Ever fallen in love with a sectional sofa online, only to find it’s too big, too small, or simply doesn’t suit your living room when it arrives? Choosing the right sectional sofa can feel like a guessing game. From awkward corners to cramped walkways, the wrong choice can ruin the flow of your lounge and your evenings.
In this guide, we’ll break down 10 types of sectional sofas that never go out of style. You’ll learn which sectional works for small apartments, which suits open-plan living, and which design turns your lounge into the ultimate entertaining space.
Keep reading to explore all the best sectional sofa types, so your next sofa fits perfectly, looks stunning, and transforms your living space from day one.
10 Types of Sectional Sofas That Never Go Out of Fashion
Sectional sofas are made of two or more connected pieces that form one large seating unit. They can assemble into many layouts; L-shape, U-shape, curved, modular, etc. Each type is suitable for different rooms and needs. Knowing your room’s size and layout ensures you choose the right sectional and avoid a poor fit.
1. L-Shaped Sectional Sofa
An L-shaped sectional sofa has two sections joined at a right angle, creating an “L” configuration. This design includes a long chaise on one side but can also be a simple two-cushion corner unit. It fits snugly into a corner, making efficient use of wall space or acting as a visual divider in an open plan living area.
Who It’s Best For: Small–medium rooms, couples, small families, or flatmates.
Key Benefits:
- Space-saving corner seating
- Versatile layout: wall-hugger or room divider
- Casual comfort, often with chaise or storage
Space & Layout Tip:
Tuck the L-shape into a room corner or use it to zone an open-plan area. In many Australian open-plan homes, placing the long side along one wall and the other side at a right angle can define the lounge without blocking flow.
2. U-Shaped Sectional Sofa
A U-shaped sectional sofa consists of three joined sections that form a “U”. Essentially two long sofas facing each other with a connecting middle section or corner, wrapping the seating around a central point. This configuration offers seats on three sides, creating a large, enclosed seating area. Works well to frame a big rug or anchor a family TV area.
Who It’s Best For: Large open-plan homes, big family rooms, frequent entertainers.
Key Benefits:
- Maximum seating for 6–10+ guests
- Encourages conversation with inward-facing seats
- Cozy, communal vibe
- Can include chaises or ottomans
Space & Layout Tip:
Because of its size, a U-shaped sectional needs a very wide, open living area. In a large home, centre it in a wide lounge room so each side has clearance. Make sure to leave ample walkways around it as U-shapes need “breathing room” so they don’t overwhelm the space.
3. C-Shaped Sectional Sofa
A C-shaped sectional sofa is essentially a wrap-around version of a U-shape. It has seating on three sides, similar to a U-shape, but often with extra or more enveloping curvature, forming almost a “C” around the room. The key feature is the continuous seating that nearly wraps around you, creating an intimate circular grouping.
Who It’s Best For: Very large families, luxury living rooms or home theatres (around a coffee table or fireplace).
Key Benefits:
- Ample seating, social hub
- Intimate layout for conversations
- Defines a focal area
- Plush, enveloping comfort
Space & Layout Tip:
Only use a C-shaped sectional in a very spacious, open-plan room. It needs almost as much room on all three sides as it provides seating. Position it so the open side faces the room’s focal point (TV/fireplace). Think of leaving a large central area rug and coffee table inside the “C”.
4. Curved Sectional Sofa
A curved sectional sofa features a gently rounded, flowing seating form instead of straight lines. Rather than sharp angles, it flows in a continuous arc (like a half-circle or gentle S-shape), creating a soft, eye-catching profile in the room.
Who It’s Best For: Modern, design-focused interiors; large open spaces.
Key Benefits:
- Softens straight lines, sculptural style
- Conversation-friendly circular layout
- Creates an inviting focal point
Space & Layout Tip:
Treat it like a centrepiece. Don’t push it flush to a wall. For example, place it facing the main feature (TV or fireplace) with plenty of space around. Make sure to leave a clear path around its ends so people can walk by the elegant curve.
5. Modular Sectional Sofa
A modular sectional sofa is made of separate pieces or modules (individual seats, armless chairs, chaises, ottomans, etc.) that you can rearrange at will. Each piece is interchangeable, giving you unparalleled flexibility. You can mix and match modules to form different shapes, or even remove pieces, without being locked into one fixed layout.
Who It’s Best For: Growing families, entertainers, renters, or anyone who likes flexible layouts.
Key Benefits:
- Customisable layouts
- Flexible for changing needs
- Optimises small spaces
- Allows styling experimentation
Space & Layout Tip:
Use a modular sofa to zone an open-plan room. For example, arrange pieces to separate living and dining areas. In an Aussie home, you can float modules to accommodate different furniture arrangements (switch from L-shape to U-shape as you like).
Read more > Sectional vs Modular Sofas: What's the Difference?
6. Reversible Sectional Sofa
A reversible sectional sofa has a chaise or lounging section that can be attached on either end of the couch. In other words, you can flip or swap the long chaise from the right side to the left and vice versa. This means one sofa can adapt to different room layouts without permanently committing to left- or right-handed orientations.
Who It’s Best For: Renters, first-time buyers, anyone changing their space often.
Key Benefits:
- Chaise can switch sides
- Two layouts in one
- Easy to move or redecorate
Space & Layout Tip:
Use reversible sectionals to handle uncertain layouts. Place it against a wall or in a corner and decide later which end the chaise will extend from. Whenever you want to change the look, simply reattach the chaise. There’s no need for an entirely new sofa.
7. Chaise Sectional Sofa
A chaise sectional sofa includes an extended seat, called a chaise lounge, on one (or both) ends for lounging. A chaise lounge is an upholstered seat with a long base for leg support. In a sectional, the chaise gives one end of the sofa a footrest so you can stretch out. There are three different layouts of sections sofas with chaise:
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Rounded Chaise Sectional Sofa
A rounded chaise sectional sofa is a variation where the chaise end is curved or circular instead of straight. One end of the sofa has a gently rounded chaise lounge, creating a flowing silhouette.
Who It’s Best For: Contemporary or eclectic/varied interiors.
Key Benefits:
- Elegant curves
- Comfortable lounging
- Focal point
Space & Layout Tip:
Allow extra clearance around the curved end so it doesn’t butt into furniture or walls. This style looks best floated in a slightly open space. A loose rug under the seating area can help anchor the rounded form in a living space.
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Terminal Chaise Sectional Sofa
A terminal chaise sectional sofa (aka “bumper-end” sectional) has one end extended into a very large chaise lounge. Think of one arm that’s extra wide like a cushioned bumper, providing a large reclining surface.
Who It’s Best For: Compact rooms needing generous lounge space.
Key Benefits:
- Large lounge space
- Space-efficient
- Comfy for two people to lounge side-by-side
Space & Layout Tip:
Terminal chaise sectionals are mostly L-shaped with the large chaise at one end, so they fit neatly into corners or along a wall. The “bumper” end can go on either side of the sectional, giving layout flexibility. You might align the long straight side against one wall and let the wide chaise jutt out.
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Angled Chaise Sectional Sofa
An angled chaise sectional sofa has its chaise placed diagonally or slanted rather than in a straight line with the rest of the sofa. In plain view, the chaise juts out at an angle (often 45°) from the main seating.
Who It’s Best For: Modern, open-plan homes.
Key Benefits:
- Dynamic look
- Improves traffic flow
- Conversation-friendly
Space & Layout Tip:
Position so the angled chaise opens into the room. For instance, angle the chaise toward the room centre, which can help direct people around it. The slanted chaise becomes a sort of funnel guiding foot traffic.
8. Symmetrical Sectional Sofa
A symmetrical sectional sofa has the same seating arrangement on both sides of its centre. In other words, the sofa is balanced or mirrored; equal armrests, cushions and length on left and right. This creates a visually harmonious shape where neither end dominates.
Who It’s Best For: Formal or traditional living rooms.
Key Benefits:
- Balanced, visually harmonious
- Polished, elegant look
- Anchors seating area
Space & Layout Tip:
Centre it in the room rather than against one wall. For example, face a symmetrical sectional toward the room’s focal point to create a balanced conversation area. You can even “float” it (with space behind) and use it to divide living and dining zones. Its equal sides will maintain a calm, cohesive look.
9. Sleeper Sectional Sofa
A sleeper sectional sofa incorporates a hidden pull-out bed into the sectional design. By day it functions as a regular sofa (often with a chaise), but when you pull out the mattress it converts into a bed for guests.
Who It’s Best For: Homes needing occasional guest bedding.
Key Benefits:
- Dual seating and bed function
- Guest-ready convenience
- Saves space in small apartments
Space & Layout Tip:
Make sure to allow enough floor space in front of the sofa for the mattress to extend when opened. For instance, you’ll need extra clearance (at least 1.5–2 m in front) so the pull-out bed can fully deploy without bumping into coffee tables or walls.
10. Reclining Sectional Sofa
A reclining sectional sofa has built-in recliner mechanisms in one or more of its seats. These can be manual levers or powered motors that let parts of the sofa (backs and footrests) tilt back and raise up, so each person can lean back and stretch out comfortably. The frame of each reclining section is engineered for this adjustability.
Who It’s Best For: Comfort-focused families or home theatre setups.
Key Benefits:
- Adjustable recline for comfort
- Individual seating with ergonomic support
- Extras: cup-holders, USB ports, consoles
Space & Layout Tip:
Plan for extra clearance behind and in front of reclining seats. Even manual recliners need a small gap to fully extend, and power recliners need access to a power outlet. In practice, leave at least 5–10 cm behind the sofa and make sure cables can reach a wall socket. For example, don’t push a reclining sectional flush against the rear wall. Also ensure there’s 90–100 cm of free floor in front so footrests can open fully.
How to Choose the Right Sectional Sofa for Your Home: Practical Tips
Use these tips to avoid measurement mishaps, pick a durable fabric, and get a layout that works day-to-day.
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Measure, map and check delivery access (don’t skip this)
Measure wall length, sofa size, and the full delivery path (doorways, hallways, stairwells). If a sofa won’t clear the route, it won’t fit in the room, even if dimensions look fine on paper. Measure doorframe open width and diagonal clearances as some sofas need to be angled through tight turns.
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Allow for movement and furniture clearances
Leave about 40–45 cm (16–18 in) between the sofa and coffee table for comfortable reach and legroom. Keep main walkways 75–90 cm (30–36 in) wide so people can pass without squeezing.
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Match sectional type to your living style
Entertainer? Prioritise seating (U-shape or large modular). Flexible household or renter? Choose modular or reversible sectionals you can reconfigure. Small apartment? An L-shaped or terminal-chaise layout gives lounge space without swallowing the room.
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Choose fabrics built for Perth conditions
For sun-facing rooms or coastal homes, use solution-dyed, UV-resistant fabrics (e.g., Sunbrella or similar performance textiles) that resist fading, mould and mildew. These last longer and clean easier than standard upholstery in bright, humid conditions.
For busy homes with kids or pets, look for stain-resistant microfibre or protected leather finishes. Also, check cleaning instructions before you buy.
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Decide on function before form (storage, sleeper, recliner)
A sleeper adds bed clearance; reclining seats need front clearance and access to a power outlet. Factor those spatial and power needs into the footprint before ordering.
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Test comfort and build
Sit for 10+ minutes. Check seat depth, cushion recovery and arm height. Ask about frame material, foam density and warranty. If buying online, request a video demo of the cushions and frame or a generous return policy.
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Pick colours and textures that age well
Choose a neutral base (linen, warm grey, sand) for longevity and add colour with cushions and rugs. For sun-lit Perth lounges, avoid very dark fabrics that show bleaching unevenly over time.
Tired of sofas that look great online but don’t fit your living room or lifestyle?
Find the Perfect Sectional Sofa for Your Home at Furniture Roots
At Furniture Roots, we stock a wide range of modular and sectional sofas in Australia.
We help you match layout, fabric and function; not just sofa style. Additionally, we provide local delivery to Perth suburbs and guidance on measurements, clearance and setup so your new sectional fits first time.
So, contact our in-store furniture experts to make the right and best choice.
View Sectional Sofas Online Now
FAQs
Q1: Is a sectional sofa still in fashion in 2026?
Yes. Sectional sofas remain popular because they combine flexibility and seating capacity. Modern trends favour modular and curved designs for open-plan living, but classic L-shapes and sleepers remain consistently in demand.
Q2: What style of sectional is most popular right now?
L-shaped and modular sectionals are currently most popular. L-shapes for reliable corner and apartment solutions. Modulars for flexibility and custom layouts. Curved models are also growing for high-end, design-led interiors.
Q3: What are double-sided or island sofas?
Double-sided (island) sofas have finished backs and seating on both sides, designed to ‘float’ in the room away from walls. They’re ideal for open-plan spaces where you want a visual divider and seating that’s attractive from all angles.
Q4: What are L-shaped sofas called?
They’re commonly called L-shaped sofas or L-shaped sectionals, referring to two sections that meet at a right angle, often with one longer side. They’re a versatile, space-efficient choice for many Perth homes.
Q5: Is it better to choose a sectional sofa or two separate sofas?
It depends. Choose a sectional if you want continuous seating that anchors a room and saves space. It’s great for family viewing and lounging. Choose two sofas for flexibility in layout and easier movement through small doorways. Consider room size, entry access and how you entertain before deciding.
