#1.  Gauge your space.

-       If the room is smaller, chose a style that has smaller arms. This will maximize your seating space and take up less floor space. Straight arms work better for this.

-       Lower is better. Try and find a style that doesn’t sit too high especially if you have low ceilings. This will help ground the sofa more and also takes up less space.

-       If you really love a style that sits too high, try a lower leg.

#2 Choose your style

-       Decide if you want a modern or traditional style.  For a modern look try a straight arm.  A lot of more modern styles have wider arms.

-       For a traditional look consider a rolled arm, though not necessarily always, some straight arm sofas can definitely work.  Skirts help softening a sofa and giving it a formal look.

#3 Pick your fabric.

-       The easiest to clean and maintain are micro-fibers.  These are one hundred percent polyester and are more stain resistant that other materials. Fabrics with these qualities will hold up better when subjected to heavy use.  They are especially good for pet owners as pet hair doesn’t stick too much.

-       Natural materials are fine, they just tend to wear out faster than synthetic materials.

-       Try and Teflon your material.  It definitely works to prevent staining.

#4 – Select your fill

-       If you want a sink in cushy feel, go with a down/feather blend.  Most will agree that it’s the softest feel in a couch. 

-       For a more tailored look, stick with the standard foam and Dacron fill.  Its also less fussy, as it requires less fluffing and maintenance.