The sheer amount of couch and sofa types is near-endless, from loveseats to L-shapes, tuxedos to Chesterfields. As one of the most noticeable and used pieces of furniture in a home, the pressure is on to find the right fit. 

In this guide, we’ll help you explore your options. Read on to learn about the most popular couch shapes, styles, and fabrics, and discover how to pick the best seat in the house. 

Couch sizes and dimensions

The size of your furniture matters, especially for a sofa that centers a living room. A retro modular sofa might seat all your friends and family, but it can also dominate the space. 

When choosing a couch, you’ll need to consider length, depth, and height — let’s look through common couch sizes and dimensions. 

Three-seat couches

Standard three-seat sofas typically measure between 71 and 86 inches wide with a depth of about 35 inches and a height between 32 and 36 inches. Most living room floor plans are designed to accommodate this size, leaving enough room for a coffee table. 

Loveseat

Apart from the length, loveseat dimensions are similar to three-seat sofas since they’re typically designed to complement a three-seater. Most loveseats measure somewhere between 52 and 66 inches long. 

Four-seater couches and beyond

Extra-long couches share similar dimensions to the standard three-seater for everything except length. Anything around 85 inches is considered long, with extra-long sofa styles starting after 100 inches. 

15 types of couches to choose from

From two-person loveseats to modular couches with enough space for a soccer team, here are 15 different types of couches and how to style them to fit your space. 

1. Loveseat

A loveseat is basically a mini sofa, typically seating two people side by side. It’s perfect for tight spaces like studio apartments and bedrooms, or it can even be tucked into a spacious hallway. Loveseats can also pair well with a larger sofa or armchair or stand alone in a nook.

2. Sectional

   

Sectional sofas are made up of multiple pieces you can arrange in different configurations. Since they tend to take up a lot of space, they work best in large open-plan living rooms or dedicated media rooms. 

3. Tuxedo couch

A tuxedo couch has high arms that are the same height as the back, giving it an elegant, uniform look. Often upholstered in leather or velvet, it’s a great pick for formal living rooms, lounges, or offices. However, tuxedo couches don’t exactly invite you to sink in — these types of sofas are more about posture and polish than snoozing. 

4. Chesterfield sofa

With its iconic deep tufted buttons and traditional leather cushions, the standard Chesterfield feels at home in studies, libraries, or lounge areas. These sofas are also surprisingly versatile and can make a statement in a moody living room or modern loft. 

5. Lawson sofa

   

The Lawson is a comfy, casual staple. Its detached back cushions and low arms prioritize sink-in comfort over sharp design. Lawsons are also great in family homes and casual apartments, upholstered in durable fabrics or a slipcover for everyday use (and plenty of naps). 

6. English roll-arm sofa

The ultimate cottagecore piece, this type of sofa is known for its slouched back, rolled armrests, and T-shaped couch cushion. It’s perfect for lounging in living rooms and reading corners, adapting easily to different design styles. Upholster it in soft neutrals for a relaxed, lived-in look, or go full Victorian with a floral slipcover. 

7. Mah Jong sofa

An icon of 1970s design, this floor-level modular sofa has an artsy, retro feel. This sofa type is made with padded cushions you can stack or spread out like a giant Tetris block. Usually upholstered in bold patterns or lush fabrics, it’s more like interactive art than furniture, meaning that it fits right into bohemian spaces and chill lofts.

Search for modular sofas on Onton 

8. Recamier couch

Elegant, sculptural, and unapologetically impractical, the recamier is a backless daybed-style couch with one or two raised ends. Coming from the baroque 17th century France, history enthusiasts and classic design lovers appreciate the drama of a recamier — ideal for reclining with a book or dramatically refusing a would-be suitor. 

9. Serpentine sofa

A serpentine sofa curves like a snake, creating a visually striking silhouette. Often high-end, this modern sofa is more artistic than functional, ideal for large open-concept living rooms that give it plenty of breathing room. 

10. Track-arm sofa

With its clean lines, low seating, and boxy arms, the track-arm sofa is a classic mid-century modern design. You’ll find track-arm sofas in several forms, including sleeper sofas, sectionals, chaise lounges, and regular three-seater sofas. Whichever shape you choose, it fits in well with minimalist, industrial, and brutalist interior design aesthetics. 

11. Settee sofa

A settee sofa is a more refined version of a traditional loveseat, characterized by a high back, shallow depth, and short arms. Dating back to the Middle Ages, settees often have luxurious upholstery and intricate craftsmanship — think velvet cushions and carved wooden legs. They make great accent pieces in sophisticated living rooms, entryways, and nooks. 

12. Recliner sofa

Designed for ultimate comfort, recliner sofas come equipped with built-in footrests and reclining backs, making them perfect for movie nights or lazy afternoons. While they may not be the top choice for high-end-focused interiors, their functional style is unmatched by other types of sofas. Many recliner models feature cup holders, additional storage, and plush padding that ensure maximum relaxation.

13. Sleeper sofa 

A sleeper sofa, also known as a pullout, is all about convenience and practicality. Sleepers are a perfect solution for small apartments and guest rooms where seating and sleeping areas need to do double duty. While some models focus on comfort with thick, high-quality mattresses, most sleeper sofas don’t offer the same comfort as your typical bed. 

Find the perfect sleeper sofa on Onton

14. Wingback sofa

A classic and elegant design, the wingback sofa has a high back with distinctive “wings” that curve around the sides. Originally designed for warmth and comfort, this style adds a touch of sophistication to traditional living rooms. 

15. Futons

A foldable mattress on a simple frame, the futon is the couch equivalent of a Swiss Army knife. Ideal for small spaces, dorm rooms, and guest rooms, it’s a budget-friendly solution that provides both seating and sleeping options in one. While not the most luxurious couch type, it’s a practical choice. 

How to choose a sofa in 3 easy steps

A sofa is often the room’s centerpiece. But it’s not just about the look; a balance of size, function, and material will make or break the room’s aesthetic. Here’s how to find the right fit. 

1. Decide the ideal number of seats

Consider how many people will typically sit on your sofa to determine if a loveseat, standard three-seater, or large sectional best fits your needs. Once you know your ideal seating number, your choices will be narrowed down substantially.

2. Measure your available space

Measure the length and width of the area, leaving at least two to three feet of space on either side of your sofa for easy movement and comfort. AI visualizers can help you see how the sofa will fit within your room layout. 

3. Consider material and fabrics

Velvet and leather might look luxurious, but their high maintenance might make them impractical for busy households. Consider fabrics that match your lifestyle, the climate in your space, and your durability needs. 

Types of sofa fabrics

Choosing a design style is only the beginning. You’ll also need to decide the fabrics and materials that best highlight your sofa’s personality and complement the rest of your decor: 

• Velvet: Luxurious and soft, velvet adds richness and texture to any room. Velvet is perfect for formal designs but requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. 

• Chenille: Similar to velvet but without the dedicated maintenance, chenille has a soft, plush texture with a slight shine. 

• Leather: Durable leather adds sophistication to your space. High-quality leather softens over time for better comfort, though it can feel sticky in warm climates or chilly and stiff in the cold. 

• Cotton: Soft and breathable, cotton is a comfortable choice for most sofa types. This fabric is great for casual settings but stains easily. 

• Boucle: This textured fabric is made from woven yarn of various materials, including wool, cotton, and silk. It’s warm and durable and adds a cozy, tactile feel to your furniture. 

Find your perfect couch style with Onton

Torn between a modern sectional or classic loveseat? Let Onton’s AI-driven search engine guide you through your options. Try prompts like “mid-century modern modular sofa” or “vintage Chesterfield sofa” to discover new options for your living room.

Once you narrow down your favorites, use Onton’s Imagine tool to see how they’ll look in your home. Upload a picture of your living room and experiment with different styles, colors, and layouts. It’s a seamless, imaginative way to design your ideal living space. 

Find the couch of your dreams with Onton today.