What Side Corner Sofa Do I Need? Left vs Right Hand Guide

The Quick Answer

Stand in front of where the sofa will go, facing it as if you were about to sit down. Then look at where the corner (or chaise) section sits:

• Corner on your left: you need a left-hand facing (LHF) corner sofa.
• Corner on your right: you need a right-hand facing (RHF) corner sofa.

The side is always judged from the point of view of someone facing the sofa, not from behind it. That is the most common mistake buyers make.

LHF vs RHF: What the Terms Mean

LHF (left-hand facing): The longer section or corner unit is on the left as you face the sofa.

RHF (right-hand facing): The longer section or corner unit is on the right as you face the sofa.

Some retailers use "left-hand corner" and "right-hand corner" instead. Others describe the side the shorter arm is on. Always check the product diagram on the page before you order. If in doubt, contact the retailer and ask them to confirm.

How to Decide Which Side You Need

1. Start With the Room Layout

Think about where the long side of the sofa will sit. In most living rooms, the corner should tuck into the space that's hardest to use, such as a corner or an alcove, while the open side faces the room.

2. Consider the Door and Walkway

Keep the main route through the room clear. Placing the long section across the natural path to the door can make the room feel cramped. Try to leave at least 70 to 80cm of walking space.

3. Think About Your TV and Focal Point

Decide where you'll look when you're relaxing. If you have a TV or fireplace, choose the side that lets most people face it comfortably. The chaise or longer end is often where people put their feet up, so it should have a good view.

4. Check Windows, Radiators and Sockets

Avoid blocking radiators completely, as this traps heat and can damage the fabric. Also think about where you'll need a lamp, charging point or side table.

5. Match Your Lifestyle

• Families: Place the longer side where several people can sit and watch TV together.
• Couples: A chaise end is ideal for stretching out.
• Small rooms: Choose the side that leaves the most open floor space.
• Open-plan spaces: A corner sofa can divide the room. Place the back of the long side towards the dining area.

How to Measure Before You Buy

1. Measure the wall space where the sofa will go, both the long side and the return.
2. Mark it out on the floor with masking tape to see how it feels.
3. Measure doorways, hallways and stairs. Check the delivery route too, including tight turns and narrow entrances.
4. Compare with the product dimensions on the listing and leave a small gap around the sofa.

Corner Sofas With a Reversible Chaise

If you're not sure which side you'll need, or you might move house or rearrange the room later, look for a reversible chaise or a modular corner sofa. These let you switch the corner from left to right whenever you like, so you won't need to worry about getting it wrong.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Judging the side from behind the sofa. Always picture yourself facing it.
• Ignoring the delivery route. Measure doors and hallways.
• Forgetting the room's flow. A sofa that blocks the main walkway will always feel awkward.
• Not checking the diagram. Every retailer labels sides slightly differently.
• Choosing by looks alone. Think about how you'll actually use the space.