A sofa is probably the biggest decision you will make in terms of living-room decor. Bigger than the rug, more permanent than the lighting, and harder to move than you think. Get it right and you have an anchor that makes the whole space feel considered. Get it wrong and you are stuck with an expensive reminder of your mistake until you eventually give in and list it online. A minimalist sofa offers the safest path through that minefield. Clean lines, quiet colours, and just enough detail to stop things feeling sterile. Here are a few of the best.
Dolores Sofa by Edin & Lina Kjellvertz
One long, uninterrupted cushion stretches across the frame, two oversized pillows casually slouch on top, and the whole thing is wrapped in sand-coloured fabric that feels calm, not bland. Inside, a solid beech frame and layers of foam, fibre and down do the heavy lifting. The result? A sofa that looks grown up without being boring, and comfortable without looking like it belongs in a student flatshare.
Miles Sofa Boucle Beige by MER Arkitekter
The Miles Sofa is a lesson in Swedish understatement, but with a bit of swagger. MER Arkitekter dug into the 1920s Swedish Grace movement and came back with something that looks soft, round and reassuringly solid, without any unnecessary fuss. Upholstered in Limonta boucle, it has texture, tactility and the sort of quiet detail you only notice once you have lived with it. Built on a sturdy frame with duck down and foam cushions, it is comfortable in that “I will just sit for five minutes” way that somehow turns into a two hour nap.
Soho Home Odell Deeper Sit Modular Sofa
The Odell sofa has been hitting the gym. This deeper version of the original modular design has a bit more heft, a bit more room, and a lot more lounge potential. Fully upholstered in velvet, with feather wrapped cushions you sink into rather than perch on, it is indulgent without tipping into decadence. The arched back with its cut out detail gives you something interesting to look at, even from behind. And because it is modular, you can build it to suit your space, whether that is a minimalist loft or a house full of plants you forgot to water.
Offset Sofa 2 Seats by Norm Architects for Audo Copenhagen
Offset does exactly what it says on the tin. The proportions are nudged, the details shifted, and the result is a two seater that feels both familiar and slightly unexpected. Norm Architects describe it as substantial yet delicate, and that is about right. Thin arms set against a big cushioned seat, perched on four stubby legs. It is minimalist, but not in a cold gallery way. More like, yes, I will sit here with a glass of wine and still feel comfortable. It is design that understands you want a sofa to look good, but you also want to actually use it.
Soho Home Truro Modular Sofa, Textured Linen
There are sofas you sit on politely, and then there is Truro. Wide, low and made for sprawling, it is upholstered in textured linen that makes pyjamas a perfectly acceptable outfit choice. The solid oak base and feather wrapped cushions strike that balance between feeling substantial and not remotely stiff. It comes in two, three or four seat options, but whichever you choose, the point is the same. This is a sofa that wants you horizontal, ideally with a book, a drink and nowhere to be.
Quilton Sofa by HAY
Quilton is less sofa and more sofa system. Designed by Doshi Levien, it is modular to the point where you could probably build an entire landscape out of it, which is exactly how the designers describe it. Generous dimensions, quilted upholstery and enough fabric options to send you into an existential spiral make it one of the more versatile pieces out there. Whether you want a neat two seater or a sprawling U shape for hosting everyone you know, Quilton will oblige. Comfort is a given, the real challenge is resisting the urge to never leave it.
Soho Home Faarell Sofa
Faarell is British made, oak framed, and velvet upholstered, which already sounds like a strong foundation. The curved arms taper into the front legs in a way that makes the whole thing feel designed, not decorated. Low slung and unfussy, it is a sofa that does not demand attention but earns it anyway. Available in a full spectrum of velvets, from sober neutrals to indulgent jewel tones, it has the ability to shift character depending on your choice. Go navy if you want discreet, emerald if you want drama. Either way, it will look like it was always meant to be there.
Next up: Try these living-room decors ideas to elevate your space.
