Sofa Buying Guide: How to Choose Style & Comfort for Your Home

Sofa Buying Guide: How to Choose Style & Comfort for Your Home

Practical tips, product spotlights & inspiration - a Sofa Buying Guide from Colour Supplies:

Buying a new sofa is one of the most exciting (and important) furniture purchases you'll make for your home. It’s the centrepiece of your living room, a hub of relaxation, and let’s be honest, a visual statement.

But with so many styles, fabrics, and configurations available, how do you know which one is right for you?

At Colour Supplies, we believe shopping for a sofa should be fun, not overwhelming. So in this Sofa Buying Guide we aim to help you choose a sofa that perfectly blends style, comfort, and function — with real product examples and tips along the way.

1. Define Your Space and Needs

Before falling in love with a design, think practically:

• How big is your room? Measure your space carefully. Consider the sofa’s dimensions and how it will move through doors, hallways, and staircases.

• How will the sofa be used? Do you need a cosy family sofa for lounging? A statement piece for entertaining? A sofa bed for guests? Is it a regular sofa or a corner piece? 

• How many people do you need to seat? Think beyond aesthetics — your sofa needs to work for your lifestyle.

Top Tip: Use masking tape or a newspaper outline on your floor to visualise how a sofa’s footprint will fit your space.

Ask yourself:

• Do you want your sofa to blend in or stand out?

• Do you prefer low and relaxed, or firm and supportive?

• What’s your colour palette?

2. Pick a Style That Matches Your Interior

Sofas come in countless designs — and it’s worth thinking about what best complements your existing (or dream) décor.

Popular sofa styles:

• Classic / Traditional – Rolled arms, button tufting (think Chesterfield or High-Back styles)

• Modern – Clean lines, metal or slim legs (e.g., Bergen or Zara Sofas)

• Scandi-Inspired – Soft neutral tones, natural wooden legs

• Cottage core / Country – Soft fabrics, floral or muted tones

3. Choose the Right Fabric or Upholstery

Fabric choice isn’t just about how your sofa looks — it’s how it feels, wears, and holds up over time.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Chenille or Soft Woven – Durable, cosy and family-friendly.

• Velvet - Luxurious and soft. Makes a statement, but best for lower traffic homes. 

• Leather or Faux Leather – Easy to wipe clean, stylish and long-lasting.

• Linen or Cotton Mixes – Light and breathable, ideal for summer comfort.

🐶 Pet- and kid-friendly? Go for fabrics that are easy to clean and have a tight weave or treated finish.

4. Choose Comfort That Lasts

Comfort is key – after all, you’ll be spending hours on your sofa. Here’s what to consider:

• Cushion Filling: Foam gives firm support and holds shape well, while feather or fibre fills are softer and more relaxed.

• Seat Depth: Deeper seats are great for lounging, while shallower ones are better for upright sitting.

• Back Height: Higher backs offer more support, especially for taller users or those who like to lean back.

5. Think About Extras

• Sofa Beds – Ideal for guests or compact living spaces.

• Modular Sofas – Rearrangeable pieces for flexible layouts.

• Recliners – Built-in comfort for movie nights or Sunday snoozes.

At Colour Supplies, we stock a range of sofa options to suit every lifestyle – from statement centrepieces to practical family favourites. And with that, our Sofa Buying Guide comes to a close. 

Try Before You Buy

If possible, visit your nearest Colour Supplies store to try out sofas in person. Sit, lie down, and see how it feels. If you’re shopping online, check product descriptions carefully, and don’t hesitate to contact us for advice or more details.