One of my favorite things about this blog is discussing post ideas with its two biggest fans: my sister and my fiancé. During one of these conversations, my sister recommended I write about “How to Buy a Couch” … so I am.
Let’s be clear: I’m not a designer. I know what I like and what’s worked for me. Your milage may vary. That said, couches are fairly fundamental, no? It’s one of the first big “look at me! I’m a grown-up”-type purchases you make once you shed your college skin. It’s a big-kid purchase and I’m a practical girl, so here’s my take (or, rather, advice I wish I’d had when I was 23 and buying my current living room set).
First, some basic vocab:
{Couches on polyvore.com}
There are, of course, several factors to consider: Style, Fabric, Color, Investment.
Style: Couches are such a large piece that they can really set the tone or be the starting place as you put your room together. Personally, this made the whole purchase overwhelming. Instead of freaking and heading to the most neutral, classic thing you can find, browse Pinterest, catalogs, or stores to get ideas and take your time.
Fabric: For most of us, durability and ease of care are going to be tops here. How easy is it to clean? Can you clean it yourself or will you need periodic visits from an upholstery cleaner? Can the fabric stand up to your wily cat or excitable dog?
Once durability and clean-ability concerns have been assuaged, consider comfort.
Color: I was told once that pattern was a no-go because you may tire of it too soon. I think that person may have had a bad experience with a floral cast-off because this is definitely an area where personal preference would reign. My parents had this fabulous beige couch with all manner of exotic birds on it and I’d seriously do something drastic to have that thing in my life right now. It was aces.
Not down with putting a bird on it? Rest assured that you can always spice up a neutral couch with throws or pillows.
Investment: Couches are an investment piece. It may make sense to allocate more resources to ensure quality. (On the other hand, I wouldn’t want a couch so expensive that if my friend spilled her red wine I’d have to break her arms. Priorities.)
Don’t be afraid to love a wacky couch. There’s no reason furniture shouldn’t be fun and reflect your personality. If anyone tells you otherwise, inform the rube that your couch is a “conversation piece.”
Finally, perhaps the best advice is don’t buy a couch. Consider your space. Two armchairs flanking an accent table may be a much better fit.