Buying a sofa

jonnygee2

I'm buying a new sofa, for the first time. My current one is a hand me down from my parents, it's okay - very well made but never that comfortable and a bit small for us. Also looking a bit old now (I'm going to guess it's getting towards 25 years old, maybe a bit more), although if that was the main issue I'd just restore it.

I want something that will last and be comfortable. Don't mind splashing out but don't want to spend money for no reason. I'd say I'd probably spend up to £1500 or so for a three seater (but that doesn't mean that's how much I want to spend - just what I would spend if it were necessary).

What's everyone's opinions on buying sofas? What's the ideal price point - to get something solid and well made (not something that will fall apart in ten years!) but also without going into 'expensive for the sake of it' territory . Where's a good place to buy from?  

Mutton_Geoff

I've owned two sofas in the last 20+ years. I only bought a new one because the old one was seriously out of fashion and recovering was expensive. Both were made by Michael Tyler. Very good quality.

[Deleted User]

Leather chesterfield will last you a lifetime and will never look dated. 

daveyjp

Once the shops open find yourself an independent furniture retailer and go and have a chat with them about what to look for.

Ask why one sofa can be £300 and another can be £3,000.

Petriix

Gumtree. Let other people buy expensive brand-new sofas then buy them second hand when those with more money than sense change their minds and sell them on at a fraction of the price.

neilmcl

My current sofa is from John Lewis and has lasted me very well in the 15+ years I've had it. It wasn't cheap but not particularly expensive either, I think around £600 but it's very solidly put together. It was made locally in Notts too, the home (at least was) of quality UK upholstery manufacture. 

Grenage

We bought our last sofa set from gumtree for £250 - they'd only had it six months.  No way I'd pay the going rate for some cheap pine and fabric.

jonnygee2

I think Michael Tyler might be out of budget? But John Lewis is definitely on the list, so good to have feedback.

Mutton_Geoff

Also have a look at www.sofasofa.co.uk - they are a UK manufacturer you buy direct from. Hardwood frames and decent quality. I bought several sofas and chairs from them to dress a couple of houses I sold. They turned out to be much better quality than I expected for the price and are still in use in our kitchen/diner and spare bedroom. No connection, just a happy customer.

jonnygee2

Also have a look at www.sofasofa.co.uk 

Oh wow thanks! Handcrafted, made with hardwood, still affordable...  exactly what I was looking for!

Thomas_Crown

Take a look at sofasbysaxon.com I bought a 3 seater sofa and a reclining chair from them and they are very good quality.