Your Guide To Sectional Sofa Shapes: How To Choose the Right One for Your Space

There are so many reasons to love a sectional sofa; they offer versatility, ample seating, and can either be used to maximize space, or as a focal piece that makes a design statement. When it comes to choosing the best sectional sofa shape to suit your home and needs, however, there are some important factors to consider, since each of these sectional shapes has its own unique advantages. That’s why we’ve curated this guide to help you make the most of your decision-making experience, and choose the perfect sectional for you and your family.

Get Creative with the Many Configurations of a Modular Sectional

Modular sectionals are an ideal choice for anyone who loves to entertain, or just likes the option of changing up their interior design layout now and then. These incredibly versatile styles are also a good go-to for growing families, or if you need a piece that can grow and change with you over the years– whether that’s moving into a new home, or simply moving your sofa into a different room at any point down the line. Think of a modular sectional as one that can evolve with you, no matter what your changing plans, or growing family needs might require. Highly customizable, they often include ottomans, armless chairs, and corner units as separate pieces that can be mixed and matched to achieve a variety of configurations whenever you choose. If you’re looking for something iconic and unapologetically modern, look no further than the N701 modular sofa from Ethnicraft. Designed by Jacques Deneef, this monovolume sectional is the perfect blend of premium comfort and classic contemporary design. For more traditional sophistication, you might also try the Serena modular sofa from sustainable Rowe; its durable elegance is handcrafted in Virginia, and offers a more practical appeal that complements most style preferences with ease. 

Maximize Your Corner Space with an L-Shaped Sectional

Perhaps the most common shape for a sectional, the L-shaped sofa is a smart choice if you want to make the most of smaller, or awkwardly-shaped spaces by setting your sofa into one corner. Since these pieces combine a sofa with a chaise lounge or loveseat piece to form an L, they’re ideally suited to be placed against the wall, and along the outskirts of your design layout, letting the center of the room feel more open and expansive. Our customers love Rowe’s Madeline sectional for its vintage-inspired appeal, and the Big Easy sectional from Younger + Co with its wide arms that can easily be used to prop up a beverage or laptop. Hoping to find a beautiful L-shaped sectional that’s also made from all-organic materials? Be sure to check out the bestselling Donato two-piece sofa from Cisco Home, and select their Inside Green upgrade; this ensures your piece will be 100% organic for a healthier home with fewer chemicals and allergens.

Make a Statement with a Curved Sectional Sofa

Curved sectionals don’t sit flush against a wall, which makes them a unique option to use as a focal point centerpiece in your design layout. For this reason, and especially if you’re furnishing a larger room, you might choose one with a style aesthetic or upholstery fabric that really makes a statement. For smaller rooms, a curved sofa can also lend a natural sense of flow and ease that doesn’t feel as obtrusive as a more traditional piece with sharper angles and straight lines. The softly rounded look of these sectionals tend to encourage face-to-face conversation too– an added perk if you enjoy hosting and entertaining guests at home! Our team of designers recommend the Straight Up sectional from Thayer Coggin for a plush deep seat you’ll love sinking into, and a contemporary appeal that’s stunning to look at. Cisco Home’s Hughes curved sectional is another effortlessly modern 3-piece sofa that features luxurious Feather Cloud seat and cushion fill made from down and organic feathers. 

Celebrate Larger Spaces with a U-Shaped Sectional  

If you have the space for a U-shaped sectional, these more formidable sofa styles can be an excellent addition. Usually comprising three pieces that may include two chaise lounges or loveseats on either side of a standard sofa, the U-shaped sectional offers maximum seating capabilities that make them a great choice for big families as well. While they require larger spaces, they can also provide an incredibly cozy environment for family movie nights or holiday gatherings at home, since they offer double the deeper-set corner seating. The Hayden sectional from Cisco Home feels elevated enough to make a stylish impression, but with sloped front arms and a looser cushion style, it’s also approachable enough to make you feel at home. We also love the Imagine sectional form Younger + Co, whose back cushions lean gently back as if inviting you to recline, relax, and stay a while after a long day. 

For more personalized guidance or information on any of our top-selling sectional sofas and workshop partners, be sure to schedule a complimentary consultation with our design experts today. Our team is always happy to discuss your specific space and lifestyle needs to help you find the best furniture investment for you and your home!