The Top Five Factors Influencing the Cost of a Sofa

What makes one sofa cost $1,000 and another cost $10,000? And is it worth it?

My Living Room in 2017. I sourced J Redmond sofas and chairs, Room and Board coffee tables, lighting from Etsy, and a vintage rug from a local rug store. The talented Kat Lawton took my design to the next level with her amazing styling. Photo by John Granen.

When it comes to purchasing a sofa, the price tag often reflects more than just the brand of sofa or what it looks like. From the materials used to the construction methods employed, several factors influence why one sofa costs $1,000 while another commands a price tag of $10,000. To help you navigate this maze of options and make an informed decision, I've included five crucial questions to ask when considering which sofa to purchase and how to evaluate what is the right investment for your home. Check out this funny SNL sketch poking fun at low cost products from China.

THE TOP FIVE FACTORS INFLUENCING THE COST OF A SOFA

1. Where was the sofa made?

Labor is the biggest factor influencing the cost of a sofa. Generally speaking, if a sofa is made in America or Europe, you can expect it to be made by laborers in companies that are held to national labor standards. This most certainly will drive up the cost of your sofa. The alternative is something made in China or SE Asia where we have less transparency on the labor practices used to lower costs. I totally get it if you are working with a limited budget (I have budget constraints too), but just know that if the price seems to good to be true, then it probably is! Check out this funny SNL sketch highlighting the paradox of fast fashion... which applies with fast furnishings as well!

2. What type of wood is the sofa frame made of and how is it joined?

Sofas made from kiln-dried hardwood (eg oak, ash, beech) are the most expensive and will be the most durable. Soft woods like pine are less costly, but will break down over time. Particle board frames are the least expensive and will break down quickly. As you're looking at the wood, also check to ensure that the frame is joined with dowels or wooden corner blocks. A sofa frame that is glued and stapled/nailed together will break down quickly.

3. What suspension system supports the seat cushion?

There is debate about what is best in class, but many experts suggest that eight-way hand tie springs are the most durable… and can be more expensive. Most big box retail stores will have a sinuous spring suspension. No suspension or webbed suspension will be the lowest cost, though most flimsy.

4. How are the seat cushions filled?

There are essentially three levels of seat cushion that you can select:

• Down Wrapped Foam: High resiliency foam wrapped in down is the softest and most expensive. Down can lose it's shape after sitting on it and you will regularly need to plump it up to maintain its shape, but that mold-ability also allows it to keep it looking new for a long time.

• Trillium: Trillium is a down alternative that is more affordable, more springy, and can be a great option if you're allergic to feathers. It will sink a bit when you sit in it, but it will (mostly) spring back.

• All Foam: Conventional foam (usually wrapped in a layer of polyester) is your most affordable option but can also be a bit firm. I've used this option for a client who hated wrinkles and didn't want high maintenance cushions.

5. How durable is the fabric?

Fabric is a meaningful driver of cost. A typical sofa requires 10-15 yards of fabric, which can range in cost from $20 to Hundreds of dollars per yard. So, if you pick a fabric that costs about $35 per yard, then you're looking at $350 to $525 of your total sofa cost going to fabric. While it may seem easy cost savings to select a lower cost fabric, your sofa fabric plays a crucial role in its longevity. Opt for fabrics with tight weaves, a high number of "double rubs," a knit or acrylic backing, and other key performance features for a sofa with superior durability against pilling, snagging, stretching and sagging. Investing in a sofa with durable fabric ensures it withstands daily wear and tear, maintaining its pristine appearance for years to come.

SO HOW MUCH SHOULD I CONSIDER SPENDING ON A SOFA?

Obviously we all have different levels of willingness and ability to pay for a sofa. It can be a big expense in your furnishing budget, but it really comes down to how long you want to keep the sofa (or how hard you plan to use it). Here's a budget to time breakdown I typically provide my clients when we're budgeting their project:

84" Sofa Price Range

• $1,500 or less: Truthfully, you're going to be hard pressed to find a quality sofa below $1,500 that can withstand regularly daily use (e.g. from a young family)

• $1,500 - $3,000: You can expect your sofa to show some wear and tear within 3-4 years of regularly daily use

• $3,000 - $6,000: You can expect this sofa to last you 5-10 years of regularly daily use

• $6,000 or more: You are probably investing in an "heirloom" piece that can be reupholstered when the fabric wears out.

At the end of the day, I'd recommend you consider your budget and how long you want to keep your sofa, and then try to find a sofa that meets as many of the above factors as possible. While your sofa's aesthetics are undoubtedly important, don't overlook the importance of identifying high-durability features within your target budget. If this information isn't readily available, don't hesitate to download tear sheets or consult with a knowledgeable sales representative for additional insights... or talk to a designer! It is literally my job to know whether you are purchasing a high quality sofa and whether it is a good use of your money!