25 Best Sofas for Small Living Rooms, Plus How to Choose the Right One for You

Updated for 2025.

Today I want to deep dive into the often confusing topic of sofas for small living rooms. And we’re going to tackle it in two parts.

First we’ll get into the nitty gritty; walking you through the different elements you need to consider and look out for before you go shopping. But the second (and probably more fun) part is sharing a roundup of our fave small sofas with you, which you can go ahead and shop right here, right now.

Decorating a small space can be challenging. There are so many things to think about! But the sofa is undoubtably the most important element in the room, so let’s get this right from the onset. Drop me a comment at the end of the post is you have any questions.

And if you want to avoid common blunders when decorating, check out our easy cheats on decorating a small living room.

You Can Choose Any Colour You Like

I always see tips on decorating small rooms in mags and online, and the advice is often to use light-coloured furniture. The reality is this: you can choose any colour sofa you like and it can still work in a small living room. The colour doesn’t make the room feel bigger or smaller.

It’s less about the colour of the sofa and more about the surrounding tones. Lots of different colours in the one room can be visually overwhelming, making the area feel cluttered and closed-in. But the sofa itself can be any colour. Just ensure you don’t go crazy in other pockets of the room.

The Rydell Sofa above from Sofa & Soul is a perfect example of a sofa for a small living room. Not only is it a glorious shade of soft pink, but it follows a lot of my other key rules, which I’ll expand on below.

Ensure the Sofa is Raised Off the Floor

This is pretty crucial when considering sofas for a small living rooms. You’ll find loads of smaller options online that drop all the way to the floor. As gorgeous as they are though, they’re not ideally suited to small spaces.

You want there to be air travelling under the sofa, or at the very least the illusion of air. You want to see underneath the sofa a little when you walk into the room. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference. If you look at every sofa in this post you’ll see they’re all raised on thin legs.

If you need help decorating your small boudoir, come see my tips on furniture and decor for small bedrooms.

A Thin Low Arm is the Best Option

Not all of the small sofas in this post follow the ‘thin low arm’ rule completely. You can bend this rule a little, but let me first explain why a low and thin arm is the best.

In a small living room, you don’t want furniture to feel bulky. You want the eye to glide over each piece of furniture. Comfort is important, of course, but you want to reduce thickness in each piece. That doesn’t mean you can’t have arms on your sofa, but ideally they’re low and thin.

High, thick arms make the sofa feel super boxy, and it dominates the space too much, blocking the flow and cutting the sofa off from other pieces of furniture in the room.

You can do a slightly thicker arm as long as it’s a low arm. And you can do a higher arm as long as it’s a thin one, Basically, just avoid a high thick arm and you can’t go wrong.

Lower Backs are Always Preferred

I don’t like tall backs on a sofa no matter what size the room is, but that’s just me. It’s one of my big no-no’s when decorating an open plan living room, but it’s definitely one to avoid in a small space as well.

High back sofas in small living rooms create the same issue as sofas with high arms; they feel too dominant, they overtake the space, and they throw off the scale. Your eye can’t glide across them, so they become a focal point for all the wrong reasons.

You’re always better off looking for a sofa with a low back to give the illusion of more space. It doesn’t mean the back cushion can’t be plush and comfortable, but just avoid tall puffy sofas that swallow the room whole.

Keep the Lines Clean and Structured

The Bungalow 3-Seater Sofa above from Temple & Webster nails this rule perfectly. Notice how the lines of this sofa are clean? When I say clean, I mean that both the horizontal and vertical planes of the sofa are quite straight and structured.

When looking for sofas for small living rooms, you don’t want arms that taper out too much. Or be thick and rounded like with a chesterfield sofa. And you want to avoid a lot of decorative bells and whistles. Keeping the look and feel rather orderly and minimal is key.

Don’t worry about the sofa feeling boring either. The sofa can be sensible but you can add fun to it with cushions and throws, or place some interesting art above it.

Bring in Interest Through Smaller Details

As I just mentioned, a sofa for a small living space doesn’t have to be boring. It doesn’t have to be super-plain and without detail. You just need to be quite careful about the level of detail and where it features on the sofa.

Sofas with a tonne of buttons, curves or stitching can create a sense of visual chaos. In a small space, you have to be really careful to keep that sort of busyness to a minimum.

The sort of detail you want to look for in your sofa is going to be less-is-more. Some light tufting on the base of the sofa is fine. A button on each of the back cushions is fine. Some beautiful piping is a winner. And you can’t go past a little stud detail either.

Measure the Sofa in Your Space – Always!

Don’t get too caught up in whether the sofa is called a two-seater, or three-seater. Also don’t worry about how many cushions it has on it. One is not better than the other.

The crucial thing to keep in mind when looking for the best sofas for small living rooms is to measure the sofa out in your space before you buy it.

I don’t just mean the length either. Consider how high the back will be on the wall behind it. And then measure out how deep the cushions are. Sometimes the depth will be the element that gets you. So many people forget to think about how far the sofa cushions will just out into the room.

Remember, you want to leave approximately 50cm from the seat cushion to your coffee table. So just measure it all out and go shopping armed with the exact dimensions that’ll work.

The 20 Best Sofas for Small Living Rooms

1. Adams 2 Seater Sofa

How stunning is the Adams 2 Seater Sofa from Castlerly? Not only is this sofa extremely compact with its structured design and minimal profile, but it’s also customisable.

Take the driver’s seat and design a piece that’s suited for your home by selecting the material and leg colour. Plus you can bump it up to a larger version if your living room dimensions allow for it. What’s not to love?

2. Bella 3 Seater Sofa

If your home is lacking character, look no further than the Bella Three Seater Sofa. Not only are we impressed by the mid-Century influence, but that blue fabric: yes please!

The raised legs, simple details, low back and three seat cushions makes this perfect sofa for a small living room. Pair it with some blonde timber accents like in the image above and you’re on your way.

3. Alice 2-Seater Sofa

The Alice 2-Seater Sofa from Lounge Lovers is a complete winner in our eyes. Not only does the raised legs and simple sleek provide a sense of minimalism, but the two subtle fabric options make this a versatile sofa that’ll work with any interior design style.

Layer the space with your favourite cushions to add your own personality, and you’ve got a sofa for a small living room that’ll leave a lasting impression. Run don’t walk to secure this beauty.

4. Memphis 3 Seater Sofa

Calling all colour lovers! The divine Memphis 3 Seater Sofa from Life Interiors is the perfect solution to adding a pop of interest to your small living room.

Not only does the material and curvature of this piece add a sense of luxury, but it’s also available in six impressive colours. With thin legs and arms, this abides by all of our rules when it comes to finding the perfect small sofa for your living room.

5. Coogee 2 Seater Faux Leather Sofa

The Coogee 2 Seater Faux Leather Sofa from Temple & Webster addresses all of your small living room needs. Not only does this sofa ooze character and old-world charm with it’s brass legs and pipe trim detail, but it’s also extremely compact.

And did we mention the impressive $949.00 price tag? Talk about a steal!

6. Denmark 2 Seater Fabric Sofa

How adorable is the Denmark 2 Seater Fabric Sofa from Interior Secrets? Not only is the light grey fabric a stunning base for layering your favourite colours over, but the timber leg makes this sofa perfectly suitable for your coastal, boho, or contemporary home style.

In addition, the petite shape and simple profile will leave your space feeling open and airy. This little gem is the perfect solution for any small living room.

7. Tallulah Upholstered Sofa

The Tallulah Upholstered Sofa is a gorgeous compliment to any traditional home. While the button accents and detailed legs are sure to make a statement, the overall design remains relatively simple, so it’ll still work perfectly in a small living room.

Let’s not forget, simplicity is the ultimate sophistication, after all. This sofa delivers that in spades.

8. Dollans 3 Seater Sofa

Check out the totally chic and affordable Dolans 3 Seater Sofa from Fantastic Furniture. Not only is the price tag super impressive, but the dark grey fabric and curved shape adds a sense of visual interest.

This beauty would be ideal in any modern home. And as you can see, it also looks great from the back if you need it to run across your open plan living room.

9. Andes Sofa

Check out the Andes Sofa from West Elm, which ticks all the boxes! Low arms: check. Low back: check. Raised Legs: check. Oh, and let’s not forget the flexibility to choose from a variety of colours and fabrics!

What’s not to love about this modern gem? In addition, the cast metal finish on those sleek legs provides an added sense of mid-Century sophistication.

10. Costera 2 Seater Sofa

What can we say, we’re obsessed with the Costera 2 Seater Sofa. While this piece is visually appealing with its organic curves and soft grey fabric, its modest size and thin profile is what truly captures our attention.

We have no doubt that this two seater sofa would be the perfect little addition to your small living space. Or why not add it into a formal living room instead? It does have a sense of luxury about it, after all.

11. Lucio 2-Seater Sofa

Here at TLC Interiors we love a good leather sofa, which is why we’re pleased to introduce the Lucio 2-Seater Sofa. Not only is this design slim and elegant with its raised legs and clean lines, but the delicious shade of brown introduces depth and mood to the space.

Not only will it make your living room feel open and airy, but the almost-worn vibe of the leather itself injects some character into the space as well. We love.

12. Keller 2 Seater Sofa

Please tell us we’re not alone in thinking the Keller Sofa from Amart is super cute? Not only do we adore the petite scale of this piece, but the low back and arms make it a clear winner to work wonders in a tight space.

The navy blue fabric is also a welcome addition to the roundup, where so many of the options have played it safe in a grey fabric colourway. Sometimes you just need to have a little faith in bold colours.

13. Denmark Sofa in Navy Velvet

You already saw the grey version further up, but allow us to showcase the Denmark Sofa in gorgeous blue velvet, for your consideration.

Not only does the thin arm provide a light and airy feel to the space, but the simple cushioning of this sofa keeps the design feeling clean and uncomplicated

14. Ashford 3-Seater Sofa

Not only is the Ashford 3-Seater Sofa perfect for a small living room because of its neutral fabric and thin arms, but it’s at a bargain price point for those of you on a tight budget.

Coming in at under $750 at the time of publish, this is an absolute steal. It’ll also work in just about any living room thanks to its simple design as well. We love!

15. Panama Leather Sofa

Coming in hot with another leather knockout! Told you we loved our leather at TLC, right? Not only is the visual of this sofa striking, but its low-slung profile and elevated legs take this design to a whole new level.

To add to the appeal, the Panama Leather Sofa from Freedom is also available in a variety of different colours. Talk about make-it-your-own!

16. Bronte 3 Seater Sofa

Check out the Bronte 3 Seater Fabric Sofa from Life Interiors. Not only will the neutral colour palette and timber legs provide a sense of calm to your space, but the simple profile, low back and elevated legs will keep your home feeling spacious and uncluttered.

This definitely has a contemporary edge to it, and is so easy to work with in terms of bringing in complementary furniture and decor pieces.

17. Indivi Sofa

Add a sense of luxury and opulence to your home with the Indivi Sofa from BoConcept. This sofa not only screams practicality with its compact design, but the low armrests, low back and raised legs make this the perfect addition to any small space.

Can we also just take a moment to appreciate that fabric? Absolutely breathtaking. We’re in awe of this sofa and won’t apologise for it!

18. Candice 3-Seater Fabric Sofa

Now, we know this sofa runs all the way to the floor, but we still consider it great for a small living room because the arms are thin.

It doesn’t stop there though; the beautiful white fabric on the Candice 3-Seater Fabric Sofa makes this piece easy on the eye, which helps give the illusion of more space.

The cover is removable too, making it perfect if your nearest and dearest are prone to the occasional spill.

19. Virginia 2 Seater Sofa

Fitted with internal spring supports and plush foam, the Virginia 2 Seater Sofa from Adairs is all about comfort. Easy on the eye with its soft blue colour story, it sports a contemporary look and feel that makes it work in any and every small space at home.

It comes with matching scatter cushions, and is also available two other sofa sizes if you want to create a cohesive look across your living room.

20. Clair 2 Seater Sofa

Last but definitely not least on the small sofa list is this gorgeous option; the Clair 2 Seater Sofa from Interior Secrets. As small as it may be, there’s a comfort story to be told here. The high-density foam padding is to thank for that. Doesn’t it look super comfy?

The cushion covers are removable too, giving this small sofa a wonderful low-maintenance vibe!

21. Hampton Two-Seat Sofa

There’s a lot to be said about simplicity when it coms to a small sofa, and the Hampton Two-Seat Sofa from Lounge Lovers proves it.

While the profile of this sofa is kept clean and minimal, it’s by no means boring. Its soft-curve arms, T-shape seat cushions and raised timber legs do deliver interest. And it also comes in three neutral fabric colours so you can choose one that effortlessly blends into your room.

22. Otis Natural Lounge Chair

In a small living room, flexible furniture is everything. And when it comes to a small sofa you can pull apart and move around, you can’t beat the Otis Natural Lounge Chair from Adairs.

Purchased as individual pieces, you can grab as many as you like and configure them in any way you see fit. You can above just how low to the ground these sofas are, so they’re perfect in a small room where you don’t want the seating to feel too dominant.

23. Leicester American Oak Timber Sofa

If you have that relaxed, costal-boho vibe happening at your place, you’d be mad not to consider the Leicester American Oak Timber Sofa for your small living room.

The profile is everything here; you can see all that airflow moving underneath, giving you the illusion of more space in the room. But then you have the plush and plump cushions on top to ensure maximum cosiness and comfort.

When it comes to sofas for a small living room that stray from the norm, this is the one.

24. Kole Sofa – Velvet Hazelnut

The hazelnut velvet on the Kole Sofa from Urban Road is giving us heart palpitations in the best way possible, but the benefits of this sofa go well beyond the sumptuous fabric.

A low back makes it perfect for cutting across an open plan living/dining room. Plus it’s raised off the ground to give you that sense of airflow. Bonus points to go its curved arms. They’re a standout for sure and give a nod to a retro aesthetic.

25. Bellavista Leather Effect Fabric Sofa

The fabric on the Bellavista Leather Effect Fabric Sofa gives you the look without the hefty price tag, which we always fully appreciate here at TLC Interiors.

But beyond the fabric you also have the raised legs and low back, which abides by all our rules when it comes to choosing a sofa for a small living room.

You can also take the covers off and have them professional cleaned which we appreciate too.

Which is your fave from our list of 20 best sofas for small living rooms? Drop a comment below if you have any questions on how to make sofas work in your small space.