A sectional isn’t just a piece of furniture – it’s where you relax after a long day, binge your favourite shows, host friends, and spend time with family. That’s why choosing the right sectional for your living room is so important. The good news? With a bit of planning, you can find one that looks stylish, fits your space, and feels super comfortable.
Here’s a simple guide to help you pick the perfect sectional for your home.
1. Start with Your Space: Measure, Then Measure Again
Before you fall in love with any design, grab a measuring tape.
- Measure the length and width of your living room
- Note doorways, windows, radiators, and walkways
- Decide which wall (or corner) will be the central spot for the sectional
Ask yourself:
- Do you want the room to feel open and airy or full and cozy?
- Will the sectional face a TV, a window, or be in the middle of an open-concept space?
Tip: Use masking tape on the floor to mark out the size of a sectional you’re considering. It helps you “see” how much space it will take.
2. Choose the Right Shape: L-Shape, U-Shape, or Chaise?
Sectionals come in different configurations, and the best one depends on your room and lifestyle.
L-Shaped Sectional
- Great for corners and medium to large rooms
- Offers plenty of seating without overwhelming the space
- Perfect if you like lounging and watching TV
U-Shaped Sectional
- Ideal for prominent families or people who entertain often
- Creates a cozy, conversation-friendly setup
- Works best in larger living rooms
Sectional with Chaise
- Perfect for stretching out and relaxing
- Suitable for smaller rooms where you still want that “feet up” comfort
- Can be left-facing or right-facing (more on that next!)
3. Left-Facing or Right-Facing? How to Decide
Many sectionals come with a chaise on one side. To choose the correct side, think about:
- Where the central walkway is (you don’t want the chaise blocking it)
- Which side makes the room feel more open
- What it will be facing (TV, window, fireplace)
Stand facing the sectional:
- If the chaise is on your left, it’s left-facing
- If it’s on your right, it’s right-facing
Museo L Shape – Model 1212
4. Pick the Right Size for Comfort and Movement
Yes, you want lots of seating—but not at the cost of feeling cramped.
- Leave at least 2–3 feet of walking space around the sectional
- Make sure there’s room for a coffee table and maybe an accent chair
- If your living room is small, choose a sleeker, low-profile sectional that doesn’t feel bulky
AD32 Coffee table | Console Table | Side Table
5. Choose Your Fabric: Style vs. Practicality
Your fabric choice matters a lot, especially if you have kids, pets, or love snacking on the couch.
Fabric Options:
- Performance fabric/microfiber: Durable, stain-resistant, great for active families
- Velvet: Luxurious and stylish, it adds a rich look to the room
- Linen-like fabrics: Light, airy, and modern, but may need a bit more care
Leather:
- Easy to wipe clean and looks elegant
- Great for a more formal or modern look
- Seasons well over time
Ask yourself:
- Do you have kids or pets?
- Do you prefer a soft, cozy feel or a sleek, polished look?
Your answers will guide you to the right material.
6. Think About Colour: Neutral or Bold?
Sectionals are oversized, so their colour can define the whole room.
Neutrals (grey, beige, cream, taupe):
- Easy to style and restyle
- Timeless and flexible with changing decor
- Great if you like changing cushions and throws often
Darker tones (charcoal, navy, dark brown):
- Practical for hiding stains
- Cozy and grounding
- Ideal for busy homes
Bold colours (green, blue, rust):
- Make the sectional the statement piece
- Perfect if the rest of your room is simple and minimal
If you’re unsure, go neutral on the sectional and add personality through cushions, throws, and rugs.
7. Comfort Is Non-Negotiable
Looks matter, but comfort is everything.
When you try a sectional (or imagine the feel of shopping online), consider:
- Seat depth: Do your feet touch the floor? Can you curl up?
- Back support: Are the cushions soft but supportive?
- Firm vs. soft: Do you like sinking in or sitting more upright?
If you love movie nights and naps on the couch, a deeper, softer sectional might be perfect. If you sit more formally or work from the sofa, a medium-firm option is better.
8. Don’t Forget the Rest of the Room
Your sectional should work with your other furniture, not fight it.
Think about:
- Coffee table size: It should be in easy reach from every seat.
- Rug size: Ideally, the front legs of the sectional sit on the rug
- Accent chairs: They can balance the room and add extra seating
- Side tables & lamps: For convenience and a cozy, layered look
9. Plan for the Future
A sectional is a long-term purchase, so think ahead.
- Will your family grow?
- Are you moving soon or staying put?
- Do you like to rearrange your furniture often?
If flexibility matters, look at modular sectionals that let you move pieces around or change the layout as needed.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the perfect sectional is all about balancing space, comfort, style, and practicality. Take your measurements, consider how you use your living room, and pick a shape, size, and fabric that suits your lifestyle.
Whether you love cozy movie marathons, hosting friends, or just stretching out with a cup of tea, the right sectional can completely transform your living room into your favourite place at home.
You can explore a variety of modern, stylish, and comfortable sectionals at Nova Furniture Mall to find the one that fits your space and your life just right.
