Sectional buying guide

From configuration to fabric, there are many design details to consider when buying a sectional. Ahead, find our complete sectional buying guide, courtesy of our design team.

Prefer to talk it out? Connect with a Design Expert.

Our sectional configurations

Your lifestyle, design aesthetic, family size, and room purpose will all determine your ideal sectional configuration. Find our core offerings below.

Chaise sectionals

For a little extra lounge space and additional seating for guests, we always recommend a chaise sectional.

 

Bumper sectionals

This configuration builds on the comfort and space of a chaise sectional, and doubles down with upholstered back cushions.

 

Corner sectionals

For ample seating and lounge-worthy comfort, a corner sectional fits the bill. They're perfect for TV rooms and basements.

 

Design tip:

Use painter’s tape to map out the outline of your sectional on the floor. This allows you to visualize the layout and scale.

Choose your fabric

Deciding on a fabric for your sectional is both an aesthetic and lifestyle decision. From a design standpoint, you want your chosen color to complement your existing color palette. A piece this large will set the aesthetic tone for the space, so we always recommend ordering fabric swatches in advance and testing the color options in your actual home. From a functionality standpoint, many of our fabrics are considered “performance,” meaning they’re kid and pet-friendly, liquid and stain-resistant, and designed for high-traffic areas. These features will ensure that your sectional is as durable and functional as it is stylish.

 

Customize your sectional

Our sectional collections offer quite a few customizations to maximize comfort and functionality. Ahead, find a few of our most common design considerations.

Chaise versus bumper

While a chaise sectional includes a leg rest ranging from 60 to 75 inches in length (plus wide options), bumper pieces range from 80 to 95 inches and are lined with two back cushions. They're a great option if you’re looking to maximize seating, but lack space for a corner sectional.

Left versus right

We designate the chaise or bumper direction based on its location when facing the sectional. Choose left or right based on the layout of the room, ensuring that no walkways are blocked. In open floor plans, chaise, bumper, and corner pieces can also be used to create distinct "rooms" and seating areas.

Split versus bench cushion

Split cushions are more traditional and designate individual seats on a spacious sectional. Bench cushions are more sleek in appearance and eliminate cushion cracks, which can effectively maximize seating and minimize lost toys and TV remotes.

Add storage and functionality

Sectionals can seem like a big commitment, but they don’t have to be. We have plenty of custom add-ons that allow your sectional to evolve with you and your lifestyle.

Modular collections

Modular collections offer never-ending flexibility. With corner, armless, and ottoman pieces, you can reconfigure or add to your sectional over time.

Sleeper sectionals

A sectional and a guest bedroom in one — what more could you want? Sleeper sectionals are multi-functional pieces perfect for small apartments or cozy TV rooms.

Storage upgrades

Get the most out of your sectional by opting for a storage chaise or ottoman. Many of our collections even offer storage alongside a sleeper option.

Still unsure? Check out our best sellers.

Loved and vetted by many, best-sellers are always a good place to start. From customer-loved configurations and custom upgrades to performance fabrics designed for pets, kids, and everything in between, these heavy-hitters are sure to provide your home with unmatched comfort and functionality.

Shop best sellers