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We Had Our Editors Test The Best Sofas for Small Spaces (That Still Look and Feel High-End)

Starting at $165

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Sydney Meister for PureWow

You say tomato, I say tom-ah-to; you say tiny, I say…charming. But let’s be real—shopping for a comfortable sofa when your living space is on the smaller side can feel like solving a puzzle (where none of the pieces quite fit). You want something that’s big enough to sprawl out on, but not so oversized it overwhelms your living room. And let’s not even get started on trying to maneuver a bulky couch through a narrow hallway or up three flights of stairs (been there, done that).

The good news? I’ve done the heavy lifting for you—literally. Our editors tested out a variety of options to find the best sofas for small spaces. I’m talking everything from TikTok-famous leather numbers, like the Article Sven loveseat, to a Crate & Barrel number that won the approval of a (very picky) designer. Whether you’re looking for a reversible sectional that can adapt to your layout or a bouclé upholstered one that can withstand pet claws, I made sure none of these picks will cramp your style—or your ability to move freely around your living room.

The Best Sofas for Small Spaces at a Glance

1

Best Sofa Overall

Crate & Barrel Tidal Apartment Sofa

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2

Best Sectional Sofa

Burrow Union Sectional Sofa

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3

Most Comfortable Sofa

Valyōu Feathers Sofa

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4

Best Reversible Sofa

West Elm Eddy Reversible Sectional

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5

Best Budget Sofa

George Oliver Julizza Loveseat

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How We Tested the Best Sofas for Small Spaces

To find the best sofas for small spaces, I pored over customer reviews from top-rated brands. Then tapped our team of PureWow editors who’ve personally tested many of these sofas in their own homes—and yes, that includes squeezing them through tight apartment doorways and navigating tricky walk-ups (so you don’t have to). To narrow down the herd, I prioritized sofas that offered:

  • Compact dimensions: It doesn’t exceed 90 inches in width, ensuring the sofa fits comfortably in smaller living spaces. And to make sure you can still curl up with a good book (or a binge-worthy series), I made sure each sofa had a minimum seat depth of 21 inches.
  • Storage Space: It has a leg height of at least 6 inches, giving you just enough clearance to slide standard storage bins underneath for extra blankets, shoes or anything you want out of sight but within reach.
  • Comfort and Durability: It has high-density foam, memory foam blends or down-alternative cushions that offer the perfect balance between support and sink-in coziness. We also looked for sofas that included removable/washable covers—or performance fabrics that resist stains and spills—and sturdy frames made from solid wood or steel-reinforced materials to withstand daily wear and tear.
  • Delivery and Assembly: It features modular pieces or apartment-friendly packaging that’s easy to maneuver into small spaces. We also looked for sofas that offer tool-free assembly or the option for white glove delivery to take the hassle out of set-up.

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Best Sofa Overall

1. Crate & Barrel Tidal Apartment Sofa

What We Like

  • Compact 83-inch width 
  • Firm yet bouncy fiber-blend cushions  
  • 235 upholstery options include pet-friendly fabric 
  • White Glove delivery and assembly

What We Don't Like

  • Made-to-order—can’t be canceled, returned or exchanged
  • Expensive compared to other options

CRATE AND BARREL

If you're working with limited square footage but still want to achieve an Architectural Digest level of sophistication, this Crate & Barrel sofa is worth every penny. In a PureWow100 review, I awarded the sectional version 96 points out of 100 (because even my Mother, an interior designer, gave it her stamp of approval). This scaled-down version brings all the same high-end luxury—without overwhelming a smaller space. The 83-inch width, also available in a 93- and 101-inch width, is just right for apartments. It offers enough room to stretch out without dominating your living room—and the 43.5-inch seat depth offers plenty of space to curl up. Not to mention that the clean lines and ash veneer plinth base add a touch of modern minimalism, making even the most compact space feel curated.

The reason it won me over, however, was due to its materials. It comes in 235 customizable fabrics, and the Oasis performance fabric in Shell isn’t just soft to the touch—it’s a game-changer for city dwellers dealing with debris from pet paws. (I speak from experience, thanks to my Sheepadoodle, George.) The cushions, meanwhile, are made from a foam and polyester fiber blend with down-proof ticking, so they strike that perfect balance between firm support and sink-in comfort. And unlike other sofas that sag over time, this one holds its shape beautifully—even after endless Netflix marathons. Overall, if you’re looking to invest, I’d say the Tidal is a chic, space-saving answer that feels as good as it looks—and it’d look great in an office if you move down the line.

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 83” W x 39” D x 27” H (larger sizes available)
  • Materials: Foam and polyester fiber cushions wrapped in down-proof ticking; 235 fabric options; ash veneer plinth base
  • Delivery: White glove delivery with in-home assembly included

Best Sectional Sofa

2. Burrow Union Sectional Sofa

What We Like

  • Multiple sizes available 
  • Deep-seated foam cushions 
  • Modular design you can reconfigure
  • Apartment-friendly packaging and delivery

What We Don't Like

  • Over $2k for larger configurations
  • The brand doesn’t offer assembly options

Burrow

Another sofa I’d highly recommend? This compact sectional from Burrow. I have the five-seat version in my apartment right now, and I can confidently say it strikes the perfect balance between deep-seated comfort and space efficiency. The cushions are crafted with a proprietary three-layer foam and fiber blend that offers a plush, sink-in feel—and it’s a dream to lounge on when you’re binging the new season of Severance. The stain-resistant polyester chenille upholstery is also soft to the touch but tough enough to handle red wine spills. (I’ve erased spilled glasses of Bordeaux with a dabble of the Laundress stain solution and warm water). 

To that end, it’s designed and delivered with apartment dwellers in mind. The piece is available in multiple sizes, including a two-seat sofa (70 inches), a three-seat sofa (100 inches), a four-seat sectional (102.75 inches) and the five-seat sectional I have (102.75 inches). Plus, for larger spaces, there’s even an eight-seat U sectional that’s perfect for hosting without overwhelming the space. Each piece arrives in manageable boxes, making it easy to navigate through narrow hallways or up walk-up apartments. Plus, the modular design means you can easily move or reconfigure it if you ever switch apartments—no tools required (it took me around two hours to put everything together by myself). 

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 102.75" L x 72.75" D x 31.5" H​ (multiple sizes available)
  • Materials: Three-layer foam and fiber blend cushions; 4 polyester chenille upholstery options; walnut or oakwood legs 
  • Delivery: Ships in compact boxes with tool-free assembly

Most Comfortable Sofa

3. Valyōu Feathers Sofa

What We Like

  • Cloud-like comfort with feather filling 
  • Customizable leg height for extra storage
  • Stain- and scratch-resistant fabric
  • Machine-washable covers

What We Don't Like

  • Requires weekly fluffing to avoid slouchy cushions
  • Occasional feathers may poke through the cushions

Valyōu Furntiure

If you’re on the hunt for a more affordable alternative to the Cloud Couch from Restoration Hardware, the Valyōu Feathers Sofa delivers that same plush, sink-right-in comfort—without the heart-stopping price tag. “I could sleep—OK, have slept—on it, without waking to stiff hips or a creaky neck,” says VP of Editorial Candace Davison in her PureWow100 review. The deep seats are perfect for taller folks (Davison is 5'11" and her husband is 6'3"), while the combo of duck feathers and polyurethane foam strikes the right balance between cozy and supportive. Plus, the three-seater (84 inches wide) or four-seater (103 inches wide) options make it roomy enough to sprawl out or host a movie night without feeling cramped—even in smaller living rooms.

What really sets it apart for apartment dwellers, though, is the practicality. The sofa comes with two-inch legs for a sleek, low-profile look—but if you need extra storage, you can easily swap them for six-inch legs (no tools required). That extra clearance is a game-changer for sneaking storage bins underneath, which is perfect for stashing blankets, off-season clothes or anything else you want out of sight. Plus, the upholstery is stain- and scratch-resistant, with machine-washable cushion covers for easy cleanup. Davison adds, “Spills have quickly been dabbed up, leaving no traces behind.” Her only warning is that “there’s “the double-edged sword of enjoying duck feather filling: Occasionally, a feather pokes out, and the sofa’s cushions require more routine (say, once a week) fluffing so they don’t slouch.” (The one other trade-off worth noting is the seat height—at 17 inches, it’s an inch and a half lower than the Cloud Couch and many traditional sofas. If you have trouble getting up or down, you may want something with a bit more height.)

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 84” W x 39” D x 32” H (larger sizes available)
  • Materials: Duck feathers and polyurethane foam filling; microfiber and cotton blend covers; pine wood frame and ashwood legs 
  • Delivery: Ships in compact boxes with tool-free assembly

Best Reversible Sofa

4. West Elm Eddy Reversible Sectional

What We Like

  • Reversible chaise for easy rearranging
  • Firm foam cushions maintain their shape over time
  • 30 fabrics, including stain-resistant options
  • High leg clearance is great for under-sofa storage

What We Don't Like

  • Too firm for anyone who wants a plush, cloud-like feel 
  • White Glove delivery and assembly costs extra

West Elm

For anyone who rearranges their space as often as they swap playlists, this West Elm sectional will be your new best friend. Not only does its reversible chaise let you flip configurations in under 10 minutes (just switch the freestanding ottoman and flip the cushion), but it also comes in two sizes—74 and 90 inches—making it great for small apartments with larger living rooms. Executive Editor Alexia Dellner raves, “We’ve had the love seat version of this couch for seven years, and it’s been through a lot—guests sleeping on it, kids making forts, hundreds (thousands?) of hours of lounging—but it still looks great!” This longevity is thanks to the cushions of the sofa, which are rated as a five on the brand’s firmness scale (the highest rating).  The ultra-firm, fiber-wrapped foam provides a supportive feel that holds up beautifully over time—no saggy spots or misshapen seats after just a few months of use. 

But don’t let the firmness fool you—it’s not like sitting on a rock. The high-resiliency foam cores in the seat provide just enough give, while the fiber-filled back cushions offer that cozy, sink-in feel. Plus, the cushions have zip-off covers, making them easy to clean, and with more than 30 fabric options (including stain-resistant ones), you can easily match your style. As Dellner puts it, “The fabric is easy to clean, and it’s that perfect balance of comfy yet sturdy.” Not to mention that it has solid wood trestle legs which create enough clearance underneath to stash storage bins—a hidden perk for anyone tight on space.

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 74" W x 62" D x 33" H (90” W available) 
  • Materials: Fiber-wrapped foam cushions; 30 upholstery options; solid wood trestle legs
  • Delivery: Flat rate delivery fee with the option for White Glove Service

Best Budget Sofa

5. George Oliver Julizza Loveseat

What We Like

  • Easy five-minute assembly
  • Lightweight and easy to move
  • Cushy side and back pillows for added comfort
  • Compact 49-inch width

What We Don't Like

  • Seat could be a bit softer
  • Compact size might feel small for taller folks

Wayfair

If you're looking for a wallet-friendly find that doesn’t skimp on comfort, this loveseat is just the ticket. Assistant Commerce Editor Natalie LaBarbera snagged this on Black Friday and couldn’t stop raving: “It took me no more than five minutes to assemble, and I could easily do it on my own. The cushions on both the sides and back are super cushy, too, so they're comfy to sink into after a long day—and it feels bigger than I expected.” Indeed, the compact 49-inch width makes it ideal for small apartments or even a cozy reading nook. Plus, the entire thing weighs just 80 pounds, so you can rearrange it without breaking a sweat.

It’s upholstered in a soft pink cotton blend that adds a playful pop of color, but if blush tones aren’t your vibe, it’s also available in dark/light gray, black and green. The solid wood frame provides surprising durability, while the coil spring seat construction gives just enough support to balance out the cushy back and side pillows. LaBarbera did mention the seat could be a bit softer, but for less than $250, “this is a really awesome option.” And with the easy, tool-free assembly (seriously, just screw on the legs), you’ll have it set up in no time. 

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 49" W x 30.31" H x 25.6" D
  • Materials: Cotton blend upholstery, solid wood frame, foam and coil spring seat construction
  • Delivery: Arrives in a compact box with all necessary tools for assembly

Best Leather Sofa

6. Article Sven Tufted Leather Sofa

What We Like

  • Five full-aniline leather options 
  • Develops a beautiful patina 
  • Deep seats perfect for lounging
  • Compact size fits small spaces without sacrificing comfort

What We Don't Like

  • Leather can scratch or stain (though it adds character)
  • In-room assembly + delivery is $199

Article Furniture

This sofa has gone TikTok-viral for a reason. Its mid-century modern silhouette is an influencer favorite, but it’s the unbeatable comfort and durability that have people adding it to their carts. Take it from Pam Masin, Director of Affiliate Strategy, who swears by it: “This leather sofa has held up incredibly well over the last five years that I've owned it (and has survived three different moves). I use it as the main seating in my living room and love the streamlined look of it while still being plenty comfy to lounge on while watching TV.” The foam-padded cushions are filled with a cozy mix of fiber and feathers, hitting that sweet spot between soft, sink-in comfort and supportive structure. The deep seats were also a huge selling point for her, especially since the full-sized version is just 88 inches long—perfect for small apartments but roomy enough to comfortably fit three people. 

Yet, the real draw is the full-aniline leather upholstery. It's buttery smooth, ages like fine wine and develops a beautiful vintage patina over time. Masin adds, “The leather has been extremely durable, and while it definitely scratches and stains, I find that they blend in with the ‘Charme Tan’ color leather. Plus, imperfections give the leather some character.” It’s available in five gorgeous shades—Charme Chocolat, Charme Green, Charme Tan, Oxford Black and Oxford Blue—so whether you’re going for bold or classic, there’s an option for everyone.

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 88” W x 38” D x 34” H (loveseat size available at 72”)
  • Materials: Foam-padded and fiber-filled cushions; 5 full-aniline Italian leather options, kiln-dried solid pine frame
  • Delivery: $49 flat-rate Front Door Delivery; in-room delivery available for $119; in-room + assembly delivery for $199

Best Bouclé Sofa

7. Article Bouclé Kayra Sofa

What We Like

  • 87” W is ideal for small spaces
  • Soft, textured bouclé that's durable and pet-friendly
  • Scandinavian shape with cozy, supportive cushions
  • Minimal assembly required (about 15 minutes)

What We Don't Like

  • Fixed cushions limit rearranging flexibility
  • Lighter color may require more upkeep in high-traffic areas

Article

Here, another Article sofa that’s designed with small spaces in mind. “Right out of the box, I knew I loved it. This thing was luxe. It looked far, far nicer than similar options I saw on Wayfair around the same price point, and it felt both plush and sturdy to my hand,” shares Nicole Briese, former PureWow Commerce Director, in her PureWow100 review. The high pine wood legs not only give it a modern, elevated look but also make it easy to clean underneath (goodbye, dust bunnies). Then, the polyurethane foam-filled cushions strike the ideal balance between firm support and cozy plushness—and the fixed seat and back cushions mean you won’t have to constantly re-fluff after every lounge session. 

Still, what really sets this guy apart is the bouclé itself. Unlike other bouclé couches that tend to snag or show wear, the Kayra’s tightly woven, teddy coat-like fabric holds up against daily use—and even the sharpest cat claws. “Try as I might, I could not discern the spot where my cat’s sharp little hooks had pulled up fabric and where the natural tufts were lifted. I could have wept with joy,” Briese adds. It’s comfortable enough for daily lounging, with plush but supportive cushioning, and the cream color, while daring, has proven easy to maintain with spot cleaning. Better yet, at 87 inches wide, it’s spacious enough to stretch out, yet compact enough to fit comfortably in apartments.

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 31” H x 87” W x 45.5” D
  • Materials: Polyurethane foam cushions; polyester/acrylic bouclé fabric; Kiln-dried pine wood frame
  • Delivery: $49 flat-rate Front Door Delivery; in-room delivery available for $119; in-room + assembly delivery for $199

Best Modular Sofa

8. 7th Avenue Modular Loveseat

What We Like

  • Modular design allows endless reconfigurations to fit any space
  • Plush memory foam and down-alternative cushions
  • 3 performance fabrics to choose from
  • Machine-washable covers

What We Don't Like

  • Larger pieces may arrive on different days (multiple deliveries)
  • May be bigger in real life it appears online (be sure to measure)

7th avenue

Finally, this endlessly customizable piece is designed to adapt with you—whether your household grows or you simply get bored of your current setup. Its modular design lets you reconfigure it into any shape—so you can add or remove sections without replacing the whole sofa—and the cushions are made with a plush memory foam blend and premium down-alternative filling, offering that perfect sink-in feel. “There are multiple stain-resistant fabrics to choose from—I selected the performance textured weave—and the comfort is top-tier,” says PureWow Associate Commerce Strategist, Jael Rucker, in her PureWow100 review. Plus, unlike down feather cushions, they hold their shape without constant fluffing. The adjustable back cushions let you choose between medium-soft or medium-firm—and the brand even includes complimentary fill packets for a truly customized feel.

Other customizations to love? You can choose between two seating depths: Classic (39 inches) or extra-deep (47 inches). The covers are removable, washable and stain-resistant—repelling everything from wine to pet accidents—all without the use of harmful chemicals (which you might find in other performance fabrics). And while Jael found setup a breeze (15 to 20 minutes per seat), she does note that “because of the size of each chair, I received my delivery in different parts on different days, which was a little hectic.” But with a sturdy hardwood frame and steel-reinforced legs, you’ll only need to assemble it once for a piece that promises to last a decade—or more.

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 94” L x 39” D x 24” H (extra deep 47” seat depth available) 
  • Materials: Memory foam and down-alternative blend cushions; three performance fabric options; solid hardwood frame
  • Delivery: Flat shipping rate shown at checkout—assembly available within 40 miles of Los Angeles

What to Consider When Shopping for Sofas for Small Spaces

When you're working with limited square footage, finding the right sofa isn’t just about style—it’s about maximizing every inch of your space without sacrificing comfort. Here’s what to keep in mind:

  • Size: Obvious, but crucial. Aim for sofas between 72 to 88 inches wide—this sweet spot offers enough seating for two to three people without overwhelming your space. For lounging, a seat depth of at least 21 to 24 inches keeps things comfy without eating up precious square footage. And if you’re eyeing under-sofa storage? Look for legs with at least 6 inches of clearance to fit standard storage bins (perfect for stashing blankets, shoes or anything you want out of sight). 
  • Configurations: Flexibility is key in small spaces. Opt for modular designs that let you add or remove sections as your needs change, or reversible configurations that allow you to switch the chaise or sectional sides to fit your layout. This adaptability ensures your sofa grows with you—whether you're rearranging the room or moving to a new place.
  • Quality Materials: Just because it’s small doesn’t mean it shouldn’t last. Durable frames (think solid wood or steel-reinforced) and high-density foam or down-alternative cushions will keep your sofa looking and feeling sturdy for years. Plus, in tight spaces, your sofa sees a lot of action—movie nights, accidental spills, and that one friend who refuses to use a coaster. That’s why it’s worth looking for performance fabrics—or machine-washable covers—to keep things looking fresh.
  • Delivery & Assembly: If you’ve ever tried wedging an oversized couch through a too-small doorway (cue flashbacks of that Friends episode), you know how important this is. Opt for sofas with modular pieces or easy-to-assemble frames that can navigate tight stairwells and narrow halls. Or, make sure you’re adding White Glove or in-home delivery services to avoid spending hours lugging boxes up and down your walk-up. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What sofa style is best for a small room?

When space is tight, loveseats, apartment-sized sofas or armless designs are your best bet. Look for sleek, mid-century modern styles with clean lines and slim legs that create an open, airy vibe. Modular sofas also shine here—you can customize the size and shape to fit your space without sacrificing comfort.

What is the best sofa color for a small room?

Light, neutral shades like ivory, beige or soft gray work wonders in small rooms—they make the space feel brighter and more open. But if you're feeling bold, deep jewel tones like emerald or navy can add depth without overwhelming the room (just pair them with lighter decor to balance things out).

What kind of sofa makes a room look bigger?

Sofas with raised legs create the illusion of more floor space, making your space feel larger. You also want to choose styles with low profiles and slim arms to avoid visual bulk. Bonus points for modular or sectional sofas that hug the room’s corners, maximizing seating without crowding the space.


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Associate Editor

  • Writes across all lifestyle verticals, including relationships and sex, home, finance, fashion and beauty
  • More than five years of experience in editorial, including podcast production and on-camera coverage
  • Holds a dual degree in communications and media law and policy from Indiana University, Bloomington

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PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.