What Is a Couch or a Sofa?

History

• A couch, derived from the French word "couche, is a piece of furniture originally used in the Victorian period. Couches were designed to provide a place for ladies, which at the time wore restricting corsets, to rest and catch their breath, and had either one or no arms. The sofa is derived from the Arabic word "suffah," meaning bench. Essentially, a sofa is a cushioned bench with two arms and a cushioned back.

Size

• Sofas and couches traditionally differ in size because they serve a different purpose. Sofas are made to provide seating space. Typically, a sofa sits three to four people comfortably. Some designs, like the sectional sofa, can seat up to eight people. Couches typically seat two to three people and occupy less space in a room than a sofa. Sofas may also provide a fold-away bed, where generally speaking, couches do not because their original design doesn't allow for a bed.

Function

• In terms of basic function, couches and sofas serve the same purpose: to provide seating. The difference between them is that, typically, couches are intended for use in informal settings and are designed for an intimate comfortable setting with a small group of people. Sofas are more formal because they allow for a large gathering of people.

Buying a Sofa or Couch

• When purchasing a sofa or a couch, your criteria will depend on its usage. Large families or people who entertain guests frequently will want to search for a sofa. If you're decorating a family room or small space where entertaining is limited, then a couch is ideal. When looking for either type of seating, search for a solid sturdy frame such as hardwood. Frames of plastic, particle board or metal aren't as durable and may warp and crack. The legs of the sofa or couch should be a part of the frame or fastened with sturdy screws, not glued on. The fabric on your couch or sofa is another important consideration. Cotton and linen are easy to clean and durable. Synthetic microfiber is stain resistant, making it ideal for homes with children or pets. Wool and leather sofas and couches are strong and durable but tend to be expensive in comparison to other fabrics.