Buying Guides

Types of Couches & Sofas: A Style Guide

Choosing the right couch or sofa for your living space can make all the difference in both comfort and style. With so many options out there, from different designs and materials to various layouts, it can feel a bit overwhelming. Luckily, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own—and understanding the different types of couches and sofas, their unique features, and how they can fit perfectly in your home can really help. In this guide, we'll walk you through a variety of couch styles, materials, designs, and layouts so you can find the perfect piece for your space. Plus, we'll answer some common questions and show you some fantastic options available at Coleman Furniture.

Table of Contents

Couch Styles
Couch Materials
Couch Designs and Layouts
Common FAQS

8 Couch Styles First, consider the style you want to capture, which influences the tone, atmosphere, and design of your room. Here are some sofa styles to keep in mind.

1. Chesterfield

If you want something classic, start here. The Chesterfield sofa is known for its luxurious, deep button-tufted upholstery and rolled arms that are the same height as the back. This style is all about elegance and sophistication, making it a timeless addition to any living room.

2. Camelback

Camelback sofas feature a distinct arched back that resembles the hump of a camel, giving them their name. These sofas often have exposed wooden frames and legs, and the arms are commonly curved—perfect for adding a touch of classic charm to your space.

3. Tuxedo Sofa

The Tuxedo sofa boasts a sleek, boxy shape with arms that are the same height as the back. With its button-tufted back, the Tuxedo style’s clean lines and sophisticated look make it a great choice for modern and contemporary interiors.

4. Lawson

Lawson sofas are designed for comfort, with soft, deep cushions and arms that are lower than the back. This versatile style works well in a variety of settings, offering both coziness and style.

5. English Roll Arm

Very traditional, the English Roll Arm sofa features deep seats, low rolled arms, and tight back cushions. Its timeless design adds a touch of elegance and comfort to any room—and because they are so classic, they work for all kinds of arrangements.

6. Mid-Century Modern

Mid-Century Modern sofas are known for their clean lines and minimalist design and often feature tapered wooden legs. This style is ideal for those who love a retro or modern look.

7. Cabriole

Cabriole sofas have a continuous, curving line from the back to the arms, creating an elegant and fluid shape. They often have exposed wooden frames and are great for traditional or vintage-inspired interiors.

8. Daybed

Daybeds serve as both a sofa and a bed, providing a multifunctional piece of furniture. They are perfect for small spaces or guest rooms, offering a comfortable place to sit or sleep.

Couch Materials It’s also helpful to look at the materials that different types of sofas may come in. Here are some of the most common ones that you will run into during your search.

Polyester

Polyester is a durable and versatile material known for its excellent stain resistance and easy maintenance, offering a soft yet resilient feel, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.

Eco Leather

Eco leather is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional leather, made from recycled materials. It provides a similar look and feel to genuine leather while being more sustainable and often more affordable.

Genuine Leather

Genuine leather is renowned for its luxurious feel and long-lasting durability. It ages beautifully, developing a unique patina over time, and is a great choice for a classic, sophisticated look. Leather sofas are also hypoallergenic, making them an excellent option for households with allergies.

Fabric

Fabric sofas come in a wide range of colors, patterns, and textures, offering endless customization options. They are generally considered comfortable and can suit various styles, from casual to formal.

Velvet

Velvet is a plush, soft fabric that adds a touch of luxury and elegance to any sofa. Its rich texture and sheen make it a standout choice for creating a cozy yet opulent atmosphere. Velvet sofas are perfect for adding a dramatic focal point to your living room, and they come in a variety of bold and subtle colors.

Chenille

Chenille is a soft, fuzzy fabric that feels great to the touch and adds a cozy vibe to your sofa. It's known for its durability and can add a bit of texture to your living space. Chenille is also resistant to pilling and fading, ensuring that your sofa looks beautiful for years to come.

Microfiber

Microfiber is a synthetic fabric that is exceptionally soft and resistant to stains and spills. It's easy to clean and maintain, making it a practical choice for families with children or pets.

Rayon

Rayon is a semi-synthetic fabric that mimics the feel of natural fibers like silk and linen. It's breathable and comfortable, often used in upholstery for its softness and versatility.

Couch Designs and Layouts You’ll also come across different types of couches in terms of size, the space they fill, seating options, and floor layout compatibility. Here are some of the most popular couch designs and how they are often used.

Sofa

A standard sofa typically features a straight, elongated design with three cushions and a balanced backrest, offering seating space for multiple people. Its versatile size fits well in a variety of room configurations, providing both comfort and function in living spaces of all sizes.

Loveseat

A classic sofa goes a long way, but sometimes, you don’t need your couch to take up so much space. A loveseat is a smaller version of a sofa, designed to comfortably seat two people. Its compact size makes it perfect for cozying up in smaller spaces or complementing a larger seating arrangement.

Sectional

Sectional sofas, as the name might suggest, are made up of multiple sections that can often be rearranged a bit. They are ideal for larger living rooms, providing plenty of seating and flexibility to suit different spaces and preferences. They are especially popular because of their versatility and comfort!

Sleeper Sofa

A sleeper sofa, also known as a sofa bed, features a fold-out mattress inside the sofa frame. This multifunctional piece is perfect for hosting overnight guests without sacrificing seating space during the day. It’s great if you don’t have a dedicated guest room but still want to offer comfortable sleeping accommodations.

Futons

Futons are another versatile type of furniture that can be used as both a couch and a bed. They typically have a simple, foldable design, making them a practical choice for small apartments or multifunctional rooms.

Modular

Modular sectionals consist of individual pieces that can be arranged and rearranged to create different seating configurations. In fact, most sectionals are considered modular. This design is perfect for those who like to customize their living space and adapt it to various needs and occasions. Many people are favoring modular couches since they can grow with your family and living arrangements.

Couch & Sofa Frequently Asked Questions What style of sofa is most popular? The most popular style of sofa varies, but currently, the Mid-Century Modern sofa is highly favored for its clean lines and minimalist design. Its timeless appeal makes it a versatile choice for various interior styles. Sectionals are also popular since they are so adaptable and accommodate all kinds of family sizes. What is a small couch called? A small couch is typically called a loveseat. Designed to seat two people, loveseats are perfect for smaller spaces or as complementary seating in larger rooms. How do I clean a couch? Deciding how to clean a couch depends on the material. Generally, you should start by vacuuming the surface to remove dust and debris. For fabric couches, spot clean with a mild detergent and water. Leather couches can be wiped down with a damp cloth and treated with a leather conditioner. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific care guidelines. What is a couch frame? A couch frame is the internal structure that supports the cushions and fabric of the couch. It is typically made from wood or metal and provides the necessary stability and durability for the sofa. This is what mainly determines the basic shape of your furniture. The frame can maintain its shape and structure for years! How do I measure a room for a couch or sectional? To measure a room for a couch or sectional, first measure the length, width, and height of the available space—a measuring tape is usually the easiest way to get your measurements. Consider doorways, windows, and other furniture to ensure the couch will fit comfortably. It’s also wise to take into account the placement of other furniture pieces in the room. Ensure that there is enough space for people to move around comfortably and that the new couch or sectional won’t overcrowd the space. Here’s a quick tip: Before making a purchase, use painter’s tape or newspaper to outline the dimensions of the couch or sectional on the floor. This will give you a visual representation of how much space the furniture will occupy and help you make any necessary adjustments. This is one of the more practical ways to test what your couch will feel like in your home. Don’t forget to measure the dimensions of the couch or sectional to ensure it will fit through entryways and into the designated space. What is the right cushion depth? The right cushion depth depends on personal comfort and the intended use of the couch. Standard cushion depths range from 20 to 24 inches. For a more relaxed seating position, opt for deeper cushions—you can really sink into the couch. Shallower cushions are better for formal seating arrangements or if you prefer to sit upright on your sofa. Otherwise, 20 to 22 inches is pretty standard and works for most people’s comfort levels. Incredible Couches at Coleman Furniture After exploring the various styles, materials, designs, and layouts of couches and sofas, you're now well-equipped to find the perfect piece for your living space. At Coleman Furniture, we take pride in offering a wide selection of high-quality couches, sofas, loveseats, sectionals, and more from popular brands. Whether you're looking for a luxurious Chesterfield, a versatile sectional, or a cozy loveseat, our collection has something to suit every taste and need.. We understand that choosing the right furniture is an important decision, and we're here to help you make it with confidence. Our expertly curated selection ensures that you'll find not only the style you love but also the comfort and durability you need. You can find the perfect couch or sofa to complete your home and enjoy the blend of comfort and elegance it brings. Start your journey to a more stylish and comfortable living space. Discover a wide selection of high-quality couches, sofas, loveseats, sectionals, and more from popular brands at Coleman Furniture.