While we enjoyed searching the internet for the best reclining sections, interior designer Betsy Helmuth highly recommends trying them out in person if possible. “Even if you can return it, it’s bulky and super inconvenient,” says Helmuth, referring to those who simply buy the sofa online without ever testing it.
It's even better if you can have multiple family members test the section, as people need different types of support. Whoever sits on the seating area should have a say in the final purchase. Helmuth says she and her husband had different views on the designs they tried when she purchased her piece of furniture. “All decision makers whose well-being you care about should be aware of these things and have their say [with their opinions]”, she advises.
Colors and Styling: As with any sofa set you would purchase for your home, the design is crucial to ensure it fits well into your space. Goerzen recommends placing pillows in the corners or adding a decorative throw blanket. You can even experiment with the color of the piece, from a rusty orange tone to olive green to trendy neutrals. “I would choose a color scheme that reflects your style palette with the rest of your home,” says Goerzen. “There are lots of great options, from bolder to bolder.” [hues like dark green and navy] too neutral [shades] to trendy weaves.
Design and fabric: When it comes to the fabric of the piece, look for sleek, tailored padding to minimize the bulky silhouette. “I usually recommend people choose a softer fabric like chenille, maybe even something with a texture, instead of leather,” says Goerzen. “I think the leather can have a more dated aesthetic.” However, it is still possible to have an elegant leather sofa in your home. Focus on the silhouette to maintain elegance. Also, don't neglect the appearance of the attachment's arms: slimmer ones are your friend. “Something about the roll arm combined with the reclining section feels heavier and somehow blockier at home. [whereas] In my opinion, it's the clean lines that really enhance the appearance [of a sectional]“says Görzen.