14 Types of Sofas You Should Know

Choosing a sofa does not limit to size, price, colour and material, the form and function of the sofa are equally important. In this guide we have explained 14 styles and their defining characteristics from arms to legs. Knowing these styles will help you appreciate great design, brush up on your design vocabulary and tell how different a chesterfield is from a tuxedo just like a pro. And if you're planning to buy one, it's always better to know the different styles so you can pick your favourite and know exactly what you're looking for. Here are 14 styles of sofas to choose from.

1. Sectional Sofa
The section sofa is a multi-piece sofa. It can be arranged in a number of configurations with many styles, designs and materials depending on your preference. The common configurations are L-shape, U-shape, J-shape and semi-circle. The number of pieces are generally three and five.

Suggested for: larger living rooms; great if you like to stretch out.

2. Chesterfield
The chesterfield sofa is known for its “quilted” or “tufted” style. Some have tufted design only at the back while some on seating section as well. It continues to be a popular style with current sofa trends.

Suggested for: most settings; an iconic design that can be dressed up or down;  a traditional look in the living room or study.

3. Lawson
Firmly stuffed with three back cushions, arms lower than back, the Lawson can either have rolled or square arms. It's often skirted. Designed for comfort, this style’s signature design element has a back which is not upright, but pitched at a very restful angle. A popular sofa design today, the Lawson style sofa is available in many sizes, colours and materials.

Suggested for: versatility – can suit a modern or trad scheme; low, boxy arms are great for napping.

4. Tuxedo
A Tuxedo can be recognised with its high straight arms in line with streamlined back, often with a single row of tufts and exposed legs. No back cushions.

Suggested for: making a style statement; sleek, contemporary interiors.

5. Mid-Century Modern 
From 1940 to 1970 mid-century modern furniture reigned supreme. This style of sofa is all about minimalist design and clean lines. There are many varieties of this style of sofa.  It’s designed to look good and be comfortable.

Suggested for: the design-conscious; a retro or Scandinavian-inspired look, style-conscious apartments and young couples.

6. English Roll Arms
This style of sofa is also called Bridgewater and is known for its low rolled arms in relation to a high back. Upholstery is tight throughout, yet cushioned all over, including the arms.

Suggested for: both style and comfort.

7. Camel back
A classic design this sofa style’s main design feature is a higher back in the centre which descends in a continuous line into the arms of the sofa. It is also recognized for its exposed wooden trim.

Suggested for: those who like a firmer back support; suits a more traditional setting.

8. Cabriole
This sofa style’s trademark design element is its continuous, equal-height back and arms.  Often the arms curve inwards, creating a long line from arm to arm.

Suggested for: smaller living rooms; firm seats are ideal for those needing additional support.

9. Chaise Lounge
A Chaise is a long chair where you can stretch your legs without the use of an ottoman. The back is usually at a semi-reclining angle. A Chaise Longue is also known as 'Chaise Lounge' in North America. Chaise lounges may have an arm while others may have none.  It is extremely popular as a patio furniture typically found along pool sides.

Suggested for: personal space, stretching legs.

10. Loveseat Sofas
The loveseat sofa is an umbrella term for a sofa made for two people. They’re often part of a living room set. Like sofas, loveseats come in many styles and designs such as camelback, cabriole, and the like. The early designs (1800s) of loveseats were not intended to be cosy but rather to accommodate the large dresses worn by ladies of the period.

Suggested for: couples; can be handy if space is tight.

11. Divan
A divan is a sofa without a back. They require being placed against a bare wall against which you can arrange pillows for a cushioned back.

Suggested for: families, relaxing, and living rooms.

12. Sofa bed
 A sofa that doesn't look like a sofa bed but can be converted into a bed. The functional aspect of it includes that it serves as a space saver.

Suggested for: families; space saving; plump cushions and padded arms make it comfy for relaxing.

 13. Knole
 Its distinguished features are straight high back with adjustable arms which can be opened out for naps. The seating has a considerable depth and was used as a throne by royal families.

Suggested for: traditional schemes; its lofty proportions are ideal for larger spaces.

14. Modular sofas
 As opposed to sectional sofas, these are so named because you can take apart the different sections and reattach them into different shapes according to your taste and function.

Suggested for: socialising; works well in larger open-plan living spaces, and entertaining spaces.