How to choose the right sofa size for your living room

A sofa is the piece you will use most, so its size matters more than almost anything else in the room. These are the measurements our designers check first.

1. Measure the wall, then leave space at both ends

Measure the wall the sofa will sit against. Aim for a sofa about two-thirds of that length, and leave at least 12–18 in at each end for a side table or lamp. On a 12 ft (144 in) wall, a sofa of 84–96 in usually looks balanced.

2. Keep the walkways clear

Leave about 30–36 in for the main walkway through the room, and 16–18 in between the sofa and the coffee table so you can sit down and reach a cup comfortably.

3. Choose the depth for how you sit

• 32–36 in deep: upright seating, good for smaller rooms and formal living rooms.
• 36–40 in deep: relaxed seating with room to tuck your feet up.
• 40 in and more: lounge seating, best when you have space behind the sofa.

4. Check seat height and arm height

A seat height of 17–19 in suits most people. Lower seats feel more relaxed but are harder to get out of. Slim arms give you more seat width in the same overall length.

5. Measure the way in

Measure the doorway, the lift and any tight corners on the stairs. Compare them with the sofa's depth and height, not just its width.

Not sure? Ask us

Most of our sofas are made to order, so the size, fabric and legs can often be adjusted. Share a photo and the measurements of your room and our designers will suggest a size that fits.