You’ll probably never see a monument to Harvey Probber – but as the inventor of the sectional sofa, the New Yorker has already touched billions of lives across the world. Next time you sit on your sectional, be sure to say “Thank you, Mr. Probber.” If anyone asks what you mean, enlighten them. They’ll be sure to thank you.

But what if you haven’t got a sectional from which to thank Mr. Probber? Or what if you do have a sectional, but the thing is so old and beaten that it fails to elicit any feelings of gratitude whatsoever? That’s not a bad position to be in at all. It simply means you have an opportunity to buy the perfect new sectional for your living room.

How do you do that, exactly? It’s simple! Just follow these steps.

Room Size: Make Sure There’s Room for the Sectional You Have in Mind 

Imagine the following: You have found what you believe to be an ideal sectional, only to discover that it doesn’t fit inside your living room upon its delivery to your home. This is known as a “sectional catastrophe.”

Fortunately, avoiding such a catastrophe is perfectly easy. Measure the space you intend to fill with a sectional before conducting your search. Choose a sectional which fits it well, and which also won’t disrupt the flow of traffic or dominate the room and its decor.

Choose Your Preferred Sectional Shape

Sectionals are typically available in one of three shapes: L, U and curved. Each has its own merits.

  • L-shaped sectionals typically include a two- or three-seat sofa and a one- or two-seat loveseat. They are the most compact of the sectionals, and easily fit against a wall and within smaller spaces.
  • U-shaped sectionals typically include a three-, four- or five-seat sofa and two two-seat loveseats. They command more space than L-shaped alternatives, and are accordingly better suited for larger spaces.
  • Curved sectionals are exactly that: curved. They normally range from four to ten seats, and make quite a statement – albeit an unwelcome one, if they don’t fit the space they’re placed in. Curved sectionals do not lie flat against walls, which makes them best suited for wide open floor plans.

Choose Your Preferred Sectional Orientation

If you’re purchasing a U-shaped or curved sectional, which is symmetrical, then you can skip this step. But if you’re buying an L-shaped sectional, then you had really better consider which layout you want: L (i.e. left facing), or ⅃ (right facing). Don’t skip this step, as choosing the correct orientation for your existing living room layout is crucial!

Note that many sectionals are available with modular designs, meaning you can choose any number of left- and right-facing chairs and loveseats, armless chairs and loveseats, and corners. These give you virtually endless options, although you had still better make certain the arrangement you select works with the shape of your living room.

Choose Your Sectional Additional Features

A sectional doesn’t just have to be a sectional. Many models are available with reclining seats and footrest extensions. Many others are available with foldout beds – perfect for when your number of guests exceeds your number of guest rooms. You can also get a sectional with a built-in table, speakers and phone charger. Some models are even available with a built-in fridge, which is possibly the greatest thing to happen to football fans since the invention of the sport itself.

Choose Your Preferred Furniture Material

Finally, it’s time to select the perfect material for your sectional. Let’s keep it simple by focusing on the selection of materials offered by England Furniture Co. – the custom sectional manufacturer whose American-made products are all available from our furniture store.

  • Solid – Soft and cozy, yet not without its delicate sophistication, a solid color may be available in a subtle pattern that adds a welcome sense of movement to your sectional design.
  • Accent – Looking for something bolder? Select a fabric pattern inspired by Persian aesthetics, ocean fauna, wildcat hide, or the American Southwest – and that’s only scratching the surface of what’s available.
  • Revolution Performance – Woven from olefin yarn, this fabric is just as resistant to pets and children as it is household cleaners. Even pure bleach can do nothing to damage Revolution Performance!
  • LiveSmart – This fabric is remarkably resistant to moisture, and therefore avoids becoming stained by something like a mishandled ice cream cone or glass of wine. Unlike Revolution Performance, LiveSmart is available in solid colors only.
  • Leather – The cow’s second greatest gift to mankind, just after hamburgers. Leather bestows any room with warmth and splendor, has a natural porosity that helps your skin breathe while you’re sitting on it, and also boasts exceptional durability. 

Your Search for the Perfect Sectional Begins Here!

If you live in the greater St. Cloud area, Happy Sleeper Mattress & Furniture Store is always available to help you customize the perfect sectional. Come visit our showroom at 4 24th Ave S, Waite Park today, or contact us to learn more about what we have in store!