Having two sofas in your living room opens up a world of design possibilities. With careful planning and arrangement, a room with two sofas can feel cohesive, balanced, and stylish. Here are some tips for making the most of having two sofas.
Choosing Complementary Styles
When selecting two sofas, it’s important to choose complementary styles that work together seamlessly. Consider pairing a structured sofa with a sleek, mid-century style or combine a curved sofa with a square, tufted piece. Matching the sofas’ heights, depths, and arm styles will create visual harmony. Upholstery in related hues – like two different blues – will also look cohesive.
Arranging for Balance
The layout of the two sofas impacts how balanced and functional the room feels. Place both sofas on one wall, facing each other with a coffee table in between to define a conversation area. Or, position them perpendicular along adjoining walls to anchor an open floor plan. Make sure there is enough room to walk between and around the sofas. Line them up neatly for a polished look.
Playing with Scale
Varying the sizes of the sofas adds dimension to the room. A large sofa balanced by a petite loveseat prevents the space from feeling too matchy. Or a pair of identical sofas with one covered by a bold throw blanket helps differentiate them. Positioning a sizable sofa parallel to a wall and floating a smaller sofa in the center of the room creates an inviting layout.
Using Rugs Strategically
Rugs under and around the sofas provide definition. A large area rug under both sofas unifies the seating. Or place each sofa on its own smaller rug to zone in the conversation areas. Layer rugs in complementary patterns and textures. Align furniture legs neatly on top of rug edges for a tidy look.
Adding Visual Interest
Decor elements introduce personality and contrast. Flank each sofa with end tables in different shapes, metals, or wood tones. Hang artwork asymmetrically above the sofas for imbalance. Set a brightly colored accent chair nearby as a foil to subdued sofas. Place a console table behind one sofa to back it elegantly.
Mixing and Matching Patterns
Incorporate patterns artfully without going overboard. Upholster one sofa in a vibrant floral and the other in a neutral textured fabric. Layer striped, plaid, or checkered throw pillows for a hit of pattern. Start with solids for the larger pieces and add prints in pillows, rugs, curtains, and accessories for manageable mix.
Creating Defined Spaces
Use the two sofas to create separate spaces within the larger room. Float one sofa facing the fireplace to make an intimate seating area near the hearth. Position the other sofa around a corner to define a reading nook. Connect the zones with a shared area rug. Repeat colors and patterns from one space to the next for cohesion.
Illuminating Strategically
Lighting helps delineate the function of each sofa area. Install sconces above each sofa to spotlight the seating. Use floor lamps or side table lamps to wash each conversation area in a cozy glow. Add adjustable arm lights to provide task lighting. Dim the overhead lights above the more relaxing sofa.
Incorporating Clever Storage
Maximize unused space around and under the sofas. Tuck ottomans and storage benches between sofas. Select sofas with hidden compartments or add slipcovered skirted bases to conceal items. Floating shelves built above sofas are great for displaying cherished objects while storing baskets or boxes out of sight.
With mindful selection and placement of both sofas, you can create a collected, functional, and visually appealing living room suited to your lifestyle. Having two sofas opens up possibilities to design rooms within the room and craft thoughtful vignettes. With these tips, you can assemble a well-balanced and beautiful space.
Frequently Asked Questions About Having Two Sofas
How far apart should two sofas be?
Ideally, two sofas should be 3-4 feet apart to allow for comfortable movement and conversation between them. Make sure there is at least 18-24 inches between the sofa arms to accommodate a side table.
Should two sofas match or coordinate?
It’s generally best for two sofas to coordinate, rather than match exactly. Vary textures, colors, and styles slightly for visual interest. Matching sofas can feel too rigid and formal.
What size rug do you need for two sofas?
For two sofas facing each other, choose an 8×10 or 9×12 rug. If the sofas are perpendicular, opt for an 8×11 or 9×13 rug. Make sure there is at least 18 inches of rug extending past the front legs. Layer rugs for even more coverage.
How do you arrange two sofas in a family room?
In family rooms, perpendicular placement often works best, with each sofa anchoring an adjoining wall to define the seating areas while keeping the center of the room open. Float sofas away from the walls for a more contemporary layout.
Should you float sofas in the middle of a room?
Floating sofas away from the walls can make a room feel more open and airy. Make sure to leave enough space around each sofa for traffic flow. Layer rugs underneath to define the zones. Avoid overly floating small sofas that will feel adrift.
Conclusion
Incorporating two sofas into your living room design unlocks countless options for creating an aesthetically pleasing and functional space tailored precisely to your lifestyle. Keeping complementary styles, careful spacing, strategic arrangements, and purposeful decor in mind allows you to craft a cohesive look. With planning, creativity, and style considerations, two sofas can truly double the design possibilities.
