Getting the right look

In most cases, a sofa will be the biggest piece of furniture in your main living space. So it's important that any statement it makes is appropriate for the room it will sit in and the mood you're trying to create. Both the design of your sofa's body shape and your choice of fabric coverings will affect this.

Curved sofa and chair styles with scroll arms tend to look more traditional and homely - especially in neutral or floral patterns. But these can take on a whole new life when covered in vibrant colours or patterns. A bright colour can make a room look more playful and younger, or a more refined pattern can make the same room look more formal and elegant. These styles tend to work best in period homes with original features. On the other hand, sofas with straighter lines and more square arms tend to look more contemporary. Simpler fabrics and leathers emphasise the increased sleekness. These tend to work best in more modern living rooms.

Whatever your personal choices about the individual shapes and fabrics of your sofa, it's important to remember how the final piece will work in the room as a whole. Experimenting with sofa swatches can save you from costly mistakes. It's also worth noting that a sofa can make a statement without being covered in a bold fabric.

A calm, neutral sofa in a room of boldly patterned wallpaper and/or curtains can be just as eye-catching.