How to measure for a new sofa – the Sofas & Stuff guide

For standard sofas, snugglers and armchairs, measure for the three most important dimensions; width, height, and depth. Additional measurements, as demonstrated by our diagram of the Alwinton above, can also provide a more in-depth understanding of how these pieces will fit in your space.

1. Width (e): Measure the horizontal space where the sofa will sit, including a little extra on each side to prevent a cramped feel. Your measurements should consider the widest part of the sofa – for example, if your sofa design will have rolled arms, from the outside of one armrest to the outside of the opposite armrest.
2. Depth (d): Measure the depth, which will be from the front-most point to the back-most point of the sofa. This is crucial for ensuring the sofa doesn’t protrude awkwardly into walking areas.
3. Height (a): Measure from the floor to the highest point of the sofa, usually the back, keeping in mind whether it will be a curved or straight back. Consider any low-hanging lamps, windowsills or shelves above where the sofa will be placed.

As you measure your space, keep in mind all of the elements that go into your room layout, such as doorways and existing furniture, like side tables. The dimensions of your new sofa should avoid encroaching on or preventing the usage of these features.

For corner sofas and chaise-end sofas, the same measurements as standard sofas will apply – width, depth, and height – with the addition of length. When you decide on where you would like to place your corner sofa, whether it’s in the corner or the middle of your room, keep in mind these additional factors:

1. Modular sofas: Our corner sofas are modular pieces and are therefore delivered in sections. If you are purchasing an L-shaped or U-shaped sofa, you can measure the dimensions of each individual section (for example, where they meet at a right angle) as well as the overall dimensions.
2. Depth vs. length (d vs. h): As shown in the guide for our Wadenhoe model above, we consider the depth of our corner sofas to be measured from the short-arm side, while the length is measured from the back of the sofa to the end of the extruding section.
3. Curved corner sofas: A curved corner sofa, such as our Upperton, can be particularly challenging to measure for. In these cases, measure the back width and the front width, accounting for the curve. Then measure the straight width at the front of your sofa, and the full depth from the centre point at the back to your straight width line.

Sofa beds are wonderfully versatile pieces of furniture to have in your home but require a little extra planning to ensure they fit into your space in both closed and extended states:

1. Closed measurements: Begin by measuring for your sofa bed in its closed state – that is, in its role as a sofa. Measure width, depth, and height, as you would for a classic sofa.
2. Extended dimensions: Measure for the open depth of the sofa bed – when it is extended into a bed – to ensure it doesn’t block doorways or furniture, or create narrow passages. This is essential for maintaining functionality in multi-use spaces.

In all cases, by leaving a little room for movement and manoeuvring – upwards of a few inches on all sides – you can allow for a little flexibility once your sofa has been delivered.

A doorway is usually the first step on the journey to fitting your sofa into your home. Measure the height and width of your front or back door frame – whichever our delivery team will need to enter through – to ensure it allows for the dimensions of your chosen sofa.

All of our sofa specifications include an access height measurement, as well as total height, which your door width will need to accommodate. Alternatively, consider pointing our delivery team to a large window where they can access your home.

Manoeuvring your new sofa through hallways requires careful consideration of several factors. Measure the width and height of your hallway at its narrowest points to ensure there is ample space for your chosen sofa to pass through comfortably.

Pay attention to any sharp turns or angles that might require additional manoeuvring space. Additionally, consider any lampshades, artwork or other hanging decorations that could obstruct the pathway or be at risk during the process.

Stairs can also pose a challenge when moving in new furniture. Measure the width of your stairway, including any bannisters. Most importantly, check for any turns or right angles that might require the sofa to pivot. 

It’s crucial to measure the headroom available on your staircase to ensure there is enough vertical space to accommodate taller pieces, especially in stairwells with low ceilings. If the stairway includes a landing, assess the space needed to navigate the sofa around the corner.

If your building has a lift, it’s important to check not only the interior dimensions but also the door opening to make sure your sofa will fit. Measure the height, width and depth of the lift to confirm that the sofa can be transported vertically without tilting or bending, which might risk damaging both the sofa and the lift’s interior. If the sofa doesn’t fit in the lift, you may need to use the stairs or seek a different lifting solution.