When you’re buying a sofa, you’re looking for something stylish, comfortable and built to last. But beyond colour, fabric texture and design, there’s a world of sofa terminology used in the furniture industry. From modular sofas to sofa beds, swivel sofas and everything in between, we explain the differences between each to help you navigate your sofa purchase with ease. 

Featuring the modular 1977 Sofa in various configurations.

Modular and sectional sofas 

Modular sofas, also known as sectional sofas, are the epitome of versatility. Consisting of different units or sections, you can rearrange modular sofas for a growing family, entertaining or to freshen up your living space.  

One of the benefits of modular sofa design is that when you find a style you like, you can design a configuration that suits your space. For smaller or more challenging spaces, this opens up more possibilities for styling. 

Modular versatility is a key element of the King Difference, with a range of modular sofas to suit different aesthetics. Styles like the Jasper Sofa, Delta Sofa, and 1977 Sofa are prized for their complete modularity and the endless ways you can rearrange the setting to suit different lifestyles and spaces.

Featuring the King Cloud V Sofa with smart accessories, including the Crescent Platform Table, Sonos Speaker Bracket and Lume Smart Light.

Recliner sofas

For those who prioritise comfort, recliner sofas come equipped with a built-in reclining mechanism. At the pull of a lever or push of a button, you can raise your legs and recline your back for ultimate relaxation. 

Recliner sofas are ideal for designing a home theatre room or adding enhanced comfort and functionality into a living space. Pair Reo II Recliners with standard armchairs for a cohesive look or opt for the space-saving King Cloud V Recliner. 

Featuring the Zaza Sofa in Boyd Autumn Mist. Zaza is available in various deep seater packages.

Deep seater sofas

Deep seater sofas offer a unique blend of comfort and style, featuring extra depth in the seating area to create a luxurious seating experience. Whether for stretching out for a nap or settling in for a movie night, a deep seater sofa allows for personalised comfort. 

A deep seater sofa like the Zaza Sofa offers modular flexibility and features a thick overlay of Ultradown® for the King Living signature sink-in seating. Arms and backs are adjustable allowing for choice and comfort. 

Featuring the Kato Sofa, which offers the option of a grand double chaise for complete relaxation.

Chaise sofas

An evolution of the French term, ‘lounge chaise’, meaning long chair, a chaise sofa has an extended ottoman or extra length of sofa extending from one side. Offering additional space to stretch out and relax, chaise styles are ideal for both small and large spaces. 

Several modular designs in the King Living collection offer chaise components. The 1977 Sofa is a reimagined classic, based on an original 1970s King Living design. Individual modules combine to create endless configurations, including a chaise. The Kato Sofa offers a luxurious double chaise for added comfort. 

The Oscar Sofa Bed converts from a two-seater sofa into a comfortable guest bed in one single folding movement. 

Sofa beds

Sofa beds serve a dual purpose, acting as a sofa during the day and converting into a bed at night. It's a space-saving solution for homes with limited room or for those who often host overnight guests. 

When buying a sofa bed, there are two options to consider. The first is a more traditional folding sofa bed style, such as the Oscar Sofa Bed or Felix Studio Bed. The other option is modular sofa components that combine to create a bedding surface, for example the Jasper Sofa or Delta Sofa.  

Featuring the Jasper Sofa, made to order in a choice of signature timber veneer finishes and optional range of smart accessories.

Made-to-order sofas

You might consider a made-to-order sofa if you have a very specific sofa vision in mind. You’ll have the opportunity to customise every detail, including fabric and design, to ensure the perfect fit. 

With King Living, you can choose from an extensive fabric and leather collection with colours and textures to suit every style. Covers are tailor made and can be removed and replaced in years to come for a fresh new look. 

Featuring the Delta Circle, customisable in a choice of swivel or storage base.

Swivel sofas

A swivel sofa comes with a rotating base, allowing the seat to spin around. This feature can be particularly useful in open floor plans or in areas where people need to turn to face different directions easily. 

The Delta Circle is a statement sofa with the option for a swivel or storage base. Minimalist in design, the fanned back cushions and deep seating area invite relaxation. Platform Tables are optional for added convenience. 

Featuring the Jasper Sofa removable covers before and after.

Removable sofa covers

Removable sofa covers give you the ability to replace the covers with a new set. By replacing the sofa covers you can give your sofa a whole new look and make your sofa feel like new. Removable sofa covers also enable you to more easily clean the covers, and in some cases covers can be machine washed.  

At King Living, all of our upholstered furniture features removable sofa covers that can be unzipped and replaced with new covers in your choice of fabric or leather. 

Buying a sofa with King Living

King Living offers unparalleled quality and durability with sofas built on engineered steel frames, designed to last. A leader in sofas for five decades, we invite you to explore the King Living sofa collection to discover your perfect sofa. 

For more sofa articles, discover: 

• Best sofa beds by King Living 
• King Living sofa review: 5 features to consider 
• Sofa accessories: How to customise your King Living furniture designs
• Modular sofa comparison: Jasper vs Delta vs Concerto vs Kato