When you are

shopping for a sectional sofa, make sure that your sales person provides

you with all the configuration options and dimensions of each piece. Measurements

are critical in planning what will work in your room.

Look for sectionals

that provide several configuration options. Interesting pieces, such as

chaise lounges, can be placed at one end. These lounges act as a built-in

ottoman and help to visually open up the seating area.

Determine if

you want a curved piece or a corner piece in the configuration. Sectionals

with curved pieces or "wedges" create a "horseshoe"

shape and work better in larger, more open areas. Sectionals with corner

pieces tend to be much easier to fit into tight spaces or smaller rooms.

If your room

allows, the sectional should be facing towards the entrance of your room

for a more welcoming setting. Approaching the back of the sectional when

entering a room should be avoided when possible.

If you are

looking for a more contemporary look, try an armless sectional. This type

of sectional offers additional flexibility for changing the seating configurations

and adjusting the look of your room.

The update

on size

Look for updated

sectional styles that are easy to work into many different spaces and

configurations. Today, sectionals are available in anything from two pieces

to six pieces.

The sectional

size you choose depends on the kind of mood you want to create in a room.

To create a cozy, intimate setting, try a smaller two-piece sectional.

Select a four- to six-piece sectional for a welcoming place to relax and

to balance the proportions of a larger room. Another creative solution

for seating in very large rooms is to use two smaller sectionals facing

each other.

"We are

seeing more homeowners seeking out smaller sectionals for soft seating

in kitchen areas and bedrooms," said Schmitz. For all-purpose comfort

and style in these rooms, he suggests trying a smaller two-piece sectional

such as the Evergreen Sectional from Arhaus. Its pieces consist of an

apartment sized sofa and a chaise on one end that is just right for smaller

spaces.

Fabric choices

made easy

"Whatever

sectional you consider this season, watch for upholstery with interesting

fabrics and textures," said Schmitz. "Because of the increasing

popularity of sectionals, we are seeing everything from contemporary and

traditional looks in an assortment of leathers to casual, cottage-inspired

looks in neutral, earthy washed cottons."

With more fabric

choices available, upholstery shoppers will enjoy selecting fabrics that

create a personalized look in their homes.

Plush chenilles

in solids or tapestries are an all-time favorite fabric for sectional

sofas because of their softness and endurance to everyday use. For example,

the rich, chocolate chenille of the Brewster Sectional from Arhaus is

not only durable, but its soothing, soft surface also provides a handsome

backdrop for this comfortable retreat.

"This

season, the combination of fabric and leather on sectionals is also a

very popular and practical upholstery choice," said Schmitz. "This

attractive combination provides two looks in one with the flip of a cushion."

Leather still proves to be a common choice with families because of its

durability and easy maintenance.

The slipcover

trend

New on the

scene for sectionals is the adaptation of the classic slipcover. Slipcovers

are an easy and fantastic way to freshen up the look of your sectional

without having to redecorate with the change of every season. And they're

machine-washable.

Schmitz suggests

slipcovers in jewel-tone tapestries or velvets for cooler months and fresh

cotton prints for the warmer months. An example is the Dawson sectional

from Arhaus. It is slipcovered in washable, soft, ivory cotton versatile

enough for formal or casual seating.

Dress it

up with accents

Be sure the

cocktail table that you choose also allows for easy access in and out

of the seating area. A square or round cocktail table works best and can

easily be reached by many in a large gathering.

To help create

a focal point to your sectional try using a cocktail table made of unusual

materials or finishes. Some examples include mosaic, stone, copper or

a hand-painted finish. Rugs also help create a focal point by "anchoring"

a sectional within a space.

Pull the sectional

out of a corner a little to add accents behind it such as console tables,

plants, or lamps. Try using floor lamps tucked behind the sectional at

both ends for optimum lighting.

Have fun mixing

patterns and textures with the addition of pillows, throws, lamps and

accent tables to help add color and warmth to a sectional. One of this

seasonís most popular accent pieces is the cube ottoman covered

in colorful wool kilim rugs. Try a pair in the center or one at each end

of a sectional for a functional yet stylish accent.

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