Story by Josh McNelly, Concierge Sales Professional @NFM / Photos courtesy of Nebraska Furniture Mart
One morning you walk into your living room, look around, and realize it’s time for a change. You may not be sure exactly what needs to change, but you know the current setup is just not working for you and your family. Perhaps the sofa has seen better days, it’s out of style, or you just want a fresh look. Maybe you dream of entertaining more, but dread sharing your sofa with the world. Most of all though, how do you sort through hundreds of options to find that perfect fit for you?
Before you rush out to somewhere like NFM and spend your hard-earned money, here are a few things to consider when buying a sofa. Since furniture is one of the bigger home investments you’ll make, take some time to consider your options. Don’t forget along the way that this should also be a fun, enjoyable experience! By following this quick guide, you’ll be better prepared for the journey ahead.
The first question I ask clients is how they want to use their space. This answer usually determines the type of furniture you want. Transforming your basement into a home theatre for the family? Choose large and deep seating, maybe even reclining. Want to invite neighbors over for dinner or coffee? Traditional, firmer seating is the right fit. Without first considering how you use your space, the rest of the process is more challenging but not impossible. If you’re not sure yet, that’s ok – just move on to the next step.
Whether you have a use in mind or not, it’s time to measure! Accurate measurements of your space, including doors, windows, and other furniture you plan to keep, will help determine what furniture will fit. You might want that large sectional, but if it’s too large it might just get in the way. Also make sure to measure stairs and hallways if your pick needs to pass through those areas. Working with a sales professional, they can let you know the important measurements to take and work to find pieces that fit properly. If your space isn’t furnished at all yet, having the measurements helps determine other furniture picks too.
Color, comfort, and finish are the next things to consider and where the real fun begins. This is the first step where you can start to really express your personal style.
When it comes to color, there is no wrong answer – from bold reds and yellows to traditional beiges and greys the only mistake is picking a finish you don’t like. One fun choice is to accessorize by bringing home a neutral-color sofa only to accent it with vibrant decor. No matter your style, there’s a color out there to fit you. While some vendors only offer one color on their sofas, others carry hundreds of customizable fabrics or leathers to choose from. Sales professionals are extra helpful for guiding you to the right piece for your aesthetic.
Comfort is key when it comes to seating, though that can mean different things depending on how the furniture is used. Comfort is also very personal; What might be comfortable for you, might not be for someone else. Larger, deeper seating sofas usually have a softer cushion with a very relaxed seat making them not quite right for a formal sitting space. Different construction methods also impact how a sofa feels. Cushion density, the type of springs used in the frame, and fabric or leather can all impact how a cushion feels. If at all possible, sit in the furniture before buying to determine if it’s comfortable to you.
When choosing a finish, consider the kind and amount of use your furniture will have. Do messy kids and pets put you in the market for something easy to clean? Performance fabrics can help keep your furniture beautiful. Certain types of protected leathers are also easy to clean and quite durable. Maybe you take great care of your furniture and prefer something stylish. No matter how you want to use your space, there’s a fabric or leather to meet your needs.
Shopping for new furniture can seem complicated and daunting, following the process and working with a knowledgeable sales professional can make the experience quite rewarding and even fun! When you think about home furniture, it’s more than just something to sit on, it’s a place where you’ll create family memories for years to come. Taking the time to get the right pick will ensure you can enjoy your home to its fullest for years to come.
