How to Choose a Sectional Sofa: L-Shaped, U-Shaped or Chaise?

A sectional couch is usually the biggest piece of furniture in a home, and the one the whole family uses every day. The right one makes a living room feel finished. The wrong one blocks a walkway or leaves half the family without a good seat. This guide walks through the shapes, the measurements and the fabrics so you can choose with confidence. When you are ready to browse, see all of our sectional sofas.

Start With Your Room, Not the Sofa

Before you look at styles, measure the space:

• Measure each wall the sectional will sit against, and note windows, vents and doors.
• Leave about 30 to 36 inches for main walkways so people can move around easily.
• Leave about 16 to 18 inches between the seat and the coffee table so drinks are within reach.
• Mark the outline on the floor with painter's tape. It is the easiest way to see how much room the sectional really takes.

Measure the doors, hallways and stairs on the way in too. Most sectionals come in separate pieces, which makes delivery easier, but large chaises and corner pieces still need a clear path.

L-Shaped Sectionals

The L-shaped sectional is the most popular shape for a reason. It fits into a corner, opens up the middle of the room and seats more people than a sofa of the same width.

• Best for: corners, open living spaces and rooms with a TV on one wall.
• Good to know: an L-shape can also float in an open room to separate the living area from the dining area.
• Size range: from compact two-piece designs to large pieces that seat six or more.

U-Shaped Sectionals

A U-shaped sectional wraps around three sides and creates a cozy, conversation style seating area. It is ideal for movie nights and big families.

• Best for: large living rooms, basements and family rooms.
• Good to know: a U-shape needs space on three sides, so check the depth of both returns, not only the overall width.
• Tip: many modular sectionals can be arranged as an L now and turned into a U later by adding pieces.

Sectional Sofa With Chaise

A chaise sectional adds a long, lounge style seat on one end, so someone can stretch out without taking over the whole sofa. It is a great middle ground when a full L-shape is too big.

Pay attention to the side. Furniture makers describe the chaise as left-facing or right-facing as you stand in front of the sofa and look at it. A right-facing chaise sits on your right when you face the sofa. Some designs have a reversible chaise that can be moved to either side, which is handy if you move often.

Modular Sectionals

Modular sectionals are built from individual pieces such as armless chairs, corner wedges, chaises and ottomans. You choose how many pieces and how they connect.

• Best for: changing layouts, moving homes, and narrow stairs.
• Good to know: you can start small and add pieces later.

Browse individual pieces on our build your own sectional page.

Sleeper and Reclining Sectionals

If the living room also has to be a guest room, a sleeper sectional hides a pull-out mattress or a storage chaise. See our sofa beds and sleeper sectionals.

If comfort comes first, a reclining sectional builds recliners into the seats, often with power controls, USB charging and a console for storage. See our reclining sofas for more.

Choosing a Fabric

• Performance fabric: resists stains and spills, a smart choice for kids and pets.
• Leather and faux leather: wipe clean easily, and genuine leather looks better with age.
• Chenille and corduroy: soft and warm, very comfortable for lounging.
• Boucle and velvet: rich texture and a designer look, best for adult households.

Ask to see fabric samples in natural light before you decide. Colours can look different at home than in a showroom.

Seat Depth and Comfort

Standard seats are about 20 to 22 inches deep, which suits most people and keeps your feet on the floor. Deep seats of 24 inches or more are made for lounging and curling up, especially for taller family members. Sit on a few before you buy. Comfort is personal, and the only real test is trying it.

FAQ

What is the difference between a sectional sofa and a sectional couch?

Nothing. Sofa and couch mean the same thing, and both describe a multi-piece sofa that seats more people than a standard sofa.

Which is better, an L-shaped or a U-shaped sectional?

An L-shape fits most living rooms and corners. A U-shape seats more people and suits large family rooms and basements.

How do I know if I need a left-facing or right-facing chaise?

Stand in front of the sofa and face it. A right-facing chaise is on your right, and a left-facing chaise is on your left.

Can a sectional fit in a small living room?

Yes. Look for a two-piece sectional, a loveseat sectional or a design with a chaise instead of a full corner.

Find Your Sectional in Calgary

Visit our Calgary showroom at Unit D200, 9737 Macleod Trail SW (Southland Crossing) to try the pieces in person, or call us at 825 305 1850. Our team can help you measure, compare fabrics and plan the whole room. Shop sectional sofas online, or explore financing options in store.