The concept of a loveseat stems from an old-fashioned romantic notion that a couple needed an intimate seating option to share. Today’s loveseats may have lost the romance, but they can still charm you with their modest size and versatility. You may also love how many places in your home are perfect for a little loveseat, but how do you find the perfect one for you? Let’s look past the fabrics and textures (although, we’re personally partial to velvet), colors and shapes of a modern or vintage oversized loveseats and dive deeper into dimensions and scales to guide you.
Size Specifics
Measuring your space may not be the most exciting part of furniture shopping, but it is probably the most critical. How do you know the loveseat you adore will fit in your room if you don’t have dimensions to guide you? You have plenty of time to consider style, color and fabric after understanding if your new settee works in your space. Consider your room dimensions as well as loveseat measurements like length, seat depth, height, and arm height to choose wisely. The last thing you want is to have to send back your new piece of furniture because it overwhelms your space or can’t fit through the doorway.
Layout Logistics
Unless you are starting from scratch, chances are you have other furnishings in the same room as your loveseat. Think about how the new fixture fits with your existing pieces. Will an oversized loveseat take up limited space and make walking a challenge? Do you need a left-facing or right-facing settee? Play around with your room’s configuration to determine where a loveseat works best. Also, keep scale in mind to ensure the room has a cohesive, intentional feel.
Comfort Criteria
Next, give some thought to how you intend to use this proposed love seat. Are you looking for a statement piece in an entryway? Do you want extra seating in your family room? A traditional leather tufted loveseat works well in an office, but you may not want to watch a movie on it. Likewise, your foyer may be the ideal spot for a little loveseat where guests can sit to put on or take off shoes, but if it is too deep, they may sink right in and never leave! People usually want comfortable furniture, but the comfort level can vary by the amount of usage it receives.
Style Selection
Now comes the fun part: looking for your favorite loveseat styles. You already know how big your loveseat should be, how much room you have for it and even the level of comfort you want. Start your search by browsing online at interior design websites to get a sense of your options. Think about your home style as well; are you branching out from modern farmhouse, sticking with the retro feel of mid-century modern or want to explore a minimalist Scandi look? Even if you do not adhere to one style alone, you should consider whether the loveseats you like work well with your existing furnishings.
Here are a few styles to show you the many loveseat possibilities:
- Modular
- Sectional
- Chesterfield
- Bridgewater
- Camelback
- Cabriole
- Recliner
- Settee
- Mid-century modern
- Divan
- Chaise lounge
Fabric Feelings
Textures can take a ho-hum space and make it engaging; the same is true for your loveseat. Solid colors and patterns are just the tip of the iceberg; you also have everything from linen to velvet loveseats to consider. If you need a durable loveseat, you may want a stain-resistant fabric you can toss in the wash when the kids or pets enjoy it too much. If your loveseat is more of a focal point, go high-end with a luxurious fabric that makes someone think twice before putting their shoes on the furniture. Or, if upholstery isn’t your jam, look at wood, wicker or rattan options with cushions you can replace when the mood stikes you.
Proportion Perfection
We’ve covered the importance of measuring your space to accommodate your loveseat selection, but don’t forget to consider if your furniture fits your frame, too. Think about how high you want the arms and back of your loveseat to be. A low back may feel awkward, while overstuffed arms may work better as a headrest when you nap than an armrest while seated. When you start your search, take note of what shapes and details catch your eye. You may not even realize you are an attached cushion fan or want a skirt at the bottom to hide the furniture legs and a wayward dog toy.
Color Concern
Modern tastes seem completely enthralled with neutral colors, especially linen and gray, but don’t limit yourself or your loveseat to the same-old look. This unassuming piece of furniture may be perfect for a daring pop of color or vibrant print. Consider your lifestyle as well; white furniture and dark pet fur don’t play well, unless you select a durable, easy-to-care-for fabric that can handle heavy traffic.
Price Point
Most people like to think they are savvy shoppers, and saving money when looking for loveseats may influence your decision-making. How often do you replace your furniture? Do you have children, pets or pets as children? Are you looking for a one-of-a-kind head-turner that serves as a focal point for the room. These factors may help guide you and your budget to a loveseat thatis best suited to your tastes, needs and budget.
Are you ready to hunt for the perfect loveseat? Start your search at Chairish. Our curated selection features unique styles and vintage treasures that can make quite the splash in your home. Check out our new arrivals to see the latest additions, and drop by the sales section to see what bargains you can find.
Lead photo design by Robin Gannon Interiors / Photo by Michael J. Lee
