Things to consider to buying the best sofa

Sofa buyers guide

There are many different things to consider when buying a new sofa, from the size and fabric to the style and colour. Here we summarise some of the main points to consider to help you find the perfect sofa to suit your home and family’s needs.

What are the different types of sofa?

Two-seater

A two-seater sofa is one of the smallest sofas. They are great for smaller spaces, families and couples. They’re also perfect for matching alongside another sofa in a room so you can have the whole family around to watch your favourite film in comfort. A two-seater sofa often has two seat cushions and two back cushions, or one long cushion with a fixed back. It offers enough space for two people.

Three-seater

A three-seater sofa offers slightly more space than a two-seater. It’s a great option for two people who like to spread out or for seating three. It often has three seats or two longer ones together.                                                                                      

Four-seater

Four seater sofas are also referred to as large sofas and are a step up from a 3 seater. They’re ideal for slightly larger rooms and look great when combined with an armchair, recliner or footstool.

Sofa beds

Practical as well as stylish, sofa beds are ideal for accommodating occasional overnight visitors. They come in various different styles, shapes and sizes so you can match, meaning you can match your sofa bed with the decor of your room and the size of the space you have.

Size and space

Consider the size of the space you have for your sofa and make sure you have enough space to move around with no obstructions. If you are short on space, a compact two-seater sofa or sofa bed may be the best option.

You’ll also need to think about how you will get the sofa into the room and if there are any obstructions in the way, such as narrow doorways or awkward corners.

What material should I choose?

Sofas come in a variety of materials and each has its pros and cons. The right option for you will depend on a range of factors such as who will be using the sofa, your preferred colour and, of course, your budget. At Knees we sell a wide selection of fabric sofas and leather sofas to suit every family and every home.

Fabric sofas

Pros

• Less expensive
• Broader range of options
• More comfortable

Cons

• May harbour dust mites and allergens
• Is more difficult to clean

Leather sofas

Pros

• Hypoallergenic
• Sleek appearance
• Easy to clean

Cons

• Can feel cold
• More expensive
• Limited colour options

Rattan sofas

Pros

• Versatile and hardy
• More environmentally friendly

Cons

• Limited colour options
• May require more care to keep it looking at its best

Styles of sofa

Whether you’re looking for a contemporary sofa or a more traditional sofa, you’ll find plenty of options when it comes to style.

Contemporary

A contemporary sofa achieves a more modern look. It is sometimes also referred to as modern furniture or modern contemporary furniture meaning that it is furniture that has been built after the 19th century.

Traditional

Traditional furniture is usually more formal and is made up until the end of the Victorian period, right before the modernist movement took hold. It is quality furniture made by old-world craftsmanship, with hand-carved dark wood both elaborate and formal in setting.

Mid-century

A mid-century design is one that started in America and its furniture is often defined by clean, curved lines, and tapered legs. Mid-century sofas work incredibly well as a focal point in your living space and can blend with other more contemporary furniture styles easily.

What colour sofa should I choose?

Calming neutrals

Neutral colours can bring a sense of calm to a room. Neutral colours are becoming increasingly popular, with many fabric shades being tones that have been drawn from nature to create a more natural feeling. Cool shades of grey and beige create a simplistic look while being on-trend too. Adding a colourful throw or blanket is a great way to add interest.

Bold and bright

Choose something bold and bright to make a beautiful statement in a space. Vibrant pinks, oranges, yellows and greens can add a real pop of colour and create a stunning focal point.

Blues and greys

If you love being by the sea, a blue or grey sofa is the one for you. From navy and sky blue to deep turquoise tones, our collection of beautiful blue fabrics are some of our most popular colours and it’s easy to see why. A blue sofa is perfect for adding a subtle hint of colour, without overpowering a space.

Monochrome

Keep things simple and sophisticated with a black, grey or cream sofa. We have a variety of shades available in various fabrics – take a look at our monochrome sofas today.

Other things to consider

Are there any special features that you’d like?

Think about any specific features you’d like from your sofa before you buy. If you like a recliner, removable cushions, specific fabrics keep this in mind when purchasing.

How much do you want to spend?

We have a range of different sofas available at different prices. Make sure you do your research and choose the right one for you. We also offer a price match promise and have a 0% finance option available if that suits you.

Will it fit?

Will the sofa fit in the allocated space? Think about any other objects you may want surrounding the sofa like floor lights or tables. Also, think about how you will get the sofa into the room you’d like it to be in. Will it fit through the door?

Shop for sofas at Knees Home & Electrical

We have a great range of sofas in a variety of styles and colours. You can view our sofas on our website or speak to our friendly customer services team to find out more.

For information on delivery visit our delivery services page.