A left sided sofa, also commonly known as a left-hand facing (LHF) sofa or left-hand chaise sofa, is a type of sectional or corner sofa where the chaise lounge or the longer protruding section is located on the left side when you are standing and facing the sofa directly.
How to Identify a Left Sided Sofa
The simplest and most common method to determine if a sofa is left-sided is to stand in front of it and look at it straight on. If the shorter edge or the chaise section that extends outwards is positioned to your left-hand side, then it is a left sided sofa.
For example, imagine you are about to sit down on the sofa. If the part that sticks out (the L-shape) is on your left, it's a left sided sofa.
Why Sofa Orientation Matters
Understanding sofa orientation is crucial for interior design and space planning. The "hand" of a sofa greatly influences:
- Room Flow: Ensures there's adequate space to walk around the sofa without obstruction.
- Aesthetics: Helps balance the room and complement other furniture pieces.
- Functionality: Dictates where end tables, lamps, and other accessories can be placed.
- Comfort: Affects how you and your family will relax and interact in the living space.
Common Left Sided Sofa Configurations
Left sided sofas typically come in a few popular configurations:
- L-Shaped Sectionals: These are modular sofas forming an "L" shape, with the longer extension on the left.
- Chaise Sofas: Feature a regular sofa with an attached, extended chaise section on the left, perfect for stretching out.
- Corner Sofas: Designed to fit snugly into a corner, with the shorter return on the left side when viewed face-on.
Retailer Terminology: LHF vs. RHF
When browsing for sofas, you'll often encounter abbreviations like LHF and RHF:
- LHF (Left-Hand Facing): This indicates a left sided sofa.
- RHF (Right-Hand Facing): This indicates a right sided sofa.
Always double-check the retailer's description and diagrams, as some less common conventions might exist, though the "facing the sofa" rule is the industry standard.
Left Hand vs. Right Hand Sofa Comparison
Understanding the difference is key to making the right purchase for your living area.
| Feature | Left Hand Facing (LHF) Sofa | Right Hand Facing (RHF) Sofa |
|---|---|---|
| Viewing Angle | When facing the sofa | When facing the sofa |
| Chaise/Extension Side | Protrudes towards your left | Protrudes towards your right |
| Ideal For | Rooms where the left side needs more seating/extension | Rooms where the right side needs more seating/extension |
| Common Abbreviations | LHF, Left Side Chaise, Left Corner Sofa | RHF, Right Side Chaise, Right Corner Sofa |
Choosing the Right Orientation
To select between a left or right sided sofa, consider these factors:
- Room Layout: Sketch out your room plan. Mark doors, windows, and other furniture.
- Traffic Flow: Ensure the sofa doesn't block common pathways or entrances.
- Wall Space: Measure the available wall space for both the main sofa section and the extended chaise.
- Focal Points: Consider how the sofa will frame your TV, fireplace, or a large window.
- Personal Preference: Think about how you and your family prefer to sit and relax.
For more guidance on choosing the ideal sectional, consider researching sectional sofa buying guides (replace with a real reputable link if publishing). A left sided sofa offers versatility and comfort, making it a popular choice for many modern living spaces.
