In a recent redesign frenzy, I realized we needed a new sofa. Not just any sofa — a sectional. Choosing a sectional is a big decision: it adds many more options and measurements to consider, and it’s not something to rush. With our home undergoing a bit of reorganization, it felt like the right time to make some thoughtful choices.
Over the years we’ve owned three sofas, each with its advantages and drawbacks. These past experiences shaped what I wanted this time around.
My previous sofa experiences
Our current sofa is a Pottery Barn Basic with white slipcovers, which I found on Craigslist years ago. It arrived used but has held up well despite daily wear and tear. The down-filled back cushions have become floppy, and I may have them refilled, but the frame has been durable. I later bought a Pottery Barn replacement slipcover (a floor sample) and it has survived countless washings. Slipcovers require maintenance and can look shabby between washes, but their washability has proven invaluable — especially with pets and kids.
I plan to keep the Pottery Barn sofa, though we may eventually switch the slipcover color. You can read more about my slipcover experiences elsewhere on my blog. For now, the practicality of a washable slipcover is a major plus.
Our first sofa was a Thomasville Country Inns and Backroads loveseat from the 1990s. I loved its English country style. Over about 19 years it endured multiple moves, three kids, and two dogs. Though the down cushions flattened over time, the frame remained solid. The dark upholstery, however, showed stains and other marks that were hard to remove — one reason I became a devoted slipcover fan. Machine-washable covers simply make life easier.
Between the Thomasville and Pottery Barn sofas we tried a leather sofa from an antique reproduction store. I appreciated the authentic look of leather and my husband liked its rugged feel, but pillows and blankets constantly slipped off and the leather felt cold initially when you sat down. Those functional annoyances made me picky about the next choice.
The search for a new sofa
With a room repurposing idea in mind — turning an underused bedroom into a hangout for our son and his friends — a sectional seemed like the ideal centerpiece. We wanted a comfy, durable space where kids could gather, play video games, watch movies, and socialize. Creating a secondary hangout helps when hosting family gatherings, giving kids or teens a cozy, separate space.
We decided that the key to the success and function of this new space is going to be the sectional.
Even in a modest-sized room, a sectional can be the best way to provide maximum seating without crowding the space with multiple pieces. We wanted seating that felt like a cozy blanket, a modern-but-classic shape that wouldn’t quickly date, and fabric that was neutral, velvety, and easy to clean. A pull-out bed for sleepovers and affordability were also important factors.
While researching options, I received an email from La-Z-Boy about reviewing a sectional. I was skeptical — I only review products I truly like — but after visiting a local showroom, testing many pieces, and speaking with a helpful salesperson, I became interested. I spent time sitting on models, comparing fabrics, and taking samples home to test for pet hair and liquid spills. Practical everyday concerns like pet messes and kid-related stains guided my questions more than technical construction terms.
Questions I asked before buying
Instead of focusing solely on industry buzzwords, I asked practical questions: How does the fabric handle spills? Will pet hair cling? What about wear with kids? Also inquire about warranty and fabric protection options. Think about how your family lives now and in the future, and choose a sofa that fits those needs. Consider whether a trendy fabric or shape will still appeal in several years.
Our salesperson reassured me that even a dog mishap wouldn’t ruin the fabric we chose, which was a relief. I tested textures, colors, and patterns in different lights and even rubbed samples on our dog to check for fur attraction. After extensive testing over a couple of weeks, I felt confident in my decision.
Final decision
Yes — I ordered a La-Z-Boy Collins sectional. It passed my practical tests and fit the cozy, durable, and versatile criteria I set. I chose a solid neutral upholstery and a patterned accent pillow fabric. I’m excited to create a designated kid-friendly family space that still looks put together.
I’ll share photos and impressions when the sectional arrives and document the upstairs family room transformation.
La-Z-Boy provided the sofa, but the opinions and experience shared here are my own.
Related posts:
The Truth About White Slipcovers Part 1
The Truth About White Slipcovers Part 2 (Pet Edition)
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