This article was written by Ryan Podnar, furniture expert at La-Z-Boy South Texas
A sectional sofa is often the centerpiece of a living room, offering spacious seating for families and guests. However, sectional sofas can be expensive and may not fit into all spaces.
If you already own a sofa and a loveseat, you may be wondering how to turn them into a sectional to enjoy the benefits of a larger seating area without purchasing a new piece of furniture.
In this article, we’ll explore how to turn a sofa and a loveseat into a sectional, giving you the flexibility and comfort of a sectional without the high cost.
Coming Up…
- Choose the Right Sofa and Loveseat Set
- Arrange the Sofa and Loveseat in a U-Shape or L-Shape
- Secure the Pieces Together
- Add Sectional Cushions for Extra Comfort
- Use a Large Coffee Table or Ottoman
- Personalize the Space
1. Choose the Right Sofa and Loveseat Set
Not all sofas and loveseats are suitable for conversion into a sectional. Before you start arranging, it’s essential to ensure that your sofa and loveseat set complement each other in terms of size, style, and fabric.
A. Match the Style
Ensure both pieces have a similar design style. Whether your existing furniture is modern, traditional, or transitional, a cohesive style will make the transition feel seamless. For example, pair a modern sofa with a contemporary loveseat for a consistent look.
Color and Fabric: While it's not necessary to have the same color, choosing complementary fabrics or similar color schemes will help blend the two pieces into a unified sectional. A neutral fabric like beige, gray, or navy blue can easily blend with most home decor.
B. Size Considerations
Ensure the sofa loveseat set are of comparable size. If one piece is significantly larger or smaller than the other, the arrangement may feel unbalanced. Ideally, both pieces should have similar dimensions for a more cohesive look.
The length of your sofa and loveseat should also be taken into account, as it will impact how they fit together. If they are not the same length, try placing them in a way that minimizes the size disparity.
2. Arrange the Sofa and Loveseat in a U-Shape or L-Shape
To convert a sofa and loveseat into a sectional, positioning is key. The most common layouts for this type of arrangement are a U-shape or L-shape.
A. U-Shape Arrangement
A U-shape sectional layout provides ample seating while creating a cozy, conversational setup. To achieve this, place the sofa in the center and position the loveseat on each side, curving inward to create a U-shaped seating area.
If you want to make the U-shape feel even more connected, use an ottoman or large coffee table in the middle to tie the pieces together visually.
B. L-Shape Arrangement
The L-shape sectional layout is more common and ideal for smaller spaces. Arrange the sofa and loveseat at right angles to each other, with the back of the loveseat positioned against one side of the sofa. This arrangement maximizes corner spaces and opens up the room.
You can use a corner wedge or a large throw to visually connect the two pieces and enhance the sectional look.
3. Secure the Pieces Together
For a truly cohesive sectional, securing the sofa and loveseat together is key. While the arrangement will provide a great seating area, keeping the pieces from sliding apart is essential for stability.
- Connect with Furniture Clips: Some manufacturers offer furniture clips or connectors that help secure your sofa and loveseat. These clips hold the pieces together while still allowing easy separation when needed.
- Non-Slip Pads or Rugs: To prevent your loveseat and sofa from sliding apart, place non-slip pads or a rug underneath both pieces. This will keep them in place, ensuring the sectional doesn’t shift over time.
- Corner Brackets: For a more permanent connection, use corner brackets to join the backrests or frame of the loveseat and sofa. This may require a bit of DIY work, but it can provide a solid and stable bond.
4. Add Sectional Cushions for Extra Comfort
To enhance the comfort and look of your new sectional, consider adding extra cushions or pillows to fill the gaps between the sofa and loveseat. This will create a smooth, continuous seating area that mimics the comfort of a traditional sectional.
- Back Cushions: Add extra back cushions to the gap between the sofa and loveseat to create a seamless seating experience. Use pillows or cushions that match the fabric of your existing pieces, or go for a contrasting color to add visual interest.
- Side Armrest Cushions: If the loveseat has exposed armrests, consider adding armrest covers or pillows for added comfort. This will make the loveseat feel like an extension of the sofa, further enhancing the sectional effect.
5. Use a Large Coffee Table or Ottoman
To complete the sectional look, place a large coffee table or ottoman in the middle of the new sectional. This will help to visually tie the pieces together and provide a functional surface for drinks, books, or decor. Here’s how to use them:
- Coffee Table: A rectangular or oval coffee table works well between the sofa and loveseat, creating a natural flow in the center. Choose a table that complements the style of your furniture for a cohesive look.
- Ottoman: An ottoman can double as a coffee table or extra seating. A large, round ottoman can help create a more casual, comfortable feel while tying the two pieces together.
6. Personalize the Space
Now that you’ve arranged your sofa and loveseat into a sectional, it’s time to add some personal touches to enhance the space:
- Throw Blankets and Pillows: Layer your sectional with throw blankets and decorative pillows in complementary colors or patterns. This not only enhances the style but also adds comfort to the seating area.
- Accent Rugs: Place an area rug underneath the entire seating area to define the space and add texture. A rug also makes the sectional look more cohesive and grounded within the room.
- Artwork and Lighting: Add a large piece of artwork above the sofa or loveseat, and place floor lamps or table lamps nearby for both function and style. Proper lighting creates a cozy atmosphere and completes the sectional setup.
Do You Have the Right Sofa and Loveseat Set?
Transforming a sofa and loveseat into a sectional is an easy and cost-effective way to create a comfortable, stylish seating area.
By following these steps—arranging the pieces in a U-shape or L-shape, securing them together, and adding cushions and accessories—you can create a sectional look without the high cost of purchasing new furniture.
Whether you have a small living room or simply want to make the most of your existing furniture, turning your sofa and loveseat into a sectional allows you to enjoy the benefits of extra seating, comfort, and style. Still, if you don’t have the right loveseat sofa set, you won’t be satisfied with how it looks as a sectional.
To find the right sofa and loveseat for you, visit your nearest La-Z-Boy South Texas store.
