Types of Couches and Sofas

Today, "couch" and "sofa" usually refer to the same items. However, the term “couch” may mean a more casual, small, comfortable, armless piece. Meanwhile, “sofa” may convey a larger, less comfortable, more formal or antique piece used for sitting or hosting guests.

Once you start shopping, you must determine the proper couch sizes. Take measurements of both the couch’s size and its intended room. Look for types of sofas that roughly fit these measurements, if not slightly smaller. This will ensure you leave yourself enough room to easily move around the new couch.

• A three-seat sofa: These allow three individuals to comfortably sit side by side. Typically, they measure between 72 inches and 96 inches, with 84 inches being the average.
• Longer or bigger sofas: Taller people may prefer these pieces, measuring 87 inches to 100 inches or more in length.
• Smaller sofas: Also called “apartment sofas,” they have less depth and length, which is great for smaller spaces.
• Loveseats: Designed for two people, they measure between 48 inches and 72 inches, typically averaging about 52 inches to 66 inches. You may want to pair a loveseat with a couch, arranging them in an L-shaped configuration in your living room. Manufacturers typically classify loveseat dimensions like larger sofas.

Here are helpful measurement terms for your search.

• Sofa depth: This measures the piece front to back. Most types of couches run 32 inches to 40 inches in depth, with 35 inches being the average.
• Sofa height: This measures the distance from the couch top to the floor, usually 26 inches to 36 inches. It determines if your feet will rest on the ground.
• Seat height: This measures the distance from the top of a couch’s seat cushion to the floor. It usually runs 15 inches to 20 inches, averaging 17 to 18 inches.
• Seat depth: This measures the seat’s front to either its back edge or the sofa back. As this can affect posture, people of average height may prefer standard seat depths of 21 inches or 22 inches. Deep-seat sofas, with depths of 28 inches to 35 inches or more, are also available.

When choosing from among the diverse types of sofas, some research may be needed. There are many models to consider, ranging from fancy, formal antiques to comfortable, laid-back favorites. A standard sofa or couch should comfortably seat 3 to 4 people.

Track-Arm Sofa

• Features flat, squared-off arms
• More compact, able to fit into smaller spaces and corners
• Offers a clean, contemporary and streamlined look
• May not provide good neck support when lying down

Loveseats

• Typically seats 2 to 3 people
• Ideal for smaller rooms and homes
• Deeper seats for lounging or informal settings
• Can be paired with a couch or other larger pieces
• Not recommended for taller people, larger households or hosting guests

Settees

• Smaller sofas for two people
• Upright, slender designs, often with exposed wooden, upholstered frames
• Often found in hallways or smaller homes
• Sitting or sleeping may be difficult over time due to their smaller size

Sectionals

• Popular, comfortable and available in multiple colors
• Sized like a standard sofa, although larger ones can seat five or more
• Great for larger rooms or hosting and can be used as beds
• May make rooms feel crowded and reduce layout ideas
• Buying more pieces may not be cost-effective

Modular couches

• Popular alternative to sectionals, typically seating three or more
• Have a chaise lounge on the end
• Offer moveable parts for adaptability, versatility and longevity
• Can be arranged in one long row, or a configuration shaped like an “L” or “U”
• May be difficult to reconfigure and cause uneven wear patterns

Recliners

• Comfortable, durable sofas or chairs with seats that partially or fully fall back
• Available in multiple sizes and fabrics
• May include unique features, like built-in footrests and electronic controls
• Moving parts can be difficult to disassemble and may need replacing
• Can be bulky and heavy, making them harder to move around

Sleeper sofas

• Have a foldable, pull-out bed frame and mattress hidden beneath the cushions
• Ideal for limited space
• Today’s sofas are lighter and more stylish than previous models
• Mattresses may become less comfortable over time
• Can unfold close to the floor, making accessibility difficult

Futons

• A single cushioned piece that folds into the shape of a sofa or flat, like a mattress
• Stylish and easy to move, with replaceable covers and mattresses
• May become uncomfortable over time
• Lacking in support and durability

Daybeds

• Saves on space by combining a sofa and bed
• Has deeper seats about the size of a twin mattress, two raised arms and a low back
• Easily customizable and great for kids’ rooms
• There is no box spring, reducing back support, although a pillow top or sleeping mat can be added
• Often have sharp edges and corners

It may be helpful to recognize some common styles when selecting types of couches.

Midcentury Modern

• Recognized for clean, minimalist and often bright white designs
• Popular couches that fit in well in any home
• Characterized by sleek, rectangular shapes sitting low to the floor
• Has shallow, tufted cushions and unadorned metal or wooden legs
• Often designed with natural materials, like wood, requiring more care and cleaning

The Lawson

• Versatile, popular and comfortable, considered the “classic couch”
• Characterized by low, narrow armrests, angled backs, deep seats, skirts and removable, overstuffed cushions
• Matches well with most upholstery materials
• Seats three, but ideal for taller people or large households
• With its deep seats, it may require more space

The English roll arm

• A signature of English interior design, fitting in well with diverse layouts
• Offers a cushioned, firm high-back with low, contoured arms leaning outward
• Although sold in varied sizes, offers a good option for smaller spaces
• The backs are often tight, with arms sitting further back, for a more compact look
• Its deep seats can make it hard to bend knees at the edge, promoting slouching

The Chaise lounge (Chaise)

• Backed, upholstered, reclining pieces, with one, two, or even no arms, combining chairs and ottomans
• Noted for their ergonomic shape, plush upholstery and extended length
• Promote full-body comfort and relaxation
• May not be ideal for small spaces or rooms
• As tipping may occur if someone sits at the foot end, sitting on their sides is recommended

The Chesterfield

• A popular, formal, timeless British style
• Velvety upholstery and supportive cushioning provide luxury and comfort
• Has rolled armrests, high arms, quilted or button-tufted backs and nail-head trim
• Strong structure and craftsmanship promote durability
• Available in many sizes, fabrics and colors
• Suspension may wear down over time, making the sofa uncomfortable

The Tuxedo

• A sleeker alternative to the Chesterfield
• Characterized by its boxy dimensions and deep button-tufted backs and arms
• Couch armrests are usually the same height as the back, providing a cozy, glamorous and uniform look
• The tall armrests may be uncomfortable and block access to side tables
• More modern models may not offer deep cushioning

The Cabriole

• An elegant, formal French style designed for decorating or entertaining
• Recognized by its signature “S-shaped,” wooden exposed legs, armrests and ornate wooden frame back
• Typically seat two people, although three-seat models are available
• Its armrests are high, thin and hard
• Not meant for comfortable, everyday use

The Camelback

• Also called a Humpback, as its arched back rises to a “hump” in the backrest’s middle and at the ends
• Often has exposed wooden frames and arching
• May feature curved or no arms, expanding seating space
• Designed occasional use, rather than everyday use
• The seats may feel shallow, especially for tall people

When sofa shopping, you need to consider construction. The materials used should mesh with your home’s look and style. Materials can also determine such matters as the piece’s comfort, function, longevity and ease of cleaning. Less durable fabrics may be more susceptible to stretching and staining. Compared to looser weaves, tighter fabric weaves are also less prone to snags and more water-repellant.

One way manufacturers measure durability is a rub-count rating. A machine rubs back and forth until the material wears down, resulting in a numerical rating. A count of 100,000 is considered “high-performance,” while 80,000 is “premium.” A 50,000 count is “standard,” and ideal for high-traffic households. Anything above 25,000 is designated “fine.”

Look for these fabrics and materials in your search:

• Velvet: Luxury fabric. Offers softness and durability.
• Suede: A stylish, comfortable and durable fabric. Cleaning requires more effort.
• Leather: Popular, sophisticated and long-lasting. Available in many colors and textures. Leather sofas and couches are easily cleaned, with stain-resistant finishes. Consider vinyl, a synthetic, more durable and cost-effective alternative.
• Twill: A tightly woven cotton fabric. Soft, casual and durable. Easily cleaned.
• Boucle: A looped yarn fabric. Soft, nubby texture. Stylish, casual and fun. Easily maintained.
• Textured weave: Soft and nubby like boucle, but chunkier and stronger. Offers an attractive, natural feel. Works well in busy homes.
• Linen: Provides a soft texture cool to the touch. Simple clean-up.
• Cotton: Good, breezy linen alternative. Can be treated and resist stains.
• Denim: A durable cotton alternative. Absorbs stains and colors faster. Resists pilling, the breakdown of fabric fibers, which causes small fuzzballs.
• Canvas: Another durable cotton alternative. Offers a more casual and relaxed style.
• Chenille: Has a soft, silky and plush feel, like velvet. Durable, unless exposed to direct sunlight, so place sofas away from windows.
• Wool and wool blends: Durable, with little wrinkling or piling. Easily spot-cleaned or vacuumed. Recommended for homes with children. Good heat retention.
• Acrylic: A synthetic wool. Resists wear and tear, fading, wrinkling and discoloration.
• Polyester: A non-allergenic, synthetic fiber that looks and feels like leather. Polyester sofas and couches can resist stains and damage more than some natural materials. Alternatives include nylon and olefin, which resist stains and damage.

You can simplify and organize your sofa search by following these guidelines:

• Take accurate measurements of your available space, including where the couch will sit, and the entire room.
• As these are the maximum dimensions, consider a smaller sofa to ensure space for flow and ease of movement.
• Keep in mind any nearby windows, rugs or furniture, like accent tables or coffee tables. Electronics and related pieces, like TV stands, may also need to be moved.
• Consider the ideal number of seats for your household members and all sizing dimensions.
• Research common styles and types of sofas to meet your needs and preferences. Before shopping in a physical location, check if a model is available.
• Determine the couch’s functions and uses, such as a formal complement or a place for relaxation.
• Consider sofa materials and fabrics, for both the interior and exterior. Think about concerns like comfort, texture, function, durability and cleaning.