Many
people prefer to purchase a sectional instead of a sofa for their home in
Mexico. A sectional is much more
versatile than a sofa since it can be customized for the exact shape of your
room. Sectionals also provide more
seating space and are great for stretching out.
When
sectionals first entered the scene back in the Victorian era, they were
certainly not as comfortable as they are today.
Victorian sectionals were made by sliding two couches together. These sofas were wide and high backed with
wood trim on the upper back and arms.
The backs and seat were padded with thick, soft cushions. Sectionals were not L-shaped since corner
pieces were not used.
The
sectional as we know them today came into their own in the mid-twentieth
century. The sectional design changed
from having an ornate look to having a more low-profile and sleek appearance. This aligned with the minimalist approach in
home décor at the time. Bold, geometric
shapes in fabric covers were also hot.
During this period and for the first time, furniture buyers could also
select the option of a sleeper as one of the pieces of the sectional. Granted, the first sleeper sectionals were
not very comfortable to sleep on, but it did usher in the era of a multi-use
sectional.
Today,
sectionals come in a myriad of pieces to fit every space and every
lifestyle. That said, there are three
main configurations most people select when purchasing a sectional sofa.
One
option is a sectional that has a chaise longue (yes, that is spelled correct –
it is referred to historically as a longue, and in the northern hemisphere as a
lounge). This configuration often
referred to as a simple sectional has two or three seats like a regular sofa
and then one long end piece. The chaise
longue can be either on the left or the right side depending on the shape of
your room.
Another
option is a U sectional. This is an
excellent solution for large families and when you expect to entertain a lot. U sectionals have a center piece and then a
two or three seat piece on each end of the center. This configuration is perfect for
after-dinner guests who want to relax and have some intimate
conversations.
Gaining
popularity is the pit sectional. This is
perfect for a media room where you or the kids watch TV or Netflix. It is the most fun, cozy way to relax. The best way to envision this configuration
is to imagine a large square seating area that is like a large bed, with no
arms on one side.
In the
design world, sectionals are considered a more relaxed piece of furniture than a
sofa. Since our homes in Mexico are
where we go to unwind, it makes perfect sense to incorporate one.
Regardless
sectional or sofa, make sure to select a performance cover. Available in many colors designs res, any
liquid spilled on them will bead up and roll right off. Comfortable sectionals and sofas with
performance fabrics are available at SOLutions Mexico (www.solutionsmexico.com)
and The Furniture Store.