For most people, a sofa is where we dine, chat, watch TV, read and generally drown when we are getting anything done in the living room. Some use coaches in offices. A good sofa should look good, feel comfortable and stand up to great years of service with little to no wear and tear.
But shopping for a sofa… That’s where the rubber meets the road. If you have recently gone sofa shopping, you understand what that means. You might spend tons of your time moving from one manufacturer to another and spend some more online. You might find yourself wondering what the showroom attendant meant by “tuxedo” -and if it has anything to do with furniture.
Here’s the problem: Most shoppers only think of color and size when shopping around for sofas; understating the distinguishing characteristics and styles of different sofas is rarely on the checklist. That will be a problem of the past if you read this guide.
We have listed down the types of couches and sofas plus our best examples to help you make the perfect choice depending on your needs. Let’s get to it.
Chesterfield
Chesterfield often features a traditional leather clad with luxurious looking rolled arms that are the same height as the back. The traditional design of the Chesterfield had an exposed nailhead trim, and the backrest and arms were tufted. Recent developments have a fresh take on the design.
The sofa was first created in the 1700s for Lord Phillip Stanhope purposefully for multiple seating for long hours without wrinkling the saddle. The design was exported by British Army officials to multiple colonies and later the world over.
Best Chesterfield Sofa: Stone & Beam Bradbury Chesterfield Classic Sofa
If you are trying to cozy up your room, the Stone & Beam Bradbury Chesterfield Classic Sofa is your go-to chesterfield sofa. A classic style made of stain-resistant fabric makes it a perfect choice for a modern home. You have the choice to go with different materials and colors. The seat dimensions are 92.9″W x 39″ D x 30″H, and the design is backed by a solid hardwood frame. The cushions are removable for easy cleaning, and the manufacturer promises a whopping 3-year warranty to take care of the sofa’s quality.
What You’ll Enjoy
- A solid hardwood frame made to last long
- An easy to clean upholstery – wipe with a soft dry cloth and its as good as new
- You can choose the material you want and the color
- An easy to assemble sofa
Camelback
A camel has a high hump which basically explains the design of the camelback sofa. The seat has a back that is high at the center and tends to descend into the arms. The exposed wooden legs and lack of separate back cushions make the seat easy to distinguish even though modern designs might have two humps at the back.
The camelback sofa entered the scene in the late 1700s. Designed by Thomas Chippendale, a British furniture designer and cabinet maker, the seat was the starting point of most modern furniture designs. Its upright make is proven and tested to uplift the structure of a lounge, making it a good choice for every living room.
Best Camelback Sofa: Brika Camelback Sofa
If you’d like to add a bit of traditional flair to your living space, then the Brika Camelback Sofa is a great option. The sofa features a high-quality solid wood frame wrapped in high-quality fabric to provide exceptional comfort and stability.
The arched back and tufted design are meant to create an inviting look with a sense of traditionality.
What You’ll Enjoy
- A high-quality fabric made to last
- An easy to assemble sofa
- A strong hardwood frame for strength and long-lasting support
- High strength spring suspension for added comfort
Loveseat
A loveseat wasn’t meant for lovemaking as the name might suggest. Rather, a small seat that can comfortably accommodate two people. The seat was traditionally marked by a high upright back and arms, but modern designs have mimicked other sofa designs like the camelback and cabriole.
It was introduced in the 1800s and widely patronized by fashion shows where models used to sit on for photos. Many years down the line fashion evolved and the seat was expanded to encourage a close seating for two. Read our review about the best S-shaped loveseat in this post.
Best Loveseat: Ashley Furniture Signature Design – Larkinhurst Contemporary Loveseat
We loved this loveseat because of its classic traditional style featuring rolled arms, turned feet and removable cushions. This classic upholstery is a perfect choice for small apartments and can also fit into existing furniture sets to create an elegant yet understated feel.
What You’ll Enjoy
- Wrinkle resistant upholstery
- Traditional yet trendy design making it fit in just any setting
- Individually pocketed cushions for ultimate comfort and easy customization
- Assured quality from a trusted brand
The Divan
The divan has a quite different look than other sofa designs since it is backless and may need to be placed against a wall and pillows arranged for a cushioned back.
This seat is not so common owing that it needs external support of a wall to be complete and thus restricting the positions that it can be placed.
The word divan is Persian, which traditionally meant a long seat placed against a wall with cushions for back support. The seat stems back to past empires like the Ottoman.
Best Divan sofa: Linon 36030BER-01-KD-U Lillian Bench, Berry Red/Dark Mahogany
This backless sofa will just blow your mind with what it can do; with double capabilities as a sofa by day and a bed by night, the Linon 36030BER-010KD-U holds a prominent space in modern bedrooms of people who often have sleeping over guests, but room is just too tight for a guest bed.
The bench is easy to put together – just screw the legs and you are good to relax. Needless to say, the chic and elegant design will definitely uplift your hallway décor.
What You’ll Enjoy
- Multipurpose sofa that turns into a bed when you get emergency visitors
- Nice velvet fabric made to last long without wear
- Package comes with everything needed to install the sofa
- Chic and elegant design which is soft to touch
Chaise Lounge
In French, a “chaise lounge” translates to a long chair which sounds pretty accurate for this upholstered seat for one that doubles as a daybed. Chaise lounges always have a back, four exposed legs, and one raised side, and are meant for reclining, thus the arms. Some chaise lounges however lack arms but still offer a great relaxing position.
They existed in ancient cultures like the Egyptian and Ottoman with artifacts and gods on top to depict nobility. Today, chaise lounges have evolved; you can find one in almost any finish – from velvet to leather and even plastic.
Best Chaise Lounge: DHP Emily Chaise Lounge with Chrome Legs
Chaise Lounges are a luxe option and the DHP Emily Lounge with Chrome Legs doesn’t betray that. The lounger features a modern tufted look and stylish chrome legs, making it a great addition to just any room.
The lounger is spacious to accommodate a person comfortably, but it can be paired with a futon or a sectional sofa to create a bigger space for more guests. You won’t need extra labor to get the sofa standing as you all you have to do is screw in the legs and that’s it.
What You’ll Enjoy
- An easy to assemble lounge
- Great fabric to accommodate long hours of sitting
- A multifunctional piece – just split back to adjust from seating to sleeping
- Strong chrome design legs provide excellent support and are friendly to the floor
The Settee
Imagine a wide dining room chair with arms – that’s a Settee for you. Ancient designs were narrow and somewhat uncomfortable, but modern-day settee sofas resemble the loveseat, which is wildly popular.
An early type of settee emerged in the late 17th century and continued to rock the furniture industry into the 19th century.
You can hardly sit on a settee for more than 2 hours without taking a break to walk around since they are less comfortable but rather an old charm. Try it on outdoor spaces and feel the upscale.
Best Settee Sofa: Christopher Knight Home Nicole Fabric Settee, Dark Blue
The Christopher Knight Home Nicole Fabric Settee is inspired by authenticity and designed to create a light fairy environment in any room that it is placed. The settee material comprises 100% polyester which is ultimately comfortable and stands the test of time. The tufted back design will add detail while the curved legs keep the sofa intact to prevent unnecessary movement.
What You’ll Enjoy
- A quality construction with durable fabric for a solid, long term relationship
- An easy to assemble sofa
- A variety of fabric finishes and style patterns to choose from
Cabriole
A sofa with curves is what you need? Cabriole got you. The seat has a distinct feature in which both the arms and back are round towards the center.
The sofa invites a touch of romance with its curved legs and the exposed wood frame. Furthermore, it can be complemented with cushions to add appeal and more comfort.
This sofa was popular in the first half of the 18th century – a characteristic of Louis XV and Chippendale furniture. Though the traditional cabriole comprised wood and trims, designers nowadays make it in different fabric shades but still maintain the signature design. Just choose your style and feel its vibe.
Best Cabriole Sofa: Benjara Scrolled Back Sofa with Rolled Arms and Cabriole Feet, Beige
The Benjara Scrolled Back Sofa will glorify your home and transform your relaxing sessions thanks to its specially crafted design with curves that you will love.
This sofa is constructed from a strong and solid wooden back wrapped with high-quality upholstered velvet fabric which is easy to clean and won’t harm your skin. If you are after something with a traditional touch, the sofa’s rolled arms and button-tufted back design will make you fall in love with it.
For easy cleaning and customization, the sofa’s cushions are removable and can be replaced to give it a glowing day-one look.
What You’ll Enjoy
- Strong cabriole legs which make the sofa firm and sturdy
- Removable set of cushions for easy cleaning
- Rolled arms and cabriole feet will add a traditional feel to your room
Sleeper Sofa
Call it a sofa bed or a pullout couch if you like, the sleeper sofa is one that has a hidden mattress that folds out to form a bed.
There are various sleeper sofas ranging from pull-outs to daybeds to futons and even bunk-bed sofa combos. Build by Bernard Castro, an Italian immigrant to America in the 1030s, this sofa is great for those who have houseguests frequently, and things are just so packed to have a guest bedroom.
Typically, sleeper sofas aren’t just a thing for many people because they tend to be clunky but companies nowadays are doing everything possible to give them a facelift and make them feel just as comfortable as your bed.
Best Sleeper Sofa: Emily Futon Sofa Bed
An excellent option for people who have sleepovers frequently is the Emily Futon Sofa Bed which easily constructs to a bed and can be used as a lounge sofa during the day. The Sofa features an upgraded futon style with tufted fabric for a more appealing look.
Many reviewers gave the sofa marks for durability, comfort, and the quality fabric feel, plus you can add matching throw pillows to make everything fit your style and comfort requirements.
What You’ll Enjoy
- An upgraded futon design which easily converts into a bed
- High quality feel and look
- Accommodates throw pillows for more comfort and customization
- Unfolds into a twin-size sleeper for more sleeping space
Bridgewater
A little casual but cozy is the Bridgewater sofa which features a rolled back and low arms that run from the front of the sofa to the back. What distinguishes the Bridgewater sofa form other designs are the loosely padded cushions which make it a great option for those who want adjustable firmness.
The couch originated from Great Britain and won’t necessarily stand out as a statement piece but it will easily blend with your existing set to create a modern contemporary feel.
Best Bridgewater Sofa: Lifestyle Solutions Harrington Sofa
Invite a touch of elegance by purchasing this stunning Bridgewater sofa that is easy to assemble, ultra comfortable and hard to forget. The sofa is symmetrically crafted and beautifully designed featuring tufted back cushions which are comfortable and good looking.
The sleek, rolled arms and premium foam design will set the tone for this fine piece of upholstery in any living room.
Setting up the sofa is relatively easy thanks to the detailed manual which is included in the delivery package.
What You’ll Enjoy
- Durable upholstery that comes in a sleek, timeless design
- A stylish and comfortable piece that will liven up your space
- Minimal assembly process backed by a detailed set-up manual
Recliner Sofa
If you are the Netflix guy or just find yourself spending long hours watching TV the Recliner sofa is what you need to have more comfortable watching hours or even sleep when you are done with the latest entertainment series.
From the name, the sofa features a mechanism that will simultaneously lower your back while offering a footrest to support your feet and keep you in a reclined position. Some reclining seats are manual: you have to pull a lever for it to recline while others use electricity to lower back at the press of a button.
Recliners are a millennial thing and didn’t storm the market a long time ago but recently when TV watching has taken the order of indoor entertainment.
Best Recliner Sofa: Blackjack Furniture Artisan Collection Leather Air Ultra-Modern Recliner
If you are looking for more of a high-end recliner sofa to furnish your living room, opt for this from Blackjack Furniture. It’s a little bit pricey but very comfortable with assured quality that will last for long.
The sofa features a modern beautiful design with a strong reclining metal base wrapped in brilliant faux leather fabric. This recliner has a glamorous contemptuous look with a durable metal frame that will last for long. You can choose the manual reclining piece or opt for the automatic power sectional option which adjusts automatically at a button click.
What You’ll Enjoy
- State looking upholstery that comes in brilliant black color
- Durable reclining metal frame that will last long
- The sofa requires little assembly and comes with detailed instructions
Tuxedo Sofa
Dated back in the 1900s at Tuxedo Park in the skirts of New York is the Tuxedo sofa which is distinguished by its boxy shape.
Unlike other designs, the tuxedo is geometrically constructed with the arms bearing almost the same height as the back. The sofa is cool but slightly uncomfortable to sit on since it lacks the reclining property.
It has a tailored appeal and the legs can either be upholstered or exposed. Many tuxedo sofas feature a tufted back and arms to add detail, and you can make them plusher by stacking pillows against them.
Best Tuxedo Sofa: Modway Serve Modern Tuxedo Sofa with Upholstered Tufted Fabric in Light Gray
Serve your room with elegance by investing in this firm yet comfortable upholstery coach. The sofa is a modern twist of the finest mid-century tuxedo design with a single row of tufting on the back for an uplifted feel. Serve is a perfect choice for any living space whether a small room or lounge area, thanks to its size: 33.5″L x 82.5″W x 28″H.
The set features 100% polyester fabric atop solid wooden frames which keep the sofa intact while giving you a comfortable place to relax.
What You’ll Enjoy
- Superior construction made of 100% polyester
- Solid wooden legs for increased support
- Back and arms are of the same height which creates a refined focal point
- Dense foam cushioning for ultimate comfort
Lawson Sofa
This classic statement piece features cushions that are separate from the sofa’s frame making it a go-to design for those interested in something customizable. This sofa type is all about comfort and multifunctionality plus it can be found in different sizes and finishes to ensure you get something you’ll love.
The sofa tends to be recognized by its straight lines and low arms which makes it stand out for people who love to take a nap just where they feel dizzy.
The sofa was named after a Massachusetts financier Thomas W. Lawson in the early 20th century. Lawson wanted a sofa designed for maximum comfort but it won’t hurt to say he also wanted something he could nap on.
Best Lawson Sofa: Jennifer Taylor Home Alana Lawson Sofa, Navy Blue
The Jennifer Taylor Home Alana Lawson Sofa is a perfect addition to any living space dying for a modern contemporary feel. The sofa is made from sturdy kiln-dried solid wood with high-density foam and velvet filling for a luxurious feel. There is also a proven and tested sinuous spring suspension for long-lasting support and comfort.
The sofa won’t give you a headache to assemble as you have to just screw the included legs and boom! You have the most comfortable place to rest.
What You’ll Enjoy
- Sofa made from solid kiln-dried birch wood for support that will last long
- High quality velvet fabric finish that is skin-friendly and easy to maintain
- Rolled arms and tight back design will add detail to your room
Mid-century Modern
Mid-century modern style sofas were popular between the 1930s and 70s but they still have fans to date and you will find them in modern apartment homes.
The sofa features a minimalistic design, tufted back and solid wood legs. The sofa isn’t the most comfortable you can find on the market but it does give a trendy feel which blends into almost every interior theme.
Although it was first introduced into the game in the mid-20th century, this sofa design still finds its place in modern homes, thanks to the design which sings decades of design excellence.
Best Midcentury Modern Sofa: Rivet Aiden Mid-Century Modern Tufted Loveseat Sofa
Inspired by the Mid-century modern design and built with a solid hardwood frame, the Rivet Revolve Tufted Sofa is an absolutely welcoming piece to whatever space it is placed. Seating three or more people, the sofa features tapered wood legs and thickly padded soft velvet upholstery. The back cushions are removable and reversible to while the seat cushions are intact fixed to the base for secure positioning.
The sofa can be easily assembled in 15 or fewer minutes and cleaning it is easy – just wipe with a soft dry cloth.
What You’ll Enjoy
- 100% polyester or fabric finishes made to stand the test of time
- Modernized urban look with exposed wooden legs to add detail
- Easy to assemble the sofa in 15 minutes or less
- Sturdy and comfortable for long sitting hours
- Great piece for small spaces and can also be combined with other sets
English Rolled arm
If your ideal afternoons involve a perfect book reading session of a coffee-come-together with your family, then the high-backs English rolled arm sofa is for you.
The English roll arm that made the chair get the name is thickly padded and lower than other rolled arms but compact enough to offer the comfort needed.
Almost similar to the Bridgewater, the sofa features a tight upholstery with skirts that hide the legs but some modern designers may expose the legs – which isn’t bad at all.
The sofa gained popularity in the 19th century and has since remained many people’s choice for a simple yet comfortable and casual sofa. Nowadays, you can find the English rolled arm sofa in various sizes and fabrics to match your style.
Best English Rolled arm Sofa: Modern Plush Fabric Upholstered Rolled Arm Sofa For Three People
To say this English rolled arm sofa from BORNMIO is a stunner piece would be an understatement. The internal structure is made of a solid hardwood frame to provide a stable, reliable structure that will last for years.
It features a plush fabric surface that is soft, durable and breathable and doesn’t wrinkle even after long hours of sitting. This sofa is a statement piece to add style to your living room and by purchasing it, you get to enjoy a 1-year warranty and 30 days moneyback guarantee if you are not satisfied with the quality.
What You’ll Enjoy
- High quality sofa structure made from high quality, reliable hardwood
- Plush fabric which is breathable, durable and soft
- Worry-free 1-year warranty to ensure the quality of your sofa
- A 30-day, non-negotiable manufacturer’s moneyback guarantee if you are not satisfied with the product
Futon
In Japanese, ‘futon’ means bedding which basically explains the concept of the Futon Sofa. This design doubles as a bed and sofa making it ideal for people with small spaces with visitors often but no room for a guest bed.
The back of the sofa folds downward to create a flat surface for sleeping. The surface can be cushioned to create a more comfortable feel. Typically, the futon lacks armrests.
Best Futon Sofa: VASAGLE Futon Sofa Bed
For futons, getting one with a strong frame and has a great durable fabric is usually not easy. But the VASAGLE Futon Sofa Bed beats that: it features solid black metal legs, a wood frame, and a comfy cushion filling for long hours comfort.
The futon is easy to assemble as it only requires you to attach the four legs and there is no more dizzying trying to fix screws when all you need is sleep. The sofa converts into a comfy bed in just a matter of seconds, and you won’t need to worry about your floor getting scratched, thanks to the included footpads.
What You’ll Enjoy
- Blue velvet finish that’s good looking and ultra-luxe
- An easy to assemble sofa – just screw the 4 legs and you are good to sleep comfortably
- Metal legs offer strong support and had footpads to prevent floor scratching
Daybed
Another great option for people who have guests often and don’t have an extension for a guest bedroom is the daybed which can be used as a couch by day and a bed by night.
The concept of a daybed is also ideal for studio apartments or those with a small bedroom and need a couch that can double up as a bed when need arises. Daybeds however have a downside in that they can’t accommodate tall people, and they are more visually appealing only when placed against walls that run the whole length of the sofa.
Best Daybed: DHP Manila Metal Full Size Daybed and Twin Size Trundle
This multifunctional sofa/bed features Victorian detailing and is ideal for small spaces with frequent guests. The sofa measures 7.5″L x 56″W x 41.5″H and supports up to 450lbs of weight. The rounded finials give the couch an upgraded look which is desired for any living space. The elegant metal frame is sturdy and comes with slats for extra support and facilitates free air movement through your mattress for freshness in years to come.
For sleepover nights, just pull out the trundle mounted on four easy-glide casters and throw in some pillows and a blanket and your in-laws have a comfy place to sleep soundly.
What You’ll Enjoy
- Sturdy metal frame for additional support and durability
- Items ships in one box and is easy to assembly
- Generous size which is ideal for small spaces
- Sofa accommodates throw pillows for added style
Sectional Couch
A sectional couch is made up of at least two joinable parts that form an L or U shape. Sectionals tend to create a premium feel in large apartment spaces, open plan spaces and dining rooms.
Different sectional sofas have varied numbers of pieces but common ones range from 3 to 5. The pieces can be arranged in different but pre-defined configurations with connecters that prevent them from drifting apart.
Due to their growing popularity, sectionals now come in many designs and different fabric finishes. Sectionals became popular in the 1950s with the advent of mid-century furniture designs but they are a construction of the Victoria era. The early Victorian sofas however involved simply pushing two or more sofas together to form a larger sofa.
Best Sectional Couch: Divano Roma Furniture Classic Sectional, Champaign
Add a regal statement to your place by investing in this large tufted sectional that is going to give you comfortable relaxing moments. The set features a soft and super cozy velvet finish atop a solid hardwood frame.
The sectional is reversible, so you can customize it based n your comfort preferences, and the rich brown-colored legs will complement any room’s design.
What You’ll Enjoy
- Reversible chaise lounge that can be customizable to meet your style and comfort needs
- A tufted design sectional will create a sophisticated touch feel
- Minor assembly process thanks to the detailed instructions included
- Overstuffed back cushions crafted for ultimate comfort
Slipcovered Sofa
If you are after a country farmhouse or cottage-looking sofa, the slipcovered sofa is a double win for you. Firstly, the seat delivers a comfortable, welcoming look that is uplifting and moreover, the slipcovers can easily be removed for cleaning.
The sofa is ideal for people with messy kids and those with pets; you don’t have to worry about the laundering, especially if you pick a durable fabric like twill or cotton duck.
Best Slipcovered Sofa: Stone & Beam Faraday Down-Filled Casual Slipcovered Sofa
This modern slipcovered sofa has a sleek design and is a great piece for any living space. The sofa has reversible down-filled cushions for ultimate comfort and to keep it looking good over time.
The Stone Beam Slipcovered Sofa will add a touch of modern farmhouse comfort to your living space, and the solid hardwood frame is made up for long years of service.
Furthermore, the sofa comes intactly packed in one box and no assembly is required.
What You’ll Enjoy
- Slipcover available in different fabric options for a great choice of style
- Plush, firm cushions that are comfortable and resistant to wrinkles
- Sturdy, easy to clean fabric finish
- Generously sized sofa to accomodate two or even more people
Low-seated sofa
Just as you guessed, this type of sofa is very low. Often, low seated sofas are under 17” with very low arms or no arms at all.
The sofa is compact sized and comes in varied styles to uplift the look of every room where it is placed. Comfortable cushions can be added to the sofa to create a premium feel.
Best Low-seated Sofa: Stone & Beam Lauren Down-Filled Oversized Sofa Couch
If you are a fan of low seated sofas then don’t let this magical piece of upholstery pass by you. This contemporary overstuffed sofa is so comfortable that you can literally sink into it for a perfect book reading session or Netflix night with friends.
It features a solid hardwood frame which keeps the sofa intact with beech wooden legs that function just as well as they look. The fabric is 98% pure polyester and 2% nylon, hence cozy, easy to clean, and friendly to your skin. The seat cushions are removable and reversible and no assembly is required.
You will enjoy a 30-day free return policy and 3 years sofa quality warranty if you purchase this item.
What You’ll Enjoy
- Great fabric which is cozy, easy to clean and skin friendly
- Thickly overstuffed base and back for ultimate comfort
- Removable and reversible seat cushions for easy cleaning and customization
- No assembly required
Track arm
A track arm sofa features straight and squared arms which give the piece clean lines and a modern feel. Due to their geometric construction, track arm sofas are easy to place against a wall or even an open lounge space.
The sofa is comfortable and supportive on its own but you can make the arms pushier by stacking pillows against them.
Best Track arm Sofa: Homelegance Track Arm Sofa with Metal Accent Leg Leather Gel Match
When looking for furniture, we know you want something subtle yet beautiful and can be placed at just any place to bring functionality and style. The Homelegance Track Arm Sofa does precisely that and won’t let you regret purchasing it.
The sofa features a high-quality, durable design and is made up ready to liven your space. Measuring 79.5 x 33 x 34H inch, the couch is a perfect addition for small spaces and cleaning it is not as hard as you thought – thanks to the leather gel finish.
What You’ll Enjoy
- Careful stitched lining around the arms for a comfortable seating experience
- High quality leather which is luxurious and easy to clean
- Sofa features chrome legs for increased support and a decorative accent
- Thickly padded and lined arms that can be used to store a phone or remote control
Final Thought on Types of Coaches and Sofas
If you are looking for a sofa, we believe our guide on the types of couches and sofas on the market will make your purchase easier and worth the money you spend.
Go ahead and find your style to liven up your living space and rest comfortably.
