U-shaped sectionals are a natural addition to many living and family rooms. They’re built to foster conversations, provide maximum seating, enhance comfort and relaxation, and are perfect for family movies or game nights. Learn how to pick the best U-shaped sectional for your home with our buying guide.
A U-shaped sectional is also known as a three-sided sectional, with three straight sides and two corners. This includes a main couch and a chaise coming off each end to form that U-shape.
U-shaped sectional sofas include anywhere from six or more segments and seat 10-12 people. They generally come with wooden or metal frames and are upholstered with leather, linen, velvet, cotton, polyester, and more.
Benefits of a U-Shaped Sectional
- Perfect for larger rooms with a lot of space
- Many configurations allow for maximum comfort.
- Sightlines to all your guests are great for conversations and entertaining.
- Provides ample seating with three full sides.
- Double as guest beds if people are staying over.
- Creates a circular flow enhanced with a central coffee table.
How To Arrange a U-Shaped Sectional
These sectional couches come in oversized or compact sizes that work well in large areas such as dens, family rooms, or living rooms. They are great for family gatherings, movie nights, game nights, and other entertaining occasions.
Middle of A Room
Large U-shaped sectionals can easily be a focal point when placed in the middle of a room. A U-shaped sectional creates distinct spaces in an open floor plan and looks great paired with a rug and coffee table in the middle of a room.
Against a Back Wall
If you have a smaller room, place a compact U-shaped sectional against a back wall to make the most of the space. Pair with end tables for extra comfort and storage.
How To Style a U-Shaped Sectional
Rugs
Visually pleasing, comfy, and helping to add to the cohesion of a room, rugs are an important element in your living spaces. When shopping for rugs, avoid smaller sizes. Bigger rugs are always a better match for a sectional.
- Under the front feet: A popular option for U-shaped sectional sofas is to place the rug under only the front legs of all sides of your sectional couch. This helps pad the area where feet go and provide a streamlined look.
- Center your rug: If your sectional is in the middle of the room, consider centering the sectional on an area rug. This helps create a welcoming and cozy seating area.
An oval or circular coffee table is the perfect addition for U-shaped sectionals. The round shape makes it easy for guests to slide in and out of the sofa.
Consider opting for an ottoman with a wooden table tray, which provides the same uses as a coffee table and a comfortable place to prop your feet.
- The larger your sectional is, the larger the coffee table should be.
- For ample walking room, your coffee table should be spaced at least 14” from the edge of the sectional.
- The height of the coffee table should be no lower than 3” below, or 1” higher, than the seat.
Floor lamps squeeze into awkward places and shine soft, ambient lighting for reading, playing board games, or casual get-togethers. They are also made with moveable parts for task-oriented light.
If your sectional will be flush against a wall, a wall sconce is a great way to provide additional light without taking up floor space. Sconces may come with extra features, such as a swinging arm, to direct light where you need it.
A table lamp may also be placed on a coffee or side table. Table lamps are functional, aesthetically pleasing, and available in many styles and materials.
If you want to create an enclosed space for entertaining or having conversations, place a pair of accent chairs on the opposite side of the sectional for extra seating. Accent chairs are a fun design element and come in many styles and materials that blend in with your existing design or stand out.
The accent chairs should face the sofa, with a coffee table or ottoman in between, to create a circular space for entertaining.
While searching for your u-shaped sectional sofa, consider your tastes and preferences when it comes to color, fabric, and other details. While fabric upholstery and leather are popular choices, sectional couches come in a variety of materials and colors to match your design style.
Think about pre-existing furniture and decor. Do you want your sectional to blend seamlessly into the room or stand out with a beautiful fabric? The style you choose should be a blend of functionality, comfort, and aesthetics.
Leather
Suede
Fabric
Microfiber
2.
Consider Size & Shape
U-shaped sectional sofas are large and can overwhelm a room. When choosing your couch, take proper measurements in your space to see where the sectional will lay.
Consider the length and depth of the couch. Will it fit through doorways and stairwells? When placed in your room, will it extend past walls or walkways? Tape out the size of the sectional on the floor and ensure you have enough space to move.
3.
Consider Additional Features
Would you like extra comfort with a sectional that reclines? Or would you prefer more functionality with center consoles, cup holders, or USB ports?
Consider any additional features or functions you would like your sectional to have in your purchasing decision.
Find Quality U-Shaped Sectional Sofas
The maximum in comfort and seating, a U-shaped sectional is a must-have in many living and family spaces for a reason. If you are ready to build out your room with a quality U-shaped sectional couch, search our curated collection to find your perfect fit.