Book yourself a free one-on-one session with West Elm’s design crew to get ideas and advice on how to design your new home. Beautiful decor doesn’t have to be daunting. When you shop at West Elm, their qualified design crew is here to help you feel at home.
Your go-to guide for decorating, entertaining and more.
The Sofa Guide
Shopping for the perfect sofa but don’t know where to start? West Elm experts are here to help.
Size
From Their Expert: “What kind of space are you living in, and how long will you be there? Long-term homeowners can be more specific in their choices. Apartment renters should choose functional pieces that can be reworked in different spaces.” - Michael, Home Stylist, West Elm Paramus
There are different sizes that can transform a living space. Check out some of them below.
Loveseats

Also known as 2-seaters, loveseats offer comfort and style without overwhelming a room. They’re often seen with two individual cushions or one long bench cushion. Pro tip: they can also be used at the foot of a bed.
Sofas

Perfect for a more traditional living room arrangement, 140-165 cm sofas are still conducive for small spaces, while 165-190.5 cm — or wider — sofas can anchor a larger room.
Small Modulars

Limited on space but want the benefits of a modular? Go for a small modular. Its chaise component provides plenty of comfy seating, ideal for entertaining + family lounging alike.
Large Modulars

Best suited for open floor plans, a large modular anchors a room and can function as a space divider, separating the living area from the dining or kitchen. Made of modular pieces, it configures into several shapes—West Elm design experts love how an ottoman can function as a chaise or coffee table.
Sofa Beds

Opt for a sofa bed if you’re looking to add that extra functionality to your living space. They’re available in single, double and queen sizes.
Choosing Your Fabric
From Their Expert: “If you like to change things up, choosing a neutral sofa is the way to go. It will serve as a blank canvas, allowing you to add a pop of colour, indulge in a trend or even change your room’s paint colour without having to re-upholster to accommodate the change.” - Ida, Home Stylist, West Elm Toronto.
Find Your Fabric
Functionality is key, and they have fabrics to suit every lifestyle—from durable tweeds and twills that hide spills to their easy-to-maintain performance velvet.
Find Your Colour
A poppy sofa can be the statement-making focal point of a neutral space or become the central theme of the overall room.
Consider Leather
Not really liking the fabrics? Then opt for an easier option - Leather.
Easy to clean, leather is always in style and wears well with age. Best known for its beautiful colours, their aniline leather develops a rich vintage patina over time.
It’s All In The Details
From Their Expert: “I love statement legs! They add so much personality to a sofa and airiness to small spaces. The Andes Sectional’s cast-metal legs and Brooklyn Sofa’s boomerang legs are my favourites.” - Jiyoung, Home Stylist, West Elm Logan Circle
Cushions

Family movie nights? Choose a style with plush, sink-right-in cushions. Always entertaining? Tight cushions allow for more seating space with a cleaner silhouette. For a completed look, throw in a few plump cushions in complementary hues.
Arms

Curved arms complement the traditional style, while straight arms give a clean-lined, modern feel. Armless silhouettes can be ideal for small spaces, providing a streamlined choice that doesn’t skimp on style.
Legs

A sofa with legs can make your room feel lighter and more open. Tapered solid wood legs offer a retro look, borrowing from classic mid-century design. Straight metal legs complement a modern + sleek aesthetic. Low block legs lend a more traditional, comfortable silhouette.
Still, looking for more advice? Visit West Elm’s website today and get your expert advice from the design team.