How to Choose the Perfect Sofa for Your Living Room

August 16, 2025

Your sofa is more than just a place to sit — it’s the centrepiece of your living room, the hub for relaxation, and a key design element in your home. At EM Shop, we stock a wide range of sofas and lounges to suit Australian homes, from compact 2-seaters to spacious modular designs.

Here’s how to choose the sofa that fits your space, style, and lifestyle.

1. Measure Your Space Before You Buy

The first step in choosing the right sofa is making sure it fits your room. Measure your:

Available floor space
Doorways and hallways for delivery access
Distance from walls, coffee tables, and other furniture

If you have a small apartment, a 2-seater or compact modular might be best. For open-plan living, a corner lounge or large sectional can help define the space.

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2. Select the Right Sofa Size and Seating Capacity

Sofa size should match both your space and your seating needs:

2-Seater – Ideal for apartments or small living rooms.
3-Seater – A versatile choice for most households.
Modular or Sectional – Flexible configurations to suit changing needs.
Chaise Lounge – Perfect for stretching out and relaxing.

Tip: Leave at least 60–90 cm of clearance in front of the sofa for easy movement.

3. Choose the Upholstery Material for Comfort & Durability

The fabric or leather you choose will affect how your sofa feels, looks, and wears over time:

Fabric Sofas – Soft and versatile, with a wide range of colours and textures.
Leather Lounges – Durable, easy to clean, and develop character over time.
Performance Fabrics – Stain-resistant and great for families or pet owners.

Tip: Light fabrics make a room feel airy, while dark tones are easier to maintain in busy homes.

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4. Match Your Sofa to Your Interior Style

Your sofa should complement your existing décor:

Modern – Clean lines, minimalist designs, and neutral tones.
Classic – Rolled arms, tufted backs, and timeless silhouettes.
Scandinavian – Light wood accents, soft neutrals, and simple elegance.
Industrial – Leather finishes with metal or timber frames.

Choose a style that blends with your coffee tables, rugs, and TV units for a cohesive look.

5. Think About Comfort and Support

The perfect sofa balances comfort with structure:

Seat Depth – Deeper seats are great for lounging, while shallower seats work for more upright seating.
Cushion Fill – Foam offers firm support, while feather or fibre fills feel softer and more relaxed.
Back Support – High backs offer head support; low backs create a more open feel.

If you spend a lot of time on your sofa, test similar styles in-store before ordering online.