Your Guide to the Perfect Couch for the Living Room

The family room is often the central hangout in the family room. That’s where everyone gathers for movie night, to play games and just to hang out together. If your family room needs some freshening up, but you are not sure where to start, the couch is what you should focus on first.

The couch needs to be big enough for you and the kids to curl up on and comfortable enough so no one gets any back aches during movie night. But of course you also want the room to be stylish as well. Buying a couch is a big decision because it is such an investment so it is important to take your time shopping.

Here’s your guide to the perfect couch for the family room:

Figure Out Exactly What You Need

The first thing you need to do before you even start shopping around is to figure out exactly what you need for the space you have. Ask yourself some important questions like how much seating do you need and do you need extra sleeping options?

This will help you decide between the different types of couches. There are sectionals for big families or if you love to entertain a lot. Then if you love to put your feet up, you might prefer instead a chaise sofa or recliner. Chaise sofas are a hybrid of a sectional and recliners so you can put up your feet and relax while still being stylish. And of course if you need more sleeping space for overnight guests than a sleeper couch should be at the top of your list.

You also need to consider size and configuration. Sofas usually vary in length from six to eight feet in length and the average height is 37 inches. More contemporary styles tend to be a little shorter in height, about 33 inches. If you go with a taller couch, it usually works best placed against a wall.

Avoid the Matchy Matchy Sofa and Love Seat

For the longest time, in most homes you would find matching pairs of sofas and loveseats in family rooms and living rooms, but that trend is fading away and sectionals and chaise sofas are becoming more popular. Keep in mind though that sectionals are usually tailored to a specific layout so if you move into a new home, it might not fit the new space.

Another problem with loveseats is that they usually are not large enough to fit two adults comfortably. You might prefer getting two chairs with the couch instead.

Durability, Durability, Durability

From rambunctious kids to hairy house pets, your couch is going to get beat up on a daily business. There will be wear and tear and spilled drinks that will start to show on the couch unless you choose one that is easy to take care of. While you might be tempted to focus on the style of the couch, its durability is really going to matter more down the line, especially in this room.

The most durable couches tend to have eight-way hand-tied springs. They tend to be on the more expensive side. Sinuous-spring construction and web suspension are also good choices.

Durability should be your top consideration when it comes to upholstery options. Microfiber is best for kid-friendly sofas because it resists wear and is easy to clean.+

Measure and Check It Twice

You also need to make sure that your new couch fits the space in your family room. The rule of thumb is for there to be about 18 inches between the sofa and the coffee table and there should be about 3.5 to 10 inches between the couch and other furniture. Also keep in mind that end tables should be about the same height as the arm of the couch. In addition, make sure to measure your doorway to make sure the coach will be able to get into the house once you buy it.

Interior design experts recommend that if you have a small apartment or home then a 72-inch couch is probably your best bet. If you have a larger home or a more open layout in the family room, then you can splurge on a 96-inch option.

If you have area rugs in your family room, then another consideration you need to make is the size of the area rugs and how you want them placed in the room. Ideally the feet of your new couch should be completely on the rug or all the furniture should be arranged around the rug.

Pick the Best Style to Fit Your Aesthetics

There are so many different style of couches out there from chesterfield sofas to mid-century minimalist sectionals. Pick what goes with the overall aesthetic of the room. If you want the room to have a more laid back vibe, then you are not going to want to pick out a more tailored and formal couch.

One type of couch that is growing in popularity is cowhide leather couch. It is a sophisticated look that goes well with some many different aesthetics. Cowhide furniture is not just for western style or country living style rooms.

Another choice you will have to make is with the types of backs of the couch. With loose-cushion backs, the pillows can be taken off the couch and rearranged in any you want. On the down side though, if you have kids, they will probably be constantly kicking the pillows onto the floor and making pillow forts. It can be a little annoying to always having to clean them up every time you pass by the room.

With a semi attached back, you won’t have to worry about having to clean up loose cushions. The most tailored looking back is the tight back, but keep in mind you will be exchanging style for comfort because these couches have less cushion.

Ultimately, don’t let all the options available overwhelm you. If you take the time to do some research and go to furniture stores and try some out, you will feel more confident with whatever choice you decide to make. It is also a good idea to pay attention to the family rooms of friends and family who you visit. You may find yourself inspired by what you see, and you can always ask them for advice on what to shop for.

For more information about cowhide leather couches, contact Cowhide Outlet today.