Journal

2024 Sofa Buying Guide

The living room's centrepiece, the sofa, demands more than just a glance: it's a statement piece, a haven for relaxation, and a reflection of your style.


Understanding the Space: Beyond Square Metres

Before diving into aesthetics, take a moment to grasp the dynamics of your living room. Consider not just the dimensions, but also the flow of traffic through the space and other items both in and outside of the space.

Ask yourself:

  • Where is the television, view, fireplace etc?
  • What should the sofa face towards, what should it have its back to or be open to? Consider not just what the sofa faces but what it turns its back on also.
  • How do people use the space and move through the space?

By understanding these aspects, you can determine the right configuration and size for your sofa, ensuring it works in the space rather than dominates it.

The Taormina Sofa by Rossini works well in larger spaces.

Comfort: A Seat Suited to You

A sofa should be a sanctuary of comfort, a place to unwind and recharge but comfort, like beauty, is in the eye of the beholder. Comfort is so important but you have to think about how you sit and what comfort means to you. Do you crave plush, sink-in cushions, or a firmer, supportive seat? Do you sit, lounge or lay on our sofa – or all of the above?

Seat height, seat depth and backrest height & angle will all affect the way a sofa sits but our team will help you navigate these once you understand what is important to you about how you want to sit.

The Ipno Sofa by Cubo Rosso has a deep-seat and cleverly designed adjustable backrests.

Material Musings: Balancing Desire with Durability

The age-old debate: fabric or leather? Each material boasts unique advantages and personal preference remains key; don't be swayed by misconceptions.

Modern fabric options have evolved far beyond their predecessors, now often equipped with advanced stain-resistant technology and durable fibres. These innovations mean they are just as practical as leather, particularly for households with pets or children.

Yet, leather maintains its allure, offering a timeless elegance and luxurious feel that can elevate any space. Its durability is legendary, with well-maintained pieces enduring for generations, giving rooms a sense of heritage and refinement.

But the decision extends beyond mere practicality; it's a reflection of personal style and lifestyle demands. Those drawn to the warm embrace of fabric may find comfort in its soft textures and diverse patterns and colours, while leather enthusiasts love the look and longevity it can offer from the vast array available.

Ultimately, the choice between fabric and leather is a delicate balance between desire and durability, guided by individual tastes and the demands of daily life. Solutions can generally be found from either category so keep an open mind!

Luxurious leather sofa, combining timeless elegance with exceptional comfort. Explore our leather sofa collection at Bradfords, Auckland, New Zealand

Bespoke custom sofa, tailored to your preferences and designed to perfectly suit your space. Explore our custom sofa services at Bradfords, Auckland, New Zealand.

Versatile corner suite, maximising seating space and creating a cosy corner for your living room. Explore our corner suite collection at Bradfords, Auckland, New Zealand.

Vibrant orange sofa, infusing your living space with energy and warmth. Discover our orange sofa options at Bradfords, Auckland, New Zealand.
The Glamour Sofa by Rossini is available in luxurious Italian leather.

The Power of Colour: Setting the Mood

The colour of your sofa has the power to transform the entire aesthetic of your living space. You can make a bold statement or go for something more subdued but you need to consider the other elements in the room and choose the roles they will play with the balance of colour.

Lighter colours can make furniture feel smaller and a room more expansive, while darker tones can create a sense of intimacy. Ultimately, ensure your sofa colour complements the existing colour scheme of your room, including walls, flooring, and decor.

The Bonny Sofa by Cubo Rosso in Pink adds a bold pop of colour to any room.

Lifestyle Harmony: A Sofa For You & How You Live

Beyond aesthetics and comfort, consider how your sofa will work with your lifestyle. Who will be using it, and how often? Whether you have pets, children, or frequent guests, understanding your household's needs will guide you towards a sofa suitable for those using it.

Additionally, consider the main use of the room. Is it for casual lounging, watching movies, in a family room, or creating a more formal atmosphere in a living space? These might give and indication of how you are likely to sit on and use the sofa.

While it’s important to have an understanding of what’s important to you, there’s nothing like trying out a variety of sofas and learning about the textures and characteristics of modern materials. With so many designs on display, there is so much to explore – our team would be delighted to help you on your journey to find your perfect sofa.

The Soft Island Sofa by Bonaldo of Italy is a great option for those searching for something for a formal living room.