THE SOFA HIERARCHY

Home Inspiration August 27, 2024

THE SOFA HIERARCHY

WHAT YOUR SOFA POSITION SAYS ABOUT YOU We all know there’s an unspoken seating plan within families, with family members naturally gravitating to their favourite spots on the sofa.

WHAT YOUR SOFA POSITION SAYS ABOUT YOU

We all know there's an unspoken seating plan within families, with family members naturally gravitating to their favourite spots on the sofa. Whether you're the Sandwicher, the Hanger-oner, or someone who loves nothing more than curling up right in the corner, these sofa preferences are more than just about comfort. They can actually offer some fascinating insights into your personality and family dynamics!

Curious about what your seating choice reveals about you? We've teamed up with mindset psychologist Dr Rebekah Wanic to dive into the hidden meanings behind sofa seating habits. Together, we've crafted the ultimate guide to understanding your family on a deeper level—one cushion at a time. We've even used this insight to find your perfect lounge partner.

So, settle in and get ready to uncover the secrets behind your favourite sofa spot. You might just discover more about yourself and your loved ones than you expected!

Let's Talk Positions

The Up Front and Personal: Dr Wanic reveals that for The Up Front and Personal, taking charge and being at the heart of the action is a top priority. She explains, “The person who sits closest to the TV might be driven by a desire to control the action or simply less interested in socialising.” This spot is reserved for those who thrive on being fully immersed and committed to entertainment.

Your perfect lounge partner: To make the most of their preferred position, The Up Front and Personal should consider adding a footstool to their setup. With a footstool, they can stay as close to the TV as they want while maintaining a comfortable and personal space. This addition not only enhances their viewing experience but also ensures they can keep a bit of distance from their fellow loungers, preserving their coveted front-row seat.

Our Recommendation: BLOOMSBURY

The Chaise Lounger: The Chaise Lounger is someone with a taste for the finer things in life. Dr Wanic explains that this kind of person is likely to be “more relaxed and self-assured, sociable while being selective in their appreciation of comfort and luxury.” They have a keen sense of what they enjoy and carry their preferences with confidence.

Your perfect lounge partner: When it comes to finding the ideal couch companion, Chaise Loungers are relatively straightforward—though their preferences are specific. To truly delight them, offer a comfortable, standalone corner piece that echoes the luxurious feel of a traditional chaise lounge but with a modern twist. This setup will allow them to fully kick back and embrace relaxation in style, making it the perfect match for their sophisticated lounging needs.

Our Recommendation: HOLBORN

The Sofa Sandwicher: The Sofa Sandwicher stakes their claim right in the middle of the sofa, positioning themselves as the epicentre of all activity. Dr Wanic believes “this prime spot often reflects their role as a confident social leader who thrives in the thick of things. Typically an extrovert, they relish being the centre of attention, enjoying the buzz of interaction and the energy of social gatherings.” Whether they're engaging with everyone around them or just soaking up the lively atmosphere, the Sofa Sandwicher knows how to make the most of their central position.

Your perfect lounge partner: To cater to The Sofa Sandwicher's dynamic nature, a U-shaped, closed-end couch is the perfect match. This design creates a snug, immersive space that wraps them in comfort from every angle while keeping them fully engaged with the action around them. It's an ideal setup for those who thrive in the centre of social events, ensuring they stay comfortably positioned at the heart of every conversation and activity. With this arrangement, The Sofa Sandwicher can enjoy both the comfort of their spot and the excitement of being at the centre of the social scene.

Our Recommendation: BISHOP

The Low-down Lounger: The Low-down Lounger takes relaxation to a whole new level, choosing the floor over traditional seating. “This unconventional choice reveals a person who values creativity and uniqueness, favouring a non-conformist approach to comfort,” Dr Wanic said. They're drawn to informal settings that defy the norm, embracing a laid-back vibe that still stands out.

Your perfect lounge partner: Matching the Low-down Lounger's distinctive taste can be a challenge, but we've got just the solution. For these lovers of individuality, a modular sofa is the ideal choice. With its flexible design, a modular sofa allows for endless rearrangements and configurations, giving them the freedom to break from tradition and create a space that reflects their unique style. Mix and match colours, adjust the layout, and embrace a seating arrangement that's as unconventional as they are.

Our Recommendation: NOBU

The Space Invader: The Space Invader is the ultimate ruler of the sofa, stretching out and claiming every inch of available space as their own. This bold seating choice often indicates a person who enjoys being the centre of attention, using their expansive lounging position to ensure they are never overlooked. “The person who takes up all the space may like being the centre of attention and use their space-hogging to make sure the rest of the group can't ignore them or their perspective. It may be a sign of confidence, dominance or even entitlement,” Dr Wanic explained.

Your perfect lounge partner: For a Space Invader, a sofa that doubles as a bed is the ultimate match. This versatile piece of furniture caters perfectly to their need for ample space, providing an expansive, uninterrupted surface ideal for lounging—or sprawling.

Our Recommendation: THE CLOUD

The Corner Warmer: The Corner Warmer is drawn to the cosiest spot in the room—the corner of the sofa. Dr Wanic advised, “The person who sits in the corner may be the group's observer, content to sit on the outside so they can watch the action taking place with introverted thoughtfulness.” They appreciate the ability to stay on the periphery, taking in the action while remaining comfortably detached. Their corner is a personal retreat, offering both physical and emotional space for contemplation rather than active participation.

Your perfect lounge partner: For the Corner Warmer, a corner sofa is the ultimate match. This design provides the ideal haven for relaxation, offering a snug nook that perfectly suits their needs. For maximum relaxation, opt for a double corner couch, so you'll never leave a Corner Warmer high and dry.

Our Recommendation: BROADGATE

Let's Talk Body Language

The Couch Criss-Crosser: The Couch Criss-Crosser opts for a cross-legged sitting position, radiating an air of poise and control. “This stance often indicates a desire to project an image of sophistication and composure. It is someone who wants to be perceived as polished and controlled, with this posture being a way to increase height and presence, helping them stand out and draw attention,” Dr Wanic said.

Your perfect lounge partner: For The Couch Criss-Crosser, a firmer, more formal sofa is essential. They need a seat that offers ample support and structure to keep their posture elegant and upright. A two-seater sofa with a firm cushion and a sturdy backrest will be ideal, providing just the right blend of comfort and style. This classic and sophisticated choice ensures they can maintain their polished posture without compromising on style or comfort.

Our Recommendation: ASCOT

The Lay Back Lounger: The Lay Back Lounger is all about embracing ultimate relaxation and comfort. Dr Wanic believes, “This person is likely relaxed and confident, feeling comfortable taking up extra space and enjoying their comfort.”

They have few qualms about confidently claiming their space to unwind in style.

Your perfect lounge partner: For The Lay Back Lounger, a sofa that epitomises relaxation is a must. They need plenty of room to stretch out and recline comfortably, so a piece that includes footstools is ideal. Footstools can transform a sofa into a versatile haven, effectively turning it into a spacious bed. With such limitless lounging possibilities and ample space for ultimate reclining comfort, The Lay Back Lounger can truly enjoy their relaxation to the fullest.

Our Recommendation: CHISWICK

The Snug Sitter: The Snug Sitter is all about curling up and enjoying a cosy, private space. “Someone who sits with legs tucked up prefers comfort to poise and may be less interested in gaining attention but more focused on enjoying their experience,” Dr Wanic told us. That means their ideal lounging spot is one that wraps them in warmth and ease, allowing them to fully unwind without any fuss.

Your perfect lounge partner: The Snug Sitter favours being snug! For that reason, a double-ended corner sofa is ideal. This type of sofa naturally creates a plush, enclosed nook that envelops you in comfort. The design of corner sofas provides generous space on both sides, making it perfect for piling up cushions and throws. This setup allows The Snug Sitter to craft their own cocoon, where they can sink in completely and feel surrounded by comfort.

Our Recommendation: CHELSEA

The Footstool Fan: The Footstool Fan is the non-identical twin of The Lay Back Lounger: someone who favours relaxation and ease. However, Dr Wanic said, “The Footstool Fan might utilise the footstool when a recliner is unavailable, suggesting an individual who is willing to adapt, revealing a sense of practicality.” Unlike their selective recliner siblings, Footstool Fans are a little more go with the flow.

Your perfect lounge partner: You guessed it, The Footstool Fan needs a footstool. But they're not just looking for any footstool—they need one that goes beyond its basic function. This versatile piece might also serve as extra seating during casual gatherings, a convenient surface for drinks and snacks, or even a makeshift coffee table. Their ideal sofa should pair well with a footstool and offer a firmer surface to accommodate its multifunctional uses. A sofa with sturdy, supportive cushions complements their adaptable lounging style perfectly.

Our Recommendation: ASCOT

The Cushion Cuddler: “The Cushion Cuddler is likely the introvert of the group. This position suggests a preference for blending into the background. They may be trying to hide or appear less noticeable; it may be an attempt to cover up because of shyness or self-consciousness,” Dr Wanic suggested.

Your perfect lounge partner: To cater to The Cushion Cuddler's needs, opt for a sofa that feels like a snug cocoon. Look for a plush, enveloping design with deep, cushioned seats that invite them to sink in and feel securely surrounded. Sofas with high arms or deep, curved edges provide the perfect sense of enclosure, offering a comforting space for their favourite cushions and throws.

Our Recommendation: CLAPHAM

Methodology

Working with Dr Rebekah Wanic, mindset physiologist at Vent to Reinvent we analysed each sofa seat as well as their position to gain insight into their personality and social positioning within the room.

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