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.
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.
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:
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:
The easiest way to figure it out:
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.
Here are a few things to consider:
If you’re still unsure, sketch your room layout or send us a photo — we’re happy to help you visualise the best fit.
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.