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Single Seater Sofa vs Armchair: Which One to Choose?

Key Takeaways

  • Understanding the size differences between a one-seater sofa or an armchair will help you choose one that best suits your home layout.
  • It is important to assess the style and design versatility of each piece to better understand how they can complement your existing décor.
  • Whether your desired piece becomes a fixture piece or an occasional one depends on how comfortable it is and how you intend to use it.

A person relaxing in an armchair

At first glance, a single-seater sofa and an armchair may appear similar, but they serve distinct purposes depending on comfort, style, and versatility. Choosing the right piece can greatly enhance your living space, especially in Singapore, where homes, from BTO flats to private condos, often have limited room. Here is a guide to help you decide which option works best for your lifestyle and home layout.

1. Size and Proportions

A single-seater sofa

When it comes to size, armchairs and recliners are usually more compact with a clearly defined frame. They are perfect for tight corners, reading nooks, or bedrooms where space is limited. On the other hand, a single-seater sofa is slightly larger, providing deeper seating and a more sofa-like comfort. If you enjoy relaxing for extended periods, the latter can feel more like a mini lounge chair. Its dimensions make it suitable for compact living rooms, offering a sense of continuity when paired with a larger sofa set.

2. Style and Design Versatility

A single-seater sofa paired with a larger sofa set

Armchairs often feature statement designs, with bold shapes, colours, or patterns that allow them to stand out as individual pieces. They can act as accent furniture, injecting personality into a room without overwhelming the existing décor. On the other hand, single-seater sofas generally complement a larger sofa set, making it more versatile when complementing other styles. While they may not be as visually striking on their own, they provide design consistency, which is especially useful when creating modular seating arrangements in compact living rooms.

3. Comfort and Use Case

Sitting in an armchair

Comfort is undoubtedly a key consideration when choosing between the two. A single-seater sofa tends to feel like a small recliner sofa, making it ideal for longer relaxation sessions, whether you are reading, watching TV, or enjoying a quiet moment at home. Armchairs and recliners, while comfortable, are usually suited for occasional seating or social settings, such as a conversation corner or as an extra seat when guests visit. Choosing between them ultimately depends on how you intend to use the furniture and how long you expect to sit comfortably.

4. Best Fit for Different Spaces

Reading in an armchair

When deciding where to place these pieces, think about your home layout. Armchairs work great in reading corners, bedrooms, or other areas with limited space. They offer functionality without occupying too much room and can even serve as a stylish focal point. One-seater sofas, on the other hand, are ideal for compact living rooms, especially in modern HDB flats. They can act as a versatile addition to a larger sofa arrangement or provide a comfortable solo spot for relaxation. Their slightly larger footprint makes them ideal for homes where you want both comfort and continuity in your seating options.


Selecting between a single-seater sofa and an armchair depends on your space, style preference, and comfort needs. Armchairs and recliners are better suited in smaller nooks, while one-seater sofas offer a lounge-like experience and can be paired seamlessly with other seating options.

Regardless of which one you are going for, you can find it right here at Cellini. Our extensive furniture catalogue includes armchairs, recliners, and one-seater sofas designed to complement various interior styles, from compact living rooms to modular lounge setups. This ensures that there is something for every home.

To find out more about our furniture and how we make them, please contact us today.