Top Modular Sofas to Match Any Style, Space, and Budget

Top Pick

This sofa earned top marks for its resilience, affordability, and craftsmanship, securing its position as the best modular sofa overall. Its adaptability is a standout feature, with nine fabric choices and three leg styles, allowing you to tailor it seamlessly to your home's aesthetic.

From the moment it arrived, the sofa's exceptional quality stood out. The stitching was flawless, and every component fit precisely as intended. In terms of dimensions, the couch felt slightly smaller than expected based on the online images. At 90 inches long, it comfortably fits one person lying down or two to three seated individuals. While it provided adequate comfort, it lacked the plushness of some alternatives, making it more suitable for sitting rather than lounging. However, we never encountered any discomfort, regardless of the seating position.

Throughout our testing, the sofa demonstrated remarkable durability. Even after becoming a favorite spot for our pets, it showed no signs of damage—the fabric remains intact, the structure hasn't sagged, and the cushions retain their original form. Aside from a few minor scratches from our cat, the upholstery looks as good as new, ensuring this sofa will last for years.

Dimensions: 90x38x34 inches | Upholstery: Performance fabric, leather | Fill: Polyfoam, fiber | Seat Configurations: 1

Top Budget Pick

Modular sofas are often pricey, but if you're on a tight budget, there are still options that provide the versatility you need. For a cost-effective solution, Ikea is an excellent starting point. This minimalist modular sofa costs less than half of our top pick, making it ideal for those furnishing an apartment without overspending.

The Söderhamn Sofa features spacious seating, plush back cushions, and slender metal legs that create a light, open look. Its upholstery, crafted from a blend of textured cotton and polyester, is both soft and long-lasting. Additionally, the removable, machine-washable cover makes it easy to keep the sofa looking fresh without the need for a complete replacement.

This design includes an armrest on one side and an open end on the other, though you can also choose a more conventional sofa shape (or enhance this one with a chaise lounge or extra corner seat). However, note that the open-ended version, with its low seating and absence of an armrest, might make it challenging to rise from the sofa. We also appreciate the availability of 10 color options, ensuring it fits seamlessly into any decor.

Dimensions: 75.6x39x32.6 inches | Upholstery: Cotton and polyester | Fill: Polyester | Seat Configurations: 1

Ultimate Comfort Pick

If you often fall asleep on your couch, consider upgrading to this luxurious sleeper sofa. West Elm has meticulously crafted this piece to ensure maximum comfort for both lounging and sleeping. The high-density foam cushions provide excellent support, while the temperature-regulating mattress adapts to your body, offering a sleep experience comparable to a real bed. 

Initially, the cushions felt overly firm, but after a few weeks of use, they softened beautifully, becoming incredibly plush and comfortable, almost molding to our bodies. Beyond the sofa's exceptional quality, we were equally impressed by the bed mechanism. Unlike other sleeper sofas that require complicated setup, this one transitions effortlessly—simply remove the cushions and pull the handle. The sturdy frame and smooth-gliding handle made the process seamless.

While you can’t customize the seating arrangement like a traditional modular sofa due to the built-in mattress, West Elm offers a storage ottoman to create a chaise. Additionally, you can select from a wide range of upholstery options, including stain-resistant performance fabrics, velvets, boucle, and more, to perfectly match your decor.

Dimensions: 85x43x37 inches | Upholstery: Basketweave, boucle, linen, velvet, twill, canvas, or chenille | Fill: Polyurethane foam | Seat Configurations: 1

Top Customization Option

If you're on the hunt for the perfect sectional for your living room, Crate and Barrel's Lounge Deep 2-Piece Sectional is an excellent choice. With an extensive range of customization options, you can design it to perfectly fit your space. You can select from 17 pre-designed configurations or create your own, choosing from over 200 fabric options to match your style, whether you prefer luxury materials or stain-resistant finishes. 

After testing the non-sectional version of this sofa, we can confidently say it’s one of the best we’ve experienced. The deep seats comfortably accommodate multiple people or provide ample space for a nap, while the plush back cushions offer just the right amount of support. Constructed with durability in mind, the frame is made from kiln-dried hardwood to prevent warping, and the polyfoam cushions ensure long-lasting comfort without sagging. Although the down-fiber blend cushions may not be ideal for allergy sufferers, the downproof ticking prevents feathers from poking through. 

Given its customizable nature and higher price point, this sofa is best considered an investment piece. If you frequently move, a less substantial option might be more practical. However, for those seeking high-quality, long-lasting furniture for a permanent living space, this sectional is an outstanding choice. 

Dimensions: Varies by configuration | Upholstery: Linen weave, microfiber, boucle, shearling, textured weave, velvet, twill, canvas, or chenille | Fill: Polyfoam | Seat Configurations: 17

Ideal for Compact Spaces

For those in compact apartments, Lovesac's Sactional offers a stylish and comfortable solution. The dimensions vary based on the model, but the two-set/four-side version is ideal as a standout piece in small spaces or an additional seating option in larger rooms. If you need more seating later, you can easily expand the sofa by adding an ottoman or another section without replacing the entire piece.

Dubbed "the world's most adaptable couch" by the brand, this sofa lives up to its name. Nearly every aspect can be customized, from the arm and back style to the configuration, upholstery, and cushion fill. You can even enhance it with features like storage compartments, built-in outlets, or speakers. However, assembly is required, and most customizations—such as arm shape and fill type—affect the price, so careful planning is needed to stay within budget.

Dimensions: Varies by configuration | Upholstery: 54 options, including velvet, leather, chenille, micro suede, bouclé, and woven | Fill: Foam or synthetic fiber | Seat Configurations: Varies by size

Top Leather Pick

A leather sofa is always a timeless choice, and the Castlery Jonathan Leather Sofa is no exception. It’s upholstered in top-grain leather, known for its premium quality and smooth finish. This leather type is treated to resist stains and is easy to maintain, making it ideal for entertaining or cozy movie nights. However, it requires careful handling to avoid scratches. Over time, the leather develops a beautiful patina, ensuring the sofa remains stylish for years.

While seating configurations are limited, Castlery offers options like extended seating and an ottoman. Additional pieces, such as extra seats or a chaise, can be purchased separately, allowing you to expand the sofa in the future without needing to buy a completely new one. This flexibility ensures your sofa can adapt to your changing needs. 

The sofa's low-profile design features shorter legs, making tasks like vacuuming or sweeping underneath more challenging since the entire piece needs to be moved. However, if this isn’t a concern, you’ll appreciate its sleek and luxurious appearance. 

Dimensions: 88.6x39.4x27.6 inches | Upholstery: Top-grain leather | Fill: Foam | Seat Configurations: 6

Top Low-Profile Pick

The AllModern Winnie Upholstered Sofa combines sleek design with a striking presence. Its ultra-soft corduroy fabric adds texture and visual interest to your living room without relying on bold colors or patterns. The low-profile design and rounded edges create a gentle silhouette that avoids overwhelming your space while enhancing its cozy appeal.

In addition to its stunning appearance, this sofa is built to last. The solid wood frame ensures durability, even with frequent use, and the foam-filled seats provide long-lasting support. With a seat depth of 27.56 inches, it’s perfect for lounging, and since it arrives fully assembled, you can start enjoying it right away.

To tailor your seating arrangement, AllModern offers matching seats, ottomans, and chaises that can be purchased separately to expand the sofa or serve as standalone pieces. Despite being made to order, it ships within a few weeks and includes free white-glove delivery, making setup hassle-free. Plus, it’s an affordable option for those seeking both style and functionality. 

Dimensions: 26.38x107.88x36.61 inches | Upholstery: Corduroy | Fill: Foam and synthetic fiber | Seat Configurations: 1

Top Deep Seat Pick

The Albany Park Kova Sofa 122 features a generous cushion depth of 42.5 inches, offering ample space to stretch out and relax. The removable cushions make cleaning a breeze, whether you’re vacuuming crumbs or searching for misplaced items. Filled with a soft microfiber blend, they mimic the comfort of down cushions without the need for constant fluffing or dealing with loose feathers. With 13 fabric options, including stain-resistant choices, you can customize the sofa to suit your style.

We tested the Kova Pit and were blown away by its comfort. It’s ideal for lounging rather than sitting upright, making it perfect for relaxed weekends or movie nights. Its durability also stood out—muddy paw prints and other stains wiped away easily without leaving marks. Even after six months of use, the sofa remains in excellent condition. The only drawback is the deep seats, which can make getting up a bit challenging.

Some assembly is required for this sofa, but the process is simple. Albany Park ships the components in separate boxes for easy transport, and shipping is free. You just need to unbox the pieces and slide them together, with an assembly video available for guidance. It’s worth noting that the cushions are exceptionally deep—over 42 inches—making this the deepest sofa on our list by nearly 10 inches. 

Dimensions: 122x39x42.5 inches | Upholstery: Basketweave, boucle, velvet, or kid-friendly options | Fill: Hypoallergenic microfiber | Seat Configurations: 1

Top Kid- and Pet-Friendly Pick

For households with kids and pets, spills and messes are inevitable, making the Burrow Nomad Sofa an excellent choice. Its olefin fabric upholstery is stain-proof, scratch-resistant, and fade-resistant, ensuring it can handle daily wear and tear.

During testing, we were amazed by the sofa’s stain resistance. While Burrow recommends a bleach solution for tough stains, soap and water worked perfectly for us. The sofa’s durability, supported by its high-quality materials and solid wood frame, stood up to energetic kids and pets. Even after six months, it remains in pristine condition.

We also appreciate the extensive customization options Burrow provides. Beyond selecting your preferred seating configuration—including sectional and U-shaped layouts—you can choose from seven upholstery colors and six leg finishes. Additional customizations include armrest and cushion styles, as well as add-ons like chaises, ottomans, USB chargers, and lumbar pillows.

Dimensions: 85x35x33 inches | Upholstery: Olefin fabric | Fill: Polyurethane foam | Seat Configurations: 15

Final Thoughts

The Allform 3-Seater Sofa is a favorite for its sturdy frame and premium upholstery, both of which withstand energetic pets exceptionally well. For a more affordable option, the Ikea Söderhamn Sofa stands out with its sleek, minimalist design.

Expert Tips for Buying Modular Sofas 

Size Considerations

While modular sofas provide more flexibility than traditional ones, size remains a crucial factor. When selecting the right size, consider not only the dimensions of your room but also its layout and shape.

To ensure your sofa fits perfectly, Bordelon and Slocum recommend using cardboard cutouts to mimic the sofa’s dimensions. Place these in various spots to visualize how the sofa will occupy the space and impact room flow. Aim for at least 18 inches of walking space around the sofa, but if space is limited, positioning it against a wall can help save room. 

Regarding dimensions, Bordelon and Slocum explain that sofas come in various sizes, starting with loveseats (52–72 inches), followed by small (72–84 inches), medium (84–96 inches), and large (96+ inches). While you might assume a small space needs a small sofa, that’s not always true. “Every space is unique, so choose a sofa size based on your needs. For a cozy feel, opt for a medium or large sofa in a small room. For a minimalist aesthetic, a small sofa in a large room works well,” they advise. However, your sofa shouldn’t be the only seating option—consider additional furniture like side chairs, stools, or floor cushions when deciding on size. 

Material Choices

The materials used in a sofa’s upholstery, cushion fill, and frame significantly influence its appearance and durability. Upholstery options often include performance twills for durability, luxurious velvets, and sleek leather. Bordelon and Slocum favor cotton, linen, and velvet for their comfort and breathability, though these materials may not suit pet owners or families with young children. For greater durability, they recommend leather, microfiber, or synthetic fabrics designed for high-traffic areas, as these resist stains, wear, and fading.

The frame material is equally important. Solid wood and metal frames resist warping and offer long-lasting durability compared to fibreboard, making them a worthwhile investment despite the higher cost. 

Cushion fill is another key factor. High-density foam provides lasting support and comfort without sagging, while feather-filled cushions offer a plush, sink-in feel but require regular fluffing and may not suit allergy sufferers.

Configuration Options

Modular sofas offer a variety of configurations, ranging from classic three-seaters to U-shaped designs. Bordelon and Slocum suggest opting for sofas with interchangeable sections if your budget allows, as these can be rearranged to suit different room layouts or evolving needs, ensuring your sofa remains versatile over time.

Common Questions 

What Sets Modular Sofas Apart from Sectional Sofas?

Bordelon and Slocum highlight flexibility as the main distinction. Modular sofas consist of independent sections that can be reconfigured in multiple ways, whereas sectional sofas have fixed arrangements with pieces that remain connected. For instance, a modular three-seater with a chaise can be rearranged, but a sectional sofa’s chaise is permanently attached to the loveseat. 

Why Choose a Modular Sofa?

As highlighted earlier, modular sofas are prized for their customizability. Their individual pieces can be detached and reconfigured, allowing you to adapt them to your space. This modularity also makes them easier to move and rearrange compared to bulkier traditional sofas.

Modular sofas are ideal for those who value flexibility or are unsure about committing to a specific size. For instance, starting with a two-seater and later expanding with an ottoman or additional sections allows you to adjust the sofa’s size without buying a completely new one.

How Are Modular Sofas Secured?

Modular sofas use various attachment methods, such as clips, hooks, and latches. Bordelon and Slocum recommend researching online to ensure the pieces stay securely connected. Typically, heavy-duty metal clips provide the most reliable attachment.

Are Modular Sofas Costly?

Modular sofas tend to be pricier than traditional ones due to their customizability and made-to-order nature. Bordelon and Slocum note that high-quality connection pieces are essential for durability and stability, further driving up costs. Typically, prices range from $1,000 to $4,000, though larger or premium models may exceed this. Budget-friendly options like the Ikea Söderhamn Sofa are also available.

Trust Our Expertise

This article was authored by Jen Woo, a design, lifestyle, and culture writer with over a decade of experience, and updated by Jamie Fischer, a shopping writer for Mytour. Jamie, having recently furnished her new apartment, has extensive experience researching sofas for compact spaces.

To create this guide, we conducted in-depth research on modular sofas, evaluating factors like size, materials, and seating configurations. Mytour has also tested numerous couches over three years, including many featured here. For expert insights, we consulted Barry Bordelon and Jordan Slocum, the interior designers and renovators behind The Brownstone Boys.