Blog

Oct 18, 2023

10 Best L

Every item on this page was hand-picked by a House Beautiful editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. It's time to relax. If there's a piece of furniture that should be

Every item on this page was hand-picked by a House Beautiful editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

It's time to relax.

If there's a piece of furniture that should be as cozy as your bed, it's your couch. In our design-obsessed experience, we'd argue that L-shaped sectional sofas reign supreme in terms of both comfort and style. To prove it, we asked 10 people to test some of the internet's best-selling sofas and offer their honest thoughts after living with them for at least six months. We won't spoil anything, but we'll just say that their responses were astounding.

From Frontgate to West Elm (and two Crate & Barrel picks), there are a lot of options ahead. What's more, plenty of the sectionals below are on sale, including some of the priciest ones. Even one of our shopping editors had some thoughts on what she'd consider the best (and most sustainable) sectionals on the market. So if you want to trade in or supplement your traditional three-seater, you may want to consider snagging a stylish sectional. Not only do they let you spread out and lounge on nights when it's just you, but they're big enough to seat at least four people comfortably when you have guests over.

Full disclosure: Most of the options on our list are not on the cheap side, but because they're high-quality sofas from reputable retailers, you'll definitely get your money's worth. Plus, sofas—whether they're standard or sectionals—are considered investment pieces, so if you want to spend a bit more than you normally would, you're putting your money into the right thing.

"I'd describe my style as a modern take on French country," tester Francesca Squillacciotti explains. "So when I started the search for a sectional, I knew I wanted something effortless and comfortable that I wouldn't have to be too precious with." She ended up buying the Castlery Owen chaise sectional, which is available in four fabrics and two leg finishes. "The seat cushions are wide and quite deep, so it's really easy to sit down and feel instantly relaxed," she adds.

When it comes to customization, few brands offer more options than West Elm. If you're considering the Andes sectional, you can choose the size, leg style, configuration, and, of course, fabric. "I bought this sofa when I moved last summer, and nearly a year later it is just as comfortable and beautiful as it was on day one," says tester Betty Ann Gilrain. "The ottoman detaches, so it can be easily moved from either side to add extra seating or adapt to the shape of our space," she adds.

"I live in New York and love to entertain, so I knew I needed a sectional with enough space for plenty of people to sit comfortably," tester Phil Toronto explains. "I wanted a sofa to counteract the busyness outside, so I landed on The Dune, which is so comfortable and plush. It was definitely worth the five-week wait." The Dune is also completely customizable in terms of fabric and configuration, so if a pale neutral doesn't suit your space, opt for any of the 22 fabric options.

"I bought this sofa for a corner of my apartment that's exposed to a lot of sun, so choosing a fabric that wouldn't fade was paramount," tester Elana Cates says. "I also knew I wanted a sectional over a traditional three-seater because I wanted room to spread out and be comfortable after a long day," she adds. "This sectional is plush but not so soft that my back hurts after sitting for an hour or two. The side pillows, which are included, are a much-welcomed bonus! I always lean against them." The Wells can be configured in five positions with the ottoman on either end and is available in three cool-toned neutral fabrics, including the Gravel twill seen here.

"I got this when I moved into my current apartment two years ago," associate shopping editor Jessica Cherner says. "I had a navy velvet sofa in my old apartment and knew I wanted something similar (but higher quality) in my next one, so I ended up getting the Sabai sectional. It has a firmer seat than what I'm used to, but I love it. The back cushions are really soft, so leaning back into a comfortable position is really easy." As for the velvet, it's made entirely of recycled materials, as are the wooden legs.

"I love having people over, so having a true L-shaped sectional that was equally long on either end was one of the most important elements when decorating my apartment," tester Brandon Berkson, founder of Hotels Above Par, explains. "This one from Burrow is perfect because it comfortably seats five and it actually is extremely comfortable—not just roomy," he adds. "It's also great for people who like to entertain because it's covered in a stain-resistant chenille that feels like a thick, plush velvet." You can choose from four colors and two leg finishes to make the Union unique to your space.

In an effort to enlist more sustainable practices, Crate & Barrel makes the Cambria to order to minimize extra and unnecessary manufacturing. Because each one is produced specifically for the customer, it has a 10- to 12-week lead time, but according to tester Lexi Sunberg, "It's worth it. It's such a unique shape and is just as comfortable as it looks," she says. "The low-profile, deep seats, and wraparound arms are just added bonuses." In fact, such elements were inspired by midcentury Italian design, which is likely why they're such beloved details.

When the husband-and-wife duo behind Albany Park launched their now-beloved business back in 2017, it was to solve a problem in the design space: too many options. So they created three popular models that would appeal to everyone and every space. One such model? The Kova, which comes with a removable ottoman and in nine fabrics. "I got this sofa for my first post-grad apartment, and I love it," says tester Julia Eisenberg. "It is sink-in soft with the pillowy cushions on all sides: seat, back, and sides," she adds.

"I live in south Florida, so finding a cozy sectional that fit in with the beachy aesthetic of where we live was a non-negotiable," says tester and interior designer Lisa Eisenberg. "I love Serena & Lily's Beach House corner sectional because the slipcover and shape look right at home but don't look kitschy or cheesy." Though white linen feels most appropriate for a beach residence, this L-shaped sectional also comes in 127 more fabrics and colors.

Frontgate's handcrafted Logan sectional is inspired by longstanding British design, from the button-tufted back to the rolled arms. It's timeless in all the right ways, which makes it the perfect find for anyone with a more traditional space. "I wanted a sectional that felt classic without looking boring, so after a lot of hunting around online, I stumbled upon the Logan and ordered it right away," tester Danielle Collins says. "I got it in the pale blue velvet, which fits with my space and style. It's so comfortable and easy to lounge in either direction," she adds.

Yes, you can absolutely incorporate an L-shaped sectional in a small space. The best way to do it without sacrificing too much floor space is to tuck it in a corner, rather than let it float in the middle of the room like you would in a large living space. Another option to consider is a loveseat sectional, which hardly takes up any space at all.

L-shaped and U-shaped sectionals are both popular, but neither is better than the other. Traditionally, the latter tends to show up in much larger spaces because they're long and deep, which can severely limit space in a smaller living room. L-shaped sofas on the other hand can work in any space, making them a bit more versatile. An L-shaped sectional fits neatly into a corner.

Not only are the House Beautiful shopping editors experts in all things quality furniture, but we chatted with real customers of real sectionals, and few words are more honest or trustworthy than a reviewer's.

Jessica Cherner is House Beautiful’s associate shopping editor and knows where to find the best high-low pieces for any room.

Designers Can't Ignore These 12 IKEA Home Goods

The Best Showerheads, According to HB Editors

The Best Amazon Bathroom Finds for Renters

11 Cheap Dressers Under $500

Shop This Epic Amazon Back-to-School Sale of 2023

The Best Outdoor Rugs You Can Buy Online

52 Thanksgiving Decorations to Try This Year

16 Best Ceiling Fans You Can Buy Online Right Now

10 Best Blackout Curtains to Help You Fall Asleep

The Best Office Chairs for Stylish WFH Vibes

This Sold-Out Boucle Chair Just Got Restocked

Bethenny Frankel Posts Chaotic T.J. Maxx TikTok