Why a Sectional?
There`s room for more. The main draw to getting a sectional is straightforward: It offers an ample amount of seating and is perfect for lounging and putting your feet up. Depending on their size, sectionals can offer room for several more people to sit than a conventional sofa can.
It can go anywhere. Most people think that sectionals can work only in large rooms-but that`s not so. Sectionals can really help maximize seating options in smaller spaces, especially when placed in a corner.
It breaks up an open floor plan. There`s nothing like the airiness of an open floor plan, but we`ll admit that arranging the space can be tricky. Enter the sectional, whose broad size and structural shape can help create distinct [rooms" within a larger area.
Breaking Down the Designs
There are a dizzying number of options when it comes to sectional sofas, which means you can get exactly what you want. Read below about the various styles to get a head start.
L-shape: As its name indicates, this sectional takes on an L shape, looking like two sofas merged together at the end to form a right angle. You`re most likely to find a three-cushion style connected to a two-cushion style, though larger four- with three-cushion styles are popular too. The L-shape design is the most versatile of sectionals, working well wedged into a corner or floating in the middle of a room.
Chaise: The chaise sectional is essentially a sofa with an extended ottoman attached to one side. Think of it as the simplified cousin of the L-shape style that can go just about anywhere a conventional sofa might go.
Curved: The curved sectional brings sculptural appeal to a space, acting almost as a piece of art with its elegant silhouette. Keep in mind, it`s not your best bet when it comes to small spaces: Because it doesn`t sit flush against a wall, you`ll have to position it farther out into the room.
U-shape: If you have a huge space to fill-or if you just want to get as much seating out of your sectional as possible-the U-shape style is for you. What`s more, it`s perfect for fostering intimate conversation thanks its two extended arms that face each other.
Modular: Most sectionals come in multiple pieces that are meant to be stationary and connect only in a certain configuration. Not so for the modular style, which can include as many as five pieces that you can rearrange at a whim.
Sleeper: Yes, the ever-functional sectional can get even more functional, making more room not only for sitting but for sleeping too. Sleeper sofa additions are typically featured with chaise-style sectionals.