Sofa Shapes 101: From Corner Sofas to Chaise Lounges

At OPA Living, we know that finding your perfect sofa isn't just about colour and fabric – it's about shape, too. Whether you're redesigning your entire living room or upgrading your space with a new centrepiece, understanding sofa shapes can make all the difference in both form and function.

So let’s break it down: from cosy corners to statement chaise lounges, here’s your guide to the most popular sofa shapes and how to style them in your home.

1. Corner Sofas – Comfort That Wraps Around You

Best for: Families, movie nights, open-plan living

Corner sofas like our bestselling Cloud Corner or Alpha Modular are ideal for making the most of your space. They’re designed to hug the room and seat more people comfortably, making them perfect for entertaining or stretching out solo.

Styling tip:

Position in the corner of the room to maximise space, or float it centrally in open-plan layouts to zone off the living area. Add a statement rug and oversized coffee table to anchor the space.

2. Chaise Sofas – Lounge in Luxury

Best for: Relaxed lounging, reading nooks, smaller spaces with a luxurious touch

A chaise-end sofa (like our elegant Sienna Chaise) combines the comfort of a standard sofa with a built-in stretch-out zone. It’s perfect for those who like to kick back after a long day without committing to a full corner configuration.

Styling tip:

Pair with a side table and soft throw for an effortless, lived-in look. Ideal for bay windows or tucked in the corner of a lounge.

3. Modular Sofas – Made to Move with You

Best for: Custom layouts, growing households, renters

Our Kona Modular and Alpha Modular ranges allow you to design your own layout with multiple interchangeable units. Whether you want a U-shape for family hangouts or a compact L-shape, modular sofas are incredibly versatile.

Styling tip:

Play with symmetry and switch things up with seasonal rearrangements. Great for dynamic homes that evolve with your lifestyle.

4. Standard Sofas – Simple, Stylish, Timeless

Best for: Traditional lounges, first-time buyers, minimalists

Don’t overlook the classic 2-seater or 3-seater. The Marylebone and Sky Sofa are perfect examples of refined silhouettes that never go out of style. Ideal for smaller rooms or pairing with an accent chair.

Styling tip:

Layer with cushions in tonal fabrics to add depth, or make it pop with a contrasting armchair nearby.

5. U-Shaped Sofas – The Ultimate Social Space

Best for: Large families, entertaining, open-plan spaces

If you’re after serious space and statement appeal, U-shaped sofas deliver. With seating that surrounds the central point, they create a cocoon of comfort – and they're often the heart of the room.

Styling tip:

Add a low coffee table in the middle and keep wall décor minimal to let the shape shine.

Choosing the Right Shape for You

When selecting your sofa shape, consider:

  • Room size and layout – Measure carefully!

  • How you use your space – Do you host often? Like to sprawl out?

  • Your personal style – Modern, traditional, or somewhere in between?

Whether you're after the plush indulgence of a Cloud Corner or the sleek lines of a Sienna Chaise, there’s a sofa shape that fits your life—and your style—perfectly.