Custom

Custom sectional sofas: shapes, sizes and how to plan one

By the Blankspace design teamUpdated October 21, 20264 min read

The short answer

Plan a custom sectional by choosing the shape for your room (L-shaped, chaise, U-shaped or modular), then the length of each side from the walls and walkways (keep 30 to 36 in clear), then the facing: left-arm facing (LAF) and right-arm facing (RAF) describe where the arm or chaise sits as you face the sofa. L-shaped sectionals typically run 90 to 130 in per side.

Remember

Pick the shape from the room and traffic, not just from looks.
L-shaped sides typically run 90 to 130 in; chaise depth is usually 60 to 70 in.
LAF and RAF are named as you face the sofa, not as you sit on it.
Modular sectionals are easiest to deliver and rearrange.
Confirm each module fits through the doorways.

Contents

Choosing the shape

Shape	Best for
L-shaped (corner)	Corners and open plans that need two seating sides
Chaise sectional	Smaller rooms, lounging, one long side
U-shaped	Large rooms, movie nights, big families
Curved	Conversation areas, rooms without a corner
Modular	Renters, movers, rooms that change

Sizing each side

Measure wall to wall, subtract walkways and side tables, and tape the outline on the floor. Typical sizes: each side of an L-shaped sectional 90 to 130 in, a chaise 60 to 70 in deep, seat depth 21 to 25 in. Keep 30 to 36 in for paths and 14 to 18 in to the coffee table.

Cortile by Blankspace — Shown: Cortile, Blankspace Editions, from $3,290.

LAF and RAF without confusion

Stand facing the sectional. If the chaise or arm is on your left, it is left-arm facing (LAF); on your right, right-arm facing (RAF). Draw the room from the doorway you enter by, and mark which side the chaise needs to be before you order.

Delivery: the module rule

Sectionals arrive in pieces. Check the largest module, usually the corner or chaise, against every doorway, stair turn and elevator. See how to measure a doorway for a sofa.

Designing yours

The Golfo offers sofa, chaise and curved corner sectionals; the Cortile comes as chaise and bumper sectionals with washable covers; the Telaio is a modular system. Configure one in the configurator.

Questions people ask

How big should a sectional be for my living room?

Leave 30 to 36 inches of walkway around it and 14 to 18 inches to the coffee table. In most rooms each side of an L-shaped sectional runs 90 to 130 inches. Tape the outline on the floor before ordering.

What is the difference between LAF and RAF?

Left-arm facing (LAF) means the arm or chaise is on your left as you stand facing the sofa; right-arm facing (RAF) means it is on your right. It is named as you face the sofa, not as you sit on it.

Are modular sectionals good?

Modular sectionals are a good choice if you move often, have tight doorways or want to rearrange, because each module is delivered and placed separately. Check that the modules connect securely.