Best Corner Sofas for Small Living Rooms in the UK: Top Picks and Tips

Discover the best corner sofas for small UK living rooms. These stylish, space-saving picks and expert tips will help you create a cosy home.

8/27/20248 min read

Selecting a corner sofa for a small living room offers several advantages, including significantly enhancing the space's overall functionality and aesthetic.

One of the primary benefits is the efficient utilization of available space.

Unlike traditional two—or three-seater sofas, a corner sofa effectively uses the room's nooks and crannies, allowing for a more streamlined and organized layout.

This practical design makes arranging other furniture pieces around the sofa easier without causing unnecessary clutter.

Moreover, corner sofas help establish a cosy and inviting atmosphere.

The L-shaped configuration naturally divides the living area, creating a clear boundary between different functional zones without additional furniture.

This arrangement helps maintain an open and airy feel and fosters a sense of intimacy, making the space ideal for social gatherings or relaxing evenings.

Another notable benefit is the abundant seating that corner sofas provide without overwhelming the room.

Many styles come with modular components that can be adapted to fit precise dimensions, ensuring a perfect match even in the smallest of living rooms.

A wide range of sizes is available, from two-seater designs to more expansive models, making it easier to find the perfect fit for any home in the UK.

In addition, these sofas often feature built-in storage options, further optimizing the use of space.

The market offers various styles, from contemporary to classic, ensuring you can find a corner sofa that complements your existing décor.

Whether you prefer a minimalist look with clean lines and neutral tones or something more opulent with plush upholstery and bold colours, there are options to suit every taste.

In summary, choosing a corner sofa for a small living room is an intelligent choice that balances form and function.

Its space-saving design, ability to create a comfortable environment, and versatile styles make it an excellent addition to any compact living area.

Top 6 Corner Sofas for Small Living Rooms in the UK

Finding the perfect corner sofa for a small living room can be challenging, particularly when balancing size, comfort, design, and affordability.

Below, we delve into the top Six corner sofas available in the UK market specifically designed for compact spaces.

These sofas ensure that every inch of your living room is used efficiently while maintaining style and comfort.

1. The John Lewis & Partners + Swoon Lyon


With dimensions of 85cm height, 254cm width, and 183cm depth, the Lyon offers a contemporary style with its clean lines and chic Scandinavian look.

Crafted from a durable fabric, it provides superior comfort thanks to its high-density foam and fibre cushions.

Priced around £1,999, it merges sophisticated aesthetics with practical functionality, making it a top choice for small living spaces.

2. IKEA Friheten Corner Sofa Bed


A versatile addition, the IKEA Friheten measures 230cm in width and 151cm in depth, proving ideal for those requiring multi-functional furniture. It converts effortlessly into a bed and includes hidden storage space.

The loose cushions and firm foam-filled seating offer substantial support. Retailing at approximately £499, it combines value and versatility, perfect for maximizing limited space.

3. Made.com Scott 3-Seater


The Scott 3 Seater is 255 cm wide and 170cm deep, and it has a mid-century modern flair.

Its velvet upholstery, generous cushioned seating, and tapered wooden legs create a luxurious yet compact solution for contemporary homes.

At about £1,799, the Scott stands out for its premium finishes and ergonomic design, tailored for smaller settings.

4. DFS Darwin Right-Hand Facing Sofa

Compact yet spacious, the Darwin boasts 84cm height, 215cm width, and 164cm depth.

It features plush pillows and supportive seats made of resilient foam, promising lasting comfort.

Wrapped in durable fabric with a stylish finish, this corner sofa's moderate price of around £699 appeals to those seeking a budget-friendly yet fashionable sofa.

5. Argos Home Maisy Fabric Corner Sofa


An excellent budget consideration, the Maisy measures 83cm in height, 212cm in width, and 164cm in depth, accommodating limited spaces without compromising on comfort.

It's made of soft-touch fabric with fibre-wrapped foam seats, ensuring a cosy seating experience.

Priced at approximately £429, it offers an economical yet aesthetic solution for small living rooms.

Each corner sofa excels in various aspects, whether design, comfort, or utility, making them impeccable choices for small living rooms in the UK.

Choose one that best fits your style and functional needs, ensuring a harmonious and cosy living space.

6. Emunah Ashley Corner Sofa

The Ashley Corner sofa at Emunah Interior Store is perfect for a small living room.

Ashley measures 88cm in height, 237cm in width, and 89cm in depth,

Its sleek design and compact size provide comfortable seating without taking up too much space.

The neutral colour and modern style make it easy to match with any décor, while the high-quality materials ensure durability and long-lasting comfort.

Whether relaxing with family or entertaining guests, this corner sofa is a practical and stylish addition to your home.

Shop Now for our Ashley Corner Sofa.

How to Measure Your Living Room for a Corner Sofa

Accurate space measurements ensure a perfect fit before investing in a corner sofa for a small living room.

Begin by determining the overall dimensions of the room.

Use a tape measure to record the space's length, width, and height.

Precision is critical; measure up to the nearest centimetre to avoid miscalculations.

Once the room's measurements are noted, identify potential obstacles that could impact the placement of the sofa.

This includes doorways, windows, radiators, and any built-in furniture.

Measure the width and height of each doorway to confirm the sofa can pass through during delivery.

Additionally, ensure there is adequate clearance space around the sofa.

A standard recommendation is to leave at least 60 centimetres of walking space around the seating area for comfortable navigation.

Next, consider the layout and configuration of the corner sofa.

Determine which side of the room would benefit from the longer side of the sofa.

If the space is incredibly tight, opt for a modular design that offers flexibility in arrangement.

It may be helpful to create a floor plan sketch, marking areas where the sofa will fit and considering how it might interact with other furniture pieces and elements within the room.

Another point to consider is the sofa's height and features like windowsills and low-hanging light fixtures.

A sofa that is too tall might obscure windows and limit natural light.

For a more tangible approach, use painter's tape or cardboard cutouts to outline the intended sofa area on the floor.

This visual aid helps comprehend the scale and allows for adjustments before making any final decision.

Finally, don't ignore the importance of storage options within the sofa.

Many corner sofas for smaller living rooms in the UK have built-in storage to maximize functionality.

By thoroughly measuring and planning, you can select a corner sofa that fits perfectly and enhances the aesthetics and practicality of your living space.

Choosing the Right Design and Material for Your Corner Sofa

Choosing the right design and material is crucial when selecting the perfect corner sofa for a small living room in the UK.

The design of your corner sofa can significantly impact the overall aesthetic of your space.

Popular design choices in the UK range from modern to traditional and minimalist styles, each bringing a unique flair to the room.

Modern designs, characterized by clean lines and sleek features, can create a sense of expansiveness in smaller areas.

With their timeless elegance and intricate details, traditional corner sofas can add a touch of sophistication.

Minimalist designs, focusing on simplicity and functionality, can make the room appear more open and less cluttered.

The material of your corner sofa is equally essential, as it affects not only the durability and comfort but also the maintenance requirements.

Leather, for example, is known for its durability and classic appeal. It is easy to clean and maintain, making it a practical choice for households with pets and children.

However, leather can be uncomfortable in extreme temperatures, becoming too cold or too hot.

On the other hand, fabric sofas offer a wider variety of colours and textures, adding warmth and softness to the living room.

While fabric can be more prone to stains and wear, many options come with removable and washable covers, providing practicality alongside style.

Microfiber is another excellent material, combining the best of both leather and fabric. It is durable, comfortable, easy to maintain, and often resistant to stains and fading.

When matching the sofa design and material with your existing decor, consider your living room's colours, patterns, and textures.

A harmonious blend will enhance the visual appeal and cohesion of the space.

For a bold statement piece or a more subtle addition, the right-corner sofa can transform even the tiniest living rooms into inviting and functional havens.

Maximizing the space in a small living room with a corner sofa requires thoughtful planning and strategic arrangement.

Efficiently using every inch enhances functionality and creates a welcoming ambience. Various layout options can help achieve an optimal setup.

Against the Wall

Placing your corner sofa against the walls is a classic and practical layout.

This arrangement leverages the room's perimeter, freeing up floor space for movement and additional furniture.

Positioning the sofa snugly against two adjacent walls creates a cosy nook ideal for intimate conversations or family gatherings.

Complement this setup with a small coffee table or an ottoman in the centre, and ensure pathways remain unimpeded.

Center of the Room

Another viable option is situating your corner sofa in the centre of the room.

While unconventional, this can create a focal point, especially in open-concept living spaces.

Pair it with lightweight, mobile furniture pieces like side tables or small shelving units to maintain versatility.

This arrangement also permits a 360-degree interaction space, fostering an inclusive environment.

Balancing Other Furniture Pieces

It is crucial to achieve a harmonious balance with other furniture pieces. Select furniture with a proportional scale to avoid overwhelming the room.

Multi-functional items, such as side tables with storage or foldable chairs, are excellent additions.

Positioning taller furniture, like bookshelves or display units, along walls can draw the eye upward, creating an illusion of height and space.

Using Complementary Accessories

Accessories play a significant role in enhancing the aesthetic appeal and functionality of a room.

Opt for minimalistic decor to prevent visual clutter.

Wall-mounted lighting, such as sconces, saves surface space and provides ample illumination.

Additionally, strategically placed mirrors reflect light and add depth, making the room appear more expansive.

Maintaining Traffic Flow

Ensuring good traffic flow is paramount to a comfortable living space.

Leave adequate space between furniture pieces for easy movement.

Avoid obstructing pathways with excessive decor or large furniture.

A well-thought-out layout facilitates daily activities and makes the room feel more open and inviting.

FAQs About Corner Sofas for Small Living Rooms

When choosing the best corner sofa for small living rooms in the UK, numerous questions arise regarding materials, maintenance, and space optimization.

Here are some frequently asked questions to aid in making an informed purchase.

What Are the Best Materials for Durability?

When considering durability, opt for materials like leather, faux leather, or high-quality fabric.

Leather and faux leather are known for their longevity and ease of cleaning.

Fabrics such as microfiber or tightly woven cotton blends provide both durability and comfort, making them excellent choices for small corner sofas.

How to Clean and Maintain a Corner Sofa?

Regular maintenance of a corner sofa can significantly extend its lifespan.

Start by vacuuming the sofa weekly to remove dust and debris.

For fabric sofas, use a fabric cleaner recommended by the manufacturer.

Leather sofas should be cleaned with a damp cloth and conditioned periodically to maintain suppleness.

Always address spills immediately to prevent stains.

Is a Sectional or Modular Sofa Better for Small Spaces?

Both sectional and modular sofas have advantages, but modular sofas are generally more versatile for smaller spaces. Modular designs allow for customization to fit the layout of your room better.

They can be easily rearranged or expanded over time, offering flexibility that sectionals might lack.

However, sectionals can work well if you have a specific corner to fill and less need to reconfigure frequently.

Tips for Coordinating with Other Furniture

Coordinate your corner sofa with other furniture to create a cohesive look in your small living room.

Consider the colour palette and choose complementary tones for the sofa and existing furniture.

Scale is crucial; ensure that all pieces fit comfortably within the space without crowding.

Adding multifunctional furniture, like an ottoman with storage or a coffee table with hidden compartments, can optimize functionality without sacrificing style.

By addressing these everyday queries, we hope to assist you in selecting and maintaining the ideal corner sofa for your small living room space in the UK.

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