A Complete Corner Sofa Buying Guide: Everything you need to know

So, whether you're looking to create a cosy space for family movie nights, a conversational nook for socialising with family or friends, or you want to add a stylish statement piece to your living room, corner sofas are a fantastic sofa option. 

However, before you leap into a purchase, there are a few things to consider. In this complete buying guide, we will help you navigate the world of corner sofas. We cover everything from measuring to fabrics to help you choose the right corner sofa for your space.

Table of contents

• What is a corner sofa?
• Are corner sofas a good idea?
• Are corner sofas practical?
• Different types of corner sofa
• Are corner sofas out of fashion?
• Left vs. Right: What side corner sofa do I need?
• How to measure a corner sofa
• Measuring for delivery and transportation
• How to fit a corner sofa in a small room
• Style & upholstery
• Final thoughts: Should I get a corner sofa, and what is the best corner sofa to get?

What is a corner sofa?

For those who are unsure what counts as a corner sofa, the style is designed with a corner frame. A corner sofa can be in the shape of an L, where one side is shorter than the other (more commonly known as an L-shaped sofa), or it can have sides that are of equal length. U-shaped sofas also technically have corners and could be classed in this category as well, meaning there are many options to choose from to suit your space. 

Are corner sofas a good idea?

If you're wondering if a corner sofa is right for you, here are some of the pros and cons of getting one.

Pros

• Maximising your space: One of the main draws to corner sofas is that they are designed to use often-wasted space in the corner of a room. As a result, this can make your living room feel larger and more open by providing ample seating without cluttering the centre of the space.

• Maximising seating: Corner sofas can also seat more people than a traditional sofa and armchair combination, making them ideal for families or those who love to entertain.

• Encourages social interaction: The L shape of a corner sofa naturally groups people, fostering a more intimate, social atmosphere for conversation and group activities like game nights. No more craning your neck from an armchair to talk to someone on the sofa!

• Zone dividing: In large, open-plan living spaces, a corner sofa can act as a natural room divider, helping define different zones, for example, separating the living room from the dining room or kitchen area without the need for walls.

• Superior comfort for lounging: The extended sections of a corner sofa, particularly a chaise-style one, are perfect for stretching out, napping, or simply putting your feet up after a long day.

• Various functionality options and configurations: Many corner sofas come with added features like recliners, built-in storage, or a pull-out sofa bed, making them a highly practical and multi-functional piece of furniture. They also come in various sizes and configurations to suit a range of room layouts.

• Stylish centrepiece: If you're wondering "Do corner sofas have to go in a corner?, the answer is, they're more flexible than you think. If you're looking for an interior design centrepiece in a large living room, a corner sofa will make a bold statement. 

Cons

• Can be dominating in small rooms: While corner sofas are great for optimising space, a large one can visually dominate a small room, making it feel cramped and unbalanced. So always measure your space before purchasing.

• Less flexible for rearranging: Once a corner sofa is in place, it can be challenging to alter your room's layout because of its size and shape if you want to refresh your lounge. Unlike individual sofas and armchairs, a fixed corner sofa is designed for a specific orientation and cannot be repositioned.

• Delivery and installation: The sheer size of a corner sofa can make it difficult to get into your home. You'll need to carefully measure doorways, hallways and staircases to ensure a smooth delivery and installation, unless you opt for a modular corner sofa.

• Higher cost: Due to their size and complexity, corner sofas are often more expensive than a standard two- or three-seater sofa.

• Might not fit every home: A corner sofa is not the right solution for every room. In a long, narrow room, for example, it may not be the most practical choice, and a traditional two-seater and armchair setup might work better.

Are corner sofas practical?

When thinking about getting a corner sofa, you need to weigh up the pros and cons above, and, most of all, consider whether it is practical for you. In some cases, they can maximise your space and seating capacity. Even in small living rooms or apartments, they can free up the rest of the room, making it feel more open and less cluttered. Plus, if they have added features like a sofa bed or storage, they can be exceptionally practical.

However, if you have a specific room configuration or narrow hallways that might hinder delivery, this option may not be the most practical.

Different types of corner sofa

Next, you need to think about what type of corner sofa you might need or want. Your choice will depend on your living room size and layout, as well as how you plan to use your living room and corner sofa.

• L-shaped sofas: This is the most common type, featuring two sections joined at a right angle. They can be either left-hand facing, right-hand facing or have equal sides, which is important to consider for your specific room layout.

• U-shaped sofas: These are larger, with three sections, and are ideal for big families or for those who frequently host large gatherings.

• Chaise sofas: A chaise sofa has an extended, armless section on one end, which is perfect for stretching out and relaxing. It's a great option for smaller rooms where you still want the feel of a corner sofa.

• Modular sofas: These are made up of individual sections or "modules" that can be rearranged to create different shapes and sizes. Modular sofas offer the most flexibility, as you can adapt the sofa to a range of layouts to suit different purposes or a new home in the future.

• Recliner corner sofas: These sofas have built-in reclining functions, allowing you to kick back and relax in the utmost comfort.

• Corner sofa beds: A practical, multi-functional option that includes a pull-out bed, making it perfect for accommodating overnight guests, especially if you don't have a spare or guest room.

• Corner sofas with storage: Some corner sofas come with hidden storage compartments, often under the chaise section, which is great for tidying away blankets, pillows, kids' toys or magazines.

Are corner sofas out of fashion?

Far from being out of fashion, corner sofas are very much "in" and consistently feature in modern interior design trends. Interior design experts and furniture retailers repeatedly highlight corner sofas as a fantastic option for contemporary living spaces.

Modern lounge designs are moving away from cold, minimalist spaces and are embracing more comfortable, lived-in aesthetics. Corner sofas, especially those with deep seats and soft, tactile fabrics like velvet or bouclé, fit this trend perfectly. They invite lounging and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere that appeals to the modern need for a home that feels like a sanctuary.

What's more, today's living spaces are often multi-functional, serving as a hub for relaxing, entertaining, and even working. Corner sofas, particularly modular designs, are highly practical for this. They can be rearranged to suit different needs, and their ability to zone an open-plan room is a key feature in "broken-plan" living, which remains a popular layout.

Furthermore, current trends favour "oversized" and "statement" sofas that can accommodate the whole family. Corner and U-shaped sofas are the natural choice for this, providing ample seating without the clutter of multiple separate pieces. They make a bold statement while prioritising comfort and functionality for families.

If you're worried about style and interior fashion trends, consider the idea that it's not the corner sofa that goes in and out of fashion, but the design and material used. For an on-trend look, choose a corner sofa with a fashionable design or chic fabric. Or if you're planning on having your sofa for many years, choose a fabric and design that is more timeless.

Left vs. Right: What side corner sofa do I need?

One of the most important considerations you need to think about when shopping for a corner sofa is whether you want it to be left or right-hand sided.

Firstly, the easiest way to determine which side you need is to imagine yourself standing in front of the sofa, looking at it directly. If the chaise section is on your left when you are facing the sofa, it is a left-hand facing corner sofa and vice versa. People often get confused by thinking about the sofa from a sitting position. Always remember the rule: stand up and face the sofa head-on.

Deciding which one you need will depend on your living room layout and how you plan to use the space. Here are some considerations: 

The corner placement

Placing your corner sofa in the corner of your living room is the most obvious choice. If the sofa is to be placed in a corner where the chaise side needs to go against the left wall, you need a left-hand facing sofa. If the chaise side needs to go against the right wall, you need a right-hand facing sofa.

Room flow and foot traffic

Think about how people will move around the space. Choose a side that doesn't block a main walkway, a doorway, or a path to another room. The shorter side of the "L" should ideally point away from high-traffic areas. For example, if the main entryway to your living room is on the right, you would want a left-hand facing sofa so the short side doesn't create an obstacle.

Focal point

Consider where the sofa will be in relation to the room's main focal point, such as a television, a fireplace, or a large window. Or will the sofa be the focal point itself? You generally want the longer, more central part of the sofa to face the TV, fireplace or window view so that as many people as possible can sit comfortably and see it.

Visual balance

Think about the overall aesthetics of the room. Which side feels more balanced with the other furniture? Which side creates a better sense of open space and flow? A good trick is to use masking tape on the floor to outline the sofa footprint. This simple visualisation can prevent you from making a costly mistake.

Can you change a corner sofa from left to right?

Make sure you get your sofa orientation right the first time, as most corner sofas are fixed units, built with a specific left or right-hand side.

It is possible, however, to get reversible chaise sofas. In this case, the ottoman or footstool section is typically detached and can be placed on either end, with the main sofa cushions configured to fit. Reversible chaise sofas are a great option if you plan to move furniture around or like to change up your layout.

And of course, a fully modular sofa gives you full flexibility. Modular sofas are made up of individual, self-contained units (modules) that can be connected in a variety of configurations.

 

 

How to measure a corner sofa

Once you've decided the type and shape of your corner sofa, you need to think about size and dimensions. Measuring your sofa correctly will ensure it won't be too big for your room and will fit through your door. 

Measuring your room

First, measure your room to ensure a corner sofa won't overwhelm your space. Here are the measurements you will need:

• The two lengths: A corner sofa has two main lengths. You need to measure the two walls or two sides of the space where the sofa will sit.

• The depth: Measure how far the sofa will stick out into the room. The depth is the distance from the back of the sofa (against the wall) to the very front edge of the seat cushions.

• The height: Measure from the floor to the highest point of the sofa, typically the top of the back cushions. The height measurement is important for ensuring it doesn't block a window or sit awkwardly below a low-hanging picture or shelf.

To help visualise the size or space you have available, use a newspaper or masking tape to mark out the sofa area to see if it will fit or disrupt the flow of traffic. Always consider the other furniture in your room and allow at least 50cm of space between furniture pieces. If you're looking for a corner sofa with a recliner or sofa bed, ensure there is enough room for these additional features. 

Measuring for delivery and transportation

Measuring for your delivery is an often-overlooked step that can lead to big problems on delivery day. Here are the measurements you need:

• Measure the front door: Measure the height and width, and don't forget to account for the door handle.

• Measure internal doors and hallways: Don't forget to measure any internal doors and hallways the sofa will have to pass through. The narrowest point is the most important measurement here.

• Stairs: If the sofa is going upstairs, measure the width of your staircase at its narrowest point. Also, measure the height and width of any landings to ensure there is enough room to turn the sofa.

• Tricky corners: Check for any tight corners or turns the delivery team will have to navigate. It's often the height of the sofa that is the issue when turning a corner.

Do corner sofas come apart for delivery?

If you're worried about a corner sofa being delivered to your home due to an awkward corner or narrow hall, fear not; there is a solution. Many of our larger corner sofas are delivered in multiple pieces to fit them through doors. Simply check the product descriptions of individual corner sofas to find out if they can be detached. 

How much does a corner sofa weigh?

You should never have to worry about the weight of a corner sofa, because when you purchase from Furniture Instore, we offer a dedicated delivery team with the necessary strength to deliver your sofa successfully.

If you have concerns about moving your sofa in the future, all our products have detailed weights listed in the product description. 

 

 

How to fit a corner sofa in a small room

If you have a small living room, there's no reason why you can't also enjoy the benefits of a corner sofa; you just have to be more tactical. The key is to choose the right size and position it so it maximises the space rather than overwhelms it.

Here are our top tips to choose the right corner sofa for a small living room:

1. Look at dimensions: Choose a small corner sofa that will fit your small living room.

2. Choose a chaise-end corner sofa: If a full corner or L-shaped sofa is too big, a chaise-end sofa provides the comfort of a corner sofa with a much smaller footprint.

3. Slim arms and low backs: A sofa with bulky, wide arms and a high back can make a room feel closed in. Opt for a design with slim, streamlined arms and a lower backrest to create a more open, airy feel.

4. Legs, not skirts: A sofa with exposed legs (especially tapered, wooden, or metal legs) will show more of the floor underneath. Exposed legs create a sense of lightness, making the room feel larger than it is, unlike a sofa with a solid base that goes all the way to the floor.

5. Modular designs: A modular sofa allows you to buy only the sections you need, as you can build a sofa that fits the exact dimensions of your small living room without wasting space.

Once you've chosen the right sofa, how you place it in the room is crucial. Here are our top tips on strategic placement:

1. Place it in the corner: The most effective way to use a corner sofa in a small room is to place it snugly against two walls. Doing this utilises a space that is often wasted and opens up the rest of the room for movement and other furniture.

2. Create a focal point: Position your sofa so it faces the main focal point of the room, whether it's the TV, a fireplace, or a large window. Doing this anchors the room and makes the layout feel intentional.

3. Don't overcrowd: Resist the urge to add too many other pieces of furniture. A large corner sofa can be the only seating you need in a small living room. Use multi-functional furniture like an ottoman with hidden storage or a nest of tables that can be tucked away to maximise space.

4. Allow for flow: Ensure there's a clear path for foot traffic around the sofa. The shorter side of the "L" should be positioned away from main walkways or doorways to maintain a sense of open space.

Lastly, the way you design and style your small living room can also have as much of an impact on how spacious it feels as the physical furniture. Here are our top styling tips to make a corner sofa fit in a small living room:

1. Opt for light colours: A sofa in a light, neutral colour like beige, light grey, or cream will make the sofa appear to recede and blend in with the walls, making the room feel larger and more open.

2. Utilise vertical space: When you can't go wide, go up! Use tall, slim bookshelves, floating shelves, or wall-mounted storage to draw the eye upward.

3. Use Mirrors: A large, strategically placed mirror can work wonders in a small room. By reflecting light and the opposite wall, it creates the illusion of depth and space.

4. Choose the right rug: A common mistake is using a rug that is too small. A large rug placed under the front two feet of the sofa and extending out can anchor the seating area and visually expand the room.

Style & upholstery

Last, but certainly by no means least, you should think about what style of corner sofa you want and what type of upholstery.

Style

When choosing your style, think about how to match your new corner sofa to your room's aesthetic. Here are some popular options:

• Contemporary corner sofas with sleek lines and a minimalistic aesthetic.

• Traditional corner sofas, perhaps with button details or rolled arms.

• Modern corner sofas with a clean aesthetic and metal legs instead of wood.

• Boho corner sofas with vibrant patterns and frilly details or decoration.

• Scandi-style corner sofas that emulate a Scandinavian way of life.  

Upholstery

Think about how the upholstery or your corner sofa will tie into the overall style, aesthetic of your room and lifestyle.

Fabric

Fabric corner sofas offer a wide range of colours, textures and patterns to suit your style. They offer a soft feel and are very durable. However, they may stain or fade. Read our guide on How to Clean Fabric Sofas with 7 Easy Methods for more information on how to keep your fabric sofa stain-free.

Leather

Leather corner sofas are durable and easy to clean. They also develop a nice patina over time for a luxurious look. However, they can be more expensive and can feel cold in winter and sticky in summer. There is also less colour variety.

Faux leather

Faux leather corner sofas are more affordable than real leather and are easy to clean. However, they can crack or peel over time and are less breathable. 

Final thoughts: Should I get a corner sofa, and what is the best corner sofa to get?

Ultimately, the best corner sofa is the one that suits your living room and lifestyle the best. Once you know what size and configuration you need for your space, you can start to choose elements that suit your needs.

If you're looking for a sofa that offers exceptional comfort for relaxing on and putting your feet up after a long day, a fantastic family sofa that maximises an unused corner in your living room or creates a more sociable hub in your lounge, a corner sofa is for you!

Corner sofas at Furniture Instore

At Furniture Instore, we offer an extensive range of corner and L-shaped sofas at affordable prices that suit every budget. Whether you're looking for a standout statement piece to revamp your living room or a comfortable way to open up your space for your family or guests, find the perfect corner sofa for your home today!

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