How to choose the perfect sofa for your space

Choosing a stylish sofa that captures the essence of a well-lived life doesn’t have to mean straining your budget.

Timeless design, ultimate comfort and premium construction can all be yours while remaining accessible, says Charles Hinckfuss, founder of Australian-owned home design brand MCM House.

“Our new Beach Club collection was born from our commitment to offering pieces that seamlessly elevate any interior setting while staying true to the relaxed elegance that defines our brand,” he says.

“Designed to move effortlessly from place to place, these sofas are ideal for customers who embrace a timeless design ethos, adding subtle luxury and effortless charm to their ever-evolving spaces.”

Below, MCM House design manager Anthony Mitsos shares his tips for choosing the perfect sofa. 

Style and size matter

Mitsos says that combining generous proportions with a casual yet refined aesthetic is key to elevating a space.

“The Beach Club collection, with its coastal aesthetic, is equally suited to smaller apartment living areas or expansive open-plan spaces,” he says.

“Whether it’s the relaxed comfort and exceptional support of our Jojo range, the versatile configuration of our Johnson range, or the sophisticated aesthetic of our Bayer range, the deep seats, generous armrests and modular flexibility are perfect for any lifestyle.”

Consider tone and texture 

For unmatched versatility and the freedom to refresh your space without replacing major furniture pieces, neutral tones will always be winners.

“A palette of soft, neutral shades – think warm sands, soft greys and crisp whites – is ideal for an effortlessly stylish, evolving space,” Mitsos says.

“These tones create a relaxed, sophisticated backdrop that can be easily transformed with accessories to reflect your personal style or seasonal changes.”

Add a personal touch 

Personalising your sofa with cushions is an easy, cost-effective way to add inspiration. 

“Stick to odd numbers – three to five cushions depending on your sofa size – for a visually appealing look,” Mitsos says.

Of course, if you really love cushions, you may want to splurge on a collection that is substantial as well as stylish.

Start with larger square cushions at the back and layer smaller square or rectangular ones in front. Add depth and warmth with linen, velvet and boucle.

Click here for your chance to win a sofa from the MCM House Beach Club collection valued up to $4000 plus delivery.

The best quality for your budget 

Longevity and lasting comfort come down to the quality of the sofa frame and cushions. 

Look for a solid timber frame, a combination of wire springs and elastic webbing for balanced support, and high-density foam cushions that resist sagging.

To maximise breathability, softness and durability, choose a linen-cotton fabric blend. For effortless cleaning, choose removable slipcovers.

Perfect placement

Positioning your new sofa against a wall can maximise floor space, but don’t shy away from floating it in the middle of the room so it can act as a divider in open-plan areas, Mitsos says.

Consider how you tie together the total look, too. “For a wall-facing sofa, add wall art or shelving above to elevate the space,” he says. “If the sofa acts as a divider, pair it with a console table or floor lamp.”

Leave at least 50 centimetres of clearance around your sofa – more if you have room – to ensure ease of movement and a sense of openness. 

A truly well-designed and crafted sofa can become the centrepiece of the room, adding effortless luxury and comfort to your living space, Mitsos says.