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Black plush sectional in the Palacio Furniture showroom

How to Choose the Right Sectional: Size, Shape & Fabric Guide

Palacio Furniture|
Measure once, buy once. Our simple guide to choosing the right sectional size, shape and fabric for your living room.

A sectional is usually the biggest piece in your home — and the one your family uses every day. Choosing the right one comes down to three things: size, shape and fabric. Here's how we help customers decide in our showrooms.

1. Measure your room (and your doors)

  • Room: measure each wall where the sectional will go. Leave about 30–36 inches for walkways.
  • Coffee table: keep 14–18 inches between the seat and the table.
  • TV distance: sit roughly 1.5 to 2.5 times the screen size away (a 65" TV works well at 8–13 feet).
  • Doors, halls and stairs: check the width of every doorway on the way in. Most sectionals come in pieces, but it's always worth checking.
Tip: Use painter's tape to outline the sectional on your floor. Live with it for a day — you'll know right away if it fits.

2. Pick the right shape

Shape Best for
L-shaped Corners and open living rooms; the most versatile option
Chaise sectional Smaller rooms; you get a spot to stretch out without a full corner
U-shaped Large families and big rooms; maximum seating
Reclining sectional Movie nights and comfort; check wall clearance for the recline
Sleeper sectional Homes that host guests; a bed when you need it
Modular Renters and people who move; rearrange or add pieces later

3. Choose a fabric that fits your life

  • Kids or pets? Look for performance or spill-resistant fabrics and medium tones that hide everyday wear.
  • Lots of sun? Lighter colors fade less noticeably.
  • Easy cleaning: removable cushion covers and tight weaves make life easier.
  • Leather or faux leather: wipes clean easily and works well with reclining pieces.

Customer favorites

Hunter Sleeper Sectional

A sleeper, recliner and storage chaise in one — a smart pick when your living room also has to be a guest room.

Cloud21 Sectional

Deep, plush cloud-style seating in several colors, including our best-selling sage green.

Ivy Sectional

A clean, modern beige sectional that fits almost any style.

Still not sure? Bring your measurements and a photo of your room to our Arlington or Fort Worth showroom. Sit on everything — that's the best test.

Find your sectional

Initial payment as low as $10* with lease-to-own.

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