Are Corner Sofas Any Good?

In comparison to traditional designs, are corner sofas any good? It’s become impossible to not notice them, sectionals have become a feature piece in almost every contemporary furniture store in the UK.

Their popularity has risen from the fact that they work well in both large and small spaces alike. At first glance, it's easy to assume that these sofas are bulky and overbearing, but they are actually an incredibly efficient use of your space.

If you’re not sure they are the right choice for you, read on as we answer the most common questions we are asked about these comfy seats.

Corner sofas - what are they and how do they work

A corner sofa is a sofa that has some of its seats arranged at a right angle to the others. Most are L shaped with one edge being shorter than the other. You can also find styles where both sides are of equal length.

They vary in their sizes and configurations with the option for customization from this large Helmut Sofa by Longhi to compact versions like the Denny Sofa by Gamma & Dandy.

It’s important to note that unless you're buying a modular sofa, your corner sofa will come as either left or right-arm style. This simply indicates which side the short edge will be on. To avoid being confined to a left or right side, opt for modular styles. These are made up of individual pieces joined together, so you can move each around to create the layout you need.

The simplest kind of modular corner sofa is just a simple extension that you can put next to an ordinary sofa to create a second edge. This could have a back and arm, or it could be in the form of a backless seat that can also be put elsewhere in the room as a footstool or ottoman.

Pros and cons of corner sofas

Pros

• Great for small Rooms: If you have a small living room, the l-shaped sofa will be great for your living area and it can accommodate more people.
• Additional features - can come with extra features like ottomans, end tables, recliners, adjustable headrests, or even mobile phone docks make the sofa super cool.
• Great for entertainers - configuration is conducive for close interactions with friends and provides an excellent view for watching shows on television.
• Saves money: Compared to the price of buying the entire living room set, the price of a single corner sofa is low and it gives you what you need for living room furniture.
• Comfortable: The sectional couches are very comfortable since they are covered with quality leather or microfiber fabric. Some have reclining seats for more comfort.
• Free up extra space: The sofa can be placed in the corner of the living room creating some extra space for other furniture.

Cons

• Flexibility: not every living room will be suited to a left or right-arm corner sofa.
• Obstruct doorways or windows: In a small living room, the sectional sofa can obstruct the doorway or windows near it.
• Difficult cleaning: It is difficult to clean in between the segments if you don’t have a vacuum cleaner.
• Expensive To reupholster: It will take more time and material to upholster compared to traditional sofas.

Who should buy a corner sofa

You will benefit from corner sofas if you want to create a lot of seating but have a small living room. A sectional will give you more lounging room without taking up a lot of floor space.

Secondly, if you have an unconventionally shaped space, placing a sofa in an awkward corner might be the only way to create a cohesive layout.

Alternatively, if you have a large open-plan living area, and L shaped sofa will be the best way to define zones by separating the TV area from the rest of the space

How to style a corner sofa in your home

Corner sofas give you plenty of room to show off your styling.

The first step is to choose one in a fabric that compliments your current theme. As it will become the main piece of furniture, use your sectional to tie your design aesthetic together.

With your design chosen, add a coffee table, bookshelves, and lamp tables around your sofa. If you have created a very moody room with dark decor, add lamps beside or behind your sofa. These will draw attention to your beautiful piece of furniture.

Soften up your sectional by adding cushions and throws. You can keep it minimalist by using neutrals or use bright patterns for visual interest.

Complete the look by laying a beautiful rug by your seat. depending on your look, you can use a rich fuzzy style or an artful one that will inject a pop of colour into the room.

Examples of stylish corner sofas

There are a few options when it comes to choosing your corner sofa. Here are some of the stylish designs you can buy.

Chaise End

This type of sofa has an extension to the seat on one end like the Boss Sofa by Naustro Accent Collection. Though not a full corner, the chaise creates a slight L shape which can be used as additional seating.

Recliner

The perfect choice for home theatres, a sectional with recliners, like the Megan Sofa by Naustro Nexus Collection, gives you the ability to lower the back of the sofa and raise the base of it as a footrest. There are many modern designs that are electronically operated for ultimate viewing comfort.

Sofa Bed

A popular style for small rooms is a corner sofa with a daybed. This allows you to lounge during the day and can be used as extra sleeping for guests. Most designs come with storage space under the seats making them multifunctional in compact spaces.

The best places to buy corner sofas online

If you’re convinced that your living room will function and look better with a corner sofa, we would be happy to help you find the best one for your home. Our team of experts has over 35 years of experience curating the most beautiful collection of long-lasting and stylish corner sofas.

With over 700 of the world's most exciting brands to choose from, we are confident that you will get exactly what you want. Because most of our designs come with customisable options, you will find a variety of styles. Leather or fabric, classic or modern, with or without arms, a wooden or metal frame, legs or no legs etc.

Chat with us about your lifestyle, personal taste and budget, and we will help you choose the perfect corner sofa.

In conclusion

Corner sofas have plenty to offer the modern homeowner, especially if you’re after a great mix of comfort, functionality and value for money.

At FCI, we’re excited to offer our customers a unique selection of contemporary corner sofas in a wide variety of fabrics and modern designs. Browse our collection online or pop into our showroom to find the perfect fit for you and your space!