Armchair & Sofa Buying Guide – Sink Into Style, the Smithers Way
Buying a sofa or armchair shouldn’t feel like a guessing game — it should feel like claiming your throne. Whether you’re after a vintage leather chesterfield or a bold, modern twist on a classic club chair, this guide is here to help you get it right without the fluff.
What Size Sofa or Armchair Do I Need?
Measure your space before you fall in love.
- 2-Seater Sofas – Best for small living rooms or paired with accent chairs. Typically 140–180cm wide.
- 3-Seater Sofas – Good for average-sized lounges. Around 180–220cm wide.
- Armchairs – Range from compact accent chairs (70–90cm) to oversized statement pieces (100–120cm+).
Pro tip: Always leave at least 60cm of walking space in front of the sofa.
What Style Suits Your Space?
- Retro sofas and chairs – Clean lines, mid-century legs, colour hits.
- Industrial seating – Tough textures, metal frames, aged leather.
- Luxury velvet armchairs – Deep colour, plush fabric, glam energy.
- Club chairs and chesterfields – Timeless British icons, ideal for layering with more modern pieces.
Fabric or Leather?
- Leather – Durable, ages beautifully, and easy to clean. Go vintage or go bold.
- Fabric – Softer and warmer. Velvet makes a statement. Tweed adds texture.
Bonus tip: If you’ve got pets or kids, consider treated fabrics or distressed leather that hides the chaos.
Comfort vs Aesthetic
This isn’t IKEA. You’re not buying the most practical beige box in the showroom.
- Seat depth – Deeper = lounge-ready. Shallower = upright and formal.
- Cushion firmness – Foam for support, feather for softness, combo for best of both.
Statement or Support Act?
- A big sofa should own the room.
- A bold armchair? That’s your wildcard — ideal for corners, reading spots, or offsetting a muted sofa.
Our Top Picks
- Vintage Leather Chesterfield Sofa – Pure British swagger.
- Vintage Style Patchwork 3-Seater – Clean, cool, and endlessly versatile.
- Velvet Button-Back Armchair – Retro cocktail hour vibes.
Final Advice
Measure twice, buy once. Then throw in a bold throw, mix in some neon wall art, and make it yours.
Still unsure? Browse our full range of sofas, armchairs, or check out these related guides:
Questions and Answers
- How do I choose the right sofa size for my room?
Start by measuring your space — including walking clearance (aim for 60cm minimum). A 2-seater fits tighter rooms or pairs well with an armchair, while a 3-seater suits average lounges. Oversized rooms? Go big or go bespoke. - What’s better: leather or fabric for sofas and chairs?
Leather is king if you want timeless, wipe-clean durability with attitude — especially vintage or distressed. Fabric adds softness and warmth. Velvet makes a statement. If pets or chaos are involved, go for treated or rugged materials. - What’s the most comfortable seat depth for a sofa?
Want to sprawl? Choose a deeper seat (60cm+). Prefer posture? A shallower seat (50–55cm) keeps things upright. Always test how it feels, not just how it looks.
- Can an armchair work in a small room?
Absolutely. Use it to inject bold style or colour — especially if your sofa is muted. A good armchair acts like a signature scent: compact, powerful, unforgettable.
- Should my sofa and armchair match?
Only if you’re playing it safe (and who wants that?). Mix textures, eras, and shapes — a vintage chesterfield + velvet cocktail chair = pure drama. Balance is key; don’t let one piece shout over the other. - How do I make my sofa or chair feel unique?
Layer with personality — throws, cushions, lighting. And a Smithers neon sign doesn’t hurt. It’s not just furniture. It’s your stage. - Where can I find more help choosing the right seating?
Explore our full sofa collection, armchairs, or read our other style guides to nail the look you want, the Smithers way.