BUYING GUIDES

a sofa guide with Nadia Olive Schnack

Nadia Olive Schnack is a prominent interior designer whose distinctive take on colour, prints and patterns creates uniquely beautiful and intriguing interiors. Our friends and design partners, ferm LIVING met Nadia at her studio in Copenhagen, where she shared her advice on how to pick the perfect sofa for your home.


sofa buying guide

The sofa is the primary spot in our homes where we relax and unwind. A place where we gather with family and friends, to truly rest and recharge. Nadia comments, "Finding the perfect sofa can be a challenging task as it can easily dominate a space due to its size. Like a puzzle, its integral that the sofa must fit in with the other pieces of your home, creating the perfect atmosphere and energy."

play with colour

Nadia believes colour is an important element in finding the right sofa, saying “If you’ve chosen a large sofa that dominates a room, choose a neutral colour that does not disrupt the space. This gives you the opportunity to be more playful with other elements in the room – with lighting, rugs and accessories."

Neutral, however, doesn’t necessarily have to mean white or grey. “The colour white can actually be quite loud in a space,” she explains, “It all depends on the sofa’s surroundings. An unexpected colour can be neutral depending on the conversation it’s having with the rest of the room. It’s about creating a moment of calm.

INVEST IN A LONG-TERM RELATIONSHIP

When it comes to investing in a new sofa, Nadia emphasises the importance of thinking long-term by reflecting on the needs of both you and your space. Ideally, it should be a piece that will be with you for many years to come – perhaps even the rest of your life.

It’s a good idea to take into account emotional and practical considerations. Do you have children or pets? Does it speak to your intuition and personal taste? Are you living in your forever home or is there a chance you (and your sofa) will move in the foreseeable future? Do you think you’ll love it after living together for a decade? Nadia says, “My taste is timeless because I don’t work with what’s trendy or in style. I seek balance, independently of what other people think and do, by reflecting on purpose, layout, architecture, furniture and materials.

Ferm Living Eternal Jute Rug Round in natural. Available from someday designs. #colour_natural-jute
CREATE A SENSE OF BALANCE

Lastly, to find the perfect sofa for your space, Nadia recommends that you invest time in creating balance. Different materials can contribute to the atmosphere of a space, and it is therefore important to reflect on these when choosing a sofa.

In any room, it’s important to incorporate elements of tactility in order to create depth and contrast,” Nadia explains. “Whether it comes to choice of colour, shape or material, it’s all about striking a balance. It’s up to you to decide what you want your space to do for you. Do you want to open the door and feel calm, or do you want to be inspired? Let that decision lead you while you are making your design choices.”

Nadia’s Top Sofa Tips

Follow your intuition. There is a reason why you initially get an idea – see it through, and you will most likely not regret it


Balance is key
. Decide which expression you wish your room to have – tranquillity or creativity and inspiration. Try different things to find the perfect balance between the feminine and masculine.


A sense of depth.
You don’t want your space to be flat. Employ a sense of depth by contrasting colours, materials and textiles.


Think long-term
. It’s okay to follow trends you love, but when investing in a big piece of furniture, make sure it’s one you’ll enjoy for years to come.


Have some humour
. Interior design does not have to be so serious! You don’t always have to play it safe - pick pieces that bring you joy and make you smile on a daily basis.

Here at someday we know there is a lot to consider when buying your new sofa, but don't worry we've got you covered. You can get more tips and advice in our sofa buying guide.


The ferm LIVING sofa collections

modular low living
catena sofas

The ferm LIVING Catena modular sofas have an embracing, beanbag-inspired shape that is generously dimensioned for all-out relaxation and cosiness. The homely, module-based designs are made with microcellular foam that ensures maximum comfort as well as durability.


elegant comfort
rico sofas

The Rico collection brings curves and volumes to a classic design defined by soft lines and an embracing shape. The curvaceous nature of the Rico sofas will add a modern mix of comfort and elegance to your home.


a modern classic
turn sofas

The modern and multifunctional ferm LIVING Turn sofas are defined by their sculptural outer shapes and rounded, organic inner curves, and the simple, powder-coated metal frame gives the collection a timeless and clean look.

ABOUT NADIA OLIVE SCHNACK


Nadia Olive Schnack is a prominent Danish interior designer whose distinctive take on colour, prints and patterns creates uniquely beautiful and intriguing interiors.

get in touch with our sofa experts


For one-to-one expert guidance on your sofa purchase, why not give us a call on 020 8305 7265, email us at hello@somedaydesigns.co.uk or complete the form below. We know each and every sofa inside out and will be happy to help you with any questions you may have!

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