The Right Sofa the First Time

Choosing your first sofa is a big decision. You will be sitting on it for years, and quality sofas usually come with a hefty price tag. First, consider style. A couch's style sets the tone of your living room. Get that right, and everything else falls into place. The key to a sofa's style is in the lines, arms and cushions. A budget-conscious choice should be a timeless sofa that will not be out of date a couple of years. However, if you can afford to, make a statement with a bold pattern or daring colour.

Test-sit the sofa yourself, and remember to think of everyone who will use it. Have kids? Go for easy-maintenance mock-leather. Have lots of kids? Choose a long style everyone can fit on. Have older people at home? Look for good lumbar support. Choose a wooden frame (screwed, not glued) and quality finishes that suit your lifestyle. Must the covers be washable, for example? Would you like a delicate silk? If you have kids, dark patterned fabrics don't show dirt and stains as much. When you have a shortlist of three sofas, wait 24 hours. This will filter out any mood swings before you buy.

Source: Women 24