.}

Monday, February 13, 2012

Sectional Sofas

For more inspirational finds, please visit www.quatrefoildesign.com

Thank you to my wonderful readers for commenting on this post with both your insights and your geographic location!  The 6th graders were amazed that my blog reaches people all over the world, and were inspired by the support and encouragement of the design blog community. 


There are still so many furniture needs in the new house, but one area that I am particularly anxious to get in order is the kids playroom.  For months, the only thing in the room was a hand-me-down sofa from the 80s (although it has good bones – it is a Baker sofa with down cushions).  Just before Christmas, we finally got a rug for the room, a custom sized sisal.  I am always amazed at way in which a rug makes a room feel so much more finished! However, the addition of the rug also served to emphasize the need for a coffee table and a proper seating arrangement.

Given that my kids are beyond the small plastic furniture stage, the ‘playroom’ is really more of a ‘hang out room’.  For this reason, I am seriously considering a sectional as the main piece of furniture in this room – something that will be comfortable for relaxing, watching TV, reading a book, lounging.  Many of the sectionals on the market right now are extremely deep – my preference is for one that is comfortable but not too deep. I don’t want a party pit!

For some reason, people have mixed feelings when it comes to sectionals.  When doing research for this post, there seemed to be a small sense of embarrassment or shame in the purchase of a sectional, and many blamed their husband for ‘insisting’ on a sectional, like it was a choice of function over aesthetics.  I find this to be interesting, because there are many spaces where a sectional is a natural and attractive choice.

I saw this sectional at Pottery Barn, and thought it was very comfortable.  For me, it is important to be able to actually sit in an upholstery candidate before buying.  So many sectionals are very, very deep – which doesn’t work very well for short people like me (and my kids!).

This is exactly how I imagine my kids using the sectional, and I think this is a great looking sectional – it can practically be used as a bed!  I like that one end is open, without an arm.  The other end can’t be seen; I wonder if it has an arm? Image via Coastal Living.

Sarah Richardson used a cream sectional with dark feet and tailored lines in one of her room designs.  Many of the pictures of sectionals that I found placed them in tight spaces.

Sarah Richardson again – sectionals seems a natural fit for rooms where a seating arrangement in the corner is the best use of space.

On Mrs. Howard Personal Shopper, a recent project by Phoebe Howard was featured with a sectional as the key upholstery item.

Via Houzz.com

A custom sectional in a room designed by Atelier AM graced the pages of Veranda in March 2010.  This room certainly did not have space constraints, so a sectional is an interesting choice, and creates a beautiful and unique look to the room.  There definitely seems to be a preference among designers for the exposed wood feet on the sectional, as opposed to skirted.

A sectional looks fabulous in this room – love the pillows.  Via Decorpad, picture attributed to Brooke Giannetti.

Annie Selke’s house renovation, featured as a series in House Beautiful, incorporated a sectional  specifically because it is perfect for curling up on and watching TV.  The cheerful and haphazard arrangement of pillows are what makes this space so appealing to me.

Sheryl Crow has a tufted sectional, as seen in Architectural Digest. Again, the exposed wood feet gives the sectional more modern and clean lines.

A sectional recently graced the pages of Elle Décor.

The sectional in this room looks incredibly comfortable and inviting, both because of the design and choice of fabric, a  plush velvet.  Sectionals seems to lend an immediate sense of ease to a room.

 
Another silk velvet sectional, seen in an old Elle Décor, image source.

My search for images of sectionals yielded several results in the now defunct Metropolitan Home – perhaps because a sectional speaks to a contemporary and at times retro look.

This sectional, via House Beautiful, really fills this room and provides ample seating, in many ways reminding me of a banquette.

Vincente Wolf used a sectional in this room – it is perfect for the space.  Via House Beautiful.

Eric Cohler used a sectional to make this room family friendly and comfortable. Something about a section speaks to comfort, it seems!  Via House Beautiful.

The caption notes that this sectional is from Room and Board. My husband and I recently made a trip there to look at their sectionals, and found them to be very comfortable.

A Nancy Corzine designed room – this sectional is skirted.

In another Nancy Corzine designed room, this sectional has wood feet and is clearly used in formal living room.  I flipped through Corzine’s book, Glamour at Home, and noted that she uses sectionals frequently in her designs, and has some lovely sectionals in her furniture line.

Sectionals are often placed in a corner, perhaps to open up the room or to accommodate for tricky architecture and/or tight spaces.  Via Trad Home.

A slipcovered sectional is a bright and happy choice for this Rosemary Beach house with interiors by Jenny Johnston, via Cote de Texas.  I really love the look and feel of this room.  My husband is tired of all the white and cream and tan sofas that we have in the house, but they are so versatile – plus, since you can wash the slipcover, it adds a somewhat practical element!

Blogger Scandanavian Chic replaced her old sofa with a sectional when her husband requested a family friendly space.  It looks beautiful, and the collection of cheerful pillows are just the right touch.

Coastal Living.  Although I don’t think I have the space for this configuration, I love the comfortable look and somewhat circular design.  It looks very inviting – and I think it is the pillows contribute to this feel!

So, readers, do you have any input or perspective for me?  I realize that sectionals are unforgiving when it comes to furniture arrangement – they are what they are, they have a large footprint, and don’t have much flexibility. And yet, for a kids den/upstairs playroom, I think a sectional might just be the ideal choice, and would provide an interesting look that would be great for the room.

In particular, I am interesting in hearing about any sectionals styles that I should consider, or any stories (good or bad) about your experience with sectionals.


Things That Inspire Favorites: Cape Cod Metal Polishing Cloths

Things That Inspire Favorites: Oz Naturals Vitamin C Serum

Things That Inspire Favorites: Thera Breath Oral Rinse







QD collage

To subscribe to my blog by email, click here. 
To follow my blog on Facebook, click here. 
Twitter: @TTIBlog 
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/ttiblog/ 
Visit my online store, Quatrefoil Designwww.quatrefoildesign.com 
To see design, architecture, art, and decorative books that I recommend, please visit the Things That Inspire Amazon store. 

239 comments:

  1. Well my mind has certainly been changed about sectionals...love the Sarah Richardson room and Cheryl Crow's tufted sectional is fabulous!! Can't wait to see what you find...

    ReplyDelete
  2. There is an exception to (almost)every rule! You definitely have showcased some great use of sectionals and for a playroom I think that could be perfect especially when their friends come over!

    ReplyDelete
  3. I am a sectional fan! My favorites are from Mitchell Gold - the Charlotte and the Clifton.

    ReplyDelete
  4. A sectional seems like the perfect solution for a space for tweens and teens. I think you have girls? So perfect for a group of girls. Have you thought about the configuration? There are lots of options with sectionals - left arm, right arm, wedge, the list goes on. It's all based on how much space you have, the design of the room, and where you want the sectional to open.

    ReplyDelete
  5. No sectional shame here! We use them pretty regularly, particularly in recreational/kids areas like the one you are describing in your home. The slipcovered #C3972 series from Lee is a favorite of ours.

    ReplyDelete
  6. I just tested one at the Ballard Design store and found it very comfortable - I'm 5'4".

    ReplyDelete
  7. I love sectionals! Hopefully we will get one when we move into our next home. I think the couch/chaise sectional is really popular for smaller spaces.

    ReplyDelete
  8. Hi 6th grade class! Checking in from Houston, TX. Have a great day! - Maria

    ReplyDelete
  9. Holly, always look forward to your posts...I learn so much! Have fun with your presentation...I know it will be great! Susan (Georgia)

    ReplyDelete
  10. i'm a blogger too {baking!} and i love your design blog-

    i live in the ny metropolitan area- west orange, nj.

    ReplyDelete
  11. I'm from Severna Park, Maryland, just outside of Annapolis. A great boating town with lots of history. We love to eat Maryland blue crabs with Old Bay seasoning! -Melissa

    ReplyDelete
  12. Newnan, Georgia (30 miles southwest of Atlanta)

    ReplyDelete
  13. Hi 6th grade class! Things That Inspire blog was the first blog I read- thanks to my sister in Virginia who forwarded to me Mrs. Street's blog about French styled houses in my neighborhood in Buckhead. I now read some 50 blogs thanks to my introduction to the blogging world. Enjoy learning about blogs. BOB in Buckhead

    ReplyDelete
  14. Lucky 6th graders! I would love to come to the blogging presentation!

    Barbara from Connecticut

    ReplyDelete
  15. Another reader from Mountain Brook, Alabama.

    ReplyDelete
  16. Julia from Bloomington Illinois! Great post! We are looking for a small sofa/chaise for our small home.

    ReplyDelete
  17. This is a timely post. I always find it interesting when I read "sectional shame" comments on blogs. It just doesn't make any sense to me because there are countless images of fabulous rooms that are fabulous because a sectional was the perfect seating. I am considering a sectional for the second living/TV room in our small 50's ranch, but just can't seem to pull the trigger. Finding just the right size with the right configuration is harder than I thought it would be. Speaking honestly, I do have to say that I just don't understand the pieces that have a really short side, like the first photo. I don't see how many people that could realistically fit sitting comfortably. Thanks for the lovely inspiration photos!

    ReplyDelete
  18. I love rearranging a room and sectionals don't lend them to redesign whims because of their size, but I remember the sectional my parents had in our childhood home, and I loved it. Definitely great for hanging out and I think a perfect solution for a playroom. Thanks for sharing so many beautiful images. Oh, and I'm in Upstate NY.

    ReplyDelete
  19. New York, NY here! We were a little embarrassed about getting a sectional, but we love it. We live in a smallish apartment, and it's easier for us all to lounge and snuggle together while watching movies or TV. We did have to buy our cat Softpaws, though, because she didn't seem to mark up our old sofa, and she started to do some damage to this one immediately! They did help a lot, though.

    ReplyDelete
  20. Great blog entry...especially since I was recently considering a sectional for our playroom/"hang out" room for our 3 teenagers. I decided against using one, for the exact reason you gave...it does not give flexibility in furniture arrangement. In less than 6 years, all three of our children will be away at college, etc. and I may want the flexibility. I purchased the Pottery Barn Comfort Sleeper sofa...very comfortable, deep but not too deep, and gives sleeping space for teenagers (especially next year if my oldest wants to bring home college friends.)

    ReplyDelete
  21. Hello from Gulf Breeze, Fl. I love your blog!

    ReplyDelete
  22. Hi 6th grade class from Chicago, IL
    Sectionals are so warm and cozy, I love them for the "hang out" rooms!!!

    ReplyDelete
  23. Hello from Milwaukee, Wisconsin

    ReplyDelete
  24. In my tiny apartment in Oxford, Mississippi, I have a white leather sectional with matching ottoman that is tres chic. Getting some fluffy Mongolian lamb pillows soon....

    ReplyDelete
  25. I think a comfy sectional is perfect whether the decor is traditional or contemporary.

    Great images Holly!

    xoxo
    Karena
    Art by Karena

    ReplyDelete
  26. Great timing... I am working on a few sectionals for clients right now... thanks for all the great inspiration!

    ReplyDelete
  27. I have been subscribing to this blog for a little over a year now and live in a suburb of Washington, DC: Alexandria, Virginia. I look forward to receiving updates in my inbox and thoroughly enjoy the blog. Cheers!

    ReplyDelete
  28. To the 6th graders,
    Enjoy your presentation. I'm sure it will be great.
    Laval, Quebec, Canada

    ReplyDelete
  29. Hello 6th graders! I am on Nantucket Island, Massachusetts - 30 miles off the coast.

    I like the Lee sectionals - with white slipcovers that can be washed and decorated with throw pillows in colors/prints that can be changed with the seasons or at whim...

    Have a great day with the class.. wish I could hear all about blogging!

    ReplyDelete
  30. from nashville, tn.....always enjoy your post as they are thought provoking & well researched. we have a sectional at our lake house & it's where everyone gathers. ours has one long chase end (seems to be a little wider on the chase than most which we love). it was expensive but we have definitely gotten our money's worth. the bottom comes in two separate cushions (one for chase, one for seat of sofa) firm but still extremely comfortable. i think it will be perfect in your kids hang out room.

    ReplyDelete
  31. Enjoyed the post very much- sectionals are tricky but so beautiful if used well. I prefer the skirted ones myself.

    Hello to the sixth graders from Huntsville, Alabama; home of the Marshall Space Flight Center!

    ReplyDelete
  32. Hello from Henderson, KY. This is my favorite blog . . . . a great way to start my week!

    ReplyDelete
  33. I love reading this blog via Nashville.

    ReplyDelete
  34. Love all the photos of sectional options. Gorgeous, each and every room featured. Thank you.
    Donna
    Athens, GA

    ReplyDelete
  35. Good morning from Salem, MA.

    Our clients tend to have a love/hate relationship with their sectional sofas. We have had those who have been very specific. NO sectionals! Too big, clunky, no flexibility, etc. Then there are those who love them for their implied louginess and comfort. It is interesting to note that those clients do not expect to move or rearrange the furniture in that room. We specify them more in rooms with TV's and fireplaces or what is now a fairly typical TV over fireplace arrangement. We now have several clients who have called us after they purchased a sectional and then realized, for variety of reasons, that it was a mistake and were hoping we could help them "fix" their problem...

    Sectionals are a "build the room around them" kind of furniture. You have to be careful as to their placement and scale because they are such a dominant element in a room. Careful consideration needs to be given to the intended use of the room, circulation, access to windows, room flexibility, etc. From personal experience, I have noticed that depending on the size of the sectional and the furniture grouping associated with the sectional, they may not be conducive to comfortable conversation, placing people too far apart and creating awkward sight lines so that it is difficult for people to make and maintain eye contact during conversation.

    Cheers,
    John

    ReplyDelete
  36. You are such an inspiration to me! Keep up the good work. Just so happens I'm in the market for a sectional, so this post was extremely timely and helpful.

    Carol
    St. Paul, Minnesota

    ReplyDelete
  37. Of all the blogs I read I absolutely enjoy yours the most. Thanks for taking the time to share your talents.
    Pat
    LaGrange, Ga.

    ReplyDelete
  38. I have always thought sectionals are just the thing for a kids hang out room but what was really "inspiring" was seeing all of the sectionals used in more formal settings. Great post!
    -Heather from Charlotte, NC

    ReplyDelete
  39. Hi Holly!
    I've been reading your blog for a while and I really, really enjoy it. What a great collection of sectional photos - many of those you selected are my favorites as well. Thanks for your thorough research - i know it takes a lot of time to pull together your great posts!
    - Bronwyn from Charlotte, NC

    ReplyDelete
  40. Really enjoy your blog -
    Charlotte NC

    ReplyDelete
  41. From Darien CT
    We looked at many of the same inspiration pictures you have posted here when looking for our sectional. We ended up with the Lee 3973. Initially we were going to go with the slipcovered version (3972) but were not keen on the effort needed to wash all of those slipcovered cushions. We used one of the Lee sunbrella velvet fabrics - so far we are thrilled. Here is a pretty skirted sectional that I just came across on another blog post:
    http://blog.stirlingdesignassociates.com/inspiration/when-design-is-inspired/

    Cheers! Karen

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Always enjoy your posts...a reader from Houston, Texas!

      Delete
  42. Hi,
    Love your blog and read it regularly.

    I'm a resident of Rhode Island- the smallest state in the USA

    Keep up your great ideas and sharing.

    Susan

    ReplyDelete
  43. We stayed at a beach house that had one. 8 adults fit on it, but we weren't facing each other, so it wasn't very conducive to talking. We ended up bringing in the dining room chairs so we could sit in a circle and visit.

    ReplyDelete
  44. Hi Holly,
    I live in Hong Kong and have been reading your blog for a year now. Really enjoying it. Thank you!

    Wynne from the USA, but living in Hong Kong

    ReplyDelete
  45. Hello from the Chicago area.
    We just bought a sectional two weeks ago for a hang out in our basement for my daughter (17) and her friends.... We all love it! She actually requested a sectional when we were talking about sprucing the space up. She is into style and Houzz and Pinterest and really wanted a sectional. She also suggested the sectional from Ikea. I rejected that idea at first, not wanting a slipcover to deal with and I bought a nice, practical colored sectional from Carsons, with free delivery. Turns out sectionals can be a real challenge to fit through doorways and into tight spaces. The sectional from Carsons had to be returned after a valiant effort on their part to fit it down the stairs and around a corner. So I ventured on over to Ikea after reading reviews about their sofas and bought the Ektorp sectional. It comes in three pieces and sets up easily in about an
    hour. They delivered it the same day I bought it! It looks just like the sofa in your first photo above and costs about a third
    the price. There are lots of slip cover color options and even more available online from other companies, so if the white
    linen looking color we chose gets soiled, we can replace the whole thing! It is very comfortable and we all love it. I would
    highly recommend it to anyone looking for a sturdy, reasonable, practical and comfortable sectional.
    Your photos have inspired me to go shopping for some interesting pillows!









    very comfortable, and the kids all approve!

    ReplyDelete
  46. Sorry about the weird spacing above.... Grrrr... Typing on an ipad.....

    ReplyDelete
  47. I love your blog! (Jill from Washington, DC) :)

    ReplyDelete
  48. I enjoy reading your blog in Greenville, SC!

    ReplyDelete
  49. Good morning from Fairfax, Virginia. Loved your post today. I am a big fan of sectionals in the right room. Why ignore what works just because it's not the latest style? The main comment that I hear from sectional owners is to make sure that the back cushions are firm enough. Thank you for a wonderful blog.

    ReplyDelete
  50. Good morning Grade 6's...
    I live on vancouver island British columbia
    canada

    ReplyDelete
  51. Love your blog and follow it faithfully from Birmigham...Sweet Home Alabama

    ReplyDelete
  52. Hello from Charlotte, NC. We have enjoyed our sectional for years and I think it also looks good in the space. Thank you for the great photos.

    ReplyDelete
  53. I too am in the market for a sectional (*I think*) for our hang-out room. Have kiddos that are graduating from a playroom to a hang-out friends room. A corner sectional seems to make the most sense for our space. I've looked at most everything on the market (including trade sources) and Restoration Hardware seems to the front runner for me. I agree about depth, which is why I would go with the 40' depth versus their luxe depth. I understand that I am very much designing a sofa for the space, and will not have much flexibility. But, if the room doesn't maximize seating and have a cozy layout then we won't use it for its intended purpose anyway. How's that for justification?! :)

    6th graders - checking in from the great state of Oklahoma!

    ReplyDelete
  54. Good morning from Santa Cruz, California! I like the idea of a sectional but I agree that one that is not too deep is essential--especially for kids as their legs generally aren't as long as adult legs yet. I also think the exposed legs lend a cleaner look versus the skirting and perhaps will make it easier when things get pushed under the couch to find :)

    ReplyDelete
  55. Have enjoyed your blog for a few years now. Thanks!
    Lancaster, Pennsylvania

    ReplyDelete
  56. Hello from Austin, Texas. I live in a big state and our family loves big sofas! The reason is that we need sectionals at our lake house for all nine grandchildren that are under eleven years old!
    Hope all of you 6th graders have a place to curl up and read and watch tv too!
    Happy Learning,

    ReplyDelete
  57. I am in Monroe, Louisiana. I lived in Atlanta for almost 20 years so I really love your posts as it makes me feel like I am in touch with what is going on there in the design community. I have suggested sectionals for many clients and think its a great option for a family room as well as a children's playroom!

    ReplyDelete
  58. Love this website. It has been the inspiration for many of the renovations in my home. Rockville, Maryland.

    ReplyDelete
  59. I had a totally practical reason for a sectional in our basement family room. Nothing else would fit down the enclosed, curved stairway! Even the larger part of the sectional was touch and go! But I now have a wonderful red leather sofa downstairs - something I thought I would never own and everyone comments on how great the room looks.

    North Bethesda, Maryland

    ReplyDelete
  60. Hello from Middleton, Wisconsin.
    About sectionals: Consider looking at www.RoomandBoard.com for very well made and reasonably priced sectionals. (Everything else they have is pretty great too!)

    ReplyDelete
  61. I can sort of unsterstand why some people loathe sectionals (they are big, blocky, often clumsy and for better or worse, scream "mass market"), but that being said, I have loved my Hickory Chair Lawson sectional. It has ovely English-turn, turned legs, down wrapped foam cushions (so it stays firm, never looks sloppy or mushy), but that is my design aesthetic. I would never want one in my living room because I find the look too casual (mine is in my smallish family room). Honestly if I had a huge family room, I'd opt for two sofas or one sofa and multiple comfy chairs. But I think there are a plethora of good choices these days: I'd look at Hickory Chair, Mitchell Gold or Room and Board.

    ReplyDelete
  62. Hello, ThingsThatInspire, from Hudson, Ohio!

    I think the idea of a sectional in a den is spot-on - perhaps because I'm looking for one right now, too. I've been on the hunt for a leather Chesterfield corner sofa for many months. Although, given that we have children and dogs, anything with a slipcover sounds good as well.

    ReplyDelete
  63. Love your blog - miss seeing you everyday! Dallas, Texas

    ReplyDelete
  64. Love this blog- it's the only one I subscribe to! Bethany - Fox Island, WA

    ReplyDelete
  65. Long time reader. Love your blog! Sarah from Boca Grande, FL

    ReplyDelete
  66. Hi -- I am a new reader i a Francisco ad love your blog! I would appreciate it if you'd post the comments you share with the 6th grader about blogging, will be very iterested in what you share!

    ReplyDelete
  67. Hello from Reno NV. I had a sectional in our old house and loved it. As we build our new home I am looking for another one. There is something so cozy about them.

    ReplyDelete
  68. Hello 6th graders...enjoy reading your blog from Wilmington, NC!

    ReplyDelete
  69. Hi from Geneva, Switzerland ! - always enjoy reading your blog! Louise.

    ReplyDelete
  70. thanks for sharing.. love reading your blog, shay from kenilworth, IL

    ReplyDelete
  71. Sorry, boring Buckhead! But I forward it to lots of friends!

    ReplyDelete
  72. We have the same PB sectional that you are considering. We purchased it over 6 years ago and it has survived a move to another state, countless movie nights, sleepovers and piles of kids on a weekly basis. It still looks great! My kids are ages 16 and 13 (boy & girl) and the scale has been perfect for their varying sizes. I chose the chocolate brown velvet as it hides a multitude of stains, but that said, we don't eat anything (at least I try to enforce) but popcorn in that room...
    Everyone fights for that corner spot!

    best,
    serena
    SF

    ReplyDelete
  73. I used a Room & Board sectional with a sleeper in a playroom recently and the husband has commandeered the room because he loves to watch football there! Very comfortable and not too deep. Sectional are great!
    Walnut Creek, CA

    ReplyDelete
  74. Hello from sunny but cold Colts Neck, New Jersey! Love the blog!
    Have a blessed day! Lillian Amplo

    ReplyDelete
  75. Good Morning 6th Graders from Park Ridge (Chicago), IL.

    Love your blog Holly - took the renovation journey alongside yours over these last couple years. Always inspiring!

    ReplyDelete
  76. Hello from Germantown, Tennessee, where we are expecting snow or freezing rain on the day before Valentine's Day! Itis a perfect day to read about cozy sectionals!

    ReplyDelete
  77. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  78. Hello from sunny but cold day in Ayr, Ontario. A winter with hardly any snow.
    I always enjoy your blog and the especially today's showing all the wonderful pics of sectional sofas.
    Like the one in the bedroom with the bunk beds..great ideas.

    ReplyDelete
  79. When I look at my e mails in the morning, yours is usually the first one I open. We have recently moved from Germany to Northern California and everything is still new and different to me here. Shopping for Furniture was certainly easier in the old Country. Thank you for your inspiring blogs!

    ReplyDelete
  80. I love to read your blog! I am in Charlotte, NC

    ReplyDelete
  81. Hello from Calgary, Alberta Canada
    just so happens I am doing a presentation this afternoon with a client using a sectional. I'm using the Daphne Sectional from Lazboy, nice deep seat... they also want a chaise.
    For a coffee table, I have room for 2 so I used the Kincaid American Journal CT and a Lazboy Cory Storage Ottoman... It will be a great place for my clients to watch TV for years to come...

    ReplyDelete
  82. ATLANTA GEORGIA
    I used to HATE sectionals... I owned one for many many years and it just seemed to dictate the whole room setup... but now with the new look and designs and I think my tastes have softened, I love these... thanks so much for sharing these great images.
    HELLO TO THE WHOLE 6th GRADE!

    ReplyDelete
  83. Hello from Dimondale, Michigan - near the state's capital Lansing.

    ReplyDelete
  84. Hello form Montgomery, AL.
    I am not usually fond of sectionals but these are beautiful.
    Thank you for sharing and happy Monday.
    Teresa
    xoxo

    ReplyDelete
  85. Greetings from Waltham, Minnesota located in the southeastern section of the state. I enjoy this post because it gets me thinking about things in my surroundings that I might not ordinarily consider. Thanks for keeping my creative juices from going stale.

    Julie
    Waltham, MN

    ReplyDelete
  86. Greetings from Waltham, Minnesota located in the southeastern section of the state. I enjoy this post because it gets me thinking about things in my surroundings that I might not ordinarily consider. Thanks for keeping my creative juices from going stale.

    Julie
    Waltham, MN

    ReplyDelete
  87. Great info once again--I simply love your blog!

    ReplyDelete
  88. Hello, I live in San Diego and love reading your blog! Thank you!

    ReplyDelete
  89. One of my favorite places in the world is the corner of my sectional, especially when I'm surrounded by my Honey and kids. There's no better place to watch a movie!

    ReplyDelete
  90. Hello from St. Louis, Missouri. Your blog is a huge inspiration for me, as i contemplate renovating my kitchen. Your detailed posts on countertops (i'm going with marble) and the hundred and one decisions that must be made are incredibly helpful.

    ReplyDelete
  91. I like a sectional in certain rooms and I think your playroom is the perfect spot for a sectional. However I like a deep seat for an area like yours, simply because let's face it, how many people SIT on a sofa in a playroom or TV room. In our home our Family room sofa is used as a bed someone is always lying down on it, it is very rarely sat on.So for that very reason my next sofa will have a deep seat cushion. I am writing to you from,The Bay Area in California!!
    Kathysue

    ReplyDelete
  92. Love your blog. It is inspirational and so motivating to create a beautiful space to live in. I live in Annapolis Maryland on the beautiful Chesapeake Bay.

    ReplyDelete
  93. Hello 6th grade class from Louisville, CO. Love that you are learning about the fast growing medium of blogging. Makes a large world small!

    ReplyDelete
  94. A big 'HI' from Zoe in Sheffield, Yorkshire. England

    ReplyDelete
  95. I'm from Niskayuna, NY, a little town near Albany. Good luck on your presentation and try not to be nervous, sixth graders can smell fear.

    ReplyDelete
  96. Hi from Zara, Braintree, Massachusetts

    ReplyDelete
  97. I think one of the most important factors in considering a sectional is space. I've seen them crammed into small homes where they had no business being. When you buy one, you have to consider if it will fit into your next home if there is a chance of moving. And hello to the sixth graders from Fort Worth, Texas.

    ReplyDelete
  98. Hello from Sacramento California. We love the blog. It makes the morning tea taste better!

    ReplyDelete
  99. Blessings from Ashland, Oregon! Love your blog!

    ReplyDelete
  100. I went with a European sectional from IQMatics because the footprint is smaller with European furniture. It was hard to find, but they are out there. It also has storage (!), and a bed (though one friend did not find the bed comfortable). I wanted a sectional with a back on both sides, so that two or three people could sit at 90 degree angles. My sectional has a back running fully down one side, and the back runs partially down the other side.

    The shape and size is perfect for my small condo, however I never thought to question the shiny "chrome" feet, and they are not chrome, they are plastic. However, no one knows the difference.

    Greetings from CT!

    ReplyDelete
  101. Hello to all those wonderful six graders!!! When the presentation is complete, talk with your parents about moving some of the furniture in the family room to make it more cmmfortable for both you and the rest of your family.

    I love the sectionals. I can see how they can be casual and/or elegant. I like that several people can sit on them and if the room is small you don't have to have additional chairs.

    ReplyDelete
  102. Macae, Brazil and previously Singapore!

    ReplyDelete
  103. Hi! Love your blog...

    Kisses from the midle of the Atlantic Ocean - Azores Islands!

    Pipinha

    ReplyDelete
  104. Good afternoon from Miami! I have two teenage boys, and after a recent whole renovation I converted their former playroom to a media/hangout room. I purchased a incredibly comfortable and versatile sectional from Cameron which is so well built. Although we have several guest rooms, I find that someone is always quite content to stretch out and sleep right where they've just watched a movie!

    ReplyDelete
  105. Nashville, Tn. I love the rooms you showed with sectionals, so if a sectional makes sense, go for it.

    ReplyDelete
  106. Good morning from Vancouver, Canada! Love love love this blog!

    ReplyDelete
  107. st. louis, MO! i wish we could do a sectional- our room is odd shaped with funny little corners, so a sectional would eat all the available floor space that separate chairs can squeeze into nicely.

    ReplyDelete
  108. Love your blog. I'm from State College, Pa but traveling home from a vacation in Key West. I love to have you along when I'm traveling.

    Cheers, Kate

    ReplyDelete
  109. Good morning. I'm reading this post while on a sailboat in Marsh Harbour, the Abacos (northern end of the Bahamas). We're here sailing the many cays (pronounced "keys") for the winter and then will return to the Outer Banks of North Carolina. I also read these posts when I'm working in Beijing, China

    I always read Things That Inspire for the inspiration it brings. This latest post is so relevant since I am renovating a townhouse in Norfolk, Virginia, which overlooks a major boating inlet to the Chesapeake Bay. Because the townhouse will have a relaxed feel, as well as space constraints, a sectional is the ideal choice for the living room with its view of the inlet.

    Thank you for all the pictures. I'll be keeping in this post in a file for future reference. And thank you for all of your inspirational pictures and posts! Camilla

    ReplyDelete
  110. This is a great collection of sectional designs and spans the gap from casual to very formal. I have used sectionals for many of my clients and they have all given the furniture great reviews. They love the elongated look of one piece of furniture, and the whole family can pile on for movie night, or a snuggle by the fire. I've had great results with Precedent for that "not so deep" feature. If you had tons of room, and didn't mind the depth, Century and Marge Carson have the luxurious curved sectionals that just swallow you up. But these certainly aren't practical for the kids game room.
    Hope all goes well with the presentation, and I hope some of the students are inspired by what you do! Sue Wright , Austin, TX

    ReplyDelete
  111. Hello from Houston, TX! Love, love the orange! I have been searching for ideas to update my kids playroom. They have outgrown the kid furniture and this look is Perfect! Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  112. We love our sectional couch from Pottery Barn. It helps to separate a room into a place to watch tv and a dining section. I have slip covers in different colors for the seasons. We all snuggle up as a family to watch a favorite program or a movie on Saturday night. It's a comfortable spot for a quiet read in front of the fireplace.

    ReplyDelete
  113. Hi students,
    It is very cold here today in Greenwich, Connecticut. We are about 35 minutes from the BIG APPLE..This is a great blog.
    Hope Daley

    ReplyDelete
  114. Many thanks from Sunset, SC.

    ReplyDelete
  115. I love your blog.

    Roanoke, Va

    ReplyDelete
  116. Hello from Montevideo, Uruguay where I am on vacation. I have so totally enjoyed viewing your home construction-- lots of effort but sooooo gorgeous!
    Raychel (from Washington, DC metro)

    ReplyDelete
  117. I so enjoy reading your blog. As a retail business owner, I find that your blog keeps me current on what is happening in the design world. Thank you from Fort Worth, Texas, Melinda, The House of Tuscany

    ReplyDelete
  118. Getting ready to recover my beloved sectional. Looking for a good fabric that will stand the test of time. Had Ralph Lauren Hewitt Herringbone on it but the new dye lots are too dark. Any suggestions?

    I live in San Diego, CA

    ReplyDelete
  119. We aged out of our sectional. We wore out the original fabric then two sets of slip covers. But the issue was age. As we aged and our friends aged it became harder and harder to get up, there being no armrests in the middle to push on. The depth didn't help either. Great for the kiddos and other youngsters. I commenting all the way from in-town Atlanta.

    ReplyDelete
  120. Great round up Holly - in fact I linked to it today in my Monday Meandering post. I had been wanting to do a post on this for awhile and you did the leg work for me!

    Love all of these images especially the Sheryl Crowe beauty. Not a leather one in sight - yay! Most clients want a leather sectional because of spills with kids etc. They look less massive in scale and much more cozier when done in a fabric as you have shown here. The one piece of advice I would give is not to get one with a chaise like in the last image - too difficult to figure out the coffee table and hard to get in and out. Have fun tomorrow at your presentation!

    ReplyDelete
  121. Woodbridge, Virginia

    ReplyDelete
  122. Hi 6th graders and Holly!!! I love this blog! We are almost finished building our new home in Nashville, Tennessee. It has been so interesting to read this during the process. It has been quite helpful and "inspiring" when faced with all of the unexpected decisions. I hope you and your family are enjoying your new home. By the way, Keith Arnold is one of my FAVORITE people of all time!!! He was one of my very best friends when I was young, and he has always been such a creative person! I am so glad you were able to work with him and experience what he has to offer. Thank you for inspiring all of us with your thoughts!

    ReplyDelete
  123. Although I don't have a sectional sofa in my home, rounded arms are a must for my family. Someone always wants to lie down to watch TV and rounded arms are just more comfortable. That's why I'd choose photo #1, the Pottery Barn sofa.

    (Potomac, MD)

    ReplyDelete
  124. Dear Students - Hello from Alexandria, VA! Your classmate's very stylish mother just taught me that sectional sofas can be beautiful!

    ReplyDelete
  125. You had me at Vincente Wolf! Hello from Ball Ground, GA. A place where the Cherokee Indians played a form of stick ball. Sadly they were driven out and left GA on the Trail of Tears.

    ReplyDelete
  126. Hello from New Hampshire! I tend to shy away from sectionals because of the fixed configuration...most of the time I would prefer the flexibility of individual seats ( one of the reasons that I NEVER use a loveseat) but when a tight corner is present, or unusual wall placement, open floor plan they are a great choice for maximum seating in a small, awkward space or to define a seating area. I especially like the ones with a chaise end piece to get extra seating or ottoman use without bulk. I also prefer no skirt, clean lines, tuxedo arm style similar to the one in the Sarah Richardson room and I LOVE the tufted number in Sheryl Crow's room!
    Cheers!
    Meredith

    ReplyDelete
  127. Hi from the Marietta Square! I have no sectional shame plus no one would buy a story that I let my husband talk me into something that had to do with our home decor! I believe that there are spaces that call for one and that is what I determined when working on my husbands home office. We have enjoyed it in there. It is a great place to read or just sit with plenty of room for everyone. It was what the room needed...it only took me 6 years to figure it out. I kept moving the sofa, chairs, the desk and I could not get it to gel as a comfortable room until the sectional came....at last we have a put together office space that is attractive and functional. I hope your space comes together with whatever pieces you choose! Best wishes.

    ReplyDelete
  128. Good Afternoon from *very sunny* Winnipeg in southern Manitoba, Canada.... Just about to take my doggie 'Coconut" (who we actually adopted from a humane society all the way over in Kauai, Hawaii in 2000) for his daily car ride. We go to our favourite drive-thru restaurant where Coconut is *hoping* they will give him a litle donut.....haha!! A BIG hello to the school kids!! Cheers, Valerie and Coconut xo

    ReplyDelete
  129. I learned a great deal from your post. Thank YOU! (Cincinnati, OH )

    ReplyDelete
  130. Hi! I love reading your blog! We were also building a house at the same time that you were. Glad that it is over!
    Thank you! (Little Rock, AR)

    ReplyDelete
  131. Great post! I think sectionals work best either in a very large space where they can be moved around, but better yet in a room where corner seating is the best arrangement. They are so inviting-- come and spend an evening with a good movie! I'm writing from Florida, but live in Minnesota.

    ReplyDelete
  132. Hello from Castro Valley, CA
    Good topic and interesting post! I like sectionals! Yes, they are hard to rearrange, but fun to use!
    Good luck with your presentation!
    Nina

    ReplyDelete
  133. Fabulous sectionals!
    I love reading your blog!
    Thanks!
    Grosse Pointe Shores, MI

    ReplyDelete
  134. Your posts are always instructive and full of lovely images.

    Sandra
    Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada

    ReplyDelete
  135. I look forward to your inspiring emails. It is one of the few I don't delete. I loved the last one all about entrance ways and stairs, and intend to do up our own area, taking little inspirations from these.

    Margaret
    Kapiti Coast,
    NEW ZEALAND

    ReplyDelete
  136. I so enjoy your blog! Good luck with the presentation, I also have a daughter in sixth grade!

    Susan Cheshire, Ct

    ReplyDelete
  137. I'm from Lexington, Missouri. Enjoy your blog; hate sectionals. Who wants to sit with a bunch of people on the same piece of furniture?

    ReplyDelete
  138. We love your blog in Spokane, Washington! Love your point of view.

    ReplyDelete
  139. I loved your images of sectionals in what looked like both formal and informal rooms. I have a few friends that have them in their family rooms and it makes such comfortable seating for guests.

    Commenting from sunny, Southern California (Irvine)
    karen

    ReplyDelete
  140. I'm from Los Angeles, CA.
    Kids would love a sectional in a play/game/hang out room. It's welcoming and not as fussy as an arrangement of chairs and couches and love seats etc. I would choose slip covers or leather, then there will be no worries about "Cheeto" fingers.

    ReplyDelete
  141. I'm from the Boston, Massachusetts area:) This is a great post. The more I see of sectionals, the more I like:) Thanks for showing such a wonderful range of styles!

    ReplyDelete
  142. Hello from POLAND! :)
    Magdalena

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Poland / country in Europe.... ;)

      Delete
  143. Hi from Australia and thanks for all the inspiration!

    ReplyDelete
  144. Good afternoon from Sonoma, California. Love your lovely posts, and your superb choices. Thanks for all your hard work! Kim

    ReplyDelete
  145. My favorite blog! Hello from Mercer Island, WA, (Seattle suburb)!!

    ReplyDelete
  146. Hello SIXTH GRADERS...I am reading this from the edge of the Ocean in Grand Cayman Island...normally I live in Freezing Portland Maine.

    ReplyDelete
  147. I've been a fan since the beginning, Salt Lake City,Utah

    ReplyDelete
  148. Owings Mills, Maryland here..... Loved this post!

    ReplyDelete
  149. Hello from Baltimore, Maryland! Great Blog!

    ReplyDelete
  150. Virginia says "hi - ya'al!" franki

    ReplyDelete
  151. Hello from South Carolina!
    love this blog!

    ReplyDelete
  152. It is fascinating to see where your readers are living! Hello from warm sunny Melbourne Australia.

    ReplyDelete
  153. Hello and enjoy these years, they really do go by quickly. Best to all from Tallahassee, Florida.

    ReplyDelete
  154. Hello from Syracuse, NY! How fun is this?! And what a marvelous lesson in the freedom and power of expression that we hold so dear. Hello 6th grade!
    I have never had a living room large enough to accommodate a sectional, but I've always wished for a really small scale sectional with maybe three pieces only. I really enjoy this blog - a fantastic effort that's appreciated worldwide!

    ReplyDelete
  155. Hey everyone!! Hope you are enjoying this:) You are in GREAT hands!!

    Holly, sectionals have come a long long way. They look better than ever, and we are going to be getting one for our kids "hangout space" Lee has a custom line that can be highly customized and the quality is really nice, ditto Hickory Chair. We are going to go for one of those lines. Good luck, as you have shown here, they can be functional and fabulous!

    ReplyDelete
  156. We have a sectional in the den and there is NO shame here. My boyfriend and I each take a side after dinner and watch tv...we love it! I am in Los Angeles, CA.

    ReplyDelete
  157. Holly, I LOVE the Rosemary Beach house by Jenny Johnston because it's MINE!!!! Thank you for your compliments. We love our house, and the sectional is the very best, most comfortable, practical piece of furniture we've ever bought. It's a Lee sofa. Love it! The fabric is Vintage Sugar by them.
    Leigh B.

    ReplyDelete
  158. I am Jaime from Chicago here! I've been a long time reader but I don't think I've ever commented. We have a sectional in our family room and it is one of the 3 sided that you said you might not have room for, though I can tell you that it fits nicely in our little room, I don't know that it's actually much bigger than a 2-sided since it only has 2 squares in the middle section. Good luck finding one that you love!

    ReplyDelete
  159. I love a nice comfy sectional - now to convince the husband ;) ...Robin from NJ

    ReplyDelete
  160. Hello from Boston, MA (just north of)! As with all your posts, I enjoyed the visuals and insights.

    ReplyDelete
  161. Hi Holly!

    What a nice surprise to see my project in Rosemary Beach shown here! I love secionals, especially in super cozy spaces like family rooms and playrooms. And a clean lined frame will definitely help in the "shame" department. I think Lee has some great ones and looks like Im in good company if Doug likes Lee C3972...that's what I used in RB.

    A couple of tips I have learned (some the hard way, unfortunately):

    **if the sectional is going upstairs, be sure that the individual pieces will fit and make any turns. Multiple pieces with frame clips will definitely help make any tight turns!

    ** if space allows, I think a sectional looks better with either one longer side, or a chaise at one end of both sides are equal length. My only reason for this is for maximum seating. A sectional with 2 equal sides unfortunately doesnt allow much knee room in the corner. But more than likely, lounging is what most people will use it for.

    BTW - I'm in Shreveport, LA

    -Jenny
    www.jennyjohnstoninteriors.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  162. Hello to all the 6th graders from Gayle in Melbourne, Australia. I also love anything to do with interiors....life's best lesson is to do what you love.

    ReplyDelete
  163. These are great samples of what one can do with a sectional. What I didn't see was a semi-circle sofa which is great for a crowd watching a movie or just hanging out. I have two friends that have them and they are a nice diversion from the angles of the room. Looking forward to seeing what you decide.

    All the best,
    Renae (north Atlanta Metro Canton)

    ReplyDelete
  164. Hi! I'm from Buenos Aires, Argentina. I've been following your blog for a long time. I read your posts about sinks several times! and finally I have a side by side farm sink look in my new -vintage- kitchen. Sorry if my English is not perfect. We speak Spanish here.
    Besos! (Kisses). Silvina.

    ReplyDelete
  165. Howdy from Greenville, SC.
    When we started making this house our home, a sectional seemed to be the best choice for our great room. Functionally and aesthetically (trying to fill it with several sofas or pairs of chairs seemed cluttered and disjointed). I tried very hard to find another solution, being somewhat anti-sectional myself, but now that we have it, I am sold. It looks great, we can pile folks on to watch a movie or for game night, and when its just the two of us, the chaise lounge on one end is practically a bed!

    ReplyDelete
  166. Enjoying your blog from warm and sunny PHoenix Arizona.

    ReplyDelete
  167. The sectionals are horrible. The bunk bed built ins are spectacular

    ReplyDelete
  168. Perfect for teens in a rec room! Richmond, VA

    ReplyDelete
  169. Greetings from Lake Mary, FL.
    Rebekah

    ReplyDelete
  170. Hello from Annapolis, Maryland. Enjoy your blog.

    ReplyDelete
  171. Hi from Winterset, Iowa.

    ReplyDelete
  172. Hello from Tallahassee, Florida!!!
    Happy Valentines Day!

    ReplyDelete
  173. Currently on the hunt for a sectional, so glad to have caught your great posting! Where, oh where did you find a sectional with an actual washable slipcover??? Exactly what I want... and would love to be able to buy an extra from the manufacturer. Many thanks -- Elizabeth

    ReplyDelete
  174. p.s. -- I'm in Raleigh, NC. Hello 6th graders! Elizabeth

    ReplyDelete
  175. Hello from Long Island, N Y. I stumbled on your website, with a google search for iron gates, and have added Thing that inspire to my favorites!

    ReplyDelete
  176. Hi 6th graders. I'm all the way down here in Sydney, Australia. I have a 6th grader too. Enjoy your lesson on blogging!

    Jennifer

    ReplyDelete
  177. I'm in the Missouri Ozarks.

    I have recently been thinking about sectionals as well. (They were previously taboo for me.) But there are a lot more choices now than there used to be too. Some of my favorite sectionals are those that are separate pieces so that the configuration is customizable. Lee Industries and Henredon have nice ones. Restoration Hardware also.

    Have fun sixth graders!

    ReplyDelete
  178. Hello from the Space Coast of Florida! I live in Merritt Island and I'm always so excited when an email arrives about a new posting. We just finished decorating my existing home for the first time (with the help and patience of my 1st and 5th grade girls), and we are planning to build one soon. I'm looking forward to continued inspirations from you! Thank you so much!

    Also, if you are ever in Orlando, you would enjoy touring the unique homes in Winter Park for more inspiration.

    Have fun in the classroom!
    Kim

    ReplyDelete
  179. Hi 6th Graders, I am from British Columbia, Canada.
    Just found your Blog Holly and love it! Enjoyed the selection of sectionals you chose.
    I will be checking back soon to follow your Blog.

    ReplyDelete
  180. Another fantastic entry...thank you! I'll be anxious to see how you decide to proceed.
    Best wishes from Reston, Virginia!
    cv

    ReplyDelete
  181. Greetings from Lynchburg, VA!

    ReplyDelete
  182. from St.Pete Beach, FL

    Love your blog....your information is always so helpful and entertaining. My thanks and have great fun with your six graders!

    ReplyDelete
  183. Hi, I too am looking for a sectional for our family room. You have given me lots of ideas....
    Best of luck from Montreal, Quebec, Canada!

    P.S. I love your blog!

    ReplyDelete
  184. Hello from Chicago(Evanston)!
    Good Luck tomorrow.

    ReplyDelete
  185. Hello from Augusta, GA

    ReplyDelete
  186. Greetings from Nashville, TN - love the house pictures from all over Atlanta - Here's to Spring!

    ReplyDelete
  187. Out here in cold NEBRASKA, where winters are long, our sectional gets lots of use in the (finished) family room in the basement. Sixth graders love it as do some even younger people, and a number of teenagers and college students. Definitely a gathering spot. The fireplace makes it even better on frosty nights.

    ReplyDelete
  188. Hello from Wilmington, NC.

    ReplyDelete
  189. We have a small den with a large 50" plasma so we had a small one custom made to fit our specific needs and love it! We put a blanket chest behind it to hold our snugly throws and pull it out for extra seating or as a coffee table. Good luck!
    The Woodlands, Texas

    ReplyDelete
  190. Hi from Basking Ridge,New Jersey! I'm considering a sectional for the kids space in the basement. My problem with getting one is the height. Most are about 37-40 inches tall and my basement door opening is only 32 inches wide! I can't imagine that I can get one down the stairs! Why are they so high? The look like The Starship Enterprise! If anyone knows of a low profile one, please let me know.I will shove it down the stairs :)

    ReplyDelete
  191. Fairhope, Alabama and Sandy Springs, Georgia
    I've never been a fan of sectionals and have never owned one. However, there is no question that there are many times when they are immensely practical.

    ReplyDelete

Thank you for your comments! I strive to make my blog positive in tone, and appreciate the same courtesy when comments are made. Thank you!

LinkWithin

Related Posts with Thumbnails