What Are the Different Types of Sofas Available?

Evelyn Long

Jan 15, 2025

Different types of sofas in a living room

We are reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

When it comes to transforming a house into a home, few pieces of furniture make as significant an impact as the right sofa. Gone are the days when this living room occupant was just a place to sit. Today, it’s a statement piece, a conversation starter and the centerpiece of your living area. From sprawling sectionals that accommodate entire families to elegant Chesterfields that whisper luxury, the right sofa can completely redefine your living space. Here’s a look at the different types of sofas to suit any interior.

A gray curved sectional couch near glass window.

Couch vs. Sofa: Is There a Difference?

Before diving into the types of sofas, it’s worth noting that “sofa” and “couch” are often used interchangeably, though there are subtle differences. A sofa generally implies a more formal structured design, while couches are a slightly more casual version typically associated with comfort.

What Are the Different Types of Sofas Called?

Here are the different types of sofas names you might come across:

1. Chesterfield Sofas

A timeless design. These sofas are the epitome of luxury and classic elegance, characterized by deep button tufting, rolled arms and typically rich leather upholstery.

Interestingly, a Chesterfield can last over 25 years with proper maintenance. You just need to answer the questions, “What are the different types of leather for sofas and which is used in the seat you’re looking at?” This will help you determine the best method to clean and maintain your sofa.

$950 on Amazon

A bottle of wine and two wine glasses on a tray in front of a brown leather Chesterfield sofa with  with yellow pillows.

2. English Roll Arm Sofa

These traditional sofas embody timeless appeal and are often associated with comfort. Their standout features are tight upholstery, low-set arms and a soft yet structured appearance. English roll arm sofas fit into formal and casual spaces alike. They’re versatile, long-lasting and easily customizable with fabrics or finishes.

3. Lawson Sofas

Named after Thomas W. Lawson, an American businessman, these sofas have revolutionized furniture design since the early 20th century. Characterized by clean lines and deep seating, Lawson sofas have straight, loose cushions and a simple, adaptable frame. These styles are designed for comfort and pair easily with diverse interior styles.

Get the Jennifer Taylor Home Bliss Lawson Two-Cushion Tightback Sofa set for $1103 on Amazon.

4. Camelback Sofas

Named for the elegant curve of their backrest, camelback sofas are a nod to traditional design. Traditionally associated with formal Victorian and Georgian interiors, these types of couches continue to be appreciated by those who love classic, intricate design. They’re often upholstered in fabrics like velvet or brocade and feature decorative wood detailing, infusing a formal touch to any room they’re placed in.

A camelback sofa in front of the window.

5. Sectional Sofas

Perfect for large families or homeowners who often entertain, sectional sofas offer versatility and maximum seating. These types have more seating than a standard sofa, making them ideal for open-concept living areas or rooms with unique layouts.

The most popular setups are L-shaped, U-shaped and modular sectionals. The latter are primarily popular because they come in multiple parts you can dismantle and assemble in various configurations, much like the Belfin Convertible Sectional sofa.

Starting at $1230 on Amazon

6. Reclining Sofas

The global market for reclining sofas is $4.45 billion and may reach $6.18 billion by 2030, and there’s a reason for this. Reclining sofas bring unmatched comfort to your living room and are available in multiple colors and fabrics, like microfiber or leather, to suit any preference.

Types you may find in stores include:

  • Manual recliners: Affordable and easy to operate with levers or buttons.
  • Power recliners: Offer added convenience with electric control mechanisms. Some even come with USB ports for charging devices.

From $600 on Amazon

A beige recliner sofa chair in front of a window overlooking a city.

7. Tuxedo Sofas

Tuxedo sofas are aptly named so for their sharp, formal appearance reminiscent of a tuxedo jacket. With sharp, geometric lines and arms that are the same height as the back, they offer a sleek and modern aesthetic.

8. Round Couches

A more contemporary and unconventional option, round couches create a unique focal point in a room. Emerging as a trend in modern interior design, this type of sofa couch looks good in large family rooms or sunrooms as a cozy yet striking centerpiece — their unique shape makes them stand out.

Round couches like the Oversize Leisure Chaise are great for conversations as they allow everyone to face each other. A vital consideration before getting this type of couch is room availability because this statement furniture requires significant floor space.

$390 on Amazon

A white couch sitting on top of a white floor.

9. Convertible Sofas and Sleeper Sofas

With urban living spaces becoming smaller and minimalistic living becoming more popular, the folding furniture market is predicted to hit $4.7 million in 2027. Convertible sleeper sofas are the ultimate multitaskers, combining seating and sleeping functions. Some feature a hidden mattress beneath a pull-out, click-clack and fold-down mechanism, while others transform from a sofa to a flat sleeping surface (futons).

Convertible seats are ideal in dual-purpose rooms, such as a home office that transitions occasionally into a guest room. If you work from home, a comfortable sleeper sofa comes in handy instead of having to leave the office to take a power nap between tasks.

Check out the 3-in-1 convertible sleeper sofa bed pull-out couch with a detachable phone holder. Starting at $290 on Amazon.

10. Loveseats

A loveseat is a small sofa for two people. It maximizes seating in tight spaces and can double as an accent piece, particularly one with bold upholstery or patterns. Loveseats are excellent for cozy corners, apartments or pairing with a larger sofa in a spacious room.

A white couch sitting in front of a window covered in flowers.

Where to Buy a Couch

Several options exist for purchasing sofas:

  • Furniture specialty stores.
  • Department stores.
  • Online retailers.
  • Second-hand and vintage stores.

If shopping online, sites that show types of sofas with pictures, not just prices, so you have an idea of what you’re buying.

You’ll also want to measure your space carefully and consider doorways and stairways before purchasing to ensure the sofa will fit in your desired location. The product’s dimensions are in the description, which you can compare with your space. This way, you’ll know if you need to push it through at an angle or remove the armrest and legs so it goes through the doorway.

What Is Your Type of Sofa?

The world of sofas is vast and varied, offering something for every style, space and lifestyle. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner, a design enthusiast or simply looking to refresh your living space, you’re sure to find one that meets your needs and complements your space’s aesthetic.

Did you enjoy this post? Join the Renovated community!

A house is more than just where you live. It's where you build a community. We'll give you all the latest trends you need to make your home your haven. Subscribe and never miss out!
Something went wrong. Please check your entries and try again.

About The Author