Sofas are one of the most frequently used items in a home and need to be functional, durable and comfortable, so picking out something worthwhile is a major undertaking. If you’re in the market for a new one and want to make the best choice possible, you’re probably wondering: How much should a good leather sofa cost?

With so many different types of leather available in a varying range of formats, it’s a difficult question to answer. To help you, our experts have put together this comprehensive guide that will explain the difference between sofas that sell at £500 and sofas that cost £20 000.

What is the cost of a good leather sofa?

The interiors market is inundated with brands selling leather sofas in all shapes, sizes, colours and finishes, making determining how much to budget for your new acquisition extremely difficult.

A quick online search is likely to produce an array of nearly identical offerings, each boasting a vastly different price tag. And with limited access to showrooms where you can see the sofa for yourself, finding a sound investment is a bit of a minefield.

Leather, in particular, is a difficult material to navigate because its quality, durability and longevity depend very much on the grain you choose. There are the options:

• Sourced from the top part of the hide and unaltered by chemicals, a full-grain leather sofa is the most expensive of all. They comprise only 5% of the total market and can cost as much as £25 000 if bought from a bespoke manufacturer.
• Top-grain and nubuck sofas are also made from the upper part of the skin, but have been treated using various processes and are often dyed. Depending on their size and quality, these usually start at over £1 000, with high-end versions reaching between £3 000 and £10 000.
• Split grain leather, bonded leather and suede are all classified as “genuine” but are made from offcuts and the lower layers of the skin. They tear and peel easily, have a lifespan of around 5 years or less and are available at upwards of £500.

Read our more detailed article on the best leather grains to find out more about them. And beware of anything that says “man-made” on the label as it is almost guaranteed to be fake.

What to look for when buying a leather sofa

If you’re going to invest in a luxury leather sofa, make sure that it is a perfect match for your home because when you’re spending good money, every aspect counts. Here are some things to consider as you hunt one down:

Setting your budget

Deciding on your budget is imperative and will determine what you can splurge on. Take care not to set your heart on a bespoke design if it’s beyond your means or you’re going to end up feeling disappointed.

Having said that, sofas endure a high amount of traffic and have to withstand the rough and tumble of day-to-day living, so spend your full allowance on the very best you can afford. At the end of the day, you’re going to get what you paid for – we suggest you aim high.

Picking out the right style

From classic shapes and rounded edges to contemporary offerings and button-backs, choosing a style to match your home is key. But remember, the more intricate the design, the higher the price.

While leather is timeless and always in vogue, it’s important not to be too influenced by fashion. Seek out one that you are happy to live with long-term.

Deciding on size and shape

The size and shape of your sofa will have a bearing on the price and will also determine how good it looks in your living space. Whether you are after a loveseat, a modular unit or a one-of-a-kind custom design, your budget will reflect your choices.

Next, take into account its scale. Too big and you’ll find it overbearing, too small and it will look lost and out of place. The answer is to make sure you find a fit that matches the dimensions of your room perfectly.

Keep in mind that you will need to get it through your front door, so take measurements before you go shopping and consult with an expert.

Determining its comfort and longevity

Both the construction of the frame and the padding in your cushions contribute to the longevity and comfort of your sofa. Always check to see what they are made of before rushing into a good deal.

Seat cushions are typically filled with one of three materials: feather, foam or fibre. Duck feathers, in particular, retain their plumpness for years and polyester is an excellent option if you’re looking for a super soft seat. Foam, which is firmer and less expensive, is commonly used in low-budget offerings.

Hardwood frames are the best option when it comes to strength and longevity, so we recommend that you avoid anything else.

Ensuring that the leather is of good quality

There is so much false advertising out there that it’s important to check the integrity of your leather. Here are 5 things you can do to ensure that you’re getting a quality product:

1. Search for imperfections: High-end leathers have natural blemishes which give it its unique personality.
2. Feel the texture: Leather is uneven and slightly rough while fake versions are silky smooth.
3. Have a smell: Genuine leather has a distinctive odour, so if all you’re getting is plastic, don’t invest.
4. Is it warm?: Natural leather feels warm to the touch.
5. Look at the price tag: If it’s going cheap, it’s faux.

Where to find the best deals on leather sofas

When it comes to luxury leather sofas, hunting down a fantastic deal is not the way to go. Instead, find an outlet that has a sound reputation and can tell you everything you need to know about the grain, manufacturing process and all the other aspects that constitute a high-end product.

At FCI London, our designers work hand in hand with all of our world-renowned suppliers and will always ensure that you get exactly what you’re looking for.

How to care for your leather sofa

Caring for leather is pretty straightforward:

• Use a vacuum cleaner or upholstery brush to remove dust every week.
• Wipe up spills with warm water, some gentle soap and a microfibre cloth.
• If it becomes dry, restore it with a good leather conditioner.
• Make sure that it does not stand in full sunlight, or it could crack or fade.

The benefits of owning a leather sofa

Of all the sofa choices, leather is the most sought-after. Here are its 3 main benefits:

1. Despite a hefty initial outlay, a high-quality leather sofa could last you a lifetime.
2. Cleaning and maintenance are easy as it naturally repels pet fur and dust mites.
3. It is timeless and never goes out of fashion.

In conclusion

The FCI London design team is passionate about beautifully crafted, high-end sofas and can’t wait to help you pick out the perfect piece for your home.

Call us today to get the ball rolling, or pop into our showroom for a guided tour.