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DESIGN 101
Essential Tips for Choosing Sectionals for Small Spaces
A cozy sectional is the ultimate living room luxury. This expansive furniture lets you sprawl out in front of the TV for a Netflix marathon, or curl up with your latest favorite novel. A sectional also offers plenty of room to socialize with friends or cuddle with your loved ones.
If you live in a small home, you might assume you don’t have room for a sectional. But don’t worry. There are many sectional sofas for small spaces, so you don’t have to sacrifice your comfort for square footage.
This guide covers the history of sectionals, the best sectionals for small spaces, and styling tips.
History of Sectional Sofas
The origins of the sectional date back to the 19th century. Furniture companies in Virginia created three-piece sectional sofas that military members could easily separate to transport between battle camps. However, this furniture remained a niche item for over 100 years.
In the 1940s, furniture designer Harvey Probber invented the modern sectional. He created upholstered furniture in different geometric shapes that people could combine in various layouts. Probber referred to this design as a “modular system.”
The popularity of the sectional grew throughout the 20th century. Furniture designers used foam rubber and molded plywood to mass-produce sectionals for American families. People used sectionals to seat guests for holiday parties and other events.
Today, the sectional remains one of the most popular types of furniture. Modern sectionals have many optional amenities, including cup holders and built-in USB ports.
The Best Sectionals for Small Spaces
People often picture oversized sectional couches designed for six or more people. However, sectionals come in a broad range of configurations and styles. Here are the top sectionals for small spaces:
Two-piece sectionals with chaises
These sectionals resemble regular sofas with a chaise extending from one end. They can comfortably seat two or three people. A two-piece sectional fits neatly into many small spaces.
L-shaped sectionals
As the name suggests, these couches have two sections joining in an L. They’re designed to be tucked into a corner to minimize the amount of floor space they occupy. This shape makes them ideal for apartments and small houses.
Curved sectionals
This stylish furniture is shaped like an arc or crescent. Consider two-pieced curved sectional sofas for small spaces. However, this furniture can’t sit flush against the wall, so it takes up more floor space than an L-shaped sectional.
Modular sectionals
These sectionals have multiple separate pieces that you can easily pull apart and reattach. You can rearrange this flexible furniture to accommodate guests or switch up your space.
Sectionals with storage
Maximize your space by choosing a small sectional with storage compartments. These drawers let you stash blankets, remote controls, and other necessities out of sight.
Reclining sectionals
Some sectionals have built-in recliners for optimal comfort and relaxation. The best reclining sectionals for small spaces typically have one or two reclining seats to conserve space. They may also have a chaise to provide an additional space to stretch your legs.
Selecting a Sectional for Small Spaces
Choosing the right sectional for a small living room requires careful planning. Resist the urge to buy one until you’ve completed these essential steps:
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Measure your space
Use a tape measure to calculate the dimensions of the available space. You should also measure the doorway for your living room, hallways, and other spaces the sectional will pass through. This step will help you avoid the disappointment of buying a sectional that won’t fit inside your home.
Learn more•
Envision your layout
Picture how you’ll arrange the rest of the furniture once you’ve added your sectional. Ideally, you should leave at least two to three feet between items so you can easily navigate your space.
Learn moreStyling a Sectional Sofa
A sectional is one of the easiest pieces of furniture to style.
Start by adding throw pillows in complementary colors. For example, blue or red throw pillows add bursts of color to a black or white sectional. Additionally, patterned throw pillows add visual interest to a solid-colored couch.
Make the sectional even cozier by draping soft blankets over the back or the chaise. For instance, you could add a luxurious mustard-yellow blanket to a navy sectional. Meanwhile, a fuzzy green blanket could draw out earthy tones in a neutral brown or beige leather sectional.
Add Cozy Seating to Your Small Space
Get the most out of your small space with a strategically chosen sectional. This popular furniture will allow you and your guests to enjoy your living room in maximum comfort.