Secret Guest Room: Corner Sofa Beds For Small Flats

You’ve just walked through the door, kicked off your shoes, and you’re seconds away from sinking into the sofa for a proper Netflix binge when your phone bleeps. It’s your bestie. “Mate, total train nightmare. Any chance I could crash at yours tonight?” You love her to bits, obviously, but your gaff is what estate agents would call ‘bijou’. No spare room. No airbed. And the thought of her curled up on the floor in a sleeping bag? Not exactly the vibe.

But here’s the twist. It doesn’t have to be a drama. Enter the corner sofa bed: your flat’s secret guest room in disguise. Stylish, space-savvy and ready to flip into sleep mode faster than you can say the kettle’s on. It’s the one piece of furniture that lets you host without the huffing, puffing or panic.

At A Glance: Corner Sofa Beds For Small Flats

Thinking about a corner sofa bed for your small flat? You’re in the right place. This blog is your crash-course in how one clever piece of furniture can turn your living room into a guest-ready haven. No spare room, no stress, no inflatable mattress disasters.

✅ Discover why corner sofa beds are the ultimate hosting hack for small-space living.
✅ Learn how to choose one that’s comfy, stylish and genuinely guest-worthy.
✅ Get the lowdown on mattress types and storage features that actually matter.
✅ See how to style your sofa bed so it looks lush by day and feels like a proper bed by night.
✅ Find out which fabrics can handle spills, pets and real-life mess without losing their charm.
✅ Explore expert tips from Furniture Outlet’s stylists on making guests feel properly welcome.

The Unexpected Guest: No More Flat-Out Panic

“A corner sofa bed is the ultimate ‘have your cake and eat it too’ piece of furniture,” says Jo, Furniture Outlet’s lead interior stylist. “It eliminates the panic of a surprise overnight guest. You’re not just buying a sofa, you’re buying peace of mind and the flexibility to host whenever you want.”

It’s not just a sofa with a mattress stuffed in it, it’s a dual-purpose champion, designed for modern living. A corner sofa is brilliant because it makes the most of awkward corners, but one with a secret bed? Well, that’s just a bit of a stroke of genius, isn’t it? It means you can have a comfy, generous sofa for everyday life and a proper, inviting bed for your guests – all hidden in plain sight.

“Hosting should never feel like a compromise,” adds Jo. “With the right corner sofa bed, you’re not just prepared – you’re proud to show it off.”

Choosing Your Undercover Hero: The Right Corner Sofa Bed For You

Picking the right corner sofa bed is a bit like choosing a new phone. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the options, but if you focus on the key features, you’ll be spot on.

First up, the mechanism. You want something that’s easy to pull out and put away. You shouldn’t need an engineering degree or the strength of a MAFS UK star to get the bed ready for your mate. Look for smooth, simple mechanisms that feel sturdy and reliable.

Then there’s the sleep setup, and this bit really matters. Some corner sofa beds come with built-in mattresses, while others rely on deep, comfy seat cushions that can be rearranged to create a proper sleeping surface. Both styles can be brilliant, depending on how often you’re hosting and how you use your space.

If you’re after a sofa bed with a mattress, look for something supportive and sleep-worthy. Not just a token layer of foam. A good mattress is the difference between your guest waking up refreshed or feeling like they’ve spent the night on a pile of coat hangers.

“The secret to a great sofa bed is the sleep surface,” explains Sasha, an interior design expert at Furniture Outlet. “Whether it’s a built-in mattress or a cushion-based setup, it needs to feel like a real bed. We always recommend trying it out in-store. You want something that’s genuinely comfortable, not just convenient.”

And if you’re leaning towards a mattress-free model? You’re not compromising. These designs are ideal for everyday lounging, with plush cushions that double up beautifully for overnight guests. Just make sure the cushions are deep, supportive, and easy to reposition. No one wants to spend the night wrestling with upholstery.

And finally, the fabric. Durability is your best mate here. Life happens, right? Spilt cups of tea, late-night takeaways, even the dog decides it wants to snuggle up sometimes.

“Don’t let the dual function fool you. A great sofa bed is first and foremost a great sofa,” notes Jo, Furniture Outlet’s resident interiors whiz. “The frame needs to be solid, the cushioning should be generous, and the fabric should feel amazing. It should be the kind of sofa you want to sink into every single night, not just when you have company.”

The Corner Bed Styling Secret: Making It Your Own

So you’ve bagged your dream corner sofa bed. Now for the fun part. You want this to look like a purposeful piece of furniture, not a bed in disguise.

Start with a good chunky knit throw. Drape it casually over one side. Not only does it add texture and a cosy vibe, but it also hides any joins or zips from the bed mechanism. Genius.

Next, cushions. Pile ’em on. Use a mix of different sizes, shapes and textures to create an inviting, squishy nest.

“It’s all about layering,” advises Sasha, one of Furniture Outlet’s trusted interiors experts. “Start with a couple of large base cushions in a neutral colour and then add a few smaller, patterned or textured ones on top. This is where you can bring in a bit of personality and make it feel truly unique.”

Don’t forget the lighting. A good floor lamp or a couple of table lamps with warm, diffused light will make the space feel inviting and calm. And finally, a side table. It’s an absolute essential. Give your guest a place for their phone, a glass of water, or a cup of tea.

KEY TAKEAWAYS – CORNER SOFA BEDS FOR SMALL FLATS

✔ DO measure first, and measure properly. Before you fall in love with a corner sofa bed, grab a tape measure. Check your room dimensions, doorways and pull-out clearance. A sofa bed that doesn’t fit is just a very expensive regret.

✔ DO choose a mechanism that won’t make you break a sweat. Whether it’s a pull-out, slide or flip, it should be smooth, sturdy and easy to operate. Even after a few glasses of wine! No faff, no fiddling, no late-night wrestling.

✔ DO think about the sleep surface – mattress or cushions? Some corner sofa beds come with built-in mattresses, others use deep, rearrangeable cushions. Either way, it needs to feel like a proper bed. Your guest should wake up refreshed, not twisted like a pretzel.

✔ DO style it like it’s permanent. Layer up with throws and cushions so it looks like a design choice, not a compromise. Think boutique hotel vibes, not “this’ll do in a pinch”.

✘ DON’T settle for style without substance. The sofa part should be just as lush as the bed part. You’ll be using it every day, so make sure it’s something you actually want to sink into, not just something that looks good in photos.

✘ DON’T assume all sofa beds are clunky. Modern designs are sleek, comfy and built for real sleep. If it still feels like a camping setup, keep looking.

✘ DON’T skip the care routine. Vacuum the crevices, rotate the cushions and freshen the mattress. A five-minute reset keeps it looking and feeling guest-ready.

✘ DON’T forget to check the fabric and colour. Bouclé, velvet, linen-look – they’re all lush, but not all practical. If you’ve got pets, kids or takeaway habits, choose something durable and forgiving.

What Other Interior Design Experts Say About Modern Sofa Beds…

On comfort and versatility:
“Sofa beds have come a long way. They’re no longer the awkward, lumpy things we remember,” says Paisley Tedder, editor at Good Homes Magazine. “Today’s options are stylish, comfy and genuinely useful.”

Read More: 5 comfortable and stylish sofa beds (Good Homes Magazine)

On a corner sofa bed’s dual function:
“The best sofa beds are those that don’t look like sofa beds at all,” says Amy Lockwood, interiors writer at Ideal Home. “They blend seamlessly into your space while offering a genuinely comfortable sleep experience.”

Read More: The 14 best sofa beds out of the 100 I’ve tried and tested (Ideal Home)

On style and practicality:
“Modern sofa beds are stylish, practical and perfect for small homes,” says Georgie Darling, writer at The Standard. “Look for models with storage and easy mechanisms to make hosting a breeze.”

Read More: Best corner sofa beds with storage: Comfortable and stylish (The Standard)

Corner Sofa Beds for Small Flats – FAQs

What makes a corner sofa bed ideal for small flats?

Corner sofa beds are designed to maximise every inch of your living space. Their L-shape tucks neatly into corners, freeing up floor area while offering dual functionality. Seating by day, sleeping by night. For flats without a spare room, they’re a game-changer.

Do corner sofa beds come with storage?

Yes, many models include hidden storage compartments, often under the chaise or within pull-out drawers. This is perfect for stashing bedding, pillows, or even your “just-in-case” guest kit. It keeps your flat tidy and guest-ready without cramming your wardrobe.

Are corner sofa beds comfortable enough for regular guests?

Absolutely. Modern designs feature proper mattresses with pocket springs or memory foam, offering genuine support and comfort. Unlike old-school fold-outs, these are built for real sleep, not just emergency naps. Your guests won’t feel like they’ve drawn the short straw.

How easy is it to transform a corner sofa bed into a sleeping space?

Very easy. Most models convert with a simple pull, slide or lift. In fact, many are designed to switch from sofa to bed in under a minute, making them ideal for surprise sleepovers or last-minute hosting. You won’t be huffing and puffing.

How do I make it more comfortable?

Add a mattress topper, fresh sheets, a proper duvet and pillows. A bedside lamp and water glass go a long way too.

Can I find a corner sofa bed that suits my decor and layout?

Definitely. Whether your flat leans Scandi, glam, or minimalist, there’s a corner sofa bed to match. From plush velvets to neutral linens, and compact frames to spacious loungers, you can find a model that fits your aesthetic and your floor plan.

How do I choose the right size?

Measure your space when closed and extended. Account for walking space, doors and nearby furniture.

How do I clean and care for a corner sofa bed in a small flat?

Start by choosing a fabric that suits your lifestyle. Many come in stain-resistant or wipe-clean finishes. For deeper cleaning, removable cushion covers are a bonus. If space is tight, opt for models with easy-access storage so you can keep cleaning supplies nearby. Regular vacuuming and spot-cleaning will keep it looking fresh, especially if it doubles as your main seating area.

Where To Shop Your Dream Corner Sofa Bed (Without the Wait)

Looking for a corner sofa bed that’s stylish, comfy and actually in stock? Furniture Outlet’s got you covered. We stock a huge range of brand-new, sleepover-ready furniture crafted for modern living. Whether you’re after something compact for your snug flat or a statement piece with hidden storage, you’ll find it here at a price that won’t make your eyes water.

Visit us across London & Essex in Charlton, Colchester, Dagenham, Leigh-on-Sea or Wickford to explore our full range of great quality, great value furniture. Rated “Excellent” on Trustpilot, our stores are open 7 days a week. We offer premium quality without the premium price tag, fast local delivery, 0% APR finance options, and – best of all – no annoying wait times.

Como Left Hand Corner Chaise Sofa Bed With Storage, Basket Weave Dark Grey Linen (£1,499)

Manhattan Reversible Corner Chaise Sofa Bed (LHF or RHF), Light Grey Chenille Fabric (£1,599)

Sonoma Left Hand Corner Chaise Sofa Bed With Storage, Midnight Blue Velvet (£999)

Corner Sofa Beds Online Now – View All

(Lots More Sofa Beds & Corner Sofas Available In-Store)

Meet The Manhattan Corner Sofa Bed

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