Ultimate Corner Sofa Buying Guide
Looking to transform your living space with a stylish and space-savvy seating solution? Corner sofas seamlessly blend style with practicality, offering exceptional comfort while optimising every inch of your living space. Whether you're decorating a roomy lounge or cozy apartment, our corner sofa guide will walk you through how to choose the ideal setup to suit your lifestyle.
Let’s help you find a piece that’s not just a sofa — but the heart of your home.
Measuring for a Corner Sofa
When it comes to buying the right corner sofa, measurement is everything. A great-looking piece won’t mean much if it doesn’t fit your space. Use these simple guidelines to guarantee your sofa fits seamlessly into your space.
Step-by-Step Measuring Guide:
- Clear the area first: Move any furniture or clutter so you can measure without guesswork.
- Mark out width & length: Use a tape measure to map the boundaries of your available space — especially noting alcoves and recesses.
- Keep the depth in mind: Make sure to account for how far the sofa extends out into the room — and don’t forget to include the space taken up by cushions and armrests when visualizing the overall footprint.
- Think beyond the room: Don’t forget to measure hallways, staircases, and doorways to ensure your new sofa can be easily delivered and placed without any hassle.
Tip: Ensure your corner sofa fits snugly into its designated space for a smooth, seamless look that enhances the room's flow.
Understanding Corner Sofa Lingo
You’ll come across terms like "2 corner 1" or "1 corner 2" — these describe how many seats are on either side of the corner. For instance, a layout labeled “2 corner 1” indicates the sofa includes two seating sections on one side of the corner and a single section on the opposite side.
Small space hack: Consider a chaise-style corner sofa if you’re working with limited square footage.
Avoid These Common Measuring Mistakes
- Skipping vertical space – tall sofas may block windows or shelves.
- Ignoring radiators or fireplaces – they can limit positioning.
- Forgetting the clearance room – recliners and sofa beds require extra room to fully function and move comfortably.
Choosing the Right Configuration
Not sure if you need a left-hand or right-hand corner sofa? Here’s a simple way to decide:
- If the longer section of the sofa is on your left when you're seated facing it, then it's considered a left-hand sofa.
- If it stretches out to the right, you’ve got a right-hand configuration.
This is particularly important when buying a chaise sofa, as the extended section needs to suit your room’s layout.
Where Should a Corner Sofa Go?
The right sofa placement makes all the difference. A well-placed corner sofa can define your living area, maximize seating, and improve the flow of the room.
Mind the Details:
- Radiators: Leave breathing room to avoid blocking heat and damaging materials.
- Windows: Keep a gap between the sofa and window to prevent condensation damage and to allow easy use of blinds or curtains.
- Doors: Always check that your sofa won’t block entry points or interrupt walkways.
Know Your Room Shape
- Open or rectangular rooms? You’ll have flexibility to experiment with layouts.
- Unusual or tight spaces? Consider wall-hugging layouts and multi-purpose pieces like storage ottomans to save room.
Thinking recliner? Make sure there’s enough space behind your sofa to allow the recliner to extend fully without hitting the wall.
Create a Layout That Works
- Establish a focal point: Position your corner sofa to draw the eye — usually facing a TV, fireplace, or large window.
- Build around it: Start with your sofa, then add complementary pieces like coffee tables, rugs, or side chairs to complete the look.
- Leave breathing space: Especially in larger rooms, space between pieces creates an airy, balanced layout.
Types of Corner Sofas
There’s more than one kind of corner sofa — and each type brings something different to the table. Here's a quick breakdown:
Corner Groups
- Usually don’t have arms on both ends.
- Described using terms like “2 corner 1” — indicating seat distribution on each side.
Sofa Beds
- Perfect for overnight guests.
- These dual-purpose sofas offer everyday seating and convert into a bed when needed.
Loungers & Chaises
- Ideal for compact living areas.
- Typically available in 2 to 4-seater versions with an extended cushion for stretching out.
Modular Sofas
- Built from individual units, making delivery a breeze.
- Easily customized — you can add or rearrange sections to suit changing needs or space.
Recliner Corner Sofas
- Built for next-level relaxation.
- Choose between manual or electric recliners, depending on your comfort preferences.
Time to Pick the Perfect One
With your measurements in hand and your room layout in mind, you’re all set to find your dream corner sofa. Explore different styles, materials, and functionalities — and don’t forget to think long-term. Whether you're settling in with a good read or gathering the family for a movie marathon, your corner sofa should be the inviting heart of your living space — equal parts comfort and charm.
Ready to browse? Check out our full collection of corner sofas now at The Bonnie Home — where comfort meets clever design.
