THE CRICKLEWOOD JOURNAL
By the Cricklewood Interiors team
September 28, 2026
Choosing the right sectional sofa starts with understanding your space, seating needs and lifestyle. From compact chaise layouts to spacious modular configurations, the right sectional should balance comfort, proportion and flexibility. This guide covers the key things to consider before you buy, including size, configuration, upholstery and customization. If you’re shopping locally, explore our sectionals in Calgary to see customizable, modular and Canadian-made options available at Cricklewood Interiors.
Before choosing a sectional, measure the space where it will go. Note the room’s length and width, along with doorways, windows, fireplaces and other features that may affect the layout. Consider the sectional’s overall width and depth, and make sure there is enough space to move comfortably around it and access the rest of the room.
Tip:
Allow enough clearance for comfortable movement through the room. Main walkways often benefit from around 30–36 inches of space where the layout allows.
Sectional sofas come in a range of configurations, from compact chaise designs to flexible modular layouts. The right choice depends on your room shape, seating needs and how you use the space.
A chaise sectional combines standard seating with an extended lounge seat, making it a practical choice for relaxing without a full corner layout.
An L-shaped sectional uses two seating sections that meet at a right angle, providing generous seating while making efficient use of a corner.
A U-shaped sectional extends seating along three sides, creating a spacious conversation area for larger rooms and households.
Modular sectionals are made from individual pieces that can be combined or rearranged, giving you greater flexibility as your space and needs change.
Not sure which layout is right for your room? Browse our sectional collection to compare different configurations and styles.
Left-facing and right-facing describe which side of a sectional extends into the room. Because orientation terminology can vary by manufacturer, always check the product configuration or diagram before ordering.
Extended section shown on the left.
Extended section shown on the right.
See Sectionals in Person
Compare sizes, configurations and comfort in person with help from our team at the Calgary showroom.
The right upholstery can make a big difference in how your sectional looks, feels and performs over time. Consider how often the sectional will be used, who uses it and how much maintenance you’re comfortable with before choosing a material.
For a sectional used every day, consider how the upholstery feels, how easy it is to care for and how well it suits your household. Fabric options vary widely in texture, softness and performance.
comfort
durability
maintenance
If your sectional will see spills, pets or frequent family use, ask about upholstery options designed for easier care and everyday durability. Colour and texture can also affect how visible everyday wear may be.
cleanability
durability
colour
texture
Upholstery also shapes the character of a sectional. Different fabrics and leathers can create anything from a soft, relaxed look to a more tailored appearance, while colour and texture help connect the sectional to the rest of the room.
texture
colour
feel
overall style
Can’t find the right combination?
Many sectional collections offer a choice of upholstery options,
allowing you to select a look and feel that better suits your home.
If a standard sectional doesn’t quite fit your room or style, a customizable design can give you more flexibility. Depending on the collection, you may be able to choose the configuration, upholstery, colours, finishes and individual sectional pieces to create a combination that works for your home.
Ready-Made Sectional
Ready-made sectionals come in a predetermined configuration with a set selection of available options. They can be a straightforward choice when the size, layout and style already work well for your room.
IDEAL IF YOU:
CUSTOMIZABLE SECTIONAL
A customizable sectional gives you more control over the combination, look and feel of your seating. Depending on the collection, you can choose from different pieces, upholstery options and finishes to create a sectional that suits your space and style.
1
Choose the Configuration
Combine available sectional pieces to create a size and layout that works for your space.
2
Select the Upholstery
Explore available fabrics and leathers in different colours, textures and performance options.
3
Pick the Finishing Details
Depending on the model, choose from available leg styles, wood or metal finishes and other design details.
4
Create the Final Combination
Bring the configuration, upholstery and finishing details together to create a sectional that suits your space and style.
Support Canadian furniture makers with a sectional made here in Canada. Cricklewood Interiors carries Canadian-made furniture from established brands including Linea, Stylus, Brentwood and Canadel.
Choosing Canadian-made furniture is a way to support Canadian manufacturing while bringing home pieces from makers with a strong tradition of furniture design and craftsmanship. Visit our Calgary showroom to explore Canadian-made options and find the right fit for your home.
Dimensions and specifications can help narrow down your options, but comfort is easier to judge in person. Sitting on a sectional lets you compare seat depth, seat height, cushion feel and overall scale before making your decision.
Seat Depth
Does it feel comfortable for the way you like to sit or lounge?
Seat Height
Is it comfortable to sit down and get back up?
Cushion Feel
Compare softer and firmer seating to find what feels right.
Overall Scale
See how the sectional’s proportions and overall size feel in person.
Visit Cricklewood Interiors in Calgary to compare sectional sizes, configurations and comfort in person. Our team can help you explore available options and find the right fit for your space and the way you live.
*DESIGN CONSULTATION FEES ARE WAVED WITH PURCHASES OVER $8000