How to Choose the Perfect Sofa for Your Living Room

There’s nothing quite like sinking into a sofa that feels like it was made for you. Whether you’re curling up with a book, hosting friends, or enjoying a family movie night, your sofa sets the tone for your entire space. But with so many styles, sizes, and fabrics to choose from, how do you find the perfect match for your home?

At ifurniture, your trusted sofa destination in Auckland and Christchurch, we’ve helped thousands of Kiwis find the right fit. Here’s our guide to choosing a sofa that suits your space, style, and lifestyle — whether you’re shopping in-store or online.

Start With Your Space

A great sofa doesn’t just look good — it works perfectly with your room.

Measure your living room and doorways before you shop.
Leave 75–90 cm of walkway space so the room doesn’t feel cramped.
For smaller apartments, try a 2-seater or compact modular design.
For open-plan living, a corner sofa can help define the area.

Shop sofas by size

Choose a Shape That Works With Your Layout

Your layout plays a big role in finding the right sofa:

Straight sofas: Timeless and versatile, great for pairing with armchairs.
L-shaped or corner sofas: Ideal for maximising seating in open spaces.
Modular sofas: Flexible and adjustable as your needs change.

See L-shaped and modular options

Match the Material to Your Lifestyle

The right upholstery can make your sofa last longer and look better:

Leather: Long-lasting and easy to clean.
Fabric: Soft, breathable, and available in many colours.
Velvet or textured: Luxurious, best for low-traffic spaces.

💡 Tip: If you have pets or kids, look for stain-resistant fabrics or removable covers.

Pick Colours That Suit Your Décor

Your sofa can either blend in or stand out:

Neutral tones: Grey, beige, cream — timeless and easy to style.
Bold colours: Navy, forest green, terracotta — perfect for a statement piece.

Explore sofas in every colour

Think About Extra Features

Modern sofas can offer more than just seating:

Sofa beds: Perfect for overnight guests.
Recliners: Ideal for home theatre setups.
Storage sofas: Keep blankets, cushions, or bedding neatly tucked away.

Browse sofa beds and recliners

Quick Sofa Buying Checklist

✔ Measure your space.
✔ Choose the right shape.
✔ Pick a fabric that suits your lifestyle.
✔ Select a colour that works with your décor.
✔ Consider extra features for comfort and function.

Final Tip

Your sofa is where life happens — from morning coffee to Sunday naps. Choosing one that feels right will make your living room more inviting for years to come.

Browse our full sofa collection