Rooms To Go
    Favorites
    Close up photo of navy sofa with blue and white accent pillow

    How to Choose a Sofa Size

    Find the perfect sofa size for your living room with our comfort and style guide.

    Shop All Sofas
    Shop All Sofas

    When choosing a sofa, finding the right size for your living room is crucial for both comfort and aesthetics. With various types and sizes available, it can be challenging to determine the best fit for your space. This quick guide will help you navigate the differences between loveseats, sofas and couches, measure your space accurately, and consider other important factors.

    DAM_2024_LR_Single_Headliner_Blog_2.png

    Loveseat vs Sofa vs. Couch: What's the Difference?

    When selecting a living room furniture set, it's important to understand the difference between a sofa, a couch and a loveseat.

    Close up of gray reclining sofa
    Close up of gray reclining sofa
    Sofa
    Sofas are a length that accommodates three or more individuals, making them ideal for larger living spaces. While they are aesthetically pleasing, sofas are also geared towards hosting family and guests.
    Leather loveseat
    Leather loveseat
    Loveseat
    A loveseat is designed for two people. Its compact size makes it the perfect furniture for a small living room or an addition to a larger seating arrangement.
    Black couch with brown accent pillow
    Black couch with brown accent pillow
    Couch
    The term "couch" is often used interchangeably with "sofa," though it traditionally refers to a more informal or comfortable seating option. Couches may vary in size and are generally chosen for their comfort and casual style.
    Close up of gray reclining sofa
    Close up of gray reclining sofa
    Sofa
    Sofas are a length that accommodates three or more individuals, making them ideal for larger living spaces. While they are aesthetically pleasing, sofas are also geared towards hosting family and guests.
    Leather loveseat
    Leather loveseat
    Loveseat
    A loveseat is designed for two people. Its compact size makes it the perfect furniture for a small living room or an addition to a larger seating arrangement.
    Black couch with brown accent pillow
    Black couch with brown accent pillow
    Couch
    The term "couch" is often used interchangeably with "sofa," though it traditionally refers to a more informal or comfortable seating option. Couches may vary in size and are generally chosen for their comfort and casual style.

    Image of living room with off-white sofas and cream accents
    Image of living room with off-white sofas and cream accents

    How to Measure Your Sofa & Space

    Before making a purchase, measuring both the sofa and your available space is essential. Be sure to measure the sofa's depth (from the back to the front), length (from the outside of one arm to the outside of the other), and height (from the floor to the highest point). Standard sofa dimensions typically range between 82-86", but you should consider your room's shape and size. For example, in a small living space that’s 96” wide, you wouldn’t want an 86” sofa that leaves a scant 5” on each side.

    Dog lounges on sofa
    Dog lounges on sofa

    Seating Capacity & Use

    Consider how the sofa will be used. Will it be for watching TV, playing games, napping, or entertaining guests? Additionally, consider who will use it – how many people, whether you have kids, or pets – to ensure durability and appropriate sizing.

    Reclining sofa set
    Reclining sofa set

    Home Design & Flow

    A loveseat is designed for two people. Its compact size makes it the perfect furniture for a small living room or an addition to a larger seating arrangement.Finally, think about the overall design and flow of your room. The furniture arrangement should promote ease of movement and interaction within the space. Whether you opt for a single sectional or a combination of a reclining chair, sofa, loveseat and living room accent chairs, the layout should complement your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences.

    Selecting the right sofa size involves more than just measuring dimensions. It's about considering the use, the users and the overall design of your living space. With the above suggestions, you'll be better equipped to choose a sofa or sectional living room set that fits your space and enhances your home's comfort and style.

    Explore More Sofa Inspiration

    Scroll to top