As more and more people are coming into our shop after the lockdown, one item for purchase is standing above the others, sofas. I’m assuming sitting on the one they have hasn’t been terribly comfortable for the last six weeks, so who can blame them for this investment. Yes, a sofa is an investment. They are usually one of the more expensive pieces, but as important as a monetary commitment, this furniture is a part of your every day life and becomes a centre point from which other pieces in essence take their queue.
1. Measure: Nothing is worse than waiting for a customized piece and then it doesn’t fit. Most measure 2 meters, 2.4 meters, 2.7 meters or 3 meters. Start there and put tape down in the space to check which will fit best. Consider also the height and depth. Many sofas will be at 45cm off the floor, others at 50cm. When you’re seated are your legs comfortable with a 50cm chair, if not, go lower. Depth can also be an issue. For real comfort the sofa should be around 80+ cm deep to give you room to sit back, curl up and enjoy.
2. Type: Sectional or Stand Alone. A sectional is more a casual piece, one where you lay down and relax. A Stand Alone is a slightly more formal, is easier for entertaining and can give the space cleaner lines.
3. Fabric: Here in Rwanda we are lucky to have a number of stores with good upholstery fabric, but still you want to check the weight of the fabric (is it strong, can you pull it in a number of directions without it pulling apart), will it pill (does it get little pieces of fabric bunched when rubbed), will you see the stains as you use it?
At our store in Kigali, Studio:Rwanda, we are carrying a stain-resistant fabric in many choices that we bring in from South Africa. A consideration for families with small children and pets. Adding slightly to the normal sale price, it can extend the life of the sofa for many years.
4. Quality & Comfort: What’s your level? I strongly recommend sitting on it first. Check out straight foam and a mix of foam and cotton to see which way makes you most comfortable. Frames are the most important part of the construction of the furniture. Solid, dry wood is important as the piece will crack if not built with these specifications.
Final tip: check your doorways and stairway widths to make sure the piece will be manageable for delivery. It can get expensive to take out a door to get in a piece of furniture, even a beautiful one.
