The focal point of most lounges and living rooms, a sofa can really make or break a space. But with so many different shapes, sizes, and textures, to choose from, shopping for a new one can be grueling. To help alleviate the stress of purchasing such a big-ticket item, we’ve rounded up the most common types of sofas—from quaint, traditional designs that have stood the test of time, to chic, contemporary styles that are gaining popularity.

 

Tuxedo

Named after Tuxedo Park—an exclusive town in upstate New York where likes of William Astor and J.P. Morgan once had homes—this three-seat silhouette features clean lines coupled with a back that’s the same height as its front.

 

Pic Credit:Thomas Richter

Above, Keren Richter adds a playful pop of color to the living room of a Brooklyn townhouse she designed with a turquoise velvet number from Highland House.

 

Modular

Extremely versatile, modular sofas are made up of several movable pieces that can be rearranged to create a number of configurations.

 

Pic Credit:Nick Sorrentino

The cool Mario Bellini Camaleonda sofa (above, in Nettle Olive) is a paragon of the adaptable modern style.

 

Rolled Arm

This ubiquitous style is marked by arms that curve outward at the top, creating a comfy spot to rest your head.

 

Pic Credit:Thomas Loof

Above, a chic tufted example in teal adds some oomph to an eclectic living room designed by Nick Olsen.

 

Chaise

Meant to accommodate a single person lying down, chaises come in all sorts of shapes, fabrics, and colors.

 

Pic Credit:Bess Friday

Kristen Peña, founder of K Interiors, chose a lovely sinuous piece (shown above) for her clients’ contemporary primary suite.

 

Deep Seated

Whether or not a sofa can be called deep-seated depends on the depth of its cushion measured from front to back: Anything wider than 40 inches counts.

 

Pic Credit:Nick Johnson

Great for dens (like this one designed by Thom Filicia), it’s an especially comfortable option for taller people who need the extra leg room.