A price-led guide to choosing a new couch

Sydney living demands a stylish and comfortable place to unwind after a long day. But picking a new sofa is a big decision when there’s such variation in both price and style. Follow our price-led guide to choosing a couch and our top tips, and you’ll be sitting on your perfect new sofa in no time.

3 price points for choosing a couch

Budget (under $1500)

Maximising comfort on a shoestring budget is achievable with these tips and retailers:

• Start by scouring Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree for pre-loved couches. People upgrade or move house frequently, creating opportunities for you to snag a bargain. 
• You'd be surprised at the quality of sofas people donate to op shops, which you can grab at low prices. 
• Can we do a budget couch guide without mentioning IKEA? Top-quality sofas at affordable prices—what more could you want?
• If you want Australian-made sofas in multiple colours at great prices, visit Fantastic Furniture in Castle Hill.

Mid-range (up to $3,000)

Here are some stellar Sydney retailers that balance affordability and quality with their mid-range sofas:

• Northern District locals should check the sales at OZ Design Furniture, which has showrooms in Belrose and Castle Hill. The family-run business is proud to supply other families with high-quality couches.
• Domayne has been a stalwart in Australian furniture for years. Head to its North Ryde location to shop its selection of contemporary lounges.
• La Maison is known for blending the classic Hamptons coastal look with modern style—the perfect vibe for many Sydney homes. Shop the Lilyfield showroom or browse the Hamptons-style sofas online.
• Pottery Barn is an iconic brand offering timeless sofas you can shop at the Bondi Junction showroom.

High-end ($3,000+)

If top-tier materials and bespoke comfort reign supreme, Sydney has a high-end haven waiting for you:

• RJ Living is a family-owned Australian business with a female-led design team. Its mission is to create unique designer sofas that embrace the relaxed Australian lifestyle. Fortunately, Sydneysiders can visit the Alexandria showroom.
• West Elm offers a premium sofa experience, combining clean aesthetics with unparalleled comfort. Customisation is available, and you can request free swatches from the Bondi Junction store.
• Wills Bisgrove has been manufacturing individually crafted, upholstered furniture for over 80 years. Check out its range of both classic and contemporary sofas.
• Based in Byron Bay, Bodhi Living has a curated collection of antique, vintage and contemporary sofas – and they ship Australia wide. 

How to choose a sofa

Here are five tips after you choose your price point:

1. Textured and dark fabrics are your best friend if you have children, as they hide most spills and stains and stay cleaner longer. A go-to is tan leather, as it’s both durable and stylish, lasting for years.

2. Before venturing out, meticulously measure your living space (including doorways and hallways) to ensure your chosen couch fits comfortably. 

3. While people focus on colour, don’t discount sofa arms as they also make an impact. For a classic look, go round. For a contemporary look, try straight. High arms are great for a formal setting, while low arms make a room look bigger, and no arms scream casual.

4. While budget plays a role, consider a new couch a long-term investment. Choose a style and quality that will endure for years to come.

5. Comfort is paramount, so spend time testing the sofas until you find the perfect match. And make sure there is room for everyone. 

Are you selling in the Northern Districts? 

With this price-led guide and handy tips, your sofa search will surely lead you to the perfect seating solution. When it’s time to move said sofa to or from Sydney’s Northern Districts, contact Page&Co. We’re here for all your buying and selling needs.