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Tips for choosing a new couch

A couch is often the centre of our home. It is where we spend our evenings, where friends congregate and where we can be found enjoying a Sunday nap.

It is also often the starting point of our home decor. A couch is an expensive purchase and should coordinate with everything else you have.

Choosing to replace a couch is a big decision. Here are some tips to make the process as effortless as possible.

Size and shape

The size of the couch will largely be determined by the size of your space. It is essential you measure the space before you begin couch shopping or you’ll be left with a tiny couch in a cavernous space or a giant couch which won’t fit through the front door.

Many interior designers have said the first thing most clients ask for is a couch which allows them to stretch out. There’s not much worse than lying down for a nap and having your head and legs hanging over each end. Choosing a couch with a chaise option makes lounging comfortable while still looking stylish.

Fabrics

It is important to think about your lifestyle and the kind of work the couch will be doing. If you are a family with small children and many pets, white leather will never be a good idea. If you enjoy entertaining friends with snacks and red wine, you’ll need to ensure your couch can handle a stain or two.

A good idea is to keep your couch neutral – grey, beige or navy. They can then be decorated with throws and cushions in your favoured colour palette for brightening up. But if you do like bold decor, choose a fun, bright colour or print and inject some of your personality into the room.

Style

The options here are endless. Modern, mid-century or traditional – you’ll need to have an idea of which type of style you’re drawn to. Lounge suites are a great option if you want your room to look more traditional and cohesive while mix and match chairs and couches are a more modern combination.

THE AUTHOR

SA Home Owner Online

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