With the right fabric a sofa can be the focal point of a room or it can be neutralized to play a supporting role. Whatever choice you make, there’s no denying the sofa is the critical element on the design stage; almost all decisions are made around it.

Choosing a sofa means asking a lot of questions, here are just a few….

Do you love the way it looks?

A sofa is a long-term purchase and you have to imagine passing by it (if not sitting in it) every day of the year. Make sure you love the lines and shape because, after all, those cannot be changed. Fabric can be changed, but reupholstering is costly, so take your time to choose wisely. Consider pattern scale (smaller, busier patterns versus larger patterns which a make a statement), texture, and performance (how well it holds up, and resists stains).

Does it pass the comfort test?

This is a critical question, of course, and it’s not as straightforward as it seems. You need to visualize the people who’ll be using the sofa, and what posture they’ll use most. Once you’ve visualized, begin the comfort test. Some people sit with feet on the floor, others kick back and put their feet up. Which sounds most like how the sofa will be used?

Is it high-quality?

Much like buying a car, many important features in the craftsmanship of a sofa are out of sight. The good news is the outside of the furniture usually reflects the craftsmanship within.  Here’s what to look for:

1. Sight along the top for uniform padding and an even, straight line.

2. Welts should be crisp, straight and evenly applied.

3. Seams should be so tight that the thread is barely visible. Pay close attention to corners which are most difficult to sew, and be wary of any strains, gaps or puckered areas in the seams.

4. Arms should be uniform, smooth and well padded.

5. Fabric patterns should line up from the top of the seat back to the bottom of the skirt. Pattern elements should appear in the same place on each arm.

6. Cushions should be snug-fitted and reversible.

7. Button tufted cushions should have uniform, evenly-spaced buttons.

8. Skirts should be lined and hang straight and even.

9. Nail trim should be evenly spaced and applied in straight lines.

10. Finish on exposed wood parts should be smooth and even.

Remember, taking your time to ask yourself the right questions and to look for the key signs of quality will ensure long-lasting comfort and pride in your purchase.