FurnitureInstore

Buying Guide

Find your perfect sofa with ease. From size and style to materials and comfort, our guide helps you choose confidently so you get a sofa that fits your home, lifestyle, and budget - hassle-free.

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Buying Guide: Key Considerations & Questions

Key Considerations

  • Main Purpose - Decor, family use, or guest space?
  • Space & Layout - Room size, flow, and doorways.
  • Budget vs Investment - Daily use sofas may require higher quality.
  • Materials - Leather, fabric, faux leather, or innovative blends.
  • Sofa Designs - 1-seater, 2-seater, 3-seater, corner sofas, recliners, sofa beds.
  • Measurements - Ensure comfort and room fit.
  • After Delivery - Acclimatisation, maintenance, and setup.

Questions to Ask Yourself

  • Are you replacing like-for-like, or changing the style entirely?
  • What room and decor will it live in - high-traffic area or occasional use?
  • Do you need a timeless design for future redecoration?
  • Do you have pets or children to consider?
Tip: Bring a room photo and paint colour swatch when visiting our showroom - it makes choosing a finish much easier.

Upholstery Explained

Materials - What to Know

The material you choose affects comfort, durability, maintenance, and overall look. Here is a breakdown of the most common options.

Brown leather sample

Genuine Leather

The real deal - natural hide with authentic character and feel.

  • Semi-aniline: corrected surface defects for a uniform finish
  • Slightly less natural character than full aniline
  • Ages beautifully with a natural patina
  • Easy to clean with a damp cloth
Beige color swatch

Leather Aire

Fabric-backed, breathable alternative to traditional leather feel.

  • Soft, fabric-like feel with a leather appearance
  • Highly breathable and cooler in summer
  • Does not crack or peel like synthetics
  • Durable and long-lasting
Black circular object on a white background

Bonded Leather

A blend of real leather fibres with PU binder.

  • Combines real hide fibres with PU binder
  • Good resilience and leather appearance
  • More affordable than genuine leather
  • Consistent texture across the surface
Brown circular object on a white background

Faux Leather

Vinyl-based leather look at an accessible price point.

  • Budget-friendly leather-look option
  • Easy to wipe clean day-to-day
  • Not ideal for heavy long-term use
  • Good for occasional-use pieces
Solid pink color swatch

Velvet

A bold, luxurious choice that adds drama and warmth to any room.

  • Striking visual impact with deep, rich colours
  • Soft, plush touch that feels luxurious
  • Great as a statement or accent piece
  • Brush with a soft cloth to maintain pile direction
White pearls on a white background

Chenille

A practical, tactile fabric ideal for everyday use.

  • Hard-wearing and resistant to everyday wear
  • Soft, textured surface that is comfortable to sit on
  • Available in a wide range of colours and weaves
  • Good choice for busy family households

Different Sofa Designs

Every home is different. Find the sofa design that suits your space, household, and lifestyle.

Beige armchair with a small table and plant in a minimalistic room

1-Seater / Armchairs

Compact seating that works well in reading corners and tighter room layouts.

Woman in a white outfit sitting on a brown leather sofa in a bright living room.

2-Seater

A flexible fit for apartments and medium spaces without crowding the room.

Woman arranging cushions on a gray sofa in a living room.

3-Seater

Great daily-use format with balanced comfort and visual presence.

Beige sectional sofa in a living room with decor elements.

Corner Sofas

Maximizes seating while using room corners efficiently.

Woman sitting in a recliner chair with a blanket, looking at a phone in a cozy living room.

Recliner Sofas

Choose from manual (pull-tab mechanism) or electric models with multi-position recline and USB charging. Ultimate relaxation for movie nights or unwinding.

Brown sofa with a pillow against a neutral wall and dark curtains.

Sofa Beds

The smart choice for guest rooms or compact homes. Two-fold mechanisms offer a quick, easy transition from sofa to bed. Consider a mattress topper for added comfort.

Get It Right

Measurements & Sizing

Key measurements to consider before purchasing your furniture.

Length

Length

Overall width left to right.

Height

Height

Floor to highest back point. Taller backs = more support.

Depth

Depth

Front to back affects lounging and room flow.

Seat Height

Seat Height

Floor to top of seat - important for mobility.

Seat Depth

Seat Depth

Cushion depth; deeper = more luxurious feel.

Seating Length

Seating Length

Usable space between armrests.

Before You Order - Room Checklist

  • Measure room width, depth, and ceiling height
  • Check all doorways, hallways, and staircase widths
  • Allow 45cm clearance around the sofa for movement
  • Mark out the footprint with masking tape on the floor
  • Note radiator and socket positions

Standard UK Sofa Sizes

2-Seater ~140-170cm wide
3-Seater ~180-220cm wide
Corner Sofa ~240-320cm per side
Armchair ~80-100cm wide
Seat Height ~40-50cm (standard)
Seat Depth ~50-65cm (standard)

What Happens Next

After Delivery

Delivery Timescales

  • Most orders delivered within 7 days
  • Coastal areas may take up to 2 weeks
  • Sunday deliveries for postcodes within the M25
  • Scotland deliveries every other Saturday

Booking Your Delivery

  • Our team contacts you 2 days before to book your slot
  • You will receive an estimated arrival time (ETA)
  • Deliveries start from as early as 6am
  • Driver calls at least 30 minutes before arrival

Assembly & Extras

  • Ground floor deliveries are free of charge
  • Premier assembly service available from GBP49.99
  • Includes removal of all packaging materials
  • Acclimatise your sofa for 24-48 hours before heavy use

Need Help? Our Team is Ready.

Call us free - we are available 7 days a week for any delivery or product questions.

02476 705 600