The sofa is often the heart of the living room — the place you collapse at the end of the day, gather with friends, or curl up with a good book. It’s a piece that needs to work hard: style, comfort, and function all wrapped into one. So, choosing the right one isn’t just about what looks good in the showroom — it’s about what feels right in your home.

Here are 7 things we always consider when helping customers find the one.

1. Start With the Space

Before you fall in love with a particular piece, grab the tape measure. Knowing your room’s dimensions (and how you move through it) will save you from heartbreak later. A sofa that’s too big will overwhelm the room, while one that's too small can feel a little lost. Think of it like finding the right rhythm between your furniture and your floor plan. If you're still a little lost on sizing and where to start, Shea McGee's book, The Art of Home, includes an invaluable style guide at the back.  We constantly reference this when working on room layouts and furniture dimensions. 

2. Know Your Style

Your sofa should feel like it belongs — not just in the room, but in your home as a whole. If your style leans minimal, look for clean lines and tailored shapes. If you’ve got a more layered, classic look, something with curves, detail, or a little patina (think slubby linen or stonewashed cotton slipcovers) might suit you better. Don’t be afraid to mix eras, either — it’s often where the magic happens.  

And skip the matching lounge suite — it can feel too one-note. Instead, look for contrast in shapes and leg styles across your seating to create a more intentional, collected feel.

3. Colour is a Mood-Setter

A sofa is a big visual statement, and the colour you choose sets the tone. Neutrals like oatmeal, grey, or soft white are timeless and flexible — especially if you like to change up cushions and throws. But a bold sofa in a rich velvet or earthy linen can really anchor a room. Look around: is your space already full of colour? Then a more subdued tone might be best. If everything’s fairly pared-back, this could be your moment to add some drama.
Our sage Estes sofa is a perfect example — it’s been a best seller for good reason. The colour feels calm but characterful and pairs beautifully with both warm neutrals and natural textures.

4. Function Comes First

Before thinking about the perfect shade of sage green, get clear on how you’ll use the sofa. Is it your movie-night hub? Occasional seating for guests? Do you need storage? A sleeper? A generous corner shape? Your lifestyle should shape your choice — the right sofa is one that supports the way you actually live.

5. Think Fabric

Fabric is where form meets function. If you’ve got pets or kids (or just like to snack on the lounge — no judgement), look for something durable and easy to clean: performance linen, slipcovers, or tightly woven cottons all work well. Leather adds structure and ages beautifully, while natural linens have a softer, lived-in feel. Choose a fabric that fits both your life and your look. 

And don’t be afraid to ask if fabric options can be customised. At Wovenwood, we love a good customisation moment — and we’re currently working on expanding our offering so you can truly tailor pieces to your space.

6. Check the Bones

A beautiful sofa should last — and that comes down to what’s underneath. Look for frames made from hardwoods like oak or ash, with proper joinery (think dowelled and screwed, not just stapled and glued). Cushion fill matters too: feather-wrapped foam gives support without being too rigid, while all-down will be softer but need more fluffing.

We all have budgets, but when it comes to a sofa, you really do get what you pay for. This is one of those pieces we recommend treating as an investment — quality materials and craftsmanship will reward you with years of comfort and timeless style.

7. Don’t Forget Comfort

This might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised how often it’s overlooked. A sofa can tick all the aesthetic boxes and still not feel quite right. If you like to lounge, go for a deeper seat. If you prefer more structure or have back concerns, look for firmer cushions and a higher back. If you’re shopping in-store, sit on it. You’ll know.

And if you’re shopping online, rest easy — every sofa we stock at Wovenwood has passed the comfort test. We’re incredibly picky when it comes to softness, support, and sit — so even if you can’t test it yourself, you can feel confident knowing we already have.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, the best sofa is the one that feels like home. Let it reflect your style, but also support the way you live. And don’t rush it — it’s a piece you’ll likely have for years, so choose thoughtfully.

If you’re stuck, come in and chat. We love pairing people with the right pieces — it’s kind of our thing.  

*Cover Image Credit: Lior Interiors