The Sofa Guide

Shopping for the perfect sofa but don't know
where to start? We're here to help.

Click below to get started:

Size
Fabric
Details
Inspiration
Resources

Size

FROM OUR EXPERT: "What kind of space are you living in, and how long will you
be there? Long-term home owners can be more specific in their choices. Apartment renters
should choose functional pieces that can be reworked in different spaces."

MICHAEL, HOME STYLIST, WEST ELM PARAMUS

Loveseats + Settees

Also known as 2-seaters, loveseats + settees offer comfort and style without overwhelming a room. They're often seen with two individual cushions or one long bench cushion. Pro tip: they can also be used at the foot of a bed.

Shop Loveseats

Sofas

Perfect for a more traditional living room arrangement, 76" sofas are still conducive for smaller spaces, while 89" —or wider—sofas can anchor a larger room.

Shop Sofas

Small Sectionals

Limited on space but want the benefits of a sectional? Go for a small sectional. Its chaise component provides plenty of comfy seating, ideal for entertaining + family lounging alike.

Shop Small Sectionals

Large Sectionals

Best suited for open floor plans, a large sectional anchors a room and can function as a space divider, separating the living area from the dining or kitchen. Made of modular pieces, it configures into several shapes—we love how an ottoman can function as a chaise or coffee table.

Shop Large Sectionals

Sleeper Sofas

Opt for a sleeper sofa, also known as a pull-out sofa, if you're looking to add that extra function to your living space. They're available in twin, full and queen sizes.

Shop Sleeper Sofas

Fabric

FROM OUR EXPERT: "If you like to change things up, choosing a neutral sofa is the way to go.
It will serve as a blank canvas, allowing you to add a pop of color, indulge in a trend or even change
your room's paint color without having to re-upholster to accommodate the change."

IDA, HOME STYLIST, WEST ELM TORONTO

Find Your Fabric

Functionality is key, and we have fabrics to suit every lifestyle—from durable tweeds and twills that hide spills to our easy-to-maintain performance velvet.

Shop By Fabric

Find Your Color

A cayenne sofa can be the statement-making focal point of a neutral space or become the central theme of the overall room.

Shop By Color

Consider Leather

Easy to clean, leather is always in style and wears well with age. Best known for its beautiful colors, our aniline leather develops a rich vintage patina over time.

Shop Leather Upholstery

Details

FROM OUR EXPERT: "I love statement legs! They add so much personality to a sofa
and airiness to small spaces. The Andes Sectional's cast metal legs and Brooklyn Sofa's
boomerang legs are my favorites."

JIYOUNG, HOME STYLIST, WEST ELM LOGAN CIRCLE

Cushions

Family movie nights? Opt for a style with a plush, sink-right-in cushions. Always entertaining?
Tight cushions allow for more seating space with a cleaner silhouette. For a completed look,
add on made-to-order throw pillows in the same fabric as your sofa.

Bench Seat
Tufted
Loose Seat
Tight-back

Arms

Curved arms compliment traditional style, while straight arms give a
clean-lined, modern feel. Armless silhouettes can be ideal for small spaces,
providing a streamlined choice that doesn't skimp on style.

Curved
Straight
Wide
Armless

Legs

A sofa with legs can make your room feel lighter and more open. Tapered solid wood legs
offer a retro look, borrowing from classic mid-century design. Straight metal legs complement
a modern + sleek aesthetic. Low block legs lend a more traditional, comfortable silhouette.