How Do I Know If I Need a Left or Right Hand Corner Sofa?

27 May 2025
How Do I Know If I Need a Left or Right Hand Corner Sofa?

Choosing a corner sofa is a brilliant way to make the most of your living space — but one question trips up a lot of people:

Do I need a left hand or right hand corner sofa?

It’s an important detail that can make or break how well your new sofa fits into your home. In this blog, we’ll explain everything you need to know — including how to tell the difference and which one is right for your layout.

What Is a Corner Sofa?

A corner sofa (also known as an L-shaped sofa) is designed to fit snugly into the corner of a room or to divide an open-plan space. It typically has two seating sections that meet at a 90-degree angle — one longer than the other.

This gives you more seating, more comfort, and more style — perfect for busy family rooms or modern living areas.

What Is a Right Hand Corner Sofa?

A right hand corner sofa has the shorter “L” part or chaise extending to the right when you’re standing and facing the sofa head-on.

Imagine standing in front of your sofa, looking straight at it. If the corner section or chaise is on the right-hand side, it’s a right hand corner sofa.

Best for:

  • Rooms where the right side of the sofa sits against a wall.
  • Open spaces where you want the longer seating to lead leftward.

What Is a Left Hand Corner Sofa?

A left hand corner sofa has the shorter “L” section on the left when you’re facing the front of the sofa.

Again, stand in front of the sofa (as if you’re about to sit down). If the corner section is on the left, it’s a left hand corner sofa.

Best for:

  • Rooms with a left wall or alcove to tuck into.
  • Layouts where you want to direct attention or foot traffic to the right.

How to Tell If a Corner Sofa Is Left or Right Handed

The easiest way to figure it out:

Stand facing the front of the sofa.

  • If the shorter end or chaise is on your right, it’s a right hand corner sofa.
  • If it’s on your left, it’s a left hand corner sofa.

Quick Tip:

Always base your decision on the view from the front of the sofa — not from sitting on it or standing behind it. This avoids the most common mistake people make when ordering.

Choosing the Right Corner for Your Space

Here are a few things to consider:

  • Room layout: Which side gives you the best flow and space around the sofa?
  • TV or focal points: Do you want to face a TV, fireplace, or window?
  • Doorways & walkways: Avoid blocking entryways or interrupting natural movement through the room.
  • Lighting: Think about where natural light hits and how the sofa might block or complement it.

If you’re still unsure, sketch your room layout or send us a photo — we’re happy to help you visualise the best fit.

Bespoke Corner Sofas, Built for You

At The Designer Sofa, we make all our corner sofas to order — so you can choose your size, layout, fabric, and finish. Whether you need a left or right hand design, or even something more custom, we’ll build it to suit your space beautifully.

Need help planning your perfect corner sofa?

Speak to our team or visit our showroom — we’ll make it easy.