They provide a comfortable place to sit and relax and act as a focal point for the room, setting the tone for the entire design style. With a wide variety of designs and styles to choose from, you can easily find the perfect couch to fit your needs and style.
From the luxurious Lawson-style sofa to the versatile double-duty sleeper beds, a couch makes it easy to define your space with both function and style. Investing in a quality couch is an important decision, and many choices, such as size, shape, and material, need to be made.
With so many different types of sofas and couches, it can take time to narrow it down to the perfect style for your space. With over 40 types of couches in our ultimate guide to types of couches, we make it easy to find the perfect sofa for your home. If you are ready to find your ideal sofa, keep reading our guide to find your favorite!
Traditional Style Sofa Designs
Traditional types of sofas can work in many different spaces but are especially popular for formal sitting rooms. These couches often have elegant details like button tufting on the sofa seat or nailhead trim. They can be made from many different types of materials, from high-end linen and leather to affordable cotton and chintz fabrics.
Types of Traditional Sofas:
Chesterfield Sofa
A Chesterfield sofa is a classic, sophisticated piece of furniture characterized by its tufted, buttoned-upholstery and rolled arms. It is named after the Earl of Chesterfield, who is credited with popularizing this style of couch in the 18th century.
The tufted upholstery gives the Chesterfield a refined, elegant look, while the arms and sturdy frame add to its timeless appeal. A Chesterfields sofa is often made of leather, which adds to its durability and classic look.
Lawson Sofa
The Lawson-style sofa is a comfortable, stylish piece of furniture that is characterized by its low back and squared-off arms. The lawson sofa does not have the tufted upholstery that is common in many other types of sofas. Instead, Lawson-style sofas have a layer of pillows across the back for support. Its straight lines give it a more modern and streamlined look than traditional sofas.
The Lawson-style sofa is named after the designers who created this style, Thomas W. Lawson and J. Herbert Lawson. A Lawson-style sofa is versatile and can fit into many different design styles, from traditional to contemporary. Overall, the Lawson sofa is a practical and stylish choice for any home.
Mid-Century Modern Sofa
A mid-century modern sofa is the ultimate statement piece for any living room. With its sleek, minimalist design and tapered legs, this mid-century modern style adds a touch of retro cool to any space. These couches are the perfect blend of form and function, offering comfortable seating and a chic aesthetic.
The clean lines and simple silhouette of a mid-century modern sofa make it a versatile choice for many decorating styles. Whether lounging with your friends or hosting a formal business dinner at home, a mid-century modern sofa is a perfect spot to sit back and relax in style.
Loveseat Sofa
Regarding furniture, the loveseat is often overlooked in favor of larger sofas and sectionals. Unlike the Lawson-style sofa, the loveseat is typically an upholstered back sofa. The design is often traditional, with a tufted back and nailhead. However, the loveseat sofa is also readily available in a minimalist or modern design. Because of its petite size, it is often very affordable.
One of the biggest benefits of a loveseat is its size. The loveseat, also known as a two-seater sofa, is the perfect piece of furniture for couples or families to cuddle and spend time together. Unlike a normal sofa, which can seat multiple people and often takes up a lot of space, a love seat is only designed for two. This smaller design makes it the perfect choice for small apartments or cozy living rooms.
Settee Sofa
The settee sofa, also known as a banquette or a bench sofa, is a sofa style that is often overlooked but can add a unique touch of charm and elegance to any space. Unlike a traditional couch or loveseat, a settee sofa is typically smaller. It’s perfect for small spaces, such as entryways or bedrooms, or adding extra seating in a larger room. It is often pulled up to the kitchen or dining room table for seating.
The settee sofa is characterized by its compact size and elegant design. It typically has a high backrest, arms, and legs that are the same height and is upholstered in various fabrics, such as velvet or linen. This gives it a sophisticated and stylish look that can complement any decor.
Tuxedo Sofa
Tuxedo sofas are a true fashion statement for any living room. Unlike the Chesterfield sofa, the tuxedo sofa is sophisticated and all about clean, geometric lines. The tuxedo sofa gets its name from its distinctive design, which features a high backrest, arms that are the same height as the backrest, and straight lines that give it a clean and tailored look.
The tuxedo sofa is perfect for individuals who want to create a sophisticated and chic look in their homes. The tuxedo sofa is not just a piece of furniture; it’s a work of art that will elevate any space. So, if you’re looking for a sofa that will make a bold statement, the tuxedo sofa is a perfect choice.
Camelback Sofa
Camelback sofas are a classic piece of furniture with a unique shape featuring a curved back that rises in the middle and slopes down at the ends. Not only are they stylish, but these round back sofas are also incredibly comfortable! This style of sofa is perfect for those who love traditional design and want to elevate their space.
The camelback sofa is beautiful and functional; its design is also great for small spaces, as the high backrest creates the illusion of a bigger sofa! But the camelback sofa isn’t just for traditionalists. The camelback sofa is a versatile piece and a great choice if you love mixing design styles and want to add vintage charm to your room.
Barrel Sofa
The barrel sofa is a true conversation starter! This unique piece of furniture is designed with a rounded seat, an arched back, and curved barrel-style arms, giving it a distinct and stylish look. It’s wrapped all over in channel-tufted boucle upholstery, adding drama and novelty to the design. The foam-filled sofa cushions offer extra support as you read, relax or entertain guests, making it stylish and comfortable.
Bridgewater Sofa
The Bridgewater sofa is not your average couch! This unique piece of furniture is perfect for those who love a traditional look with a modern twist. The Bridgewater sofa has English-rolled arms that are immediately recognizable because they are shorter and set back from the front of the couch.
The tapered legs give the Bridgewater sofa a classic feel. At the same time, the padded loose cushions and cozy back pillows provide ultimate comfort. But what sets the Bridgewater sofa apart is its versatility – it can be customized to fit any living space, with options for different sizes, leg finishes, and even the type of cushion filling.
English Roll Arm Sofa
An English rolled arm sofa is a type of furniture that features a traditional design with a rolled armrest that curves outward and then inward. This unique feature gives the English roll arm sofa a classic and elegant look popular in traditional and transitional interior design styles.
The rolled armrest is typically padded and upholstered in fabrics, such as leather, linen, cotton, velvet, or wool, which adds to the sofa’s comfort and coziness. The English rolled arm sofa legs are usually tapered and made of wood, which adds to its traditional and elegant design.
Belgian Roll Arm Sofa
A Belgian roll arm sofa is a type of furniture with a traditional design with rounded arms similar to the English rolled arm sofa. Traditionally, it is considered to have a more relaxed and casual look. The armrests are typically less curved and more rounded than an English roll arm sofa style, which gives it a softer and more understated look. The sofa legs are often tapered and made of wood, which gives it a classic and timeless look.
The Belgian roll arm sofa is typically upholstered in a neutral fabric made of linen or cotton, which adds to the sofa’s comfort and classic design. This deep seat sofa is known for its plush cushions, which makes it one of the more comfortable and inviting traditional sofa styles.
Classic Round Arm Sofa
This sofa features a traditional and timeless design. The classic round arm sofa is known for its round armrests, deep seats, and plush cushions that provide a comfortable and inviting seating experience. The sofa legs are usually tapered and made of wood, which adds to its traditional and elegant design.
The classic round arm sofa is a great option for those who want to add a touch of nostalgia and comfort to their home decor. It is often associated with the warm and inviting atmosphere of grandma’s house, hence the nickname “granny sofa!”
Chaise Lounge
Chaise lounges are armless sofas lounge designed for comfort and relaxation. Typically, the chaise lounge is upholstered in fabric or leather. The chaise lounge features a reclining backrest and an extended footrest. The chaise lounge is a popular piece of furniture in many homes and is often used in living rooms and bedrooms. In fact, you can even find a chaise lounge outside for sunbathing next to the pool!
The chaise lounge has a long and interesting history. It was first developed in France during the 17th century and was originally used by the wealthy and aristocrats. The chaise lounge was designed to provide a comfortable place to recline and relax. It quickly became a popular piece of furniture in the homes of the wealthy. Today, the chaise lounge is still a popular piece of furniture. The chaise lounge is perfect if you want an easy way to elevate your room with luxury and comfort. The chaise lounge is a great piece of furniture for those who want to relax and unwind and add a bit of drama and luxury to your room.
Wooden Arms Sofa
Wooden arms on a sofa are a rustic design element. The wooden arms sofa is usually made of solid wood, such as oak, cherry, or walnut, and is often finished with glossy lacquer. It can be upholstered in various fabrics, such as velvet, leather, or even faux leather. The style, material, and finishes will determine if it fits into the sophisticated, traditional decor, like the sofa pictured above, or if it is suited to a more rustic contemporary space.
Knole Sofa
Do you love high back sofas? The Knole sofa may be perfect for you! The Knole sofa is a classic piece of furniture that has been around for centuries. It is a large, comfortable sofa typically upholstered in leather or velvet and has a high back and arms. The Knole sofa is believed to have originated in the 17th century in England, and it is named after the Knole House in Kent, England.
The Knole sofa is a timeless piece of furniture used in many different settings, from formal living rooms to casual family rooms. It is usually supported by four legs, and the back and arms are often decorated with wood or metal arms. These types of couches are generally quite large, and they can easily seat four or more people.
Divan Sofa
The divan sofa is the ultimate cross between a sofa, daybed, and chaise lounge. Typically, the Divan sofa is low to the ground and has a backrest that is either the same height as the seat or slightly higher. The Divan sofa is versatile and can be used in various ways. For example, they can be used as a seating area for entertaining guests, or they can be used as a bed for overnight guests. The Divan sofa is also quite affordable, so it can be an excellent option for those on a budget who still want to add elegance to their room.
Cabriolet Sofa
The gorgeous French Cabriole/Cabriolet sofa style was popularized by Louis XV in the first half of the 1700s. Cabriolet (where our term cab comes from) is a term that was used to describe a carriage or a cab in the eighteenth century. This sofa mimics the carriage’s seat with a curved exposed wood back and arms in one seamless line.
They also stood proudly on sinuous curvy legs called cabriole legs. This traditional style sofa looks marvelous in a French Provincial, French Chateau, or any other classic interior design style. It is a timeless piece of furniture that will bring a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room. With its graceful curves and luxurious upholstery, the French Cabriole/Cabriolet sofa is sure to be a conversation starter and a beautiful addition to any home.
Modern and Contemporary Sofa Styles:
In general, modern and contemporary sofas and couches can take your home from classic to modern without breaking the bank. These designs often use modern materials but with a classic shape and look. Many modern style sofas and couches have deep seat cushions and are designed for comfort. While other contemporary styles are recognizable for their minimalism and straight lines.
Types of Modern and Contemporary Sofas:
Rounded Wedge Arm Sofa
A rounded wedge arm sofa is a type of furniture with a modern design with rounded wedge-shaped armrests. Unlike traditional sofa styles or rolled arm sofas, the armrests are typically thicker at the back and taper down towards the front, which gives the sofa a unique and contemporary look.
In addition, the sofa legs are usually made of metal or wood, which gives it a modern and sleek look. The sofa is typically upholstered in leather, velvet, or wool. It can come in different sizes and designs to match any decor and budget. It’s perfect for modern and minimalist settings!
Track Arm Sofa
Track arm sofas are a type of furniture that features a modern design with straight, rectangular armrests flush with the sofa’s frame, giving it a clean and minimal look. These armrests are called “track arms” because of their track-like shape. The sofa legs are usually made of metal or wood, which gives it a modern and sleek look.
Track arm sofas are one of the sofa styles that effortlessly add a touch of contemporary style to home decor. It’s perfect for modern and minimalist settings. Its clean and simple design is ideal for adding a minimalistic style to any room.
Sloped Arm Sofa
A slope arm sofa is a type of furniture that features a modern design with armrests that slope downward from the back of the couch to the front. This unique feature gives it a sleek and contemporary look that sets it apart from other types of sofas.
A sloped arm sofa is an excellent option for those with transitional or contemporary home decor. It’s perfect for modern and minimalist settings. In addition, its unique design feature is ideal for small spaces. It offers a visually interesting look that distinguishes it from other types of sofas.
Retro Square Arm Sofa
A retro square arm sofa is a type of sofa style that features a vintage or retro design with square armrests that are straight and flush with the sofa’s frame. This gives it a clean and simple look, nodding to a vintage or retro aesthetic. The sofa legs are usually tapered and made of wood, which gives it a retro look. The sofa cushions are traditionally plump, making them a comfortable and inviting seating option.
Low-Seated Sofa
The low seated sofa is a great way to add a modern and stylish look to any living space. They are perfect for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere in any room. Low seated sofas are also great for small spaces, as they don’t take up too much room and can be easily moved around.
Low-seated couches are one of the most comfortable and cozy types of couches. These low-back sofas feature a modern design with a lower sofa seat height than a traditional sofa. These deep-seat couches are what lazy Sunday afternoon naps are for! A low-seated sofa is an excellent option for contemporary style if you also want to keep it casual and comfortable.
Grande Sofas
A grande sofa is a large, luxurious sofa perfect for extra-large living rooms with soaring ceilings that need big furniture to fill the space. Grande sofas are an excellent choice for making a bold statement in your living room. This deep seat sofa is oversized and large enough to accommodate several people, making it ideal for hosting parties or family gatherings. Deep seat couches are a favorite style of homebodies who love to stay in and relax all weekend.
Sectional Sofas
Sectional couches are the ultimate multi-taskers of the furniture world. These types of couches provide comfortable seating for your family and friends. The sections can also be arranged in various configurations to fit your room’s layout. Love to stretch out and watch movies? Arrange your sectional sofa into a spacious L-shape. Need to divide your living space into separate areas?
Use the sectional sofa pieces to create distinct seating areas. With a sectional sofa, the possibilities are endless. Plus, with their sleek and modern design, sectional sofas will instantly update your overall style.
Types of Sectional Sofas
Bumper Sectional Sofa
The bumper sectional sofa is the ultimate in luxury and comfort. This unique sofa lounger is designed to resemble a car bumper, complete with sleek lines and a modern aesthetic. The sectional is perfect for large families or entertaining guests, providing ample seating space for everyone to relax and enjoy.
The plush cushions and soft fabrics of the sectional sofa will make you feel like you’re sitting on a cloud. But comfort does not mean poor quality! The durable design and construction of the Bumper sofa will ensure that this comfy couch will last for years. With its unique design and superior comfort, the bumper sectional is sure to be the focal point of any room.
L-Shaped Sectional Sofa
L-shaped sectional sofas are the ultimate space-saving solution. Their rectangular shape and one longer side can easily be tucked into a corner or used to define a separate seating area in a large room. Not only is the L-shaped sectional sofa practical, but it’s also super comfortable. Imagine stretching out on that long side with your feet up and a good book in hand!
Plus, with their sleek and modern design, L-shaped sectionals add a touch of sophistication to any home. Add an L-shaped sectional sofa to your home today and start living your best lounging life.
U-Shaped Sectional Sofa
U-shaped sectional sofas are the ultimate seating solution for movie marathons, game nights, and family gatherings. Everyone can snuggle up and get comfortable with their circular shape and cozy cushions. And when it’s time to switch things up, the separate pieces of this sectional sofa can be rearranged to fit your needs.
Need a little extra room to stretch out? Just move a piece or two. Want to create a separate seating area? It’s easy with a U-shaped sectional. Plus, these couches are sure to impress with their chic and modern design.
Chaise Sectional Sofa
A chaise sectional sofa is a type of couch that has a long, extended seat that allows you to stretch out and relax. It is typically composed of multiple pieces that can be rearranged to fit the layout of your space.
Modular Sectional Sofa
Sectional sofas are available in various shapes and sizes, such as L-shaped, U-shaped, and chaise. The pieces are fixed in these specific configurations. A modular sectional sofa is a type of couch made up of individual pieces that can be rearranged and reconfigured to fit the layout of your space. Modular sofas offer more flexibility in the arrangement, as the individual parts can be moved and combined in various ways.
Sleeper Sofa
Sleeper sofas or sofa beds are the superheroes of the furniture world – they’re couches by day and beds by night! Whether you’re working with a small space or just love to have overnight guests, a sleeper sofa is a practical and stylish solution. These clever couches have a built-in traditional foam mattress that can be easily pulled out when it’s time to hit the hay. Plus, with their comfortable cushions and sleek design, you’ll never even know there’s a bed hiding inside. Upgrade your seating and sleeping situation with a versatile sleeper sofa, and always have a place for guests to relax and rest.
Types of Sleeper Sofas
Sleeper Sectional Sofa
A sleeper sectional sofa is a type of sofa bed made up of multiple pieces. It can be easily converted into a bed. It is a practical and stylish choice for small spaces or accommodating overnight guests. The separate components of a sleeper sectional sofa can be arranged in various configurations to fit the layout of your room. The pull-out bed is typically hidden under the cushions when not in use.
Bunk Sed Sleeper
The Bunk Bed Sleeper Sofa is the perfect solution for small spaces or those who love entertaining guests. This clever piece of furniture combines a bunk bed’s functionality with a sofa’s comfort. The lower bunk pulls out to reveal a full-size bed, while the upper bunk remains in place as a cozy seating area.
The bunk bed sleeper sofa is ideal for apartments, guest rooms, or even as a primary bed for children. It’s a smart way to maximize space; it can easily switch from a seating area to a sleeping area in minutes. The bunk bed sleeper sofa is perfect for any room where you want to make the most of the square footage without sacrificing style or comfort.
Pull-Out Sleeper Sofa
Pull-out sleeper sofas have a built-in sleeping area that can be easily converted into a bed. The sleeping area of pull-out sofa beds is typically a pull-out mattress that is stored inside the couch when not in use. The mattress is usually smaller than a standard bed, and the seating area is more limited when the bed is open.
The pull-out mechanism allows you to pull the bed out from the sofa frame, and once the bed is pulled out, the seating area is transformed into a sleeping area. This type of sofa is perfect for small spaces, guest rooms, or for those who have frequent overnight guests. The pull-out sofa beds offer seating and sleeping functionality in one piece of furniture, saving space and money. They come in different sofa and couch materials to match any decor and budget.
Trundle Sleeper Sofa
This sofa style is an excellent option for anyone looking for a versatile and comfortable piece of furniture. The trundle sleeper sofa is typically made up of two parts: the main sofa and the trundle bed. The main sofa is usually a standard sofa size, with cushions and a frame that can be used as a regular couch. The trundle bed is a smaller bed that slides out from underneath the main sofa. It is usually the same size as a twin bed, making it perfect for a single person or a couple.
Sofa Beds
The sofa bed and the sleeper sofa are similar in that they can convert from a seating area to a sleeping area. However, a sofa bed typically refers to a type of furniture where the seating area is separate from the sleeping area. The seating area is usually a couch or loveseat. First, the backrest and seat cushions are removed when the bed is needed. Next, the bed frame is pulled out from underneath. The bed is then made by laying a mattress on top of the frame.
On the other hand, a sleeper sofa is a type of sofa with a built-in sleeping area. The sleeping area is typically a pull-out mattress stored inside the couch when not in use. The mattress is usually smaller than a standard bed, and the seating area is more limited when the bed is open.
Types of Sofa Beds
Convertible Sofa
A convertible sleeper sofa is a unique type of furniture that offers both seating and sleeping functionality in one piece. Unlike traditional pull-out sofas, it doesn’t have a mattress hidden within the furniture’s frame. Instead, it can be easily converted into a bed by adjusting its configuration, making it perfect for small spaces where every inch counts.
One of the main advantages of a convertible sofa is its versatility. Its sleek and modern design can blend seamlessly into any room, making it an excellent option for adding style and functionality to your home.
Futon Sofa
Futons are sleeper sofas that are a traditional Japanese-style bedding system. The futon typically consists of a thin mattress and a flexible frame that can be easily converted from a seating to a sleeping surface. Often, the frame has metal or wooden arms, and the mattress is filled with cotton or other natural materials. Futons are known for their versatility and portability, making them a popular choice for small spaces or those who frequently move.
Daybed Sofa
Daybeds are sofa beds that resemble a couch and are designed for use during the day and for sleeping. Daybeds typically have a backrest and armrest like a sofa, but they also have a long, twin-size mattress that can be used for sleeping at night. Daybeds are often used as a seating area in a living room, guest room, or home office and can be converted into a bed when needed.
They are a great option for small spaces, as they serve a dual purpose and can save space by not requiring a separate seating and sleeping area. Daybeds are often decorated with throw pillows and cushions to give them a more comfortable and stylish look. They come in different styles, from traditional to modern, so that they can match any decor. They can also be used with a trundle bed or storage underneath, making them great for hosting guests.
Other Types of Comfortable Sofas
Have you still yet to find the perfect sofa? If you are focused on maximum comfort, other furniture besides the traditional or modern sofa may meet your needs. For example, the recliner sofa is perfect for media rooms, and the lounger styles are ideal for teen spaces.
Recliner Sofa
A recliner sofa is a type of couch with a built-in mechanism for adjusting the backrest and footrest to various positions. The recliner is designed for maximum comfort and relaxation, allowing users to recline and elevate their feet. It is perfect for watching TV, reading, or taking a nap.
Recliner sofas come in different styles, including traditional, contemporary, and power-operated, which allows the user to adjust the recliner with the touch of a button. They are perfect for living rooms, family rooms, and home theaters.
Sofa Lounger
A sofa lounger is a type of couch that is designed for maximum comfort and relaxation. It typically features an extended recline position, allowing the user to recline further back than traditional sofas and couches and elevate their feet. Sofa loungers are also known for their larger size and plush cushions, which provide a comfortable and supportive seating experience. This sofa style is available in a full sofa lounger or single sofa lounger design.
Single Sofa Lounger
A single sofa lounger is a standalone piece of furniture that can seat one person. It typically features one recline position and is designed for individual use.
Multi Sofa Lounger
On the other hand, a multi-sofa lounger is a larger piece of furniture that can seat more than one person. It typically features multiple recline positions and is also known as a full sofa lounger or modular sofa lounger.