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When most people picture a sofa, they often imagine a traditionally styled piece with rolled arms, tufted cushions, and ornate detailing. In recent years, contemporary sofas have taken the spotlight. Homeowners and interior designers are leaning toward sleek, casual furniture with clean lines and modern appeal.
According to Mary Lee Smyth, the Interior Designer at La-Z-Boy Kingston, “Contemporary style is simple but not too fancy; it is considered casual furniture. When it comes to colour, it’s either very bright or monochromatic, there is no in-between.”
At La-Z-Boy, we offer a wide selection of sofas to suit every lifestyle. To make your search easier, Mary Lee has compiled her top recommendations for contemporary sofas at La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau & Kingston, including stylish stationary models and versatile reclining designs.
So, what sets a contemporary sofa apart from a traditional one?
Traditional sofas are often decorated with tufting, skirting, and rounded arms. In contrast, contemporary sofas emphasize simplicity. They often feature track arms, welt trim, exposed legs, and crisp edges.
Mary Lee adds, “Most contemporary sofas wouldn’t have a skirt like traditional designs. Instead, they’re lifted off the floor with legs, which makes them look lighter and better suited to open-concept spaces.”
To learn more about the difference between Traditional vs Contemporary, take a look at this article.
It is also important to note the difference between contemporary and mid-century modern sofas. While both have clean lines, mid-century modern tends to blend retro-inspired shapes with today’s functionality, while contemporary focuses on current, evolving trends.
To see Mid-Century Modern Sofas, take a look at this article.
The Paxton Sofa is one of La-Z-Boy’s most popular contemporary designs. At first glance, its neat silhouette, T-shaped cushions, and crisp welt trim give it a clean and modern look that works beautifully in both large and small living spaces.
Unlike traditional sofas that often rely on ornate detailing, the Paxton is all about comfort blended with simplicity. Its chamber-filled back cushions provide consistent support over time, helping the sofa maintain its shape while still feeling plush and inviting.
The Paxton is also available as a Chair & a Half, a Loveseat, a Sectional and a matching ottoman. To learn more about the Paxton Sofa, take a look at this article.
For homeowners who love a streamlined and versatile sofa, the Piper Sofa is a perfect fit. This sofa transitions seamlessly between ultra-modern and comfortably casual décor. Its narrow arms, smooth seat cushions, and tapered wood legs create a chic yet approachable look.
What sets the Piper apart is its versatility. It is offered in multiple configurations, including a Queen Sleeper Sofa that provides overnight guests with a comfortable place to rest without sacrificing style.
This makes it a great choice for apartments or smaller homes where maximizing functionality is key. Its streamlined frame also ensures it won’t overwhelm smaller living rooms, a feature many homeowners appreciate when furnishing urban spaces.
The Piper is also available as a Loveseat, a Queen Sleeper Sofa and a Chaise Sofa. To learn more about the Piper Sofa, take a look at this article.
The Kennedy Sofa is a timeless option that balances simplicity and comfort. With narrow track arms, welt trim, and decorative legs, this sofa offers a contemporary look without overpowering your space.
Mary Lee recommends the Kennedy for homeowners who need flexibility, “It’s a smaller frame, so it works well in tighter living rooms while still offering the comfort La-Z-Boy is known for.”
The Kennedy is also available as a Chair, a Loveseat, a Queen Sleeper Sofa and a matching ottoman. To learn more about the Kennedy Sofa, take a look at this article.
The Bexley Sofa is a contemporary staple, especially for young homeowners who want an urban-inspired aesthetic. With slightly flared key-shaped arms and a streamlined frame, it pairs effortlessly with both bold and neutral interiors.
As Mary Lee notes, the Bexley’s design makes it a great fit for smaller spaces, offering a crisp, modern look without overwhelming the room.
The Bexley is also available as a Loveseat and Queen Sleeper Sofa. To learn more about the Bexley Sofa, take a look at this article.
If you want the comfort of a recliner in a sleek, contemporary frame, the Finley Sofa is a fantastic option. With tall foam backs, slim arms, and a tailored silhouette, it looks modern while still offering power or manual reclining options.
This makes the Finley perfect for families who want a stylish sofa that doubles as a cozy lounging space.
The Finley is also available as a Rocking Recliner, a Wall Recliner, and a Wall Reclining Loveseat. To learn more about the Finley Reclining Sofa, take a look at this article.
The Meyer Sofa is known for its deep seating and casual comfort. With wide track arms and welt detailing, it fits beautifully in modern living rooms that prioritize relaxation. Available as a loveseat, chair, sectional, and ottoman, it is a flexible choice for larger households.
The Meyer is also available as a Chair, a Loveseat, a Sectional, and a matching ottoman. To learn more about the Meyer Sofa, take a look at this article.
For those who want the look of a stationary sectional with hidden reclining functionality, the Edie Duo Sectional is a top choice. Its tapered legs, welt trim, and padded arms make it appear sleek, while the built-in reclining features and USB ports add modern convenience.
To learn more about the Edie Sectional, take a look at this article.
Now that you’ve seen our top picks for contemporary sofas at La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau and Kingston, it’s time to find the one that fits your space and lifestyle.
While browsing online is a great start, the best way to ensure comfort is by visiting one of our local showrooms and doing a sit test with the help of our design consultants.
You can start shopping online or schedule a design consultation at any of our Ottawa, Gatineau or Kingston La-Z-Boy locations. Our team is always ready to help you create a living room that is as stylish as it is comfortable.
To learn more about La-Z-Boy Sofas in general, take a look at our Comprehensive Sofa Buyer’s Guide.