How to Arrange Sectional Sofa: Top Considerations

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Why Choose a Sectional For Your Living Room?

Sectionals are known for their ability to provide expansive seating while maintaining comfort and style. Their flexibility makes them suitable for various living spaces, from open-concept homes to smaller condos.

One of the biggest advantages of a sectional is its ability to maximize seating. Unlike traditional sofas, sectionals can comfortably seat more people, making them ideal for families or those who love entertaining. In smaller homes or apartments, an L-shaped sectional can utilize corner spaces more effectively than two separate sofas and chairs.

Sectionals are also an excellent tool for zoning in open-concept floor plans. In spaces where the living room blends into the dining or kitchen area, a sectional acts as a natural divider, creating defined areas without the need for walls or partitions.

To learn more about the comparison between Sofas and Sectionals, take a look at this article.

Picking Left or Right-Facing Sectionals

Selecting the right orientation for your sectional is key to ensuring it fits your space. The terms "left-facing" and "right-facing" refer to the position of the extended chaise when you are directly facing the sofa.

A left-facing sectional has the chaise on the left-hand side, while a right-facing sectional extends to the right. This detail significantly affects traffic flow and how your room functions. For example, in a space with a prominent entryway or a large window, you’ll want to choose the orientation that keeps pathways clear and makes the room feel open and inviting.

When making this decision, consider daily use. Do you want the sectional to face the television? Should it create a cozy nook for conversation? Or are you trying to maximize seating for entertaining? Each use case might require a different layout.

It is also important to think about traffic flow. Avoid blocking pathways or doors with the extended chaise. If possible, position the sectional to frame a focal point like a fireplace or large window.

Popular Sectional Configurations

Sectionals come in a variety of shapes and sizes, offering endless possibilities for your living room layout. Choosing the right configuration depends on your room’s size, shape, and how you plan to use the space.

1. L-Shape Sectional

One of the most common and versatile options, the L-shaped sectional fits well into corners or can float in larger open spaces. It provides ample seating while maintaining a streamlined look. This configuration works especially well in Ottawa homes with traditional living room layouts or open-concept designs.

2. U-shape

If you have a larger living room or a finished basement, the U-shape sectional is ideal. This design wraps around a central focal point, such as a coffee table or entertainment unit, creating an intimate seating area perfect for family gatherings or game nights.

3. Sectional with Chaise

The chaise sectional combines the structure of a sofa with the extended lounging space of a chaise. It’s perfect for smaller rooms or apartments, offering a spot to stretch out without taking up as much space as a full L- or U-shape.

4. Curved (Cuddler) Sectional

Curved sectionals are designed for conversation and connection. The gentle curve allows everyone seated to face one another, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This style is often used in more contemporary spaces or in rooms where the primary focus is socializing rather than TV viewing. 

Reclining vs Stationary: Which Fits Your Lifestyle?

When selecting a sectional, it’s important to consider how you plan to use the space. Some households prioritize lounging and relaxation, while others need a more structured seating arrangement for hosting guests. To learn more about the comparison between Stationary vs Reclining Furniture, take a look at this article.

Stationary Sectionals

For those who prioritize hosting or prefer a cleaner, more streamlined design, stationary sectionals like the Meyer or Collins are ideal. These options provide structured seating that’s perfect for conversation and entertaining.

Reclining Sectionals

If you envision movie nights, afternoon naps, or long hours of relaxation, a reclining sectional is an excellent choice. Models like the Maddox Sectional offer power reclining options, allowing you to adjust the headrest, back, and leg support at the touch of a button.

Contemporary Sectionals

For a balance between function and style, La-Z-Boy’s Duo Collection offers the look of a stationary piece with hidden reclining features. It’s a space-saving solution that works well in apartments or smaller living rooms.

The Edie Duo Reclining Sectional is currently the only duo furniture piece offered as a sectional, which you can learn about in this article.

Adding Functionality: Sleeper & Chaise Options

Sectionals aren’t just for sitting—they can double as beds, storage units, or multi-use spaces. Consider some of these options when selecting a sectional for your space. Also remember to Measure Your Space when choosing certain options, as they can play a factor into traffic flow and overall room.

Sleeper Sectionals are perfect for homeowners who frequently host overnight guests but don’t have a dedicated guest room. Models with built-in sleeper mechanisms transform your living room into a cozy sleeping area without compromising on comfort.

All La-Z-Boy sofa beds have these features. Read about the top 5 La-Z-Boy Sofa Beds

Sectional Arrangement FAQs: Design Tips & Expert Advice

Now that you’re aware of some of the tips and tricks on how to arrange a sectional, there are some frequently asked questions that some people have when looking for a sectional for their home. 

Luckily, La-Z-Boy Hunt Club interior designer, Michelle MacLellan has some answers to these popular questions…

What Size Rug Works Best Under a Sectional?

Choose a rug that extends at least 6 to 12 inches beyond the sectional’s edges. This anchors the seating area and makes the room feel larger. When in doubt, size up—a bigger rug helps unify the space.

To learn more about Selecting the Perfect Area Rug for Your Home, take a look at this article.

For more on choosing the right size rug, read this article on how to select the perfect area rug.

Is it Okay to put a Sofa in front of a Window?

Yes—but keep it low-profile. As long as the sectional’s back doesn’t block natural light or obstruct the view, it can work beautifully. In homes with limited wall space, this layout is often the most practical.

How do I know if my room can fit a sectional?

Use painter’s tape to map out the sectional’s footprint on your floor. This helps you visualize the size and flow before buying. Need help? La-Z-Boy also offers a free 3D room planning tool to perfect your layout, which you can use anytime, or with the help of an interior designer.

How do I choose the right focal point for my sectional?

Let your room’s star feature guide the layout—whether it’s a fireplace, a large window, or a TV. No natural focal point? Create one using a bold rug, eye-catching art, or a standout coffee table.

Can a sectional help define an open-concept space?

Absolutely. Floating a sectional in the middle of an open floor plan naturally divides spaces, like separating the living room from the dining area—no walls needed.

What if my sectional blocks high-traffic areas?

Opt for a modular sectional that can be reconfigured or select an L-shape over a bulkier U-shape. Always leave at least 24 to 36 inches of clearance for easy movement.

Should I use a coffee table or an ottoman with my sectional?

Both options work—it just depends on your needs. A coffee table offers a sturdy surface for decor, drinks, and added structure, making it ideal for more formal living spaces. 

On the other hand, an ottoman adds versatility, doubling as extra seating, a footrest, or a soft surface for trays, which makes it perfect for casual or family-friendly rooms. If you want flexibility and comfort, go with an ottoman. For a cleaner, more polished look, a coffee table is the better choice.

To learn more about La-Z-Boy’s Best Selling Ottomans, or Best Selling Coffee Tables, take a look at this article.

How do I balance decor around a large sectional?

Use tall plants, floor lamps, or wall art to add height and draw the eye upward. Layer in throw pillows, textured blankets, and an area rug to add depth—this keeps the room cozy without feeling cluttered.

To learn more about form Expert Designer Tips on Mixing and Matching Decor Around Furniture, take a look at this article.

What's Next?

And there you have it! With this newfound knowledge on how to arrange your sectional, you have what it takes to figure out which furniture piece will best suit your home!

Interested in seeing how La-Z-Boy sectionals fit in your space? You can start by checking out our complimentary design services to see how Mocha Mousse can work in your home. Working with an interior designer like Michelle can help relieve the stress of doing it yourself and make the process seem effortless. 

Visit us at any of our furniture stores in Ottawa, Gatineau or Kingston or book an online appointment to talk to a sales consultant if you have any questions or concerns. If you're interested in reading further about our La-Z-Boy Sectionals, check out this Sectional Buyer’s Guide.

Related links:

5 Best Selling La-Z-Boy Sectionals

How to Select the Perfect Area Rug

Custom Furniture at La-Z-Boy: What to Expect