5 Sofa Styles Interior Designers Say to Skip

Sofas offer the perfect spot to relax and chat with friends, cuddle up with family during movie nights, and serve as a central element in your living room’s design. As trends evolve, so do sofa styles. If you’re in the market for a new couch, read on to discover which styles interior designers say you should steer clear of, and what you should consider instead.

1. Midcentury Modern

The midcentury modern sofa had a recent resurgence—but DC interior designer, Emily Vaughan, says it’s one she tends to avoid in her designs. She says they’ve become heavily reproduced, so they can often read as inexpensive-looking as a result. If you still want this design style though, she suggests purchasing one that is a true vintage piece instead.

“When reupholstered in a fabric of your choice, the result will be truly custom rather than ordinary,” Vaughan says. “When sourcing vintage midcentury upholstery pieces, I look for details such as curved lines or upholstered Parsons-style legs—anything that differentiates the piece from those mass-produced today.”

2. Matching Sofa Sets

While a matching living room set might ease the stress of furniture shopping, interior designer, Jill Greaves, says the current trend is to move more eclectic instead of uniform. If you still want a pair of sofas in the living room, she urges homeowners to use a different style of accent chair, ottoman, or coffee table that features various textures or patterns.

“Add some character with a contrasting accent piece or colors, or use the rule of opposites to flatter the primary style or colors in the room,” Greaves says.

3. Chesterfield

Some sofa styles, like Chesterfield, lose the favor of designers due to their size and feel rather than their looks. Vaughan says Chesterfields’ broad arms occupy valuable space in a living room that could be better utilized as more seating. She also notes its combination of tight tufting and leather upholstery, which might feel too firm for some guests.

“Instead, I would opt for a Bridgewater-style sofa (also known as an English roll arm sofa) for a classic, refined look that balances comfort and elegance,” Vaughan says.

4. Reclining Sofas

Of course, comfort is important, but if you want your space to look modern and well-designed, Vaughan suggests skipping reclining sofas. She recommends a sofa and ottoman combination for a significantly more chic option. This will provide the same comfort as a reclining one but look much more sophisticated. A chaise sectional is another great style that offers relaxation without compromising on aesthetic appeal.

5. Low-Back and Low-Seat Sofas

Greaves warns homeowners to not be misled by sofas with low backs and low seats. She notes that while they may look very stylish, they can be extremely uncomfortable for homeowners and their guests to sit on.

“If the back on your sofa is too low, sitting there will be no different than sitting on a bench—ok to perch, not good for relaxing,” Greaves says.

She adds that low-seat sofas can add challenges for a variety of people who might want to sit at it. Always think about your guests’ experience before you purchase a new couch.

“Imagine an older person or someone taller (or wearing high heels) getting out of the sofa when you are considering the seat heights. Most American sofas have a seat height of about 18 inches—this is a good average to start with.” Greaves says.