We ’re unpacking the real conflict between the two and if it ’s hunky-dory to consider them one and the same .
The great sofa vs. lounge argumentation is polarizing , to say the least . In the figure cosmos , no two password are as debatable as " sofa " and " couch . " For some , they represent asingle theme , and to others , they hold back completely dissimilar meanings . Technically , they have two different definitions and origins . lounge is thought to be a reference to the Gallic term " coucher , " which means to sleep , or " couche , " which refers to a while of furniture with no arms that ’s used for lying down , or what in English would be call a bottom or daybed . On the other hand , lounge is definedas a long , upholstered couch with a back and two arms or raised ends .
“ Anytime we have a guest asking for a lounge or couch , they typically apply the same descriptors for each , ” says Alex Feisal , lead designer atMDI . “ The main difference seems to follow down to word selection . ”
Credit:(L) Jay Wilde, (R) Laurey Glenn
So what really is the dispute between sofa vs. couch ? Here , Feisal unpacks how designers utilize the terms lounge and sofa , which one is best for your space , and why you really should start considering these furnishing terminus as two separate entities .
( L ) Jay Wilde , ( R ) Laurey Glenn
The Difference Between Sofa vs. Couch
While many will tell you sofas and couches are the same , Feisal say that ’s not how they started . “ Historically , there is a difference between ‘ lounge ’ and ‘ couch , ’ and the origin of each full term varies . ” Feisal secern between the two for design purposes , even though many of her clients use them interchangeably .
When it come to the full term “ lounge , ” Feisal believes it carry a more pattern - oriented feel and an air of refinement . “ I find like it is the most - used condition across the intention industry , ” she says . The graphic designer tends to weigh a sofa as a more effortless furnishing . “ When I hear the Scripture ‘ sofa , ’ I opine ofsomething oversized , satiate , and cozy . ”
Sofa vs. Couch: Which is Best for Your Space?
If you ’ve been using " couch " and " couch " interchangeably — or opting for one over the other — consider Feisal ’s definitions . specialize the two can facilitate you project your space and when speaking to design diligence professionals .
For casual spaces , where putting your feet up is not only allow but encouraged , a couch withinviting plush cushionsis most likely your best bet . Whether youopt for a slipcovered interlingual rendition , one with a skirt , or a sofa with rolled branch and scupper legs reckon on your expressive style and how relaxed you want to go with your furnishing . A sofa is a great option for rooms like lair , offices , and basement hangouts .
Sofas , including their more graceful cousin , the settle , are ideal for space where conversation and grownup time take space . Formal living room , sitting rooms , and the like are all prime real estate for the tasteful charm of a sofa .
Credit: Annie Schlecter
Photography - David LandProp Stylist - Eddie Ross
How to Determine Sofa Placement
Of of course , you could always expend the price couch and couch interchangeably . No one will make you intermit midsentence to elucidate which furnishing you talk of . But if you choose to begin drawing a channel in the sand between the two , consider how placement fiddle a part .
Because a couch is considered a more perfunctory opus , it ’s often not proceed to be a focal point of a way or home . A sofa , on the other hand , can take for agreater design weight , whether through a beautifully kink back , strike silhouette , or voguish colorway . Do n’t be afraid to put style - forward sofas front and center .
Thanks to their lounging appeal , sofa can demand more space in a room and give it a certain exercising weight . For that rationality , they often work well whenanchored by another piece of furniture(think a cabinet board directly behind ) but can make a room feel cramped if placed smack - tap against the wall . too , a sofa does well in a more primal locating because it can seem too small or lose some of its more exciting details when place too tightly against a wall .
Credit:Photography - David LandProp Stylist - Eddie Ross
Sofa vs. Couch: How to Choose
Whether you ’re a convert to sort lounge vs. couch definition or have always considered them their own entities , carving out what they think to you and your space can help see how you need these significant piece to exploit for you . Are you more of acasual lounge mortal , or do you prefer the processed elegance of a sofa ? unpack these enquiry might start to clear up mix-up when plan your home . Who hump such a argument could hold back the answer to so many aesthetic questions ? turn over us schooled .
