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Design question-choosing a sofa

9/20/2009

 
I received an email the other day looking for some advice about choosing a sofa for a new apartment.  This is a pretty common quandry for homeowners so I thought I'd share with you.
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I'm going shopping for a new sofa but am not sure what to get.  We have a beige area rug, black tv stand, dark wood coffee table (this may go), dark bookcase, and dark wood dining table and chairs that will go behind the sofa.  So the question is - do you think I should go dark or light on the couch? My inclination would be dark since the rest of the furniture is dark .

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Here's my response:
The good news is, because you're working with a palatte of neutrals, you can't really pick the wrong color.  I would think more about how the sofa is going to be used- ie, are you going to be snacking while watching TV.  I'm going to go with yes, since most everyone does.  With lighter walls and flooring, I agree that darker is the way to go.  It will be a nicer contrast in the room setting.  Where were you planning to put the sofa?  Against the window wall or floating, facing the long wall, to serve as a divider between the living and dining area?

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A quick note on fabrics, try to go with something that has varying color and texture--it's going to be a lot more forgiving.  If you decide to go with Micro Fiber, try to get something that is a blend of natural and synthetic (a cotton/poly blend).  This is going to be the most resistant to stains.  Everyone thinks that polyester is indestructible--and it is for water based stains.  But for oil based stains, it's bad news.  Ever try to get oil out of a polyester blouse?  Nearly impossible.  Polyester is made from oil so it holds oil.  The varying texture will give dirt a place to hide. 

Before you buy anything, have an idea about the size of the building elevator (if you're certain it's 8' then no worries.  I doubt you'll buy a sofa over 90" long), check any turns on the route the sofa would take during delivery.  If you find a sofa with legs, find out if they are removeable for delivery (those extra 4 inches can make a difference)

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    Author

    Christine Schwalm is an Interior Designer and Visual Merchandiser based in Los Angeles.  This space will keep you updated on what's going on with CSD along with some ideas to inspire you.  Go here for more information about pricing and services and here to make an appointment. 
     
    Have a design question?  Need some advice?  Send it here and I'll post the answer in an entry.

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