With the living room rivalling the kitchen as hub of the home right now, I feel as though I've become particularly well acquainted with our sofas. Comfort is paramount, and if you're in need of a new sofa, this extra lounging time will help you hone in on what improvements could be made. In addition to comfort, there are many elements to consider, such as size, shape, colour and fabric. But first and foremost you need to decide on the style, and today I'm going to highlight one of my favourite options, the Modular Sofa.
Why choose a Modular Sofa?
With moveable sections that piece together to fit your space, Modular Sofas create a customised look and inviting feel. If you’re after versatility and like to put your feet up, then this is the ideal style for you. There are endless variations depending on the design, but common options include end pieces and a central unit. A corner piece allows you to create a corner sofa, and often there’s the added option of an ottoman for even greater flexibility and comfort.
With moveable sections that piece together to fit your space, Modular Sofas create a customised look and inviting feel. If you’re after versatility and like to put your feet up, then this is the ideal style for you. There are endless variations depending on the design, but common options include end pieces and a central unit. A corner piece allows you to create a corner sofa, and often there’s the added option of an ottoman for even greater flexibility and comfort.
I've rounded up some beautiful options below.
Calmo Sofa by Hugo Passos for Fredericia
Portuguese-born, London-based designer Hugo Passos pays great attention to the materials, structure and ergonomics in his designs. An approach which resonates deeply with Danish brand Fredericia’s core design values, the Calmo has clean lines and subtle curves, conveying a soothing sense of serenity. The best part? The flexible concept can be easily be configured in different ways, allowing you to be the designer of your own spatial experience.
Maura Modular 5-Piece Sectional by TRNK
The Maura Modular series is a versatile collection by US-based TRNK. Elegant yet practical, the design is comprised of just three components - a corner chair, armless chair and ottoman - that can ben rearranged in limitless configurations. With a curved, sculptural form, a low seat depth and down-wrapped cushions, the Maura is designed with comfort in mind. Available in carefully-chosen upholstery options, including a number of 'Performance' fabrics treated with stain repellant finishes, this sofa not only looks beautiful and feels like a dream, it's a great option for families.
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Photo by Adrian Gaut
In Situ Modular Sofa by Anderssen & Voll for Muuto
A grand, modular design with sculptural lines, deep comfort and a soft seat, the new In Situ sofa by Muuto can be tailored to your individual space by way of 30 predesigned configurations. There is also the option of creating your own, using the nine different seating modules. “With the In Situ Modular Sofa, we wanted to combine the functions of modularity with the beauty of simple, elegant lines and a deep comfort. We sketched a profile that runs along the seat and back of the sofa to subtly hide the visual elements of modularity, giving it a unique character while bringing the individual modules together for a complete appearance. This is paired with grand, sculptural lines and the inherent comfort of its soft seat. The In Situ Modular Sofa combines the grandeur of traditional Italian sofas with the refined simplicity of Scandinavian design, making it the heart of any space.”— Anderssen & Voll
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The Arcade Sofa by Simon James
Designed in 2018 by New Zealand designer Simon James, the Arcade Sofa features a slim-lined L shape arm detail that has become instantly recognisable and contrasts beautifully against the soft, relaxed look of the the seat and back. It's modular system made up of interlocking units allows for different configurations. Single or corner seats, narrow and wide chaises and ottomans can all be paired together with a choice of narrow or wide arms, providing a truly individualised result. Developed over a number of years, Arcade's revolutionary multi-density feather and foam system ensures the highest level of comfort.
Develius by Edeward van Vliet for &Tradtion
Conceived by Dutch designer Edward van Vliet, Develius by &Tradition has an elongated seat, reminiscent of a chaise lounge, inviting you to relax at length for long periods of time. Comprised of 16 modules, these vary in depth, width and shape from rectangular to square. It also offers versions with or without arms, as well as a variety of poufs and the addition of lush, loose pillows. The options are endless! &Tradition is available in NZ from Cult.
Conceived by Dutch designer Edward van Vliet, Develius by &Tradition has an elongated seat, reminiscent of a chaise lounge, inviting you to relax at length for long periods of time. Comprised of 16 modules, these vary in depth, width and shape from rectangular to square. It also offers versions with or without arms, as well as a variety of poufs and the addition of lush, loose pillows. The options are endless! &Tradition is available in NZ from Cult.
The Series Sofa by Tim Webber Design
New Zealand designer Tim Webber designed the Series Sofa with large soft modular components to emphasise comfort and leisure. Offering various modules, the sofa can be transformed into L shapes, extended sofas or even back-to-back configurations. Hugely versatile, the Series Sofa also has the option of a perforated panel to which a shelf can be attached, creating movable side tables, which you can see here.
Eve Sofa by Norm Architects for MENU
Inspired by architecture, the Eave Modular Sofa takes its names from the eaves in buildings, hence the distinctive overhang of the curved upholstered back and armrests. A multifunctional modular sofa which adapts to a wide range of needs and interior styles, there is a choice of two depths and three modules - corner, middle and pouf (the pouf comes in two sizes). Beneath the soft upholstery, the Eave Modular Sofa hides a strong structure made of wood covered with foam, creating the ideal combination of sturdiness and comfort.
Inspired by architecture, the Eave Modular Sofa takes its names from the eaves in buildings, hence the distinctive overhang of the curved upholstered back and armrests. A multifunctional modular sofa which adapts to a wide range of needs and interior styles, there is a choice of two depths and three modules - corner, middle and pouf (the pouf comes in two sizes). Beneath the soft upholstery, the Eave Modular Sofa hides a strong structure made of wood covered with foam, creating the ideal combination of sturdiness and comfort.
Maho Sofa designed by 365° North for Wendelbo
The Maho sofa by Danish brand Wendelbo is a generous, impactful piece that can be endlessly combined to meet your needs. With loose down cushions offering the utmost snug comfort, it also has a beautiful wood and marble table top detail. The Maho Sofa is available in NZ from Dawson & Co.
Modular Sofas by BoConcept
BoConcept has an extensive collection of modular options, and are a long-term favourite of mine, having worked with them on several Sofa Series collaborations. I still have a soft spot for our modular Carmo Sofa by BoConcept. Part of a collaboration back in 2015, we thoroughly enjoyed having this sofa in our home for a couple of years, and it's one I still highly recommend. You'll find it here. More recently, we introduced the BoConcept Amsterdam Sofa to our second living space and the compact chaise lounge is perfect. It also comes in several configurations comprising the chaise lounge and optional modules and pouf. Check out the Amsterdam series here.