Sofas are paramount to transforming a room into a cosy and comfortable space. But with various sofa types, styles, sizes, and materials out there, making the right choice might feel overwhelming.

On this page, we have compiled a list of the best and most common types of sofa, so that you can make the best decision for your space and requirements.

Indoor sofas

Each sofa style offers unique features and benefits, from luxurious leather to cosy fabric options. In this section, we’ll delve into various indoor sofa types to help you select the ideal piece that combines comfort, practicality, and style.

Corner sofas

Corner sofas are a popular sectional sofa type that allows you to maximise space. They fit neatly into corners, saving room in smaller areas while providing ample seating for family and guests. With each, their L-shape encourages conversation and closeness, making social gatherings more enjoyable.

Compact corner sofas

Like their larger counterparts, compact corner sofas fit into the corner of a room. They are smaller than regular corner sofas, which makes them a common choice in smaller rooms or apartments. Despite being smaller in size, they still comfortably allow for a family to relax together.

Deep-seat sofas

Anything with more than a 75cm depth is classed as a deep-seat sofa. They are considered more comfortable and recommended for anyone with posture issues. The extra space on these sofas allows people to sit more comfortably together.

Overall, they combine comfort and style, making your space both welcoming and visually appealing. These are available in various styles and fabrics, from cord armchairs to chenille 5-seater corner sofas.

Low-seated sofas

Low-seated sofas make sitting down and standing up easier, reducing the strain on joints and muscles. This makes them highly practical for elderly people. Low-seated sofas are also recommended for rooms with low ceilings of around 8 meters or less, as they make the room feel taller.

Modular sofas

Modular sofas are made up of individual parts or “modules” that combine into one. They are a practical choice because arrange the pieces to fit your room and lifestyle perfectly. Plus, if a part gets damaged, you can replace just that section. This works well if you are unsure about the space that you will be using, or live in a home with a pet or young child who may be a risk to the fabric!

Reclining sofas

Reclining sofas are excellent for relaxation and versatility. They have adjustable positions, allowing you to find the perfect angle for sitting or lying down, making it incredibly comfortable. This functionality is especially beneficial if you have back pain or circulation issues, as the movement in position can provide relief and comfort.

Sectional sofas

Sectional sofas are customisable seating options for your space. You can design them to fit your room, into an L-shape, or U-shape, for example. They are made of multiple sections, but unlike modular sofas, they are designed to stay in one fixed position once they are built.

Straight sofas

Straight sofas are traditional, linear sofas that have one seating area without angles or corners. They usually have arms at either end and a backrest running along the length. They are designed for people to sit in a row, and suit various room layouts. Straight sofas range in sizes from compact two-seaters to larger models, for example, four-seaters.

Sofa beds

Sofa beds are a type of sofa that can be converted into a bed. They naturally provide a lot of convenience as they combine two pieces of furniture into one place. They are ideal for people living in properties with limited space, or without permanent spare beds.

Track arm sofa

Track arm sofas have straight, slim, track-like armrests that run parallel to the seat and backrest. Their design offers a contemporary and minimalist feel, fitting well in various room styles. They often have firmer cushions, providing good back support and comfort for sitting.

Bridgewater sofas

Bridgewater sofa chair types are defined as having a low profile and low arms. Their versatile design suits various interior aesthetics, and they come in a range of fabric options, making them a popular choice for both traditional and modern homes. Bridgewater sofas offer ample seating space without overwhelming the room, striking the perfect balance between form and function.

Lawson sofas

Lawson sofa chair types typically feature a simple silhouette, making them adaptable for both modern and traditional settings. With a retro style that became popular in the 90s, Lawson sofas suit a midcentury room, perhaps with a vintage look. Lawson sofas prioritise comfort with their attached back pillows, deep seats, and wide arms.

Loveseat sofas

Loveseats are a sofa type that offer an intimate experience for two. Perfectly designed for cosy seating, these compact sofas comfortably accommodate two people, promoting closeness and conversation. Smaller than the average sofa, but wider than an armchair, it’s the perfect size for cuddling together.

Mid-century modern sofas

Mid-century modern sofas boast clean lines, organic shapes, and a minimalist aesthetic, reflecting the design sensibilities of the mid-20th century. Characterised by tapered legs, sleek profiles, and often featuring bold, vibrant colours, they add a chic retro touch to any space.

Tight back sofa

Tight-back sofa chair types are celebrated for their tailored and streamlined appearance. The absence of loose cushions on the backrest of this sofa type means that they have a neat silhouette, contributing to a more formal and polished aesthetic. This style is popular with those who favour a formal design, and want a sofa that brings a touch of elegance. Tight back sofas also promote proper posture and lumbar support, making them ideal for those with bad backs.

Tuxedo sofas

Similar to tight back sofas, tuxedo sofas also lack loose cushions on the backrest. Tuxedo sofa styles will also have arms that are the same height as the back, giving them a more sophisticated look, perfect for rooms in which you want to appear elegant and modern.

Traditional sofa types

Sometimes a simple and classic sofa type is exactly what you need. They are a testament to a style that has lasted and therefore bring a warm familiarity to a space. Whether you recognise them from your favourite TV show or a stylish interior you have visited, they are a friendly wave from a sofa you know well.

Camelback sofas

Just like the animal it is named after, a camelback sofa has two arches across the back. This 19th-century sofa style may not be the comfiest or most child-friendly, but certainly invites admiration as you notice it in a room. Although they are not typically extremely soft or cushioned, the upright backrest is ideal for posture support.

Chesterfield sofas

As seen on American sitcom Friends, the Chesterfield leather sofa type is revered for its iconic design. Its distinctive features include deep-button tufting, rolled arms, and a low back. The tufted detailing not only adds a rich texture but also prevents sagging and maintains the shape of the sofa.

Daybed sofas / Chaise sofas

Chaise longue sofas offer a unique and luxurious seating experience. Their elongated design, featuring a chair-like back and an extended leg rest, allows for ultimate relaxation and comfort. This style combines the best of both worlds, providing a comfortable seating area akin to a sofa while offering the option to recline and stretch out, akin to a lounge chair.

Divans

Traditional, but still beautifully unique, divan sofas have a Persian tufted mattress as a seat, placed either on the ground or a low wooden frame. Divan sofa styles are often backless, although some are made with backs, and tend to be pushed up against a wall with cushions and pillows piled against it. Divan sofas also have no armrests, so they are much more suited for a daybed or sleeping couch than a practical option, especially for the elderly.

English roll arm sofas

English roll arm sofas, also known as William Birch sofas, are categorised by their low, tight back, and rolled arms. These bring a classic, rustic look that will never go out of style. These are often spotted in iconic designer spaces since their look is so unique.

Knole sofas

Knole sofa styles have high, adjustable arms that you can lower for a more relaxed seat, or raise for a formal aesthetic. The design is classic and elegant, making any room look elevated in style, and the structure is sturdy and durable. Knole sofas promise the best of both worlds—comfortable for relaxing, and fancy for impressing your guests. So, if you want a cosy yet classy sofa, a knole sofa may be your perfect fit.

Garden sofas

Choosing the right garden sofa can transform your outdoor space into a relaxing retreat. From sleek, modern designs to cosy, cushioned options, there’s a wide variety of garden sofas to suit any style and need. In this section, we explore different types of garden sofas to help you find your perfect fit.

Garden corner sofas

Like indoor corner sofas, garden corners are a practical, neat way to make the most of your space. They come with washable cushions and ample seating, providing a cosy and relaxing environment. With a central table, they offer a convenient place for snacks, drinks, or games.

Rattan sofas

Rattan has been incredibly popular recently, since the COVID lockdown encouraged a surge of people to renovate their gardens, rattan has been a sought-after outdoor furniture choice. Rattan is a strong, flexible, and weather-resistant vine, perfect for outdoor use. Our garden rattan collection ranges from a 4 seater patio set with a low table to 6 seater dining tables.

Find the perfect sofa for you

Ultimately, finding the perfect sofa for you depends on your preferences. For some people, comfort is the primary factor they consider and others may want to combine style with limited space.

Consider the options above and when you know which type of sofa is best for you, head to The Online Sofa Shop. We have a huge variety of sofa types in different sizes, fabrics, and styles. We offer delivery within one week from our own delivery service, 15 years of industry experience, and interest-free payments.