The sectional sofa has been around a lot longer than one might think. Since it’s not a recent invention, it’s had plenty of time to evolve into various styles and sizes.
In the Victorian Era, sectionals were introduced with intricate wood and gilded, carved accents. The sectional provided a space for entertaining many people while still maintaining a somewhat formal look, flanked by marble top tables and rich, opulent rugs and tapestries. Measuring for a sectional back then was less of an issue because of the large room sizes and the fact that every piece was custom made for the room. People were often smaller back then, so the scale of the sectional was easier to acclimate to most spaces.
Following the Victorian Era, the sectional laid low until the 40’s and 50’s where the Mid-Century Modern Era brought us streamlined, movable pieces that were joined and anchored by boomerang tables, coffee tables and corner tables. Almost every home aspired to having the latest, greatest sectional for entertaining friends. The sectional was so sought after that it commanded a party, just to share your latest addition with all of your friends and family! These sectionals were probably the most diverse, light and easy to accommodate most spaces. The Mid Century Modern style was all about open spaces, free of clutter and ready for a cocktail party at the drop of a hat!
In the 60’s and 70’s, the sectional became a bit more groovy. Adding wild colors, patterns and creating entire room sized sectionals made for a very “intimate” seating arrangement. The sectional grew in size as they filled entire conversation pits and basement areas shared with ping pong tables and shuffleboard courts. We were becoming much less “buttoned up” as a rule and the sectional followed suit very nicely.
So, how do we measure for a sectional sofa today?
The most important thing to remember when measuring for a sectional is to measure the room in which your sectional will call home.
When measuring, it’s always helpful to sketch it out on paper with more than a little attention toward scale as you sketch. Measure the length of each wall. If your room is on an open floor plan with neighboring rooms, be sure to determine where your living room ends and the next room begins.
After measuring your room size, indicate where the windows and doors are. It is very important to plan for a free and clear range of motion around your new sectional. It is also very important to maintain your line of sight by keeping windows accessible both visually and physically.
Just as important, when measuring for a sectional sofa, is determining the focal point of the room. This isn’t something you’ll need a degree for; usually you’ll find the focal point determines itself.
A focal point is the center of activity or a visual point that your eye gravitates to in a room. It can be determined architecturally by the shape of a room. It can also be determined by lighting, the addition of a fireplace, a television or maybe a huge skylight.
If you are having a hard time pinpointing your focal point, determine what you are using this room for. Is it a tv room, fireplace room, game room or library? A large bookshelf with art and books can easily be a focal point.
Now that you have determined your focal point, record the space on your sketch, along with your doors and window heights.
Are you using a rug to anchor your sectional? If so, remember that rugs can be room sized or they can sit just under your sectional to give it a place to “land”. If using a room sized rug, remember to leave 6”-8” between the rug edge and the wall. When using a rug that will contain just your sectional, your rug size and sectional size will go hand in hand. Allow the rug under your sectional to extend 12”-18” past your sectional footprint, and incorporate any coffee tables or side tables.//Now you should be ready to assign your sectional a space within your sketch.
The rule for space needed around a piece of furniture for traffic flow is around 30”. Keeping this in mind, dedicate a large rectangle or square in the space where your sectional will fit in your sketch without interrupting the flow.
You’re not quite done
What else should you consider when measuring for a sectional?
Consider what other furnishings will be present and make your decision with these furnishings in mind.
When searching for a sectional in South San Francisco, Giorgi Brothers is here to help. We offer so many options when it comes to sectionals.
Consider a sectional with storage, a sectional with reclining backs, electric ports, USB ports, lights and/or cup holders.
When choosing a reclining sectional, you will want to check with your sales consultant for product specifics. Most reclining sofas need anywhere between 4”-12” clearance behind the recliner and this should be taken into account before you have to request Uncle Bob keeps un-reclining to make room for someone to get through to get a drink refresh or use the restroom.
Feeling a bit squished when you have all of your measurements in your sketch and you can’t see being able to fit a sectional in your space?
No worries! Giorgi Brothers can help you come up with the perfect solution for a smaller space. Whether you choose to arrange your sectional as you see it on the showroom floor or customize it, the beauty of a sectional is that you can customize almost any piece just by selecting the sections that work best for you.
Don’t forget- when looking for your sectional in South San Francisco, we also have custom ordering available to fit even the most unique spaces. Come see us today at Giorgi Brothers!
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