Plop Down, Lift Up And Listen

So, you have been looking to buy a sofa.  This my friend is not a decision to be taken lightly.  Your going to want to be comfortable with your choice because the experts say most folks will keep the same sofa for an average of 10 years. And why wouldn't you, they are not cheap.  Some folks will even go in debt to get the furniture of their dreams. Plus, it's almost like your sofa becomes part of the family.

I have done the research and compiled a list that will guarantee you'll get exactly what you pay for when choosing the next member of your family.  I bet there are a few you had forgotten about.  Plus a few designer tips you probably never knew.

Designer Tips:

• Back cushions with squared off edges look more contemporary than the rounded.  
• Exposed legs will look more modern.
• Skirted styles are cozier.
• Metal legs give it a Euro Chic flavor.
• Three back cushions... say traditional.
• Two back cushions... look more updated.
• A single back cushion makes a strong design statement.
• The experts also say to stick to a neutral color and add pillows or a throw or both for color and pattern.

Let's get down to the basics:

1. Buy the best construction you can afford.  Lift the sofa to check for quality.  The heavier the better.  Sturdiest frames are made from moisture-resistant, kiln dried hardwoods.
2. There should be absolutely no squeak when you sit.  The best springs are 8 gauge steel wire set into the frame and hand tied with twine.
3. When you sit on the arms of the sofa, you shouldn't feel wood through the padding.  You'll be glad you checked this the first time you go to lay your head on the arm to watch TV.
4. Finally, plop down (and I mean PLOP) on the sofa seat on one end, near the arm.  The other end of the cushion should not pop up.  You also shouldn't feel like you are being sucked into the corner.
5. You'll want to make sure the depth of the cushions (front to back) allows you to sit (or lay down) comfortably.  It doesn't take much to be too deep which might leave your feet dangling. Or too short, so your significant other doesn't have room to snuggle up beside you to watch a movie.

I hope this helps.  Oh, one last thing, if you are feeling like you just might want to keep your dear old friend that has been around for at least ten years.  Because those were some good times shared.  You could always invest in a nice cover and just keep old blue around for a few more. Except now she's a very pretty beige color. 

Cozy Vintage Chic

Hillbilly Chic