GETTING IT RIGHT

Interior stylist Steve Cordony reveals his secrets to choosing a perfectly proportioned sofa. Consider the scale of the room. A large space can accommodate more generous seating and different sofa configurations, such as modulars.

Small spaces don’t necessarily require a small sofa; you may simply need to limit the number of other pieces in the room, such as armchairs and side tables. Make sure you leave enough room to move around comfortably. Measure the sofa as well as other elements in the room, such as the coffee table and armchairs.

Think about how you use the space. Formal rooms suit a classic central arrangement.

In a TV room, you’ll need to position sofas towards the screen. You may also want to orient a sofa towards a view. Choose the right upholstery: hard-wearing aged leathers and removable and washable slipcovers are ideal for busy family rooms. More formal spaces allow for luxe fabrics such as velvet or light linens. Don’t forget to measure the doorway before you buy to make sure the sofa fits in your house.