The 70’s are back in fashion once again, or so was the decree that came soon after the latest menswear shows for Fall Winter 2015-16. While Prada seemed to be inspired by the heavy denim designs from shows like Starsky & Hutch; Burberry Prorsum turned to the boho-nomad 70s through traveller writer Bruce Chatwin. And of course, Hedi Slimane, at Saint Laurent, continued his 70s inspired counter-culture rocker aesthetic but added in a heavy dose of Richard Avedon’s David Beason, Shipping Clerk. But does what does that have to do with home furnishings you ask?
Where fashion leads, home design follows. We see this season after season; what we wear is also what we want to live in. Enter the classic 70’s icon – the sectional sofa. Once reserved for swank swingers’ pads or opium dens, the sectional sofa got modern updates in the 90s – removing almost all of its kitsch glam origins. But fret not, the latest incarnations of sectional sofas bring back some of the 70s vibe without going full throttle; these are classic updates that honour the nostalgia of the 70s while streamlining silhouettes. The new sectionals are the perfect sofa for any man’s abode.
So how does one go about finding the perfect man sectional?
Consider how much space you have in your home
Many people think you need a very large space for a sectional, but sometimes sectionals work out best in tighter space as they can replace a chair and a sofa without adding clutter to a smaller space. If you opt for a sectional with wider arms, they can even take the place of side tables. Top the arm with a few art books and you have the perfect spot to rest your drinks.
What are the intended purposes of the sectional?
Are you planning on lots of cocktail parties and need ample seating? Or are you more the kind of guy who enjoys watching movies or the game on a lazy Sunday with your significant other? This will help determine if you want to incorporate a chaise element into your sectional or not.
Now you need to become familiar with the terminology
Right arm facing (RAF) means that when you are facing the piece or section, the arm is on your right; left arm facing (LAF) means that the arm is on your left. Getting the proper-facing arm is pivotal; the placement of the arm will determine if the sectional will work in your room.
Take it for a test drive; just like any sofa, you need to try it out
Is it the perfect amount of softness for an afternoon nap or do you sink into the sectional so much that it’s hard to get up? If you want maximum comfort and longevity, opt for foam wrapped in a layer of down.
