Interior Designers Agree: Sofas Are Perfect for Small Spaces

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If there is one design challenge we are always eager to tackle, it’s scouring the best sofas for small spaces. After all, in any living room—no matter the size—this furniture piece tends to be the main draw visually. So, if you are working with a size constraint and don’t want to sacrifice your space’s sense of style, you’ve come to the right place. Not only do we have a few reputable product suggestions for you, but we’ve gathered expert tips as well on how to shop for one. We chatted with three interior designers to get their thoughts on making big pieces work in small spaces. New York City-based Becky Shea, Santa Monica-based Sarah Rosenhaus, and Denver-based Miranda Cullen are all founders and principal designers of their respective firms, and they had a lot to say about picking arguably the most important furniture in the living room: the couch.

Contrary to popular opinion, it’s not all about the way it looks. Cullen says, “When looking at sofas specifically, we always pay attention to scale, style, comfort, and budget.” All of these factors are equally important, so before snagging the chicest one and calling it a day, be sure to consider all of its qualities before clicking “add to cart.” Luckily for you, there’s no need to head to the local brick-and-mortar furniture stores to check the comfort because we included reviews (both first-hand and from online shoppers) in all of our product suggestions. Go ahead and start shopping. There’s no reason your small living room needs to settle for quiet style.

Sven Sofa

Available as a loveseat (pictured) or as a sofa; in fabric, leather, or velvet; and in more than a few color options, this Article. number is one of our favorites. Personally, we're loving the loveseat upholstered in tan leather, which is just as soft as it looks. (And yes, the bolster pillows are included). What makes this sofa, in particular, great for small spaces is its sturdy, corner-blocked wooden frame. And what it lacks in size it makes up for in comfort, courtesy of the feather-filled back cushions. The seat, on the other hand, is a combination of foam-padded and fiber- and feather-filler. One reviewer says, "I have wanted this couch for a long time, and finally pulled the trigger. I am beyond happy with it. It completed the space and fits perfectly. Cannot say enough good things!"

Warren Sofa

This sofa may look simple, and it is, but that doesn't mean it isn't highly luxurious. After all, this Frontgate find is available in more than 100 fabrics and handmade in the U.S. The real artisanship, however, is what's in the cushions. All of them, including the ones on the seat, back, and throw pillows, are feather- and down-wrapped, making this tiny masterpiece well worth the money and the wait. Yes, there is a bit of a wait because each Warren is made to order.

Tester Danielle Collins says, "I bought this for my first apartment in Washington, D.C. and I loved it. I was looking for something small enough to look proportional in my tiny living area, but not so small that I wouldn't be comfortable. After almost a year of looking, I finally stumbled upon this Frontgate one and I ordered it immediately." She continues, "It's a little too small to fully take a nap on (I'm quite tall), but it's so plush and cozy for a movie night or work-from-home day." Her only note? "It's a little hard to clean because the fabric is quite fragile and I opted for one of the paler colors, so if I'm eating or drinking something hard to clean, like chocolate or red wine, I'll enjoy it at the dining table."

Owen Sofa

Available in two frame finishes and four upholstery colors, this Castlery piece is classic in all the best ways—with the exception of the unique fabric. If we had to think of a way to describe it, we'd say it's a spicy olive oil shade. However, if it's a bit too punchy for you, the Owen also comes in three more neutral shades. Plus, with foam and pocket spring-filled cushions, it's as comfortable as it looks. One reviewer says, "Easy to put together, great neutral color, and pretty darn comfy. Just need to add a few pieces to warm up the space, but the couch is a lovely centerpiece of the space!" When it comes to those last few pieces, we recommend draping a throw blanket over one of the arms and a few great pillows in a soft pattern to finish it off.

As far as comfort goes, plenty of reviewers have noted that, while it's cozy, it's on the firmer side, and that's due to the suspension system, which is made up entirely of sinuous springs. If the word "springs" is tripping you out, know that this type of construction is very common in mid-tier sofas. Ones on the cheaper end are often made with no suspension system, relying entirely on the foam-filled cushions for support, which is why they often don't last very long, while more luxurious sofas, you'll find hand-tied coil spring systems. Depending on what you're looking for, you'll need to weigh the pros and cons before buying, but if you're in the market for a decently luxe piece that you'll enjoy for a few years, this one will do you proud.

The Bond Settee

Maiden Home is one of our go-to outposts for elegant furniture that boasts that coveted minimalist look that, as of late, people are calling quiet luxury, and that's exactly what the brand is all about. Though most of the pieces are actually a bit oversized, a select few are just small enough to squeeze into even the tiniest of spaces. One such piece is the completely customizable Bond settee, which features plush down-filled cushioning in all directions. We love the fact that the entire frame is covered in any fabric of your choosing, though we're a bit partial to the nubby bouclé pictured here. Luckily, Maiden Home, which is based in New York, but constructs all of its furniture in its North Carolina factory, has a vast fabric library. They'll even send free swatches if you can't decide which one is your favorite.

"I was really torn between a few options from Maiden Home, but after speaking with a design advisor and reviewing my space, we settled on the Bond settee for my multi-functional den," one reviewer notes. "I really love the overall size. It can comfortably seat about three people, which is ideal since I'm constantly entertaining. The team also suggested the Italian bouclé in white, which really looks absolutely stunning on the oversized arm detail. It really elevated my space and I couldn't be happier!"

Convertible Futon Sofa Bed

At just 74 inches wide, this velvet sleeper sofa can nestle into even the smallest spaces. There's also no need to swap decorative accent pillows because this futon comes with a pair. If you're into this sofa, don't wait too long to buy it because it's already sold out in one of the three shades. Luckily, this sumptuous rosy color is still on offer. There's also a moody navy, but the gray is done and dusted. Our one disclosure: Even though this is perfectly comfortable, it's not going to be a forever piece that you'll bring from home to home for years to come. As is the case with plenty of sofas under $400, this is a great piece for right now because it's cozy enough, easy to assemble, and even doubles as a bed, but because the materials and construction aren't exactly made to last forever, this isn't something you'll want to lounge or sit on for hours on end.

One reviewer says, "Super easy to assemble. I did it by myself. I only found it difficult to have enough pressure to secure the arms because I am small. There weren't any reviews that included photos of the blue velvet, so I was a bit skeptical and hoped it would look like the photo and it did! Overall, well packaged."

Revolve Modern Sectional

Just shy of 80 inches (79.9 inches, to be exact), this cozy L-shaped sectional is easier to maneuver than most. In fact, the chaise is lightweight and movable, so you can place it on either side of the sofa depending on your room's needs. It also comes in four colors, all of which pair well with any space dominated by neutral tones. One reviewer says, "This couch is perfect for smaller spaces and it's very comfy. I would consider it be more on the 'firmer' side but still is very comfortable. I would be a little cautious if you have little kids, as it is pretty light in color, but the fabric does seem very high quality and stains might come out easier than I think. I would recommend this a million times over."

Generally speaking, sectionals aren't ideal in small spaces because they tend to take up more space than traditional three- or two-seaters, but some layouts can certainly accommodate one, so before passing on it, measure your space and play with configurations to find out how to make it work. Because the chaise isn't stuck in place, incorporating this into a small room is definitely possible. In fact, more than a few reviewers lauded this sofa for its versatility and ability to squeeze into tiny spaces.

Enya Velvet Square Arm Sleeper

Give your home a luxe touch with this tufted velvet sofa bed. The rich emerald (it's also available in pink) isn't even the most glamorous element; it's the tapered legs, which are finished in a glossy brass that add a seriously regal appeal. Though it comes with the matching throw pillows, we recommend adding a soft-toned blanket to break up the boldness of the color. After all, so much bright green (or pink) may be a bit stark to the eye.

One reviewer says, "I got this piece for a small studio apartment. I needed something that wasn't a bed but could accommodate a nap. This was perfect! The color goes great with the rest of the decor, and it was remarkably easy to put together." There's no need for tools to assemble this because everything you need to put it together is included in the box.

Pascale Sofa

Can you tell we have a thing for unique shades of green? We aren't the only ones! Plenty of customers chose this cool color over the rest of West Elm's impressive fabrics that include more than a few neutrals. Color aside, this sofa is still pretty eye-catching. With its straight yet soft edges, this 66-inch made-to-order sofa is a little bit midcentury and a little bit rock and roll (depending on the color). Cool feature alert: It has removable arms and a back that folds for quick assembly. If you're a bit hesitant because of the price, know that white glove delivery is included.

Parlor Sofa

Available in 60- and 82 inches, this is a modern refresh of a classic low-slung sofa, courtesy of the gently curved shape. The single cushion and matching rectangular pillows help elongate the shape without actually, well, elongating the sofa itself. We call that working smarter, not harder. Like the previous pick, this one also comes in nearly 50 fabrics, including this beautiful dusty rose.

"I wanted to add a pop of color to my neutral living room, but didn't want to overwhelm the space with a hue that felt too bold for the space," tester Lexi Sunberg says. "This soft pink accomplished my goal without straying too far from my relatively quietly colored living area. It's also the perfect height and width, and I love that there's only one cushion, which makes the whole thing look that much more sleek and simple. I also love that there are no decorative elements like tufting or hardware. It's just soft, elegant fabric."

Belmont Sofa

This unique 72-inch velvet sofa will brighten up your space in yellow, but it also comes in 12 (yes, 12) other colors if you prefer a different, perhaps quieter, hue. Plus, it features plush, oversized cushions for ultimate comfort. Don't blame us if you end up sitting down and end up falling asleep mere minutes later. That's how cozy this thing is. The only downside? It's made to order, so don't expect it within six weeks of ordering. The upside? White glove delivery is free.

Oliver Sofa

The wood frame on this sofa gives it a slightly vintage, mid-century feel. You can snag it in chenille or twill, depending on the look and feel of the rest of your space, but no matter which fabric you choose, you're bound to find it highly cozy. The cushions may look a bit thin compared to a few other options on our list, but what the seat lacks in plushness, it makes up for in depth. That's right, the seat is more than 22 inches deep, so if you like to curl up while you lounge, there's plenty of space to do so without hanging or falling off.

Arch Nomad Loveseat

Even the tiniest of spaces can have a sectional—or at least a couch with a chaise—thanks to this loveseat from Burrow. It's only 59 inches long (the chaise measures 61 inches deep) and you can easily move the chaise to either side. One of the 2,000-plus five-star reviews says, "I've had my couch for several months now and I've been extremely happy with my purchase. It was easy to assemble and the build quality feels very sturdy. The cushions are definitely on the firm side, but not uncomfortable at all." Like the Castlery option earlier on the list, this one is also manufactured with sinuous springs, which are likely making it feel firm. The coolest feature, however, has nothing do with assembly, comfort, or customization. It's the built-in USB port to charge your devices without getting up.

This is a good example of a sectional that's quite literally designed for small spaces, so no matter what kind of layout you're working with, making this fit (and look good) is definitely available to you. We suggest pushing it against a wall or into a nook because small pieces like this look a bit random when floating in the middle of a room.

The Essential Loveseat

There's something about sustainable furniture that makes it more stylish and comfortable. Maybe it's the recycled upholstery or sustainably sourced wood frame, but who knows? Sabai has been designing eco-friendly furniture since its inception. "I have the full-size version of this loveseat and have to admit that it's my favorite thing in the apartment," Associate Shopping Editor Jessica Cherner says. "It's more firm than it is plush, but it has a lot of give and bounce to it, so you can definitely get cozy and sit for a while without the dreaded backache." As for the assembly, Sabai prides itself on making furniture that's easy to put together, no tools required. "I will be the first to admit that I have no upper body strength, so I had to enlist a friend to help me put this together, but with only two people, it took about seven minutes. Everything ships in two boxes, which made the whole process much more streamlined than if every element was contained in its own packaging."

Sabai has plenty of color options, so choose your fabric depending on the rest of your space, but Cherner has one warning for anyone wanting the navy. "For some reason, my apartment is prone to dust, which really shows on the dark navy velvet, so if you don't feel like vacuuming every few days, opt for a lighter color that won't show dirt, debris, or dust."

Harmony Sofa

The best part of this sofa—aside from how just looking at it will make you want to take a nap—is that while it's only 76 inches wide, you can also adjust the depth. Simply choose from the standard 41-inch seat, or extend it to 47. The next most impressive feature is the floppy pillows that sling over the low-slung arms. Make sure to keep them there because you'll find yourself leaning on them nonstop.

If you're buying this sofa because you need something to squeeze into your small space, you may want to go with the smaller widths, but feel free to customize the seat depth, which ranges from 41 to 47 inches. Personally, we believe that the deeper the cushions, the better, but to each their own. You can also pick your own cushion style: multi-seat or single. This is really more of a style preference, but you can't go wrong with either.

There's also something interesting about this sofa: It's highly plush but it's built on sinuous springs because it's contract-grade (meaning it's designed to last for at least a decade). What makes it so soft is the thickness of the cushions, which totally disguise the springs.

Forsan Flared Arm Sofa

The flared arms on this otherwise simple linen sofa give it a stylish little twist. And while it seats three people, this apartment sofa is only 75 inches long. One reviewer says, "This couch is wonderful. It made my small living room look so big and beautiful." It's traditional and simple, making it a piece you can bring with you from home to home without having to worry about whether or not it will stand the test of time.

Gilmour Two-Cushion Sofa

This 80-inch sofa is all about sleek, soft velvet and modern, clean lines. The cushions are removable and reversible for easy maintenance, and filled with foam and down for plush coziness. It comes in more than 50 fabric options, but we're absolutely loving this icy performance velvet, which can hold its own against a few spills. Because it's made to order, it won't ship for at least a few weeks, though.

Tester Betty Ann Gilrain says, "I had a hard time choosing the fabric because there are so many beautiful ones that complement the curved shape, but I ended up going with the color pictured. I love that the sofa is not visually bulky and the color ended up being so playful. The photo doesn't do it justice. The arm rests are also great because they are cushioned rather than hard frame, making the whole piece a great place to relax on."

Saxon Apartment Sofa

Plush, reversible cushions and detailed legs give this simple 72-inch sofa some added style, and you can score it in more than 50 colorways and three leg finishes, so feel free to have some fun here. One customer says, "This loveseat is wonderful. The size is perfect, the legs are adorable, and the color is spot-on. I read reviews from others and they said the cushions were kind of hard, which I found to be true, so I took their advice and removed some of the stuffing." If, for whatever reason, you don't love it after buying it, rest assured that it comes with a lifetime warranty.

One thing to note: the cushion is slightly over-stuffed in the middle, which is what gives the sofa that voluminous look. It also means that the most comfy spot is nowhere near the arms, but rather in the center.

Nora Apartment Sleeper Sofa

This chic, channel-tufted apartment sofa has a surprise inside: a bed! It unfolds to reveal an innerspring mattress and becomes a full-size bed. Plus, it's only 74 inches wide. The same 57 fabric options available for the previous sofa are also on offer for the Nora Apartment sleeper, so if you're not as moved by this pale gray as we are, feel free to have your couch upholstered in any of the myriad additional options, including bubble gum, aqua, and rust. One happy reviewer says, "I got the sleeper sofa in the taupe fabric and I absolutely love it. It's very well made and looks so custom and also timeless. The cushion and the back are very comfortable. Its not too firm or too soft, its got good support more on the firm side which i love. The bottom leg I love since nothing can get under the sofa and it gives it a high end look. This sofa will definitely last in time and style. We had an issue with the shipping but at the end it was resolved and we got it home."

The Two-Seater Sofa

Floyd's popular sofa comes in a two-seat option, and at 60 inches, it's one of the smallest sofas you'll find on this list. It comes in five colors, and you can choose an upholstered base or a birch base for a pop of personality. One reviewer says, "My home is my sanctuary, and sitting on my Floyd couch is my favorite spot. It's great for hanging out, reading, watching TV, and socializing." It may be small, but it's big enough for at least thee people to sit comfortably.

Payne Square Arms Sleeper Sofa

Another sleeper option, this affordable futon is a great pick. It features a fold-down armrest with cup holders for movie night, converts easily into a twin bed, and measures just 72 inches wide. One reviewer says, "This was a FANTASTIC purchase! I got the purple and it's beautiful. Firm and built strong. I've even fallen asleep on it. Highly recommend for the price."

Meet the Experts

Becky Shea is a New York City interior designer whose full-service firm and lifestyle studio, dubbed BS/D, specializes in organic modernist principles. In addition to tackling the decorative elements of all of the residences in her portfolio, she also creates custom and sustainably made furniture, millwork, and even lighting.

Sarah Rosenhaus founded her eponymous full-service design firm back in 2003. Twenty years later, her Santa Monica studio is still thriving. Though she is an expert in all things design, her speciality rests in historic homes. Like Shea, Rosenhaus also incorporates bespoke pieces of furniture, custom millwork, and unique textiles into all of her projects.

Miranda Cullen is an internationally recognized interior designer and founder of Inside Stories, one of Colorado's leading firms. She currently leads a team of 20-plus designers at her Denver-based studio, which has earned more than a few accolades, including the 2015 CARE Awards for both "design detail" and "kitchen remodel" in the Remodeling Excellence category. She has also won the International Design & Architecture award from the International Design & Architecture Committee in 2022.

What Is the Best Sofa Style for a Small Living Room?

In terms of shape, the only real limit is the size of the room. "Fight your instinct to go small. When selecting a sofa, choose the largest piece you can fit in the space without restricting flow. Find a sofa with open legs which will give brevity while still defining the area," Rosenhaus says, when it comes to the purchase process. You can opt for a sectional or more traditional shape, but if you want to maximize the space, you may want to stick to the latter. If, on the other hand, you would like a sofa to be multifunctional, Shea says, "Look for pieces that can serve multiple purposes, such as a sofa bed or a chaise with storage." One more small space hero tip? "A loveseat or apartment-sized sofa is a good alternative," Shea reminds us. She's not wrong. There's nothing more cozy than snuggling up on a plush chair just big enough to squeeze two people.

Before you click add to cart, do one final check for measurements. "When picking a sofa for a smaller room, the most important factor is always making sure it's appropriately scaled to the space," Cullen explains. "If, for instance, you have a living room with unobstructed walls, you can opt for a small sectional as opposed to a traditional two- or three-seater. A client's preferred style and aesthetic will ultimately dictate the sofa type, but the scale is the driving factor—always," she adds.

How to Choose a Couch for a Small Space

When it comes to picking out the sofa for your small space, Cullen has a word of advice: "Typically, in a smaller space, the largest piece tends to be the focal point, and that piece tends to be the sofa—even if it's a small one," she says. "The priority is making sure that your choice of sofa is appropriately scaled, so nothing too big and nothing too small. In littler living rooms, the best types of sofas are typically considered 'apartment sized.' They can be just as cozy and comfy as the over-scaled options." So the takeaway tip here is always measure so that your sofa looks right in the space. After all, it may be small but it doesn't have to sacrifice style.

Shea agrees. She adds, "Aways avoid bulky furniture and opt for sleek and streamlined pieces that don't take up too much space visually." So even if a sofa is small, heavy features (like rolled arms, for instance) can make it appear bigger, which isn't ideal in a spatially limited room. Opt for something slender. Of course, there are exceptions, but unless you're dealing with odd room proportions, go with something on the narrow end of the spectrum.

How Can You Fit a Couch in a Narrow Space (Without Sacrificing Style)?

Cullen says, "That really depends a lot on personal style. Sometimes, a client wants us to go bold and layered and sometimes they prefer we go clean and tailored. The choice is totally up to the client, and we can always make it work." The best part is that you don't have to be or hire a professional interior designer to do the same. The key to fitting a couch in a narrow space without sacrificing style is quite literally to make it fit. The easiest way to make your room look odd is opting for a couch that's too big or too small in the space. We've said it once and we'll say it again: Measure, measure, measure! This is the easiest way to fit a sofa in a narrow space both literally and aesthetically.

Why Trust Us?

When it comes to picking out the best (and affordable) pieces for any space, Associate Shopping Editor Jessica Cherner has been reviewing furniture, appliances, and home must-haves for nearly eight years, having access to more than a few stylish samples, and working with countless interior designers on what makes a product worthy in the home. Not to mention, she's been on a never-ending quest to decorate her own New York City apartment with a budget and size constraint in mind, so you can trust that she has done her homework to find the best and most beloved pieces on the market.

For this story, Cherner spent hours combing through reviews, ratings, and used her design eye to pick out the the smallest, most beautiful sofas on the market right now for House Beautiful readers. In addition, she tapped the three aforementioned design experts for further insights into buying a sofa for small spaces and how to go about the journey.

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