What’s The Difference? Is There A Difference? Apparently, Yes!
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Though the two are actually very similar in appearance and characteristics and often referred to interchangeably, differences do exist. They are not synonymous.
ORIGIN
There is no similarity whatsoever in the origin of these two pieces of household furniture. A bench covered with blankets and cushions originated from the Arabic “suffah” – hence sofa. Sofa is a place to sit down more so than to lie-down on.
From the French comes “couche”, a popular piece of furniture used in the Victorian era and when translated means to lie down.
STRUCTURE, SHAPE AND SIZE
The other notable difference between a sofa and a couch is in the size.
Sofas provide seating space for four or more and therefore occupy more floor space. Something to consider when you purchase a sofa for your lounge/living room or living space.
Sofas are generally larger and plush and usually have two armrests and a full uniform back, whereas a couch usually has one armrest, or none (not so much these days though) – and tapered back. Having one or no armrest lends itself to spaciousness so it can be used to lie down on. Couches can comfortably seat two or three people, though seating can be little more compact than that of the sofa.
FUNCTIONALITY
In terms of functionality, the difference between a sofa and a couch is also notable.
Couches are generally more functional and used in casual and informal settings. For example shared family space, cozy living space, living room or entertainment room. It would be the go to place to sit, lie down or simply relax after a busy day.
- Sofas on the other hand are more formal, and resonate elegance and classiness. Probably more suited to formal lounge areas and space, and bearing in mind they tend to take up more space than a couch.
ACCESSORISE
Most definitely you will need to accessorise your sofa and/or couch since they are housed within your living space and form part of the bigger presentation.
How and what you accessorise with it purely up to you and the statement you wish to make – i.e. whether formal lounge or living room. If you are unsure, contact a decorating stylist/interior decorator.
Use display cushions that are appealing to the area. With the couch add a throw for those cooler nights. A throw can also be added to the sofa.
Complement the area with a pouf or ottoman too.