Are you struggling to choose between a dark sofa and a light sofa? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! It’s one of the hardest decisions for sofa-seekers to make.
But, it all boils down to your lifestyle, personal taste, where the sofa will be, and whether it complements your design style. Plus, in the future, you don’t want to limit your design choices because you haven’t picked the right tone for your sofa.
Sofas are for social settings that we tend to spend a lot of time in, and we should have long-lasting sofas that we feel proud of everyday.
Read on so SofaSofa can help you decide on the right tone for your sofa!
Design Styles for Dark Sofas
Darker sofas are generally admired for their durability and the cosy feel they bring to the room.
If you have pets, mischievous children, or love to indulge in a decadent wine whilst watching your favourite shows, a dark sofa would be the best option.
Dark sofas are much easier to disguise dirt and keep looking clean for longer!
However, if you’re worried about how a dark sofa will look in your room, there are many ways to get the best out of its dark features.
Flooring
When it comes to dark sofas, flooring plays a huge part in the atmosphere it will create in your room.
If you want your sofa to be a true focal point, it would be better to have light flooring, such as cream carpet, light wooden floorboards, etc., as a dark floor would make the sofa appear less visible.
But don't let that put you off!
If you have dark floor already, you can make your dark sofa pop by choosing one with wooden legs, etc. to create visual space.
Or, you can even buy a beautiful, light-coloured rug for your sofa to perch on.
The Burlington Grand Leather Sofa in Vintage Chestnut
Walls
If you like your space to feel bright and airy, you might want to rethink buying a dark sofa if you have dark walls.
Sometimes, dark walls can close in the room, especially if there isn’t enough lighting, so adding a dark sofa might make the room look a bit gloomy.
Neutral coloured walls go well with dark sofas, as the sofa will stand out against the walls. However, dark walls and dark sofas could work in a well-lit and spacious room and with the right accessories.
Accessories
A great way to make your dark sofa look even more visually appealing is by adding some coloured cushions or throws. It provides an eclectic and contrasting look, and will make the room appear brighter.
As well as cushions, some eye-catching pictures on the wall will break up the dark space between your dark sofa and walls, and bring extra light.
Location
Dark sofas are better placed away from sunlight, as it can discolour over time. So if it isn’t going to be situated in front of a window, it’ll be just fine.
Design Styles for Light Sofas
Anybody going for an open and breezy look will find that a light-coloured sofa is perfect.
However, purchasing one with washable slipcovers will keep it looking fresh, as marks and stains are more visible on lighter surfaces, especially in a well-lit living room.
But, the best thing is that there are endless design possibilities with light sofas!
The Charlotte 4-Seater in Kingston Natural
Flooring
If you have light-coloured flooring and love to change up your decor now and again, a light sofa might work in your favour. It provides more scope for other design styles, such as coloured accessories, etc.
After all, it is better to experiment with different palettes so you can redesign the room without having to change the sofa.
However, a dark floor will let a light sofa take centre stage!
The Regent Leather Highback Chair and 3-Seater in Antique Gold
Walls
If you are seeking a minimalist look, a light sofa would look great against neutral hued walls, such as white, cream, nude, etc. It will keep the room looking spacious and fresh.
But don’t worry if you’re not a fan of neutral walls, because dark walls would look great too, as it’d give the room more visual depth whilst still providing an open look.
The Marino 4-Seater in Softgrain White
Accessories
Now, the best part about a light sofa is that you can pair it with all types of accessories, as it works like a blank slate.
Whether it be orange, purple, red or blue accessories, anything will go, as long as it complements your wall decor.
It’s also a great way to jazz up your light sofa and make it look like an art piece.
Location
Light sofas can be located anywhere in the room, as long as it's in a place where it won't get dirty too easily.
Whilst it’ll stand out in any location due to its bright tone, some sunlight will make it glow in your room - just make sure it’s clean.
How to Pick Between a Light Sofa and Dark Sofa
So, remember: when choosing between a light sofa and dark sofa, think about care instructions, how it will complement the design of your home, what you are likely to be doing on the sofa, and where in the room you want it to go!
