Sofa Dimensions: How to Choose the Right-Sized Couch for Your Home
Your go-to guide on sizing up your space for a new sofa.
With multiple measurements to consider such as sofa length, sofa depth and sofa height, shopping for a new living room couch online can be tricky. Well not to worry, we've done all the research for you. Read our guide for a rundown of standard sofa sizes and dimensions, including a look at loveseat sizes and how to measure for a sofa delivery.
Sofa Dimensions
Depending on the type and style, sofa sizes can vary from sofa to sofa. Below, we go over the standard sofa dimensions and where they fall on the couch size spectrum. Take a look at the following diagram to learn what each sofa measurement refers to.
Sofa Length: Though sofas can be anywhere between 175cm and 245cm long, standard three-person sofas tend to be between 175 and 220cm long, and the most common length is 215cm. If you're looking for sofas with ample seating, opt for a long sofa with a length of 220 – 254cm, or consider an extra-long sofa that is over 254cm in length.
Sofa Depth: Standard sofa depth (from the very front to the very back) is 89cm, but most sofas are 81 – 100cm in depth.
Sofa Height: Sofa height, or the distance from the floor to the very top of the sofa back, ranges from 66cm to 92cm high. Low-back sofas tend to be sleek and modern, while high-back sofas tend to lean more traditional.
Seat Depth: Sofa seat depth, or the measurement from the front edge of the seat to the back edge of the seat (or to the front of the sofa back), can be 50 – 63cm. Seat depths of 53cm and 55cm are standard for those of average height, while shorter or longer depths are better suited for shorter and taller individuals. Deep-seat sofas have seats between 71cm and 89cm in depth and extra-deep-seat sofas have seats over 89cm deep.
Seat Height: The distance from the floor to the top of a sofa's seat cushion ranges from 38cm to 50cm, with most sofa seats between 43cm and 45cm off of the floor.
Standard Loveseat Sizes
Designed to seat couples, loveseats, or small sofas, are shorter in length than standard sofas. Aside from length, loveseat dimensions closely resemble sofa dimensions and are referenced the same way by manufacturers.
Loveseat Length: Loveseats tend to be 122 – 183cm long. There is no standard loveseat length, but it is common to find loveseats that are toward the middle of the spectrum at 132 – 167cm long.
How to Measure Your Space for a Sofa
Buying a sofa online can feel daunting, especially if you're not sure what size sofa your space can fit. Below, we outline a quick and easy strategy for measuring your space for a sofa.
Step 1: Measure Your Space
To get a feel for the sofa sizes your space can accommodate, take note of the length and width of your room. If your room is large with high ceilings, it's a good idea to look for sofas on the larger side with higher backs – the open space will complement the sofa and make it look poised and grand. If you have less space available or lower ceilings, think about purchasing a shorter sofa or a compact loveseat that won't overwhelm the room.
Also be sure to measure the widths and height of all entry doorways and hallways that your sofa will have to be carried through upon delivery – you'll want your new sofa to fit through the door.
Step 2: Tape the Area
Decide on the spot where you'd like to place your new sofa. Allow for 75cm of walking room in front of the sofa to preserve the natural flow of traffic through the space. If you are planning on pairing your sofa with a coffee table, ensure there is at least 30 – 45cm between the two pieces of furniture.
Using masking tape, make a rough rectangle on the floor where you'd like to place your sofa. As long as you're conscious of general sofa dimensions, precision isn't necessary here – you're looking to create a rough guideline, not the perfect outline of a sofa.
Step 3: Measure the Taped Area
Once your tape is positioned nicely and you're happy with the size of the rectangle you've created, measure its width and length.
When sofa shopping, use these measurements as the maximum sofa dimensions that will fit your space. Look for sofas that either roughly fit those dimensions or are slightly smaller. The sofa height you choose is up to you – just bear in mind that it must fit under any nearby windowsills or shelves.
Secondary measurements, like seat height and seat depth, matter more for comfort than for positioning. If members of your household are tall, choose a sofa with a taller seat height and a longer seat depth. If your household is on the shorter side, do the opposite.
Tip: Found this article helpful? Then you might also like:
- Ask the Experts: Sofa Care and Cleaning Tips
- Knowing How to Measure for a Corner Sofa
- Your Go-To Guide to Sofa Styles and Models
