Sofas and loveseats are similar pieces of furniture, differing mostly in size. Many living rooms contain one of each. A common question is whether or not the two pieces should match. Like most home decor decisions, this one should be based on personal preference and situation. But we've researched this topic and have compiled what the experts have to say about it.
Sofas and loveseats do not have to match each other. Mismatching the two pieces is trendy right now and is a great way to create depth and variation in a room. It also allows you to showcase your personal style and introduce color. However, if you prefer cohesion, you can certainly purchase pieces that match each other: it's your call!
We know you take your living room seriously. That's why we've put together this guide to the pros and cons of matching your couch and loveseat. Please keep reading for a discussion on this decision, plus answers to other commonly asked questions about sofas and loveseats.
Let's get to it!
Matching the sofa and loveseat
Matching the two pieces to each other guarantees that the room will have a cohesive look. It's a safe option if you don't feel comfortable picking out mismatched pieces. This is also acceptable because sofas and loveseats are similar types of furniture. Plus, if you've found a sofa that you love, you probably also love the loveseat!
There might be some financial or logistical benefits to matching the two pieces. Some furniture stores and manufacturers have deals on couches and loveseats. So, it might be more cost-effective if you accept that deal.
This is also an acceptable option if you've found a sofa and loveseat combination that are colorful or patterned, as these are more difficult to match. For instance, these two pieces are unique and colorful, so you wouldn't need to add more color to them.
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If you have a matching couch and loveseat, it's a good idea to have an additional piece of furniture different from the two pieces. This keeps you from being too bland and is easier because it's a distinct type of furniture. For instance, the couch, loveseat, lamp, coffee table, and bookshelf are all black in this room. But this is offset by the off-white armchair and rug.
Mismatching the sofa and loveseat
There was a time when matching furniture was the most popular option, but that's no longer the case. Nowadays, it's more popular to mismatch your couch and loveseat with complementary colors and styles. Feel free to express yourself -- it's your living room!
Another benefit to mixing your couch and loveseat? You don't have to buy them at the same time and place! Buying used furniture is cheaper and often more practical than buying from a store. Pairing secondhand pieces mean they probably won't match each other, and that's completely acceptable.
Can you mix sofa and loveseat colors?
Mixing sofa and loveseat colors is a fantastic way to introduce color to your room. It also makes the room interesting, keeping it all from looking the same. The goal when picking out furniture and all decor pieces is that they complement each other. For color, this means that the two pieces shouldn't clash. When you look at the color of the two pieces of furniture, they should be pleasing to the eye, not fighting for attention.
If your goal is to give the room a splash of color, an easy way to do that is to make one of the pieces a milder color and the other a colorful one. This gray couch -- a really popular color for sofas, by the way -- won't stand out too much.
Click here to view this couch on Amazon.
But pairing it with this colorful loveseat gives the room a stunning depth.
Click here to view this loveseat on Amazon.
Another popular couch color is brown, usually in leather form. Pairing it with a bolder color is attractive and still allows the room to feel grounded. This loveseat, for instance, has traces of brown but also is lighter with off-white and blue.
Click here to view this loveseat on Amazon.
Click here to view this couch on Amazon.
One simple way to make sure the two pieces complement each other is to tie them together with another piece: a rug, throw pillows, paint, or something else. This room, for instance, has two shades of blue in the couch and loveseat. But the rug and curtain tassels tie it all in together.
Can You Mix Sofa And Loveseat Styles?
Beyond mismatching sofas and loveseats with different colors, you should also consider mismatching them based on style. Style, which includes material and shape, can differ. Like color, however, aim toward making sure the styles complement each other. Keep in mind that the sofa and loveseat are not the only pieces of furniture in the room, so don't panic if you don't follow these rules completely.
One crucial design principle is balance. Too much of anything can create a look you don't intend. Too much leather in a room will make it feel formal, while too much upholstery can make it feel stuffy. Fight this by mixing the materials. This combination supports the room, even though it's different.
Click here to view this couch on Amazon.
Click here to view this loveseat on Amazon.
If all the furniture in your room is high-legged, it can feel like the room is floating. On the other hand, too much furniture without legs feels short and squatty. Try pairing these two pieces to achieve balance.
Click here to view this loveseat on Amazon.
Click here to view this couch on Amazon.
Want ideas for how to match the throw pillows between your couch and loveseat? Check out this article: Should Pillows On Sofa And Loveseat Match?
Is It Okay For A Sofa And Loveseat To Face Each Other?
If you'd like your sofa and loveseat to face each other, this is acceptable for certain situations. However, it's challenging to pull off since the two pieces are different lengths. When two pieces of furniture face each other, symmetry is important.
Don't worry: if you want the two pieces to face each other, there are ways to make it look good. For instance, putting an end table at the short end of the loveseat can complete the space. You can also center the loveseat so that it isn't offset compared to the couch.
This living room has the two pieces facing each other but has strategically positioned it, so the gap left by the loveseat is also a walking space.
Also, recognize that you might create an awkward space by putting two major seating pieces across from each other. There's a chance that this will create a closed-off feeling in the living room. If you're okay with that, go for it!
Can You Have Two Sofas In A Living Room?
You can absolutely have two sofas in a living room. Consider this option if you have a large living room or need extra seating for guests or your large family. On the other hand, a smaller living room calls for a sofa and loveseat combination, or a sofa and an armchair or two. Coordinating two sofas follows the same principles as coordinating a couch and loveseat.
Want more information on coordinating your sofas? Read this article next: Should Couches Always Match?
In Closing
Having both a sofa and loveseat in your living room is a common setup. If you're going to use this format, feel free to mix and match styles and colors between the two pieces. This is a fantastic way to showcase your personality and give your room variety.
Or, if you like cohesion and symmetry, buy a matching sofa and loveseat. This takes the risk out of your decor and lets you add color and variation elsewhere. Whatever you choose, we hope you love your new furniture. Good luck!