Right Sided Sectional Sofa: The Complete Guide

Everything you need to know about right-facing sectional sofas—from configuration and layout planning to comfort features and top recommendations for your living space.

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What is a Right Sided Sectional Sofa? A right sided sectional sofa (also called a right-facing or RAF sectional) has its chaise or extended seating area positioned on the right side when you are seated on the sofa facing forward. This configuration is ideal for specific room layouts and complements left-arm-facing (LAF) sectionals. Choosing the correct orientation is critical for maximizing space and ensuring a balanced room design.

Understanding Right Sided Sectional Sofas

A right sided sectional sofa is designed with the chaise lounge or extended seat on the right side of the main seating area. When you sit on the sofa and face the television or focal point of the room, the chaise extends to your right. This orientation is also commonly referred to as RAF (Right Arm Facing) in furniture terminology.

The orientation of your sectional is determined by the position of the chaise when viewed from the front of the sofa, not from the perspective of someone sitting on it. This is a common point of confusion for buyers. A right sided sectional is perfect for rooms where the sofa will be placed against a left wall or in a corner where the right side has more open space. For those exploring different configurations, understanding the difference between right and left orientations is essential before making a purchase.

Many modern sectionals are modular, allowing you to configure the chaise on either side. Some models are even fully configurable sectional sofas that let you rearrange the pieces to suit your changing needs. However, fixed right sided models often provide a more stable and seamless look.

Why Choose a Right Sided Sectional Sofa?

Optimal Room Flow

A right sided sectional is ideal when your room's layout requires the chaise to be on the right. It creates a natural pathway and ensures the sofa doesn't block doorways or traffic areas.

Balanced Aesthetics

Choosing the correct orientation creates visual balance in your living room. A right-facing chaise can anchor a seating area beautifully when paired with the right rug and coffee table.

Corner Placement

Right sided sectionals work exceptionally well in corners where the left wall is solid. The chaise fills the corner while the main seating extends along the right wall.

Functional Comfort

The chaise provides a dedicated lounging spot. Whether you're reading, watching TV, or napping, the right sided chaise offers premium comfort.

Right Sided vs Left Sided Sectional: Which Is Right for You?

Understanding the difference between right and left sided sectionals is crucial before purchasing. Here's a quick comparison to help you decide:

Feature	Right Sided (RAF)	Left Sided (LAF)
Chaise Position	Chaise on the right when facing the sofa	Chaise on the left when facing the sofa
Best For	Rooms with left wall placement or right-side open space	Rooms with right wall placement or left-side open space
Corner Fit	Left corner with chaise extending right	Right corner with chaise extending left
TV Viewing	Ideal when TV is on the right wall	Ideal when TV is on the left wall
Common Use	Living rooms with specific architectural layouts	Living rooms with opposite architectural layouts

💡 Pro Tip: Stand in front of the sofa and face it. If the chaise is on your right, it's a right sided sectional. If it's on your left, it's a left sided sectional. Always confirm with the retailer before purchasing, as return shipping for large furniture can be costly.

Popular Right Sided Sectional Configurations

Right sided sectionals come in various configurations to suit different room sizes and seating needs. Here are the most popular options:

L-Shape Right Sided Sectional

The classic L-shape with a right-facing chaise. Perfect for medium to large living rooms, offering ample seating and a cozy corner. Explore our guide to L-shape sectional sofas for more details.

U-Shape Right Sided Sectional

A U-shaped design with the right side extended. Ideal for large families and entertainment spaces. Learn more about U-shape sectionals.

3-Piece Right Sided with Chaise

A versatile configuration that includes a right-facing chaise, perfect for apartments and smaller homes. See our 3-piece sectional with chaise guide.

Modular Right Sided Sectional

Flexible modular pieces that can be rearranged. Some models allow you to switch the chaise from right to left. Check out modular sectional sofas for options.

Right Sided Sleeper Sectional

Combines a right-facing chaise with a pull-out bed. Perfect for guest rooms and multipurpose spaces. Explore sleeper sectional sofas.

Right Sided Reclining Sectional

Features a right-facing chaise with reclining seats. Ultimate comfort for movie nights. See reclining sectional sofas.

How to Measure Your Space for a Right Sided Sectional

Proper measurement is the key to a successful sectional purchase. Follow these steps to ensure your right sided sectional fits perfectly:

Measure the wall length: Determine how much wall space you have for the main body of the sofa.
Measure the chaise extension: Ensure there's enough room for the chaise to extend without blocking walkways.
Account for clearance: Leave at least 14–18 inches between the sofa and coffee table for comfortable movement.
Check doorways: Ensure the sofa can fit through your doorways and hallways during delivery.
Consider ceiling height: For rooms with low ceilings, choose a low-profile sectional to avoid a cramped feel.
Plan for traffic flow: Leave at least 30–36 inches for main walkways and 24 inches for secondary paths.

📏 Measurement Tip: Use painter's tape to outline the sofa's footprint on your floor before purchasing. This visual guide helps you confirm the size and orientation will work in your space. For smaller rooms, consider a slim sectional sofa or a small deep sectional sofa that maximizes comfort without overwhelming the space.

Choosing the Right Material for Your Right Sided Sectional

The material you choose affects comfort, durability, and maintenance. Here are the most popular options for right sided sectionals:

Leather

Durable, easy to clean, and timeless. A top grain leather sectional offers premium quality and ages beautifully. Leather is ideal for families with kids and pets.

Fabric

Soft, cozy, and available in countless colors and patterns. Performance fabrics are stain-resistant and perfect for high-traffic areas. Explore our fabric sectional sofas guide.

Velvet

Luxurious and elegant, velvet adds a touch of sophistication. A grey velvet sectional sofa is a popular choice for modern interiors.

Microfiber

Soft, durable, and resistant to stains. A microfiber sectional with chaise is a practical choice for busy households.

Vegan Leather

An eco-friendly alternative to genuine leather. A vegan leather sectional sofa offers similar aesthetics at a lower price point.

Corduroy

Trendy and textured, corduroy adds warmth and style. A corduroy sectional with chaise is perfect for cozy, inviting spaces.

Comfort Features to Look For

Beyond orientation, these features determine the comfort and functionality of your right sided sectional:

Cushion Fill: High-density foam offers firm support, while down-blend cushions provide a plush, sinking feel. Consider a down-filled sectional with chaise for ultimate luxury.
Adjustable Headrests: A sectional sofa with adjustable headrest allows you to customize your comfort for lounging or watching TV.
Reclining Seats: Power or manual recliners add a new level of relaxation. Look for a motion sectional sofa if you want reclining functionality.
Pull-Out Bed: A pullout sofa sectional is perfect for hosting overnight guests.
Storage: Some sectionals include hidden storage compartments. Check out storage sectional sofas for small spaces.
Ottoman: A sectional sofa with oversized ottoman provides additional seating and a place to rest your feet.

Right Sided Sectionals for Every Room Size

Whether you have a compact apartment or a spacious family room, there's a right sided sectional for you:

Small Rooms (Under 200 sq ft)

Choose a small sectional sofa with ottoman or a very small sectional sofa. A 75-inch sectional sofa is ideal for tight spaces.

Medium Rooms (200–400 sq ft)

A 92-inch sectional sofa or 94-inch sectional sofa offers comfortable seating without overwhelming the space.

Large Rooms (400+ sq ft)

Consider a 108-inch sectional sofa or a 140-inch sectional sofa for maximum seating. A 6-seater sectional sofa is perfect for large families.

Apartments

A apartment sofa or mini sectional sleeper sofa makes the most of limited space. A convertible sectional sofa bed adds versatility.

Styling Your Right Sided Sectional

Once you've chosen your right sided sectional, styling it correctly enhances both comfort and aesthetics:

Throw Pillows: Add color and texture with throw pillows. Mix sizes and patterns for visual interest.
Throw Blankets: Drape a cozy throw blanket over the chaise for a welcoming look.
Rug Placement: Place a large area rug under the sectional to define the seating area. Ensure the rug extends at least 6 inches beyond the sofa's edges.
Coffee Table: Choose a coffee table that complements the sectional's style and size. Round tables work well with L-shaped sofas.
Lighting: Add a floor lamp or table lamp near the chaise for reading light. A sectional sofa with corner table wedge provides a built-in surface for lamps and drinks.

Caring for Your Right Sided Sectional

Proper care extends the life of your sectional and keeps it looking beautiful:

Regular Cleaning: Vacuum fabric upholstery weekly to remove dust and debris. Wipe leather with a soft, damp cloth.
Rotate Cushions: Flip and rotate cushions every few months to ensure even wear.
Use Protectors: Apply a fabric or leather protector to guard against stains and spills.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged sun exposure can fade upholstery. Use curtains or blinds to protect your sofa.
Professional Cleaning: For deep cleaning, consider hiring a professional upholstery cleaner annually.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Right Sided Sectional

Buying a sectional is a significant investment. Avoid these common mistakes:

Not measuring your space: Always measure twice and confirm the sofa's dimensions before purchasing.
Confusing orientation: Double-check whether you need a right or left sided sectional. Standing in front of the sofa facing it is the correct way to determine orientation.
Ignoring delivery logistics: Ensure the sofa can fit through your doorways, hallways, and stairwells.
Choosing style over comfort: A beautiful sofa that's uncomfortable won't serve its purpose. Always test the cushions and frame.
Skipping the warranty: Check the warranty coverage for frame, cushions, and mechanisms.

Frequently Asked Questions About Right Sided Sectionals

What does "right sided sectional" mean?

A right sided sectional has its chaise or extended seating on the right side when you are facing the sofa. It's also known as a right-facing or RAF (Right Arm Facing) sectional.

How do I know if I need a right or left sided sectional?

Stand in front of the sofa and face it. If the chaise is on your right, it's a right sided sectional. Consider your room layout, wall placement, and traffic flow to determine which orientation works best.

Can I switch a right sided sectional to left sided?

Some modular sectionals allow you to reconfigure the chaise from right to left. However, fixed sectionals cannot be switched. Check the product specifications before purchasing.

What size right sided sectional is best for my living room?

Measure your room and available wall space. For small rooms, consider a 78-inch sectional sofa or 80-inch sectional sofa. For larger rooms, a 100-inch sectional sofa with chaise or larger may be more appropriate.

Are right sided sectionals more expensive?

No, right and left sided sectionals are typically priced the same. The cost depends on size, material, brand, and features. Expect to pay between $800–$2,500 for a quality right sided sectional, with premium options exceeding $2,500.

Can a right sided sectional fit in a small apartment?

Yes, many right sided sectionals are designed for small spaces. Look for small space sectionals or apartment sofas that offer compact dimensions without sacrificing comfort.

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