5 Things to Consider When Buying Your First Sofa

One of the most common mistakes? Falling in love with a sofa that physically does not fit your space. Before you even start browsing, take time to measure your room properly.

Start with these three key measurements:

• Room width and depth (account for radiators, doors, and walking space)
• Entry points including doors, hallways, staircases, and lifts
• Ceiling height if you’re considering high-back styles or tall legs

A good trick? Use masking tape to mark the sofa’s footprint on your floor. This helps you visualise how it will sit within the room and ensures you leave enough clearance for movement.

Also, check your access routes. Will the sofa fit through your front door? Around that narrow stairwell?

👉 Looking to save a bit of money? Explore our Clearance section for quality sofas at reduced prices-ideal if you're furnishing your first home on a budget.

A sofa might look perfect in a photo, but comfort is personal-and it cannot be judged from a screen. That is why we strongly recommend trying sofas in person.

At John Doe, we showcase a wide range of sofas, all available to test for seat depth, height, firmness, and back support. You should:

• Sit upright to test posture support
• Recline or lie down to see if it suits your lounging style
• Check if your feet touch the floor comfortably when seated

Different lifestyles call for different comforts:

• Busy households: Choose sofas with structured, easy-to-maintain cushions
• Entertainers: Consider modular or corner sofas for flexible seating
• Relaxation seekers: Go for a recliner or a chaise-end model for extra stretch

Want enhanced comfort and functionality? G Plan recliners offer intuitive, ergonomic designs that blend seamlessly with modern or classic interiors.

The frame is the foundation of your sofa-it determines longevity, support, and stability. This is where many first-time buyers are tempted to cut corners. Resist.

A high-quality sofa frame should be:

• Constructed from solid hardwood (avoid softwood or particleboard)
• Jointed with dowel, glue, and screws-not staples alone
• Backed by a long-term guarantee (ideally 15 years or more)

When testing in store, a well-made frame should feel:

• Stable-no wobble, no creak
• Evenly balanced
• Quiet, even when you shift your weight

Duresta sofas are a perfect example-handcrafted in the UK using time-honoured techniques, their frames are built to last and backed by expert-level detail and durability.

Similarly, Parker Knoll sofas combine traditional craftsmanship with comfort-driven innovation. They are a popular choice among customers who value long-term performance without sacrificing style.

The right fabric can elevate your sofa-and the wrong one can ruin it. Consider how your sofa will be used daily, then match the material accordingly.

• Microfibre: Vacuum regularly and wipe with mild soap
• Leather: Condition every 6–12 months to prevent cracking
• Removable covers: A lifesaver-especially when spills are inevitable

👉 Visit our 45,000 sq ft superstore, designed around styled living zones that let you experience sofas in real-life settings. Our in-store experts can guide you through 1000s of fabric options, matching your sofa to your room’s palette, lighting, and flooring.

Looking to optimise your layout? Corner sofas are ideal for smaller rooms or open-plan living-they help define zones without cutting off flow.

Cushion comfort is not just about softness-it's about support, maintenance, and longevity. Each filling has its pros and cons.

Most experts recommend a blend-foam for seat cushions, feather for back cushions-to strike a balance between structure and softness.

Care Tip: Rotate and flip cushions regularly to extend lifespan and prevent uneven wear.

No photo, swatch, or online review can replicate how a sofa feels in real life.

In our superstore, you will find more than sofas-you will find inspiration. Every section is carefully curated to help you visualise your space. Compare styles side by side, speak with trained specialists, and see how lighting, fabrics, and finishes interact.

It is about making a choice you will love-not just for today, but for the years to come.

1. Ignoring measurements: Always check access routes. Twice.
2. Choosing looks over lifestyle: White boucle and red wine rarely mix.
3. Skipping cushion checks: You will be sitting on them for years-make sure they feel right.
4. Buying online only: Without testing, you are relying on guesswork.
5. Going too trendy: Timeless wins in the long run, especially on big pieces.

Avoid these, and you are halfway to sofa success.

A sofa is more than a seat-it is the heart of your living space. Choosing the right one means thinking about how you live, what you value, and how you want your home to feel. Focus on:

✅ Fit and measurements

✅ Support and comfort

✅ Long-term build quality

✅ Lifestyle-friendly fabrics

✅ Cushions you love lounging on

With the right guidance and a little hands-on research, your first sofa purchase can be the start of a space that truly feels like home.

• What’s the best sofa fabric for pets and kids? Microfibre, leather, or tightly woven textiles offer durability and stain resistance, while textured fabrics help hide wear.
• Should I buy my first sofa online or in-store? Try in-store first. Seat depth, cushion comfort, and arm height can vary widely-and these make all the difference.
• How do I know if a sofa will fit in my space? Measure your room and all entry class=GramE>points, and use masking tape on your floor to mark out the sofa’s size before you buy.
• Is feather filling really worth the extra care? Feathers offer unmatched plushness but require regular fluffing. Many buyers prefer a feather-foam combo for comfort and structure.