Modular sofas in the living room interior: a hyperfunctional highlight of your home

Author: Belfan

Issues discussed in the material:

• What is a modular sofa
• What are the advantages of modular sofas in the living room interior?
• What are the types and styles of modular sofas?
• How to choose a modular sofa for the living room
• How to properly position a modular sofa in the living room interior

Those who do not like monotony should take a closer look at a modular sofa. With it, any interior can be made original, since the design is selected taking into account the characteristics of the room, its design, as well as the wishes of the owner. However, how to make the right choice? What nuances should you pay attention to? Read on to learn what modular sofas should be like in a living room interior and what to consider when purchasing them.

Advantages of modular sofas for the living room

A modular sofa for a living room interior has the following advantages:

• We have already mentioned that the main feature of this piece of furniture is its design, which consists of not one, but several parts independent of each other. They can be used as poufs, armchairs, tables and sofas. Such a variety of options for use allows you to make the interior more stylish.

If desired, you can move this or that element, but only if the design does not provide for connecting the component elements together. Their relaxing appearance creates a relaxing, cozy and friendly atmosphere in the living room.

• Modular sofas have earned such popularity because they provide a large number of seats. This is a unique opportunity to gather all your friends and relatives in the living room to relax, watch TV or just chat, without worrying that some of them will not have enough space or will be uncomfortable.
• An undoubted advantage is that the customer can assemble the kind of sofa that he needs, choosing any components for this. This allows you to create a design that fits perfectly into the interior. For example, a set for a living room, as a rule, includes a soft area, as well as sections where decorative items can be placed. For the bedroom, a modular sofa includes a seating area and niches in which you can store bed linen. The kitchen option includes chairs and an additional system for storing various items.

Advantages and capabilities of such systems

The advantages of modular sofas are varied:

• The ability to adjust the features of the sofa to suit each situation. One system can be a place for work, relaxation, sleep, children's games or communication with guests.
• Less hassle during transportation. If the sofa needs to be transported from one apartment to another, this can be done much faster and easier due to separate modules.
• Easy to clean. It is much easier to move the structure one block at a time than to move an entire huge sofa in order to wash the entire floor underneath.
• Variety in the interior. Just by swapping a few modules, you can already change the look of the room.
• Stylish modern look. Such systems are very different from classic sofas - they always attract attention and, despite their simplicity, look unusual.

Calpe modular system Karato modular system Stelvio modular system

Colors of modular sofas in the living room interior

Regardless of the living room interior, a modular sofa is always the central element. Having decided on the size, functionality and material that will be used for the upholstery, you need to choose the right color. The designers have developed 5 concepts with which you can choose the color scheme of the modular system that is suitable for a particular interior:

• Combined, when contrasting colors are combined, which is a rather interesting design solution. For example, in a living room with purple walls, you can put a green sofa.
• Monochrome. The design matches the color scheme of the interior; only slight differences in shades are allowed (peach walls of the living room and soft orange upholstery).
• Colored. When there is a colored sofa in a room decorated in neutral colors. Even the option of using multi-colored modules is allowed, but it is necessary to think through their combination.
• Neutral. The upholstery is gray or white, in harmony with the main color scheme of the interior.
• Neutral in a colorful interior. A white or black sofa looks quite stylish against the background of other bright pieces of furniture.

Shapes of corner sofas

In most cases, corner sofas, regardless of size, are made in the shape of the letter “L” with one (longer) and second (shorter) parts. Less commonly you can find models in which both parts are the same length. Before you go looking for your ideal model, decide on its location and take measurements. The selected sofa on both sides should be 5–10 cm shorter than the space for its location to facilitate the assembly and installation process.

There is also another type of corner sofa (pictured), the design of which is made in the shape of the letter “P”. They are suitable for zoning large rooms - living-dining room, kitchen-dining room, kitchen-living room. Typically, these models have a longer middle part, while the side parts, on the contrary, are quite short. In a spacious living room, with the help of such furniture you can create a separate sitting area, which can be complemented with matching armchairs and a coffee table.

Recommended articles on this topic:

• Classic style sofas are fashionable and stylish
• Classic style bedroom: design secrets
• Bedroom furniture in a classic style: tips for choosing and interior options

Modular Sofa Styles

1. For many people, minimalism has become a philosophy of life, the goal of which is to free space from unnecessary objects. The main feature of this interior is its laconicism. A modular sofa with a minimal amount of decorative details is an excellent addition.

However, it is worth considering that for minimalism it is not quantity that is more important, but quality, so it is better if the design is multifunctional, that is, it has shelves, a table and a niche for linen. As for color, preference should be given to soft, light shades that can visually enlarge the space, for example, light gray or beige.

2. The modern direction in the design of premises is modern. This style is characterized by simple shapes, so a modular sofa will fit perfectly into the interior. It can be decorated with an original plant-themed pattern, wavy lines, as well as slight asymmetry. An excellent option would be a corner sofa with a long place to lie. As for color, both muted and contrasting tones are suitable.

3. Scandinavian style is also characterized by practicality and free space. If we talk about furniture, then it is made in this direction and is characterized by environmental friendliness and quality. The sofa occupies a central place here. The modular system, made in grey, green, red and mustard shades with simple lines, will help to enliven the Scandinavian interior.

4. Those who prefer functional furniture usually sympathize with the high-tech style. A modular sofa made in this direction should be:

• ergonomic;
• concise;
• with matte or smooth shiny upholstery.

The ideal option would be models in gray, black, white or bright colors.

Types of modular sofas

Modular sofas for living room interiors can be classified according to shape, type of construction and purpose. Today, the models listed below are especially popular.

• Modular sofas of corner and straight type.

Such models are perfect if you want to diversify your living room or kitchen. As a rule, such structures consist of individual modules that can be placed in a straight line or in a corner. They can be either with or without a backrest. As for placement, it is customary to place them in the center of the room.

• Modular U-shaped sofas.

This is an excellent option for a functional and practical interior. A tabletop can be located along the edges of the sofa, on which it is convenient to eat or play, for example, cards.

• Square models.

Such sofas are usually placed in the recreation area, making it more comfortable. You can place a small table in the center. This is a great place to gather with friends to drink tea and have a heartfelt conversation.

• Radius sofas.

Such modular structures have a non-standard shape. It is possible to give the seat an arc shape, which will make the interior light and airy. With the help of such a sofa you can focus attention on the central part of the living room, where the relaxation area is located. As for the shape of the structure, it depends on the bending radius, which varies between 10–180°.

• Modular transformable sofas.

This design is an ideal option for those who like to relax in large groups. A modular sofa of this type is similar to a construction set, consisting of individual parts that can be assembled or disassembled. They can be either part of the overall design or used separately. Rationality, as well as an interesting appearance, will appeal to any owner who is distinguished by hospitality.

• Sofas with additional functions.

Particularly popular are modular sofas for living room interiors, equipped with a sleeping place. This allows you to accommodate guests not only during the day, but also to leave them overnight. Additionally, the system may include items such as cabinets, cabinets, tables that transform into poufs, pillows, used separately or in combination. The armrests often have built-in chambers for storing things.

You should not place a bulky sofa in a small living room, since there will be no free space left in it. When choosing a model, you need to take into account the interior, room area, and layout.

• Frameless sofas.

Such models are made in the form of separate segments, inside of which there is filling in the form of down, polystyrene foam or polyurethane foam. They are not fixed to each other in any way, so they can be moved around the room, creating different configurations.

As a rule, frameless modular sofas have a mattress that allows you to create a sleeping place, and the blocks do not move apart. There are also designs in which special fasteners are provided on the sides of the modules.

What type of furniture is this

Modular sofas are usually called sofas consisting of individual elements, combining which you get a piece of furniture that suits you. Each modular system has its own set of blocks: armrests, single and double sections with or without a berth, corner sections, canapes, cabinets, ottomans, bars, recliners and poufs. Also, elements can be presented in several variations of standard sizes in order to satisfy the interests of the maximum number of customers, for example, the “Preston”, “Denver”, “Nord” or “Brighton” models.

Features of a folding modular sofa

Modern models of modular sofas for living room interiors can almost all be transformed into a sleeping place. This is very important for a city apartment, since it is the living room that often serves as a bedroom for guests or owners.

For sofas that consist of sections, the sleeping area is located in one of them. It is worth noting that the decomposition mechanism can be anything (“eurobook”, “dolphin”, “roll-out”, “accordion”). If the product is produced by a reliable manufacturer, the comfort of the seat does not depend on what mechanism is installed in it. After the structure unfolds, it becomes a comfortable and wide bed.

In order to convert a modular sofa into a sleeping place, it is enough to arrange the sections in a certain order.

However, it is worth noting that, despite the fairly large number of advantages that designer sofas have, they are not very suitable for night sleep in terms of convenience. Therefore, if the living room is often used for sleeping, it is better to give preference to monolithic or sectional models.

Today, there are the following groups of furniture depending on the mechanism and method of transformation:

• “Eurobook” – refers to one of the most reliable designs with a variable configuration;
• roll-out mechanism - when a sleeping place is created by rolling out an additional part located under the back and seat, that is, the main mattress;
• in designs with the exotic name “dolphin”, an additional mattress rises from under the pull-out seat, thereby turning the sofa into a bed;
• Another option for a withdrawable mechanism, in which the retractable part consists of several sections, is the “accordion”;
• “sedaflex”, that is, a rotating mechanism, is rarely used and most often in small-sized furniture.

Categories and types

All sofas can be divided into two groups: classic and modern. Modern sofas are:

• folding;
• roll-out;
• sliding or unfolding.

Sofas are also divided into frame and frameless (bivans): the former have a strong base, a rigid, fixed shape, and the latter consist of soft blocks.

Continuing the theme of design, sofas are classified into monolithic, which can be straight or angular, sectional and modular.

Sofas are also distinguished by the style of the era (Empire, Baroque, Art Nouveau, etc.), by “nationality” - Oriental, English, Scandinavian, Provence...

What styles of sofas are there, list with photos

In addition, sofas vary in size, functionality, body and upholstery materials, filling, shape and color. We will now tell you about the most popular ones.

What materials are modular sofas made from?

1. Frame of modular sofas and their filling.

These elements are among the main ones in the design. As for the frame, it bears the main load. In addition, additional parts are attached to the frame:

• filling;
• mechanisms;
• upholstery.

The material used is usually wood, for example beech, pine or oak. Frames made of metal are no less popular. As for fillers, in modular sofas they come with or without springs.

If we talk about spring mechanisms, they can be:

• dependent;
• independent.

The dependent block is a system of springs that are driven by action on one of them. As for independent mechanisms, when pressed, only the deflection of the place on which the pressure is applied will occur.

The springless fillers of modular sofas for the living room interior use the following materials:

• padding polyester;
• down (synthetic);
• polyurethane foam.

Each of these fillers has its advantages, but the most popular is still the last one on the list. It is distinguished by the reliability and strength required for such structures. In addition, polyurethane foam can be used to make fillers of non-standard shapes, so this is a great option for those who do not like classic, boring interiors. In order to make a filler of an unusual shape, the mixture is poured into previously prepared containers.

2. Upholstery.

The most practical option in this case is textiles, since they are easy to care for and easy to clean from dirt. A sofa upholstered in tapestry looks solid, but this fabric has a drawback, which is that it fades when exposed to sunlight. However, the material can be easily replaced, and the variety of colors and textures allows you to choose an option in accordance with the wishes of the buyer.

Modular sofas upholstered in genuine leather always look stylish. However, when choosing such a material, you should remember that each part of the structure will have to be carefully looked after. In addition, a leather sofa is easily susceptible to mechanical damage.

A more practical and at the same time budget option is eco-leather. In addition, it is easier to maintain; the main thing is to follow the rule that you should avoid using abrasive products when cleaning.

The best option is still textiles, since the leather may be damaged during the transformation of the structure.

If the choice fell on fabric upholstery, you should pay attention to jacquard. Flock is strong and at the same time quite popular and easy to clean. It has a soft and velvety surface, pleasant to the touch. Stains are practically invisible on this material, and if they do appear, they can be easily removed using conventional means. This fabric is an ideal option for pet lovers as it is very difficult to damage with claws.

Roll-out mechanisms.

IMPORTANT! Pay attention to the rollers and supports on “roll-out” sofas. They must be made of soft materials - this will ensure the safety of your floor!

"Eurobook"

- This is an improved version of the “book” mechanism. It is worth saying that this is one of the most popular vacant mechanisms on the market. The model consists of two parts: a back and a seat, and also has a spacious box for linen. To unfold the sofa, you need to remove the back cushions, roll the seat towards you all the way, and lower the backrest into the free space. All parts of a sofa with such a mechanism must fit tightly to each other, but if gaps appear in the sofa, this indicates low quality of the product. Maximum load is 240 kg.

Pros:

such a sofa looks good both against the wall and in the middle of the room (it can be used to zone a room if space allows).
"Eurobook" provides a full-fledged spacious sleeping place. Cons:
when extended, the seat “rides” on the floor and can damage the floor covering.

"Dolphin"

- perhaps one of the most convenient and widespread mechanisms on the market. It unfolds very simply: just roll out the additional section from under the seat and pull the fabric handle towards you - the sofa is ready for use. The maximum load on the mechanism is 200 kg.

Pros:

Robust design guarantees longevity of the mechanism.
The sofa provides a spacious sleeping area, and there is a spacious linen drawer. Cons:
When unfolded, there is a barely noticeable joint between the seat and the roll-out section.

"Kangaroo". This mechanism is very similar to the previous one in terms of folding. Its only difference from the “dolphin” is its higher sleeping place.

Pros:

durable construction, wide berth, large linen drawer.
Cons:
when unfolded, there is a joint between the seat and the roll-out section.

"Conrad" (telescope).

This mechanism consists of three sections. To unfold, you need to pull the lower roll-out part (the first section), behind which all the others will pull out. After you have pulled out all the sections, you need to take the top of the first section and unfold it to lay it on top of the second. IMPORTANT! The “telescope” is very compact compared to other mechanisms, and also has an orthopedic grille. The maximum load on the bed is 180 kg.

Pros:

compactness when folded and space when unfolded.
Cons:
difficult to move - the mechanism and the sofa are heavy.

Options for placing modular sofas in the living room interior

Modular sofas always look stylish, regardless of the living room interior. Their comfort and functionality make them an indispensable piece of furniture. If there is an empty corner in the room, you can fill it with a modular sofa.

When choosing a place to place the structure, you need to take into account the size of the living room and its functional focus. The main principle that should be adhered to is that the room should be such that it is comfortable to be in, so we do not clutter a small room and visually enlarge it with light shades, but we fill and zone a large one to remove the feeling of emptiness.

If the living room is large enough, it becomes possible to use a variety of sofa shapes. It can be a design in the form of a curved line, reminiscent of a seashore, a circle, like an island in the ocean, as well as square, in the shape of the letter “P” and angular. With the help of such a sofa it is very easy to divide the room into separate zones, for example, for resting, working, meeting guests and relaxing in front of the fireplace. Many soft pillows will add even more comfort and coziness.

If the room is small, then the sofa should consist of a small number of modules, preferably if it is a corner structure or a straight one that can be placed along the wall.

For a narrow living room, a modular sofa that is small in width would be an ideal option. Today, such models are especially popular due to the fact that:

• take up little space;
• they can be transformed into a full-fledged sleeping place;
• it is stylish and practical, as it allows you to make room for other pieces of furniture, children's games, dancing, etc.

Thus, narrow modular sofas deserve special attention, since with their help it is much easier to plan the interior of the living room.

Tips for choosing

Before choosing a modular sofa, set aside some space for it so you have an idea of ​​how many pieces you need.

Next, you need to decide on the style, fabric and color of the upholstery. Try to buy products made from quality materials. Pay special attention to the strength of the frame, because the modules often move, which means that the joint elements will be subject to additional load.

If you plan to use the sofa for sleeping, make sure that the sleeping area is comfortable, of sufficient size and that there are no seams or other protrusions.

How to choose a modular sofa for your living room interior

Modular sofas of a modern look, used to decorate the living room interior, are produced in almost the same way as monolithic structures, so when choosing, attention must be paid to the same factors that are taken into account when purchasing ordinary pieces of furniture:

• Frame. Before buying a modular sofa, you need to find out what the base is made of. If chipboard was used for its manufacture, it is better to discard the product, since it does not have the necessary rigidity. Preference should be given to a metal frame or solid wood.
• Filler. If polyurethane foam is used, it must have a density of at least 25 units. Luxury modular sofas can use latex and springs. Blocks with springs are best avoided as they can creak. You should not buy a product filled with polyurethane foam and low-density foam rubber, since over time they may lose their shape and will have to be replaced.
• Upholstery. In this case, everyone can choose the material that they like best. However, you should not give preference to fabric that is too thin, since it will not last long and will most likely tear or stretch.

As for such parameters as shape, color, pattern and height of the sofa, this is an individual matter. However, if you have difficulty choosing, it is better to seek help from a designer.

Today, modular sofas for living room interiors are so diverse that choosing the right option according to your needs and financial capabilities is not difficult. To make the right choice, you need to answer the following questions for yourself:

• Will the sofa be used for daily sleeping? If the answer is yes, then you should choose a model that can be disassembled into a full-fledged sleeping place that provides a comfortable body position, that is, using individual springs or latex. The best option in this case would be a sofa made of several sections with a “dolphin” or “Eurobook” folding mechanism, since it will provide comfort and withstand daily transformation.

If there is a separate bedroom, and only guests will be accommodated in the living room, then you can buy any design taking into account the required number of seats and seating comfort.

• Are there children and animals at home? If the sofa will be constantly “attacked” by cats, tested for strength, and also soiled, you should choose a model with upholstery that is resistant to claws, which is easily cleaned of hair and dirt. Microfiber has exactly these characteristics. Instead of a plain one, it is preferable to take a sofa upholstered in fabric with a pattern, since stains on it are not so noticeable.
• Will the sofa draw attention to itself or will it fit harmoniously into the overall interior? Furniture in bright colors is quite a bold decision, but it should be taken into account that 1-2 years may pass and the colors will become boring. The most practical options are gray, beige and brown sofas, as well as models with neutral prints, such as microprints or stripes.

The dimensions of the sofa are influenced, firstly, by the design features, and secondly, by the presence of additional parts. In addition, before purchasing furniture, you need to measure the area of ​​the room, as well as determine the functionality of the design. How much space the sofa will take up depends on how the modules will be connected to each other. Each type of model has its own dimensions.

If we talk about a modular sofa that transforms into a sleeping place, then the disassembled section will be from 2.4 m in length and at least 1.5 m in width.

For a small living room, a corner sofa or a “P” shaped sofa is more suitable. This will prevent you from overloading the interior. Such models, as a rule, have a depth of 90–100 cm, a sleeping area 130–160 cm wide and 180–220 cm long. Such a modular sofa is an ideal option for small apartments.

When choosing a sofa that includes a sleeping module, preference should be given to models that have an orthopedic base. When the structure unfolds, it looks like a rectangle or square. These sections are considered the best for daily healthy sleep. There are options when the sofa, after transformation, takes the shape of a circle or oval, but if their size is sufficient, then you can rest comfortably on them.

Material used to make the frame and covering

To make the base of a modular sofa, it is best to use solid wood, which has excellent quality and a high degree of environmental friendliness. Furniture made from such material belongs to the luxury class, which is reflected in the cost of the finished product.

To reduce costs and satisfy consumer needs, manufacturers are introducing alternative materials - thick plywood or laminated chipboard, whose quality characteristics are not inferior to natural wood. The use of high-quality raw materials in production allows us to produce strong and durable frames, which in most cases are more practical, since this material does not shrink, the side effect of which is creaking.

The choice of upholstery material is a matter of the customer’s taste, his purchasing power, and the operating conditions of the finished product. If there are small children or animals in the apartment, preference should be given to flock. Along with pleasant tactile sensations, it is resistant to abrasion, resistant to mechanical damage, moisture resistant, and easy to care for. Also used as upholstery are plain matting, suede, natural and artificial leather, which is practical in its properties. As a rule, when covering modular sofas, fabric without a printed pattern is used. This is explained, first of all, by the inherent style of this type of furniture.