Best Ways to Use Loveseats in Interior Design

What’s not to love about a loveseat? Compact and comfortable loveseats are the perfect pieces of furniture for apartments, homes, or offices. Their origin can be traced to the 17th and 18th century, when they were developed to accommodate the huge, ornate dresses that women wore in those centuries. Over the years they became more commonly called loveseats, since they comfortably fit two people and are often used for snuggling.

When furnishing a small space, a loveseat is the perfect piece of furniture. They not only fit right in, but they also make the space seem larger and roomier. They can make your room look neat, organized, and put together. To know more about ways to use loveseats in small spaces, read on.

What Is a Loveseat?

If you think of canoodling when you think of loveseats, you are not alone. Loveseats got their name because two people can sit close together on them, exchanging secrets, and yes, even a kiss or two. But they are so much more than that.

Loveseats can be used as mini sofas in small or awkward spaces. They are just the perfect size for an apartment, bedroom, guest room, or even extra seating in the family room. Because of their diminutive dimension, they are easy to move around and so can be placed wherever they are needed, whenever you decide to reimagine your furniture placement. Bigger than a chair-and-a-half, but smaller than a sofa, a loveseat can range from about 58 inches long to as long as 71 inches.

Add a Little Love to Your Interior Décor

One of the best things about loveseats is that you can use them to bring a little something extra into your décor. They come in so many patterns, designs, sizes, and fabrics, including leather, that they can be used to add texture, color, or interest to your space.

Finding a loveseat you'll love is not all that difficult. For example, the stylish Huntington House Customizable Loveseat is an elegant seating option suitable for any space. You can choose from a myriad fabric options, arm styles, bases, and backs to get the perfect piece.

Consider the size of your space as you look for the perfect loveseat. If it's on the small side, choose a simple style with straight arms – this will make the space look bigger than it is. You’ll have room for a small table and maybe even a chair to go with it. If you are choosing a loveseat for your bedroom, choose one with curvy arms and hidden legs. You’ll want something comfy, cozy, and luxurious for your sanctuary.

In a guest room, home office, or even your family room, choose a sleeper loveseat. This will give you a way to offer a place for guests to sleep without losing the functionality of your space during the day. This is a great option for a guest room that doubles as a home office or craft room. The Luonto Nico Contemporary Full Size Loveseat Sleeper allows you to convert your loveseat into a bed in minutes. It features an innovative, easy-to-open sleeper mattress mechanism that makes setting up your guest’s bed a breeze.

Whether you want extra seating or to make a small space seem larger, a loveseat is extremely versatile. Pair one with a sofa in a large room, or use two together to make the most of small spaces. With so many options, loveseats can work with any style to make your home design look fresh and modern.

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What's the Difference between a Couch and a Sofa?

Most of us aren’t too confused if someone says couch or sofa. We know they mean a rather large piece of furniture meant for sitting. So, is there really a difference between the two? Is one more formal than the other? Do they look or feel different?

At first glance, these two pieces of furniture may seem identical, but there are some differences. And although many designers use the term “sofa” exclusively, there are some subtle differences. Knowing the differences may not change what you call this piece of furniture, but will be a useful addition to your fun-fact arsenal.

Learn more about the subtle differences.

A Couch Perfect for Napping

Some consider “couch” a more casual term than sofa, and this could be because of the word’s origin. The word comes from “coucher,” the French word for “to lie down.” This piece of furniture gained popularity in the Victorian era. They generally had one armrest, or none, and a tapered back, so were more casual in both form and function.

Although our modern couches are rarely without arms, a couch is more likely to be something you curl up on, take a nap on, and let the dog sit on. Couches also tend to be smaller than sofas, seating 2-3 people comfortably. This Nantucket casual style seating option by Rowe with plush pillows and a skirt-covered base is perfect for a casual family room or den.

In most cases, couches are found in informal and casual settings such as a cozy family room or man cave. And while functionally, these two pieces serve the same purpose, people tend to prefer the term couch when they are referring to a casual, un-stuffy room.

A Sofa by Any Other Name

Sofa, which comes from the Arabic term “suffah,” always seems a little more formal. It was originally a wooden bench covered in cushions and blankets. Not the best place for napping or curling up. Most design professionals admit to rarely hearing people using the word “couch,” and “sofa” does seem to be the industry standard.

Sofas tend to be bigger, seating four or more people, making them a perfect choice for people who enjoy entertaining. This 3-piece, L-shaped sectional sofa from Huntington House provides plenty of seating. Unlike its Arabic namesake, this sofa is actually perfect for curling up on or stretching out and napping. Sofas, in general, are perceived as being more formal and giving out an elegant and classy vibe.

When should you use couch or sofa? Sometimes it just depends. The general consensus is that couch is the older term, probably in use since the Middle Ages. It became more popular during the middle ages when "fainting couches" became common. Either word is appropriate for a big, comfortable piece of furniture perfect for lounging, relaxing, snuggling, and yes, napping.

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