Modern green sofa with stylish brown and patterned throw pillows, paired with a minimalist wooden coffee table

Buying a new sofa is one of the most important purchases a homeowner can make. Along with being the primary focal point of most living rooms, sofas are the place where families relax, friends gather, and folks go to hang out and recharge day after day. Because of this, you want your sofa to be as stylish and comfortable as it is durable and practical. Not all sofas are created equal. If you're shopping for the perfect sofa, but getting lost in the lingo, Star Furniture is here to help. In today's blog, we'll decode a glossary of insider terms to demystify the sofa shopping process. You deserve a sofa that's right for you. Here are the key terms that sofa shoppers should know before bringing one home.

Frame Construction

When searching for a sofa that will serve your family well for years to come, what’s on the inside really matters. Sure, aesthetic is important, but a sofa’s frame construction will determine its long-term durability. For this reason, it's a good idea to choose a sofa that includes a frame that's built to last, such as one made from Kiln-Dried Hardwood. Sofa frames are dried in a special oven, called a kiln, to remove moisture. This will help the piece keep its shape and prevent shrinking or warping. 

How its frame is held together can also make a difference in the lifespan of a sofa. Premium sofa frames are constructed with Double-Dowel Wood Joints and Corner Blocks, markers of quality. Today, sofa makers also introduce staples and glue to further solidify the frame.

Cushion Fillings

Comfort is king when it comes to selecting a new sofa. Of course, different families will have different needs to achieve the ideal combination of comfort and support for their sofa. A trusted Star Furniture design pro can help you find a sofa that perfectly balances comfort and style, per your unique needs. Here's what you need to know about the most common sofa cushion fillings to help you choose the best fit for your home:

High-Density Foam

Made from dense polyurethane foam, these cushions are known for their superior support and durability. They can provide a consistent amount of comfort while maintaining their shape and preventing sagging. 

Down-Feather Blend

If you're looking for a sofa that's plush and inviting, down-feather cushion filling is a great option. Made from a combination of down feathers and other materials, such as synthetic foam, you can have the luxurious comfort of down feathers along with the support and longevity of a foam-filled sofa. Unlike high-density foam sofas, however, down-feather sofas must be fluffed to maintain their shape.

Spring Down Cushions

For the most luxurious experience, you can’t beat the feel of spring-down sofa cushions. These state-of-the-art cushions are constructed with coiled springs that are wrapped in foam and covered with a down-feather blend to achieve the ultimate combination of comfort and support.

Upholstery Fabrics & Leather Coverings

Modern sofas come in a wide variety of fabric options. From natural, high-end fabrics to synthetic, family-friendly ones, the sky's the limit when it comes to choosing a sofa material that is stylish, comfortable, and ideal for your family's particular needs. 

Understanding the differences between popular sofa fabric choices can help you find the right one for you. For instance, a leather sofa could be made from high-quality Top-Grain Leather which looks fabulous and ages well, but is also much more expensive than one made from bonded leather, which is more affordable but may need to be replaced sooner. Natural fibers, such as cotton and linen, are wonderful options if you're looking for a sofa that's plush and breathable. Keep in mind, however, that natural fibers are sometimes more delicate than synthetic materials. If you have kids or pets, a Performance Fabric that's stain and tear-resistant may help your sofa look as good as new for years to come.

Tailoring and Trims

Sofa tailoring is an art that requires precision and attention to detail, much like the work of a skilled tailor or dressmaker. Features such as Welts, which are the piping along the edges of cushions, add a polished finish and reinforce seams for durability. Skirts, which can be tailored to different lengths and styles, offer a refined look and conceal the sofa's legs for a more traditional appearance. Matching patterns on fabrics, especially with complex designs, requires a careful eye and expert craftsmanship to ensure a seamless flow across the entire piece. A quality workroom takes pride in these details, delivering a custom-tailored sofa that feels as if it were made specifically for your space, much like a bespoke suit.

Sofa Styles

If you've been furniture shopping recently, you probably noticed that there is an array of sofa styles to choose from. While some are simple and understated, others are bold and ornate. Understanding the different types of sofas can simplify the process of choosing one that complements your home's interior design style. Check out the key characteristics of these popular sofa styles from the Star Furniture design experts:

Chesterfield

Handsome, refined, and sophisticated, this style features deep button tufting and rolled arms that are typically the same height as the back of the sofa. Originally large and stately, modern versions of the Chesterfield sofa can include slimmer arms, tall legs, and light fabrics.

Mid-Century Modern

Rising to popularity in the mid-twentieth century, this sofa style is recognized for its elegant simplicity, clean lines, and understated beauty. Organic shapes and subtle curves give these sofas a timeless yet stylish appearance. 

Updated Traditional

An updated traditional sofa blends classic design elements with modern sensibilities, creating a fresh, timeless look. This style typically features the structured form and elegant details of traditional sofas, like rolled arms or tufted backs, combined with contemporary fabrics, sleek lines, or minimalist accents. The result is a versatile piece that honors the past while fitting seamlessly into today's interiors.

Modular

A modular sofa is a versatile seating solution made up of individual sections or modules that can be arranged in various configurations. This design allows for flexibility in adapting the sofa to different room layouts or seating needs, making it perfect for both small and large spaces. Each module can function as a standalone piece or be combined with others to create everything from a compact loveseat to an expansive sectional.

Elegant beige sofa with decorative pillows in a cozy living room setting

Customization Options

If you've scoured through furniture stores and sites but can't seem to find a sofa that meets all of your specific desires, opting for a customizable one may be the way to go. Many furniture stores - like Star Furniture - offer customizable options, making it easier than ever to bring home a sofa that perfectly fits your home's unique style, comfort, and practical needs. If a sofa includes customizable options, this means that you can choose one or more of its features, such as fabrics, leg styles, or cushion fillings. Alternatively, a made-to-order sofa is one that you create from scratch, selecting each element as you go along. This process usually costs more than buying an off-the-shelf type of sofa and can require a longer wait time before receiving it, however, it allows you to tailor the sofa's quality, comfort, and appearance. 

The Star Furniture Experts Can Help You Find Your Dream Sofa

When it's time to shop for sofas, you don't have to feel overwhelmed. Familiarizing yourself with the key terms used to differentiate fabrics, cushion fillings, and styles can help you feel confident as you strive to make an informed decision about which sofa would be the best fit for your home. Of course, the Star Furniture interior design team is here to help you every step of the way. Stop by one of our showrooms across Houston, San Antonio, and Austin today to begin working with an expert designer who can help you bring home the sofa of your dreams!