Design 101

Choose the Best Sectional for a Small Space

November 14, 2024
Bloomingdale's

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 best sectionals for small spaces and styling tips. 

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Selecting a Sectional for Small Spaces

Choosing the best sectional for a small living room requires careful planning. Resist the urge to buy one until you’ve completed these essential steps: 

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. 

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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. 

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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 best 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. 

U-Shaped 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. 

Styling a Small Space Sectional Sofa 

A sectional is one of the easiest pieces of furniture to style. Styling a small space sectional with rugs, pillows, blankets, and lights can enhance the coziness and charm of the area. Here are some key ideas:

Throw pillows: 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.

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Blankets: 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.

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Rugs: Choose a rug that fits the scale of the sectional without overwhelming the space. A neutral or lightly patterned rug can anchor the seating area while making the room feel larger.

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Lights: Add floor or table lamps to create layered lighting around the sectional. Soft, warm lighting enhances the cozy atmosphere, while adjustable or dimmable lights can add functionality to the space.

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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.  

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