Sectionals are hot right now. Not only are they offering a different look and style than the regular sofa and loveseat configuration we’ve seen in the past, but they also bring a relaxed and more intimate ambiance to any room. Plus you can pick and choose your configuration depending on your room and your lifestyle. But with choice comes the chance for error. So here are a couple of tips to help you avoid a terrible OMG moment.

Terminology

A sectional can be made up of several parts. The key is getting the right parts – left or right – that will fit your room. A rule of thumb is to always think about the arm of the sectional. Right arm facing (RAF) means that the arm is on the right side when you face the piece. Left arm facing (LAF) would be for a piece with an arm on the left side. Getting the 2 ends right is one of the most difficult parts.
Ashley 16600 Sectional

Where Should You Place the Sectional in the Room?

You need to take into account the layout of your room including doors, traffic and size. Don’t be afraid to place your sectional floating in the middle of the room. Just make sure you are comfortable with the traffic around it. A good exercise is to place the sectional in different places and simulate traffic in and out of the room.
Ashley 24302 Grey Sectional

Think Comfort

It is easy to get creative with the all the configurations available out there, but you must always keep in mind the comfort of the people sitting on the sectional. Be sure that there is enough leg room for everybody to sit comfortably. Back support is also important as there are pieces that do not have a back seat. This might be uncomfortable for somebody sitting for a long period of time.

Wedge or No Wedge

Corners are a tough one. A rounded wedge is great to add an additional seat to the corner of the sectional. It can, however, take more space in a room. Square corners are the last place someone wants to seat unless you don’t mind curling up. Think about what would work best for you.

If there is a technology buff in the family, you should consider wedges that incorporate docking and recharging stations. Other options offered include storage, cup holders and speakers. See how the choice of wedge makes a difference.

Palliser Sectional 77427

Palliser 70427 Alula Sectional

Jazz It up with Colour

There are two main ways to go about colour. Because buying a sectional represents a big investment, one way consists of selecting a neutral colour (beige, grey, white or black) for your sectional cover and to add bolder colours by playing with accent pillows, area rugs, curtains, and accent chairs. You can then adapt your room décor by season while keeping the same sectional. But sometimes a room simply calls out for drama.

How about a red sectional for this movie room you’ve been dreaming of for so long or a yellow one for your new family room? Pick a bold colour or a printed fabric that will simply make your guests go “WOW”. Whichever way you go, just keep in mind that the sectional will likely be the centerpiece of the room and don’t be afraid to show your own personality!Palliser 70328

England 2880 Cornwell Sectional

2384 Sectional

Popular Configurations

Two of the most popular configurations are the L-shape and U-shape sectionals. L-shape can be as small as a loveseat with a long chaise. This is usually referred to as a Sofa Chaise. U-shape sectionals are great for a large room or when you need plenty of seating space. These configurations can, most of the time, be designed in a full stationary version or includes reclining pieces. Very useful if you do not have the space for an ottoman or a long chaise.England 2880 Sectional     England 2400 Malibu Blue SectionalEngland 2900 Sectional
Have a look at this video from Palliser showing different configurations you could do in a living room with their Elements collection.

“I want maximum flexibility”

You can let your mind run wild with all the different configurations and fabric options available for sectionals. But if this is not enough, you should consider a Modular sectional for maximum flexibility. Modulars come in single seat pieces that let you create your own configurations.

Now that you know all the basics, it’s time to take out that measuring tape and your creativity.