
The surface should be smooth and even, the folding mechanism is simple and reliable. In small apartments, sofas with an accordion mechanism are very popular among customers, they are quite compact when folded and easily transform into a full-fledged bed.
It should be noted that any sofa will not benefit from everyday layout, but sofas with a tilt function in such situations are long and reliable, because nothing breaks.
A “longitudinal sleeper” or “dolphin” folding mechanism is also a good choice. Additional functions – a bed base and a bar with a folding table will also not be superfluous in the bedroom.
How to choose a sofa in the children’s room
Perhaps the children’s room is the place where your furniture will be tested for all possible tests – construction strength, fabric resistance to abrasion, water and mud repellent properties of the coating. After all, upholstered furniture in a child’s room also serves as a trampoline, playground and dining area. Therefore, you must pay attention to the strength of the frame and the quality of the upholstery materials, but the most important thing is of course the comfort and safety of the child.
All parts must be round, the frame must be covered with foam or felt, there must be no hard or sharp parts. The backrest must be high enough so that when sitting the baby does not lean against a cold wall, the bed must be flat and elastic, the folding mechanism is simple enough so that the child can easily hold it (for example, accordion, tipper sofa bed or Dolphin), all production materials – hypoallergenic. The aesthetic properties of children’s furniture – secondary, main – are quality and functionality. Availability of niches, boxes and boxes – welcome, because there are not so many favorite toys, and it is better to keep them “at hand. The padding should be unmarked, thick and easy to care for, but always “breathable”, with a high proportion of natural fibers.
Selection of sofas for the kitchen, dining room or hallway
Upholstered furniture for the kitchen, dining room or hallway should be compact and have thick upholstery that can be cleaned and wiped frequently. Depending on the interior of the house, you can buy a loft sofa, modern or classic style. This depends on personal preference, size and geometry of the room. Corner sofas are more functional because they take up the least space in the room and offer maximum possibilities.
How to choose a sofa in the living room
It all depends on your taste and imagination. The spacious living room offers a large corner sofa with a deep seat, large padded armrests and an ottoman. If you frequently host guests, there should be a maximum seating capacity (5.6 or more). The small living room is decorated with a small, light-colored sofa, which distracts attention from the size of the room and focuses on itself. Perhaps, upholstered furniture for the hallway is rarely opened and used for sleeping, so models with any layout mechanism, including French and folding beds, will do.
The main function of living room furniture is to decorate the room, giving you the opportunity to fully rest and relax. Bright and comfortable pillows are a great addition to comfortable upholstered furniture.
Harmonious interior design
When choosing upholstered furniture, you should consider the overall size and interior of the room. Of course, you need to choose furniture not only based on “clothes”, but also plays a serious role. The color and pattern of the upholstery fabric should be in harmony with the color scheme and general style of the room.
Bright colors and strict lines approach the interior in the Moderne style – modern or high-tech, rounded shapes and neutral tones – more in harmony with the classics. But it is not recommended to match the color of the coating to the walls, because you risk “losing” it on the general background. And if the sofa blends into the interior, highlight it with bright original pillows. Also measure the size, imagine whether the chosen model will look harmonious in a very spacious room or too small. When buying a corner sofa, pay attention to its configuration (left, right), layout direction and dimensions when unfolded. And of course you have to pay special attention to the quality of the sofa and the materials used.
How to check the quality of a sofa
If you are not an expert in the furniture industry, don’t be discouraged. High-quality upholstered furniture can be recognized by a number of characteristics.
Appearance
As a lining fabric, the most suitable is a dense, wear-resistant fabric that does not allow dirt to penetrate deep into the fibers (the required color and structure are selected in the fabric catalog). A good option is flake, tapestry, chenille, artificial suede, microfiber. For each upholstery variant, the combination of natural and artificial fibers in the material is considered optimal. For expensive models, the price of the material can reach 75% of the price of the sofa. For more information – in the “Materials” section.
The seams on the upholstery fabric should be smooth, without protruding threads, the seams should be the same size. Furniture upholstery – stretches well, fixes evenly and is of high quality.
Transitions between furniture elements should not be too large (ideally about 5 mm).
All fasteners – one color, reliable, tightly installed, mechanisms – work smoothly.
Structural execution
Frame. The most durable and reliable are metal and wooden structures (oak, beech, mahogany), of the cheaper ones – chipboard, but such a frame must be treated with protective compounds and fastened with screws or “thorn-groove” joints.
Ink pen. If you need an orthopedic sofa for daily sleep – it is better to choose a model with a spring mattress or latex base, in models for rest and receiving guests – high density polyurethane foam is perfect.
The choice of transformation mechanism also depends on the purpose (as already mentioned) and is important for those who will use a folding sofa as a bed in the bedroom. The most reliable and “durable” for frequent layouts are Euro-book, book, accordion. The Conrad would also be an excellent choice for daily use and is almost on par with an orthopedic mattress in terms of quality. Be sure to test the design mechanism yourself several times before purchasing. If you have doubts about the quality (damage, sticky construction, workmanship is not smooth), it is better to choose another model.
Additional functionality. Niches and drawers for storing things, bars with tables should be easy to open/extend/open (try it yourself several times), spacious and easy to find.
And the last tip, even if you have little money, never buy a sofa that is too cheap, because it is not without reason that Baron Rothschild’s famous saying “I am not rich enough to buy cheap things” has always been so popular and relevant. Cheap sofas will not last long because they are made from low-quality materials, and in a year or two you will have to buy new furniture again.
Modern Sofas: What You Need to Know
An essential piece of any contemporary living room is the modern sofa. If you want to switch up your style and go for a more modern or contemporary option, it’s important to understand the key features that define a sofa as “modern.”
What are the defining characteristics of a modern sofa? Modern sofas are elegant, refined, and minimalistic; they do not have intricate designs and are typically crafted from high-quality materials such as leather. Modern sofas blend seamlessly with their surroundings, enhancing and harmonizing with the overall theme of the room.
In this guide, we will explore the attributes of modern and contemporary sofas and address key inquiries about modern design. Keep reading to discover more!
What Constitutes a Modern Sofa?
Let’s start with the basics: what makes a sofa modern? Specifically, the term “modern” refers to a design style that gained popularity in the early to mid-20th century. This style is often associated with the contemporary style, which incorporates many of the same elements and reflects prevailing design trends that are popular today.
Some fundamental principles of modern design that you will find in this sofa type:
– Minimalist
Unlike classical styles, modern design emphasizes minimalism, meaning that this style of sofa does not feature elaborate ornamentation or patterns. Instead, it is sleek and simple, serving to complement the overall aesthetic of the room.
– Geometric Lines
Modern sofas, like other modern furniture, boast clean, straight lines that impart a geometric feel to the furniture. When combined with other modern furniture, this geometry helps create a sophisticated and organized ambiance in any modern space.
– Sleek and Neutral
Smooth textures and neutral colors like white are also characteristic of modern furniture, including modern sofas. Warm colors, such as earthy browns, oranges, and blues, are also common in modern design, especially in mid-century modern furniture.
Types of Modern/Contemporary Sofas
Now that the basics are covered, let’s delve into some popular types of modern and contemporary sofas to gain a better understanding of what’s in demand on the market today:
- Mid-Century Modern Sofas
Similar to other modern sofas, mid-century modern sofas feature straight lines and edges and neutral or natural colors. They are typically constructed from faux leather or polyester and feature a tight or tufted backrest.
Mid-century modern sofas usually do not have cushions or additional pillows and are characterized by tuxedo or twill armrests on both sides of the seating area.
- Modern Sofas
Additional examples of modern sofas include traditional three-seater sofas, modular sofas, and sectional sofas. These sofas can be arranged in various configurations, providing flexibility in how you design your living room while still embracing the advantages of a sleek, modern aesthetic.
- Contemporary Sofas
Contemporary sofas draw on the same principles as modern sofas, featuring sleek lines, smooth surfaces, and neutral colors. Similar to modern sofas, popular upholstery choices include leather and faux leather.
What Sofa Colors Are Currently Popular?
Fortunately for enthusiasts of modern design, neutral colors are currently in vogue in interior design. Tones such as French vanilla, hazelnut, and warm gray—all suitable modern colors—are popular choices in the market at present, making it easy to find a sofa that complements your modern style color scheme. Of course, blues and browns are always fashionable, although whites and grays are recommended for those seeking a more contemporary or modern ambiance.
Are Leather Sofas Losing Popularity?
As a material, leather never goes out of style. This means that leather sofas continue to be a significant part of the overall furniture market. However, specific sofa styles can become outdated. The good news is that both mid-century modern and more contemporary sofas remain very popular and have been for many years.
This means that with a modern leather sofa, you won’t risk your living room suddenly looking outdated, as you might with other types of leather sofas.
Selecting a sofa is a crucial aspect of home interior design. If the wrong sofa is chosen, it may not complement the existing home decor or it may not be long-lasting due to poor quality material. This is why many people view choosing a sofa for their home as a long-term investment.
Several factors need to be taken into consideration when choosing a sofa. These include size, function, design, and price. Additionally, selecting the best material for the sofa in your home is essential. Opting for good and durable sofa materials will provide long-term benefits.
Numerous aspects determine whether a sofa material is of good quality. These aspects include ease of maintenance, level of density, and durability. It’s important to consider these factors alongside the design and personal preference. To gain more confidence, it’s worthwhile to read reviews and recommendations for additional insights before making a decision.
Selecting the wrong sofa material can lead to quicker damage and eventual replacement, resulting in additional costs. Therefore, it’s important not to compromise quality for a lower price. So, what sofa materials can you choose? Here are some widely recommended materials known for their durability that you can consider when looking to replace your sofa at home:
Genuine Leather
Genuine leather is considered the highest quality material for sofa surfaces due to its numerous advantages. It possesses a luxurious and classic appearance that can add an elegant touch to any room. Additionally, genuine leather is known for its durability. Moreover, it has the ability to adjust to body temperature and repel dust and allergens, making it more comfortable to sit on.
Sofas made of genuine leather tend to be more expensive due to the high quality and luxury they offer. They also require extra care with special cleaners to maintain the quality of the leather. Genuine leather is also sensitive to sunlight and humidity.
Faux Leather or Synthetic Leather
If you desire the appearance of genuine leather but have budget constraints, faux leather or synthetic leather is an excellent option. This material has high resistance to stains and dirt, making it easier to care for and clean compared to genuine leather. When choosing a sofa with synthetic leather, there is no need to worry about its response to sunlight and humidity, which can cause changes.
However, it’s important to carefully choose the material, as some synthetic leather may feel less comfortable to sit on. In tropical climates with intense heat, synthetic leather may also feel hotter due to its lack of breathability compared to genuine leather. Therefore, it’s essential to ensure that the sofa material you choose uses the latest production technology to enhance comfort.
Oscar Fabric
What exactly is oscar material for sofas? Oscar material is a type of sofa upholstery that shares similar characteristics with leather. One of its advantages is that it is easy to clean when dirt or spills occur. If you have a sofa covered with oscar fabric, a simple cloth can be used to remove dirt.
While oscar material has its advantages, it also has its drawbacks, especially in terms of maintenance. Care for oscar material sofas requires extra attention, as you need to regularly apply moisturizer or lotion with natural ingredients to the fabric to maintain its durability.
Linen Fabric
Another option for a good and durable sofa material is linen. Linen provides a casual, natural, warm, and soft appearance. Its characteristics differ from leather-like materials, often displaying color irregularities that give it a unique look and make it a great addition to room decor.
There are multiple varieties of high-quality linen that come with relatively high price tags. Taking care of linen fabric can be quite challenging as it is prone to stains and has high absorption properties. When choosing a linen sofa, you can tailor it to your preferences and needs.
Canvas Fabric
Canvas fabric is commonly used for various items such as shoes, bags, jackets, and wallets. So, is canvas fabric suitable for sofas? Many brands opt for this fabric as a sofa upholstery material because of its resilience in all conditions. Typically made of cotton, linen, or a blend of both, canvas fabric is easy to shape, making the sofa look neat. However, lower-quality canvas fabric may have a rough texture and be difficult to clean when exposed to stains or water splashes. It’s important to choose canvas fabric with the right specifications that fit your budget.
Polyester Material
Polyester is also a great material for home sofas. Moreover, it is more budget-friendly compared to other materials like linen or genuine leather. Polyester is easy to clean from stains, making it ideal for homes with pets or active children. Despite having various designs, polyester sofas may not give a luxurious look to the room. Some polyester materials can also feel hot when sat on, and lower-quality ones may have visible fibers.
What is the Most Durable Sofa Fabric?
For a sofa in a living room used by the whole family, you’ll need a highly durable material. Think about the marks that could be left by food, drinks, crayons, shoes, feet, and sharp claws. When we talk about durability, we’re mainly referring to resistance to abrasion, tearing, discoloration during friction, fading, and similar events experienced by the fabric. These qualities are verified in special tests, where materials are tested and categorized. One of the most important tests is the Martindale test, which assesses abrasion resistance.
What Does the Martindale Test Check?
The Martindale test simulates the natural wear of the fabric as you sit, stand, and move around on the sofa. The results are crucial when choosing a fabric for your sofa, along with the price. You can find this information on the label or in the product description online. The test sample is mechanically rubbed with a certain force in various directions until it’s abraded.
The Martindale scale shows the number of cycles the fabric undergoes before changes in its appearance become noticeable. It’s generally assumed that 4,000 cycles are equivalent to one year of sofa use. he advanced the number, the further bruise- resistant and durable the fabric is. Fabrics receive categories: C for the least durable (10,000 – 20,000 cycles), B (25,000 – 40,000), and A for the most durable (≥ 45,000). For upholstering sofas and armchairs, the most common products fall into categories A and B. For family sofas, experts recommend fabrics with a Martindale test score above 35,000 cycles and thicker. They advise against using upholstery that can withstand only 20,000 cycles, as it may not be durable enough. If you find a sofa model that has achieved a score of 100,000 cycles in the Martindale test, such as Jog, it will guarantee durability for many years. Another important feature of sofa fabrics is their resistance to pilling, which is determined by a scale of 1 to 5.