The sofa is the heart of the living room. It's the piece of furniture around which the space is organized, where you receive guests, and where you relax at the end of the day. Choosing the right one is one of the most important decorating decisions—and also one of the ones people most often get wrong due to lack of information. In this guide, we explain everything you need to know before buying.
Types of sofas: which one to choose?
2 or 3 seater sofa
The classic. Suitable for medium-sized rooms (from 15m²). The 3-seater sofa is usually between 180 and 220 cm long — always measure the available space before choosing. See our collection of 2 and 3-seater sofas .
Corner sofa
The best option for larger or L-shaped rooms. It maximizes seating space and creates a more inviting living area. It comes in left or right configurations—always confirm which side fits your space. See our article Corner sofa or straight sofa: which is better?
Sofa with chaise longue
It combines a sofa with an extension for resting your legs. Ideal for those who like to watch TV lying down or have small children. The overall size is usually large — the chaise lounge typically measures between 90 and 150 cm.
Sofa bed
A practical solution for those who frequently receive visitors or have limited bedroom space. The quality of the opening mechanism and integrated mattress varies greatly — always choose a model with a robust mechanism and a mattress that is at least 10 cm thick.
Coating materials
Tissue
The most common and versatile. Options range from chenille to microfiber, including more structured fabrics. More breathable than skin and generally more comfortable in extreme temperatures. Look for fabrics with an abrasion index (Martindale) above 30,000 cycles for daily use.
Synthetic skin (simi)
Easy to clean, durable, and stylish. It's not as breathable as fabric—it might be uncomfortable in the summer. A good option for families with young children or pets.
Natural skin
The most premium material. With proper maintenance, it lasts for decades and improves with time. The cost is significantly higher, but the longevity justifies the investment for those who prioritize quality.
Structure and filling: what nobody tells you
What you don't see is often the most important thing about a sofa:
- Structure — opt for solid beech or eucalyptus wood, which doesn't warp. MDF or particleboard structures are less durable.
- Seat — pocket springs + high-density foam is the ideal combination. Avoid sofas filled only with simple foam — they lose their shape quickly.
- Back support — foam + polyester fiber to maintain shape. Back supports filled only with fiber tend to become "empty" after a few years.
What size should I choose?
A simple rule: the sofa should not occupy more than half the width of the room, and should leave at least 40–50 cm of space to move around. For rooms up to 15m², a compact 2-seater or 3-seater sofa (up to 190 cm) is the most suitable. For rooms larger than 20m², a corner sofa or a 3-seater + chaise lounge is a good option.
Sofas available at PlateaHome
PlateaHome offers a selection of sofas with robust frames and quality upholstery, available in multiple configurations and colors. The entire collection is delivered to mainland Portugal.
→ See the entire sofa collection
For personalized advice on which model is best suited to your space, contact us via WhatsApp +351 928 314 198 or email platea@plateahome.pt . If possible, visit our showroom in Paços de Ferreira to experience the sofas in person.