Preparation
Sleeper sofas may seem like commonplace pieces of furniture nowadays, but storage couches, on the other hand, expand this piece’s convenience to another level. Not only can many storage couches transform into sturdy beds for your guests, but they also have ample organization space built directly into their structure. And while not every storage couch pulls double duty as an extra sleeping station, virtually all models turn thin air into a storage opportunity—which makes these pieces a home necessity if you live in an apartment or have a living room that is on the smaller side. “Storage couches are fantastic for small spaces,” affirms interior designer Tina Ramchandani, noting that she most often places them in studio apartments, playrooms, or dens, where surface area is particularly coveted.
The best part about these pieces of furniture? They’ll free up some room in other jam-packed areas of your home. Rather than take up precious closet space, for example, you can store bedding and throw pillows inside of these couches. “Most [cushions] lift up and can be filled with bedding, winter clothes, or more seasonal things that need to be stashed away,” shares Ramchandani. They also allow you to consolidate: Rather than play Tetris to fit chairs, ottomans, and trunks all into one room, you can combine these crucial pieces, eliminating clutter in the process.
Since the beauty of storage couches revolves around functionality, you’ll want to keep that in mind while you are furniture shopping. “The ease of use is most important,” Ramchandani says. “If the [couch storage] is difficult to open or access, it won’t be used.” Ramchandani suggests models that lift up easily, and that allow you to see and reach the majority of what you’ve stashed inside.
Ramchandani emphasizes that many consumers have a “love-hate relationship” with storage couches because some brands prioritize function over style. But that doesn’t mean you won’t be able to find chic or modern designs—you just need to know where to look. From emerald green velvet upholstery to nailhead trimming and tufted cushions, the sofas on our list, below, can elevate your space and inspire the rest of your home’s décor.
West Elm ″Henry″ 2-Piece Queen Sleeper Sectional with StorageGeorge Oliver ″Grattan″ Velvet Square Arm SleeperBelffin Modular Sectional Sofa Couch with StorageSerta Wilton Dream Convertible Sofa in Light GreyThree Posts Alger 97″ Wide Left Hand Facing Sofa and Chaise with OttomanHomary Modern Full Sleeper Convertible Sofa with StorageMerax Reversible Sleeper Sectional Sofa with StorageWest Elm ″Enzo″ Reclining SofaCrate and Barrel ″Axis″ 2-Piece Sectional with Right-Arm Storage Chaise
To help you achieve the perfect balance of style and storage, we’ve rounded up some of the best storage couches on the market.
