Sofa Buying Checklist: A Step-by-Step Decision Guide

January 19 2026, by Ruth Wilbur, 3 min reading time

Buying a sofa sounds simple until you try to choose one. Size, shape, comfort, fabric, frame, cushions, colour… and suddenly you’re 27 tabs deep and still unsure.

This guide walks you through the decision in a sensible order, so you can confidently pick a sofa you’ll love living with, especially if you’re leaning into a vintage or maximalist style look.

Step 1: Decide what the priorities of the sofa are

Before measurements or materials, start with how you’ll actually use the sofa day to day.

Everyday lounging? Prioritise deep seats, supportive cushions, and durable upholstery.
Entertaining? Consider larger seating capacity, corner sofas or modular layouts.
Small space? Slim arms will maximise seating space and help make the room feel bigger.
Pets/kids? Consider an easy to clean plush velvet, or our aniline leather with hot wax for added durability.

Step 2: Measure your space (properly)

We go into how to measure your sofa in depth here but briefly, grab a tape measure and note the width, depth, and height of the area where the sofa will sit, not forgetting to allow space for walkways, doors, and other furniture). Check the sofa’s full dimensions (including arms and back height) and compare them carefully to your available space.

Don't forget to leave clearance for doors, drawers, and radiators, TV viewing distance if this is your main seating area.

Layout tip: Mark the sofa footprint on the floor using masking tape. Live with it for a day, you’ll instantly notice if it blocks flow.

Finally, measure the delivery access - front door, hallways, staircases, landings, and internal doors - focusing on the tightest points along the route.

Step 3: Identify your sofa style

Your sofa is often the visual anchor of a room, so style matters just as much as comfort. Are you drawn to classic, timeless designs, or do you prefer bold colours and statement pieces? Perhaps you love a more eclectic or maximalist look that brings personality and character into your space.

Take time to browse different styles, shapes, and finishes to see what naturally catches your eye. Pay attention to details like arm shape, leg style, upholstery, and overall silhouette - these small elements make a big difference to the final look.

There’s no right or wrong choice. The key is choosing a sofa that feels like you and works with the rest of your home, rather than following trends that may not last.

Step 4: Choose the right size and configuration

Ask yourself: How many people need seats daily? Do you want to lie down fully? (If yes, look at seat depth and overall length.) Will you need an extra bed for hosting?

Step 5: Comfort check-focus on seat height, depth, and back support

Look at: seat height: higher is easier to get up from; lower feels loungey.

Seat depth: deeper suits lounging; shallower suits upright sitting.

Back height +sofa construction: is it sprung back and seat? Are you looking for something slightly firmer for a more supportive sit?

Would you prefer a higher back sofa if working from home frequently or reading?