Sofas & Couches for the Reception Room

Sofas provide a comfortable place for the family to gather to watch TV, talk and relax. Whether you are looking for an option that will offer comfort and style in a traditional setting or a couch that pairs well with a formal parlor or den, Staples carries a variety of models that will match nearly any decorating scheme in rooms of all sizes.

Material Options for Sofas
Sofas and couches are available in metal, steel, wood, veneers and fiberboard. Metal and steel models are ideal for contemporary and modern settings. Distressed metal and wood designs work in country, vintage and mid-century rooms. Couches with exposed wood legs come in both traditional models and those that add curved and carved options for added visual interest. Fiberboard and veneer couches work well for those who need a budget-friendly design.

Choosing the Right Upholstery for Sofas
Upholstery options include a range of fabrics, vinyl, leather and microfiber. Linen, velvet and cotton options work well in areas with little traffic or in parlor sitting rooms to add softness and color. Vinyl, polyester and leather upholstery provide durability that withstands heavy use. Microfiber remains soft to the touch and is ideal for high-traffic areas. Mesh options promote air flow while sitting to keep users cool even when sitting for long periods.

When choosing sofa upholstery, consider the other fabrics used in the space. Soft fabrics pair with wood and metal decor to soften the look. Opt for neutral designs in rooms filled with color, or for those who like changing the look of the room frequently.

What Are the Size Considerations for Sofas?
The correct size for sofas and couches depends on how much space is available in the room. Large rooms with open areas can handle larger models. Users need to decide whether they want to add additional accent chairs and other seating options to ensure there is enough space. Consider sectionals for rooms with plenty of floor space. Smaller models provide seating without overwhelming smaller rooms. Make sure to measure the doorways leading into the home and desired room to ensure the design will fit.

How Many People Can Sofas Seat?
Sofas and couches are available in models that hold two people up to those that can handle ten or more. Traditional models seat three people comfortably and are ideal for rooms of average size. Sectionals hold four or more people and many options can be tailored to the specific seating needs of the room.

Which Sofas Are Suited for Heavy Use?
Wood and metal frames withstand frequent use. Models with vinyl are durable and require only a damp rag to keep them clean. Consider heavy-duty fabrics or those treated for stain-resistance for added protection against drips and spills. Both leather sofas and faux leather sofas withstand frequent use and clean up easily.

What Decorative Touches Are Available on Sofas?
A couch with bullion fringe or tufting pairs well with formal spaces. Options with skirts are ideal for areas with other pieces of furniture with exposed wood frames and legs. Models with cord trim hide the seams and offer a streamlined look. A couch with rolled arms provides added detail to the room and softens the overall look.