Yes, a sectional sofa has detachable pieces - it is built to come apart, but only if done intentionally! In other words, if the sections are attached properly, they shouldn't come apart during normal sofa activities (i.e. sitting, napping, binging rom-coms, etc.).

Some sectional sofa pieces are connected using latches and are easy to detach from one another. Others are screwed together and require tools to separate. So you may or may not need your tool belt handy!

 

 

 

I strongly recommend doing your research on what kind of sectional you want before buying!

Sectional sofas come in various shapes (you might see these referred to as 'configurations') and sizes. Before you make a decision, consider the size of your living space, as well as the seating preferences of those who will spend the most time on it.

Small sectional sofas typically come in two pieces and combine two loveseats, or a loveseat and a chaise

Mid-sized sectionals have three pieces and have seating for three to five people.

Oversized sectionals include four or more pieces and offer tons of seating- you'll likely be able to fit the whole family!

In terms of shape, sectionals are typically L-shaped or U-shaped. An L-shape sectional sofa is a more versatile option, as it can be placed in a corner, along a wall, or float in the middle of a room. Depending on the size of your space, you can pair an L-shaped sectional with other furniture pieces, such as accent chairs or a loveseat.

U-shaped sectionals are designed for larger spaces and provide plenty of extra seating. These often frame a coffee table nicely, plus they're ideal for face-to-face conversations!

Need somewhere for your guests to sleep? Other sectional sofas have sleepers that can easily turn a comfortable sitting area into a guest bed.

Don't forget, you'll also have your choice of several fabrics. Leather sectionals are a popular choice and they often have one or more reclining seats. Then you have your standard polyester or polypropylene fabrics, of course!

 

 

 

When deciding between a sofa and a sectional, you’ll first want to consider the size of your room, as well as how it will be used.

The main advantage of a sectional is it typically offers more sitting room than a sofa. Sectionals can also be used to maximize space, especially in corners of rooms. Or they can be used to break up an open floor plan. Plus, a sectional with an ottoman or a sectional with a chaise allow you to kick back and put your feet up!

Remember, you can always pair a sofa with an accent chair or loveseat, and you’ll gain the same number of seats as a sectional.

 

 

 

Seriously, who wants to do math when furniture shopping? Don’t let that scare you away! Even though sectionals have more angles than a typical sofa, understanding and measuring its dimensions is easier than you may think.

A sectional is measured by height, width and depth.

The height represents the measurement, in inches, from the bottom of the sectional to the top of the sofa back.

Width is measured, from left to right, along the sofa back.

The depth is measured from the front-facing edge to the very back of the sofa.

 

 

 

A sectional sofa description that states whether it is left or right arm facing refers to the side of the sofa which has the "normal" part of the couch when you look at it. What do I mean by “normal”, you ask? Well, that’s the loveseat or recliner side of the couch. Whichever side has the armrest (that's not an extended sectional piece when you face the couch) makes it either a left arm facing sectional or a right arm facing sectional.

You can also think of this as which side has the portion of the couch where if you couldn’t see the other half, you might not know it’s a sectional. That’s the side the arm is facing.

Can you tell the difference between a left arm facing sectional and a right arm facing sectional? Quiz yourself with a round of Name that Sectional!

 

 

 

You betcha! Sectionals used to be huge couches that practically required their own zip code, but nowadays they come in all shapes and sizes.

You can find a small sectional sofa that’s about the same width as a three-seat couch or an oversized loveseat, just with a chaise on the end to extend the seat cushion - and provide extra room to kick up your feet. Try maximizing your space even further with a sectional that has storage space underneath the chaise!

A small sectional is truly a wonder for small living rooms, but as I often say, always measure to make sure it fits before you buy!