L Shape Sofa: The Ultimate Buying Guide

A cosy night in, a cuppa (or a glass of wine, no judgement) and a binge-worthy Netflix show. Sounds perfect, right? But what if your old couch isn’t quite cutting it these days? Maybe it’s time to upgrade to the ultimate seating solution: a versatile and stylish L shape sofa in your home.

What Buy An L Shape Sofa?

The humble L shape sofa has come a long way since its 1970s heyday of chunky brown corduroy and questionable geometric patterns. These days, it’s the unofficial hero of modern living spaces, and for good reason. While straight sofas still hold court in period properties and formal sitting rooms, the L shape sofa has evolved into something far more interesting. A style statement that actually works for real life.

Let’s be honest, our living rooms have become everything spaces. One minute they’re office cubicles, complete with that ring light that makes us look marginally more awake on Zoom, the next they’re hosting impromptu takeaways with friends who’ve popped round to discuss the latest Married At First Sight episode. The beauty of an L shape sofa lies in its chameleon-like ability to adapt to whatever your space needs to be.

The Evolution of Layout

Gone are the days when sofas were simply pushed against walls like wallflowers at a school disco. Today’s L shape sofas are taking centre stage in our homes, creating zones in open-plan spaces that flow as smoothly as an oat milk flat white. The key is understanding how these pieces can work with your space, not against it.

In larger rooms, positioning your L shape sofa away from walls creates natural walkways and distinct areas. That’s perfect for those blessed with the kind of square footage usually reserved for Grand Designs. But it’s in smaller spaces where these clever pieces really shine. Tucked into a corner, an L shape sofa can actually make a room feel larger by drawing the eye along its clean lines while providing more seating than its straight-backed cousins ever could.

The Art of Proportion

Like finding a rare pearl in an ocean of shells, getting the scale of your L shape sofa right is crucial. Too large, and it’ll dominate your space like an overeager contestant on The Apprentice. Too small, and it’ll look lost, like wearing your old uni clothes to a dinner party.

The golden rule? Leave at least 45cm of walking space around your sofa. In open-plan spaces, think of your L shape sofa as a spatial punctuation mark. It should create natural pauses in your layout without stopping the conversational flow. For smaller rooms, consider designs with a shorter return (that’s the jutting-out bit, for those who’ve not yet descended into full interior design obsession). A 1.5m return can work wonders in compact spaces while still providing that coveted put-your-feet-up factor.

The Style Stakes

While the classic cream chenille will always have its place (usually in the showroom), today’s L shape sofas are channelling main character energy. Think rich jewel-toned velvets that would make Kendall Roy’s apartment look positively dull, bouclé fabrics that feel like giving yourself a hug, and sleek leather numbers that wouldn’t look out of place in a Shoreditch members’ club.

The current style leaders are taking cues from both past and present. Low-slung designs offer the kind of comfort that makes you cancel plans (we won’t judge), while raised legs and slim profiles give a nod to mid-century design while keeping things thoroughly modern. The modular movement has made its mark too, though that’s a whole other story deserving of its own spotlight.

Colour Theory: Beyond The Beige

Today’s colour palette for L shape sofas reads like a sophisticated cocktail menu. Deep forest greens and inky blues are having their main character moment, offering drama without the commitment issues of a bold pattern. These darker hues are particularly clever in smaller spaces. Contrary to popular belief, they can actually make a room feel larger by blurring the boundaries.

For those not ready to dive into the deeper end of the colour pool, warm neutrals are experiencing a renaissance that would make even Marie Kondo spark with joy. Think sophisticated camels, warm taupes and rich mushroom tones that hide a multitude of sins (including that curry sauce incident from last weekend’s takeaway).

Material Matters

Let’s talk fabric, because choosing the wrong one is like wearing stilettos to a festival. It might look great initially, but you’ll regret it rather quickly. If your home sees more traffic than the M25 on a Friday afternoon, performance fabrics are your new best friend. These clever materials can handle everything from spilled Prosecco to muddy paw prints without breaking a sweat.

Leather, once the preserve of bachelor pads and office reception areas, has had a serious glow-up. Modern options come in butter-soft finishes and colours that range from classic tan to unexpected jewel tones. It’s practical, yes, but also surprisingly luxurious. Like the sofa equivalent of a designer handbag.

For those brave souls willing to embrace lighter colours (we salute you), modern fabric technologies mean you don’t need to live in constant fear of the red wine glass. Stain-resistant treatments have come a long way since the days of that weird plastic coating that made you stick to your grandmother’s sofa.

Texture Talk

The latest trend in L shape sofas isn’t just about what you see, it’s about what you feel. Bouclé continues its reign as the fabric equivalent of a comfort blanket, but it’s being joined by some interesting newcomers. Tactile velvets with a subtle sheen add depth without shouting about it, while textured weaves bring an artisanal feel that’s more Hackney craft brewery than handicraft fair.

Layering these textures has become an art form in itself. Think of your L shape sofa as a blank canvas, albeit a very comfortable one. The current trend leans towards mixing three to four complementary textures, creating visual interest while maintaining a cohesive look that wouldn’t look out of place in a design magazine.

The Investment Game

While it’s tempting to go budget when investing in an L shape sofa, this is one piece where spending a bit more can really pay off. Think of it as the furniture equivalent of a good mattress. You’re going to spend a lot of time on it, so it needs to go the distance.

That said, you don’t need to remortgage your house to get something spectacular. The trick is knowing where to spend and where to save. The frame and springs are worth investing in. They’re like the foundations of a house, invisible but crucial.

Timing your purchase right can make your budget stretch further than a packet of supermarket own-brand elasticated cheese. January, summer and Black Friday sales often offer genuine bargains, while ex-display models can be absolute gold mines if you’re willing to do a bit of detective work. Of course, for the best deals, just pop into your local Furniture Outlet Store today!

Creating Your Perfect Space

The beauty of an L shape sofa lies in its ability to define spaces without the commitment of actual walls. Think of it as the interior design equivalent of a seasonal capsule wardrobe. In open-plan living areas, positioning is everything. The current trend for ‘broken-plan’ living (the cooler, more flexible cousin of open-plan) sees L shape sofas creating intimate zones while maintaining that coveted sense of flow.

For maximum impact, consider the visual weight of your room. If you’re blessed with high ceilings, an L shape sofa with a higher back can help bring the space down to a more human scale. In rooms with standard ceiling heights, lower-profile designs prevent the space from feeling crowded while still delivering on comfort.

Styling For Success

The space around your L shape sofa is just as important as the piece itself. The current trend for layered lighting, think sophisticated table lamps paired with statement floor lights, can transform your sofa corner into something worthy of an Instagram interior influencer’s feed.

The area behind an L shape sofa often becomes a design dead zone, but it doesn’t have to be. A well-chosen floor lamp or carefully positioned console table can transform this awkward space into something intentional and useful. Think of it as the interior design equivalent of turning a bad hair day into a deliberate style choice.

Living with Your L Shape

Styling an L shape sofa is where you can really let your personality shine. The current trend for ‘organised chaos’ in cushion arrangements (think three different sizes in complementary fabrics) offers the perfect opportunity to experiment. Layer textures like you’re creating a Great British Bake Off showstopper. Think silk against linen, pattern against plain.

For the cushion-averse (yes, we see you), the minimalist approach is equally valid. Clean lines and a single statement throw can be just as impactful as a mountain of decorative pillows. It’s like the difference between a perfectly tailored blazer and one covered in badges. Both valid choices, entirely different vibes.

Practical Matters

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room – maintenance. Like that expensive face cream you bought after too many glasses of wine, your L shape sofa needs a proper care routine to keep it looking its best. Regular vacuuming (including those awkward crevices that seem to attract crumbs like a magnet) is just the beginning.

For fabric sofas, invest in a good spot cleaner and treat stains immediately. Think of it as first aid for furniture. Leather needs regular conditioning to prevent it from drying out (much like our skin after a weekend in Brighton), while performance fabrics might be low-maintenance but still benefit from an annual professional clean.

The Final Edit

Choosing an L shape sofa is a bit like finding the perfect pair of jeans. It might take some time, but when you get it right, it’s transformative. The key is to think long-term. Will you still love that bold print in five years? Can the fabric handle your lifestyle? Is it comfortable enough for those inevitable Sunday afternoon binges of The Traitors?

Get it right, and your L shape sofa becomes more than just furniture. It’s the backdrop to countless memories, from impromptu movie nights to lazy weekend brunches. In a world where our homes need to be as flexible as we are, that’s something worth investing in.

Remember, trends come and go faster than contestants on Love Island, but comfort and quality never go out of style. Choose wisely, style confidently and your L shape sofa will reward you with years of service. Looking fabulous while doing so.

KEY TAKEAWAYS ABOUT BUYING YOUR L SHAPE SOFA

The DOs of Buying L Shape Sofas

• DO Measure Your Space: Accurately measure the dimensions of your room, including doorways and hallways, to ensure the L shape sofa fits perfectly. Consider the sofa’s length, width and height, and how it will fit with other furniture and the overall layout of the room.

• DO Consider The Layout: Think about the room’s traffic flow and how the sofa will fit with your existing furniture. An L-shaped sofa can help define spaces in an open-plan room or provide a cosy corner in a smaller space.

• DO Match Your Style: Choose a sofa that complements your home decor. Whether your style is modern, traditional or eclectic, the sofa should enhance the room’s aesthetic. Consider colour, texture and design elements.

• DO Think About Functionality: Decide if you need additional features like a chaise lounge, recliners or built-in storage. These can add to the sofa’s versatility and make it more functional for your needs.

• DO Assess Any Delivery Challenges Beforehand: Ensure the sofa can be delivered to your home without any issues. Measure all entry points to avoid any delivery problems.

The DON’Ts of Buying L Shape Sofas

• DON’T Ignore Comfort: Don’t buy a sofa just for its looks. Comfort is crucial for long-term satisfaction, so make sure the sofa feels good to sit on.

• DON’T Overlook Quality: Don’t compromise on the quality of the frame and cushions to save money. A well-made sofa will last longer and provide better value.

• DON’T Neglect Maintenance: Don’t choose materials that are hard to clean if you have a busy household. Opt for easy-to-maintain fabrics to keep your sofa looking good.

What Other Interior Design Experts Say About L Shape Sofas…

“L-shaped sofas are the pinnacle of great furniture. They offer more space than a love seat or futon, but they don’t take up a large amount of space like a sectional can. With a bit of a seat and a bit of a chaise, they’re the best of both comfy-seating worlds.”
Christine Flammia at Esquire

Read More: 15 best and most comfortable L-shaped sofas

“A corner sofa – also referred to as an L-shaped sofa – can be a great choice for a smaller room as they line the walls, providing extra seating and a more ‘snug’ feel.”
Sarah Warwick at Livingetc

Read More: How and why you should match your sofa to the shape of your room

“Perfect for open-plan spaces or as a centrepiece in a cosy lounge, the corner sofa serves as the ultimate social hub, effortlessly accommodating everything from family movie marathons and games nights to impromptu cocktail parties with friends.”
Ali Howard at The Independent

Read More: 10 best corner sofas that will add style and comfort to your home

Lounge In Sofa Luxury, For Less

Tired of cramped corners and awkward seating arrangements? It’s time to upgrade your living room with an L-shaped sofa! Our retail furniture stores are brimming with stylish, comfy and affordable L-shaped sofas that’ll transform your space into a cosy haven. From budget-friendly finds to luxurious loungers, we’ve got it all.

And don’t forget to check out our clearance section, you might just score a designer L-shaped sofa for a fraction of the price. With free local delivery and 0% APR finance options, it’s easier than ever to bring home your dream sofa.

So, why wait? Come visit us today and discover the perfect L-shaped sofa to elevate your living room.

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

Lexington Large Left Hand Sleeper Corner Sofa Bed, Moon Silver Fabric (£1,699)

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

L Shape Sofas Available Online Now – View All

(Lots More Sofas Available In-Store)

Fabio L Shape Sofa At Furniture Outlet

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L Shape Sofa Inspiration By Our Customers

Want to share your own interior design inspiration or styling tips for a living room featuring a L shape sofa you purchased from us? To be considered for inclusion in this blog post, just mention @furnitureoutletstores or #furnitureoutlet in your Instagram post and we’ll include the best photos here. We look forward to seeing all the inspirational living spaces you have lovingly created using Furniture Outlet.

Newport Chaise Sofa Bed with Storage Ottoman @littlegreensofa

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How To Arrange Your Living Room With A Corner Sofa

Styling A Corner Sofa For Autumn

Please note that the pricing/availability information displayed in this blog article, including photos and videos, were correct at the time of sale and may be subject to change without notice.