10 Unique Couches & Sofas to Inspire and Buy in 2021 (2024)

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Is it a sofa? Or is it a couch? We use them interchangeably here. Either way, there is a world of unique sofas and couches to choose from. The hard part is finding the right match for you. And there’s no Tinder for this (yet).

The couch or sofa (potayto, potahto -amiright?) serves as the centerpiece of your home’s living space.

It’s a place for friends and family. It’s where you can be together with others, or even alone. Whether sitting, lying, or curling up, your unique couch or sofa plays a centric role in your lifestyle.

Choosing the right one is important to how you live. Will you be hosting lots of guests or do you have a big family? Will it be somewhere you sit and knit or lay down and read your favorite book? Do you like to sit with your legs crossed or do you stretch out for a full lie down? Knowing these things is crucial in selecting the perfectly unique couch for you.

Think about the couches that have featured in your life. So many of my memories feature a couch in the backdrop. Whether practicing flips over the edge (don’t tell mom) to movie marathons with my best friends, the icon of the couch in my life looms large. What about yours?

Choosing your own unique sofa soulmate is no easy matchmaking. So we’ve gathered an inspiring collection of unique couches and unique sofas here for you. We know you have high standards, but maybe one will make the cut.

1. Danxee Velvet Mid-Century Couch

Technical Details:

• Material: Velvet
• Color options: 4: Yellow, Pink, Emerald, & Blue
• Dimensions: 71 x 31.5 x 31.5 inches
• Weight: 102 pounds
• Weight capacity: 700 pounds

The Danxee Velvet Mid-Century Couch is a charming, retro mid-century modern couch wrapped in a luxe soft velvet. It comes in four colors to fit every style: Bright mustard yellow, muted bubble gum pink, deep emerald green, and sophisticated blue.

Make a statement in your home with this gorgeous couch (that’s what the reviewers told us anyway). A firm and comfortable cushion makes it perfect for both sitting and napping. For starter apartments, the 71″ long measurement makes it a sure fit in smaller spaces. Alternatively, it’s a great addition to expand your seating in larger areas.

Some of the reviewers mentioned one downside was the assembly instructions were a bit unclear, but not a dealbreaker. The color may be a bit off from the online pictures, but reviewers were still satisfied.

The weight capacity on this sturdy couch is up to 700 lbs, which can easily hold a few friends. The hardwood frame helps support the weight capacity. The size is 71″L x 31.5″W x 31.5″H – make sure the dimensions fit your space.

Of all the unique sofas we’ve found, this one is the best for fitting in a dorm room or small apartment.

View Danxee Velvet Mid-Century Couch

2. Novogratz Brittany Sofa

Technical Details:

• Material: Fabric
• Color options: 10 options
• Dimensions: 81.5 x 34.5 x 31.5 inches
• Weight: 84 pounds
• Weight capacity: 600 pounds

The Novogratz Brittany Sofa is a stylish and well-made sofa that stands out because of its unique and modern design. If you like to have options, this couch comes in different styles for mixing and matching. On top of that, you have a choice of 10 distinctive colors to choose from, including a sleek dark gray, forest green, and cool, lighter colors in varying hues like pink and linen.

A lot of reviewers really like this sofa, particularly for its style. It’s an especially popular option for those who prefer a firmer seat or cushion. A few reviewers complained that the sofa isn’t very comfortable, likely because of the lack of cushioning. (We think a great solution is to pile on throw pillows and blankets!

Some reviewers complained that the sofa’s quality isn’t the best and some components were wobbly or unstable, especially after considerable use. While others said for the price, it’s about what you would expect.

The sofa’s dimensions are 81.5 x 34.5 x 31.5 inches. It weighs 84 pounds. One reviewer managed to fit this couch into an Airstream trailer!!

If you’re looking for an affordable, easy to put together, and beautifully styled couch, this is a great starter couch or easy way to update your space!

View Novogratz Brittany Sofa on Amazon

3. Stone & Beam Westview Sofa

Technical Details:

• Material: Wood, down-fill, fabric
• Color options: 4 options
• Dimensions: 88.98 x 42.13 x 31.5 inches
• Weight: 136.2 pounds
• Weight capacity: 340 pounds

The Stone & Beam Westview Sofa is a simple yet elegant piece of furniture that will definitely be the center of attraction on your living room. You can choose from four different colors.

A lot of reviewers really like this sofa. It has a very nice design, it is very comfortable to sit on, and the overall functionality is great.

A few reviewers complained that the design is pretty bad. There are also a few reviewers who complained that the sofa isn’t very comfortable.

The sofa’s dimensions are 88.98 x 42.13 x 31.5 inches. It weighs 136.2 pounds.

If you’re looking for a well designed and comfortable sofa, then this is for you!

View Stone & Beam Westview Sofa on Amazon

4. Rivet Frederick Mid-Century Sofa

Technical Details:

• Material: Leather
• Color options: 4 options
• Dimensions: 77.56 x 34.65 x 31.5 inches
• Weight: 100.1 pounds
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds

The Rivet Frederick Mid-Century Sofa is a sleek and slender sofa that is super soft and comfortable to sit on. You can choose from four different colors.

Many reviewers really like this sofa. It has a very beautiful design, it has a nice and sleek appearance, and the overall comfort it provides is amazing.

The sofa’s dimensions are 77.56 x 34.65 x 31.5 inches. It weighs 100.1 pounds.

If you’re looking for a sleek and slender sofa, then this is a great option for you!

View Rivet Frederick Mid-Century Sofa on Amazon

5. Serta RNE-3S-BK-SET Sofa

Technical Details:

• Material: Wood, chrome, fabric
• Color options: 4 options
• Dimensions: 66.1 x 33.1 x 29.5 inches
• Weight: 60.5 pounds
• Weight capacity: 264 pounds

The Serta RNE-3S-BK-SET Sofa is a modern and minimalistic sofa that offers a lot of style and finesse to your living space. You can choose from four different colors.

A lot of reviewers really like this sofa. It has a nice design, it has a great modern charm, and the overall practicality is great.

A few reviewers complained that the sofa was a bit too stiff. There are also a few reviewers who complained that the materials feels cheap.

The sofa’s dimensions are 66.1 x 33.1 x 29.5 inches. It weighs 60.5 pounds.

If you’re looking for a modern sofa, then this is for you!

View Serta RNE-3S-BK-SET Sofa on Amazon

6. Lifestyle Solutions Harrington Sofa

Technical Details:

• Material: Microfiber
• Color options: 2 options
• Dimensions: 67.8 x 26 x 17.4 inches
• Weight: 92 pounds
• Weight capacity: 700 pounds

The Lifestyle Solutions Harrington Sofa is a durable and well-made sofa that has a nice and luxurious style. You can choose from two different colors.

Many reviewers really like this sofa. It has an affordable price, it has a durable build, and the overall functionality is nice.

A few reviewers complained that the sofa feels cheap. There are also a few reviewers who complained that the sofa is a bit too rough.

The sofa’s dimensions are 67.8 x 26 x 17.4 inches. It weighs 92 pounds.

If you’re looking for an affordable and durable sofa, then this is a good option for you!

View Lifestyle Solutions Harrington Sofa on Amazon

7. Christopher Knight Home Sunny Velvet Sofa

Technical Details:

• Material: Birch
• Color options: 4 options
• Dimensions: 77 x 32.5 x 30.25 inches
• Weight: 89.3 pounds
• Weight capacity: 500 pounds

The Christopher Knight Home Sunny Velvet Sofa is a contemporary styled sofa that has unique plush accents. You can choose from four different colors.

A lot of reviewers really like this velvet sofa. The design is nice and luxurious, the design is great, and it has a little bit of firmness that makes it sturdy and more relaxing.

The sofa’s dimensions are 77 x 32.5 x 30.25 inches. It weighs 89.3 pounds.

If you’re looking for a contemporary-styled sofa, then this is a great option for you!

View Christopher Knight Home Sunny Velvet Sofa on Amazon

8. Lifestyle Solutions Grayson Micro-fabric Sofa

Technical Details:

• Material: Fabric
• Color options: 2 options
• Dimensions: 80.3″ x 31.5″ x 33.9
• Weight: 97.8 pounds
• Weight capacity: 790 pounds

The Lifestyle Solutions Collection Grayson Micro-fabric Sofa is a high quality sofa made of 100% polyester microfiber. You can choose from two different colors.

Reviewers really love this unique sofa. It is super easy to setup, the color looks nice, and the overall design is perfect.

A few reviewers complained that the sofa feels like it’s cheaply made. There are also a few reviewers who complained that the sofa’s legs break easily.

The sofa’s dimensions are 80.3 x 31.5 x 33.9 inches. It weighs 97.8 pounds.

If you’re looking for a solid sofa, then this is a great option for you!

View Lifestyle Solutions Collection Grayson Micro-fabric Sofa on Amazon

9. Iconic Home Velvet Sofa

Technical Details:

• Material: Velvet
• Color options: 4 options
• Dimensions: 84 x 34.25 x 30 inches
• Weight: 92 pounds
• Weight capacity: 600 pounds

The Iconic Home Velvet Sofa is a classically designed sofa that adds luxury to your living space. You can choose from four different colors.

A lot of reviewers really love this velvet sofa. The color options are really nice, the design is elegant, and the quality of the sofa is undeniably fantastic.

The sofa’s dimensions are 84 x 34.25 x 30 inches. It weighs 92 pounds.

If you’re looking for an elegant sofa, then this is a perfect option for you!

View Iconic Home Velvet Sofa on Amazon

10. Ottomanson AIR-SB-117 Sofa with Storage

Technical Details:

• Material: Chenille
• Color options: 14 options
• Dimensions: 37 x 94 x 38 inches
• Weight: 175 pounds
• Weight capacity: 400 pounds

The Ottomanson AIR-SB-117 Sofa with Storage is an easy to clean and easy to maintain sofa that comes with a convenient hidden storage. You can choose from a variety of different colors.

Many reviewers really like this sofa. The storage space is convenient and handy, the quality is good for its price, and the overall functionality is great.

A few reviewers complained that the sofa is difficult to assemble. There are also a few reviewers who complained that the quality of the sofa isn’t the best.

The sofa’s dimensions are 37 x 94 x 38 inches. It weighs 175 pounds.

If you’re looking for a conveniently design sofa, then this is a great option for you!

View Ottomanson AIR-SB-117 Sofa with Storage on Amazon

Unique Couches & Sofas Comparison Table

How To Choose the Right Sofa or Couch

Choosing a sofa or couch requires really knowing yourself and how you and, if applicable, your family will use this coveted piece of living room furniture. Since this piece in your furniture collection plays such an important role, considering your personal preferences is key.

Personal Preferences for Choosing Your Unique Couch

Size:

Consider yourself before you consider the size of the room. While yes, the size of the room matters, what matters more is the size that will fit you or your family. Taller individuals will likely be more comfortable with a taller couch and higher back than those who are shorter. Families of 4 or more will likely prefer buying a spacious couch or sectional sofa.

Seat Depth:

Typically the measure is 24” from the front edge of the seat to the back of the seat. It’s important to highlight that this is the depth of where you will sit, not the entire depth of the couch. If you like to pull your legs up under you while you sit or have really long legs, seat depth will be an important factor when you select your couch. We suggest trying a few out to figure out which option is best for you as depth can range from 21” to as deep as 28”.

Seat Height:

Seat height is usually between 15″ and 20″. If you already have furniture for seating, be sure to choose a couch height that is consistent with your existing furniture’s seat height. That way you will be on eye level with your guests.

Length:

If you like to stretch out on your couch and want to be able to lay down fully, make sure the length of your couch accommodates your height.

Back Pitch:

You might be surprised to know that there are different types of angles or pitches available when it comes to sofas. This can be important if you like to slightly lean back as you relax. Others may prefer to sit up straight or might have a back problem that a vertical seat helps alleviate.

Choosing The Right Couch for Your Room

• Placement: Think about where you will put your sofa or couch. Will it be floating in the middle of the room or used as a space divider? Or will you press it up against a wall?
• Room Measurements: Always properly measure your living room, the window placements, and keep notes of the sizing of couches that are preferable for you.
• Spacing: Ensure there is a 3 feet perimeter of space around your couch for foot traffic.h
  Consider a sectional couch, even for smaller spaces: Sectional sofas or couches that follow the perimeter of the room actually take up very little floor space overall.
• Style: We can’t talk about choosing the right couch for your space without mentioning your unique style. Whether contemporary and clean or bohemian funk, your couch needs to match your interior design scheme. When shopping for your couch keep your color scheme handy or even a photo of the room in question saved on your phone. You need to imagine whether a minimalist profile or a more antique look fits your room.
• Flooring: If you have a rug (or plan to get one) that can dictate which couch you choose. Contrast is the rule of thumb. For example, dark sofas tend to blend into dark flooring. So, pair a dark sofa with some heightening legs to provide some visual space and contrast or with a light-colored rug underneath. If you have lighter floors the contrast is already worked in!

Final Note:

While less about your room and more about the logistics, it’s important to know how you will get your sofa or couch into your room.

Make sure to measure doorways, stairways, or consider how your furniture will get into your living space. You don’t want to knock any holes in the wall when you move it in. Modular sofa styles may be optimal in this case because they are easy to disassemble into smaller sections. For other modular options, here’s a list of some really creative modular furniture ideas.

Sofa and Couch Construction

Back Height:

Low-backed sofas are great for smaller spaces. They can help make a low-ceilinged room look bigger. Higher backs are better for taller individuals or those who like to rest their heads back as they are watching TV.

Frame:

The frame of the couch will make or break it in the long run. Solid wood frames are of the highest quality. Many couches are made with particleboard or metal construction and can be a good investment, but should be researched first.

Upholstery:

Color, texture, and durability are all things to consider when choosing which material you need for your unique couch or sofa. Choosing a solid is a better bet as prints are often trend-driven (plus you can change up the look easily with fun throw pillows!)

Ultimately, you need to make sure the fabric functions with your lifestyle.

Here are some popular options and what to keep in mind:

• Natural blends: Linen, cotton, or canvas can be great options, but may present a problem for those who have allergies or pets as they can easily collect dust and hair. It’s important to consider that natural materials may fade from light exposure as well.
• Microfiber and polyester blends: Durable and repel stains.
• Leather: Durable and easy to clean.
• Velvet, silk, or wool: Only recommended for furniture that isn’t often sat upon or in rooms not heavily trafficked.

If you have a busy family life or animals, choose a fabric that is easy to clean, durable, and long-lasting (like a leather sofa). While patterns on couches aren’t often the first recommendation for couches, a pattern will more easily camouflage spills or stains.

Cushions:

Do you like stiff and structured cushions or soft and plump? Often, feather-filled cushions are some of the best and most comfortable. However, the feathers will need regular plumping so that they don’t lose shape.
A good bet is to choose a feather and foam combo that gives you the best of both worlds: structure and comfort.

It’s also important to consider if you want a two or three or single cushion (also called bench seat) as the seat of your couch. Bench seats are a great option for squeezing more people in and ensure no one gets stuck in a crack.

Sleeper Sofa:

If you are considering a sleeper sofa, exploring the types of frames is important. Metal bars digging into your guest’s back is sure to result in problems. A great option for a sleeper sofa bed frame is to look for hardwood frames. Don’t forget to make sure it’s comfortable to sit on too! That’s what you will be doing on it most of the time, after all.