Buying a leather sofa is like buying a car. It’s going to be a part of your life for a very long time, so you can’t just walk into the store and pick out the first one you see. There are so many things to consider, but we at Florida Leather Gallery will help you put together your perfect couch so you’re left with zero regrets.
Choosing the Right Leather
Full-Grain
This is the purest form of leather hide. This practically unaltered version of leather is highly sought after for having the most natural look and feel, making it the ultimate statement piece. Full-grain sofas are what you would find in the fanciest venues or residences, and they last for decades due to their uncontested durability.
Top-Grain
Top-grain leather is essentially full-grain hide that has been specially treated to give a flawless appearance. The top layer is sanded down to remove any imperfections such as scratches and blemishes to give you the authenticity of raw leather but with the satisfaction of uniform color and texture.
Pure Aniline
Aniline leather is dyed completely through to bring out the richest, deepest color. This is a great option for those who want to go bold with their living room setup. Just bear in mind that this form of leather can be very high-maintenance as the color may need regular touch-ups. However, the extra care you put into aniline leather will be greatly rewarded with an utterly beautiful sofa.
Semi-Aniline
Semi-aniline leather is just as stunning as pure aniline, but this iteration is treated with a protective coating to give it extra durability. Consider this style of leather for busier, more active households so you’ll never have to sacrifice beauty for functionality.
The Perfect Sofa Type for Your Lifestyle
Reclining
Most sofas you see nowadays are of the reclining variety, and for a good reason as it is the most comfortable form of seating. Whether you support a family household, share a space with a partner, or live on your own, reclining seats will pave the way for a relaxing time at home.
Sleeper
If you frequently accommodate guests, sleeper sofas offer maximum comfort for those lucky visitors who are granted the luxury of staying the night at your humble abode. Sleeper sofas are named as such because of their ability to fold out into a comfortable bed that you might even ditch the bedroom set for.
Sectional
Sectional sofas are a great compliment to spacious living room areas that offer plenty of room to fill. This is a must-have for considerably large families so that everyone is able to gather around comfortably during parties and reunions with minimal fuss. This style is typically in the form of an L-shape with a corner piece.
Loveseat
If you’re looking for style and comfort but have no need for some grandiose piece of furniture, a loveseat may be the perfect size for you. This compact sofa is excellent for both small and average-sized rooms. It can easily sit two people, or you can sprawl out on this chair all on your own while feeling like a boss.
Find Your Aesthetic
Traditional
Still the most inviting style to this day, it’s hard to pass up the look of a traditional sofa. This classic design fits every scene with ease which makes it a popular choice. Look for tufted versions to add a bit more personality to this already inviting seat.
Mid-Century
The mid-century look is a flawless bridge between the traditional and modern styles for those looking to change things up without entirely letting go of their roots. The extra bit of flair will show your guests just how fun and trendy you are.
Contemporary
Contemporary sofas are the definition of modern living. This sleek yet simple design is essential for those looking to create a minimalistic space, complete with white everything and that single plant in the corner for a bit of pop.
Other Essential Features
Now that you have an idea of the type of leather and style of seating that best suits you, there are a few more things to keep in mind when looking for the ultimate sofa:
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A sturdy frame. If you want a long-lasting seat that won’t cave or lean over time, try to go with a hardwood frame. Hardwood varieties like oak, walnut, maple, and mahogany are all fantastic choices.
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Quality cushions. Even if your sofa is lined with the best leather that money can buy, it won’t matter if the cushions are lacking in comfortability. High-density foam is the perfect balance between soft seating and endurance over time.
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Overall suspension. You may not think much of the suspension in a sofa, but you’ll notice if something is off because it’s what gives that satisfying bounce whenever you sit down. Ask your salesperson what type of coils are installed in the sofa you’re interested in.
Where to Go For Your Perfect Sofa
Now that you know exactly what you want, or at least have a general idea of what to look for, come to Florida Leather Gallery to find your perfect sofa. Our Leaxperts will guide you on your journey to find your living room’s next best friend. Have questions? Reach out to us!