×

We've got news for you.

Register on SowetanLIVE at no cost to receive newsletters, read exclusive articles & more.
Register now

A centrepiece all will notice and appreciate

WANT to impress friends and neighbours? Then make sure your living room is up to the challenge

Nothing talks louder about your taste and style than your couches, says Zubair Patel of Red Apple, a manufacturer of contemporary furniture.

"Couches are considered a centrepiece in many households and its overall design and style have a huge impact on people.

"Couches should be attractive, comfortable and sturdy and they should complement the style of your home decor," Patel says.

He says the colour, size, style and comfort of your sofa will have an effect on how your room looks and how well it functions for years ahead.

What does he advise people to buy?

Patel advises buyers to go with a neutral, classic look and play up the personal style in accessories and smaller furnishings.

He says leather is always favoured because it is pleasant to look at and has many benefits.

"A leather sofa when decorating as it's good in cold and hot weather. It also cleans easily and you can wipe spills with a soft cloth. If you intend buying a new sofa, it is definitely worth the investment to buy a high quality leather one.

"It might be a little more expensive than traditional fabric upholstery, but if properly cared for it will last a lifetime, becoming more beautiful with age and use," he says.

What's in?

Patel says couches are all about looking good. Comfort and minimal designs are the norm of the day.

He says in terms of colours, neutrals and simplicity are essential. But he adds that bold and bright colours have not been neglected altogether.

There are a few key things to remember and to look out for when you are in the process of buying a new sofa. In order to buy a sofa with all the right qualities, it is important to follow the following steps:

Measure

The first thing to do is to measure the area in which you are going to put the sofa because when you get to the furniture store you won't have to waste time looking at sofas that you aren't going to buy because of the size. Since you have the measurements, it will save you time.

Frame

Make sure that the frame is durable and check to see what kind of wood it is made of. High-quality furniture is built with wood that is kiln-dried hardwood and hardwood plywood. If a sofa is made from these specific types of wood you can be confident that the pegs, staples, screws and nails are going to stay securely in place for a long time.

Springs and cushions

To feel the springs you have to press down on the cushion. You should notice the same resistance with all the cushions. Listen for any squeaks. Sit down on every part of the sofa to see if you notice any spots that are sinking in.

Upholstery

Inspect from section to section looking for a change of pattern and colours in the upholstery. Check if the stitching is complete, with no loose threading. - additional info www.ehow.com

Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.