– that is the question.
For most furniture shoppers, this is one of the most common questions one ponders before finalizing their living room seating of choice. Different factors come into play when making this decision such as looks, size, room layout, comfort, lifestyle and personal preference.
Let’s take a crash course on sectionals – defining common terminologies and identifying their pros and cons. When we’re done you’ll be well on your way into making the right decision to sectional or not to sectional.
SECTIONAL 101
sectional
[sek-shuh-nl]
n. a sofa composed of several independent sections that can be arranged individually or in various combinations.
(www.dictionary.com)
Sectionals come in a variety of shapes- L-shape, U-shape, or semi-circular.
In regards to design, there are two types – stationary and modular. Stationary sectionals are the most common. They are a set shape, and are locked in place by hooks or latches. The pieces cannot be separated besides for moving purposes. Modular sectionals have pieces with finished edges, offering endless configurations and each section can be setup as a standalone piece. They are basically big comfy lego blocks.
BASIC LINGO
Chaise – An extra long seat offering full leg room (great for lounging)
Corner Chair – A sectional piece that looks like a wedge intended in to be placed in a corner
Armless Chair – A single seat sectional piece with no arms
Ottoman – A footstool without arms or back. Primarily used as a footstool but in modular sectionals can be used as a seat or table.
RAF – (Right Arm Facing) When facing the piece or section, your arm is on the right. i,e. RAF chaise means the chaise is on the right when you are looking at it.
LAF – (Left Arm Facing), opposite of RAF 😉
Photo by Rogi Ramil, Red Knot Aiea
PROS
*Multiple seating looks cozy and inviting.
*Creates a nice setup to watch television without craning your neck (having a sofa and loveseat will do that to ya!)
*Offers lots of room not only for the whole family but also for guests and entertaining.
*The chaise is a great place for lounging, cuddling, sleeping and videogam-ing. 🙂
CONS
*Some sectionals (stationary) only have one configuration, which limits future rearranging plans.
*They can take up a lot of room visually and physically.
*The stationary sectionals also limit furniture add-ons.
*The wedge and corner seats can be awkward.
SOME QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
*Does my space allow for the size and flexibility of a sectional?
*Where is it going and what will it be used for? (Family room? Parties?)
*How many people do you need to accommodate?
*Am I planning on moving homes in the near future?
So now the last question is … sectionals – yay! or nay?