Which brand offers the best couch options: Living Spaces or IKEA?
Alex Back | Couch.com CEO & Founder
Choosing between Living Spaces and IKEA for your next couch purchase can be tough. Strap in as we unravel the details of both brands' sofa selections to help you make the perfect choice for your space.
Side By Side
Features
Living Spaces
IKEA
Made to Order Lead Times
4-5 weeks
N/A
Free Shipping Option
White Glove Delivery Option
$99+
Return Option
Warranty Included
Financing Option
Synchrony / Concora Credit
IKEA Projekt Credit Card
Assembly Required
Large Fabric Selection
Free Swatches Available
Manufacturing Origin
USA
Import
Avg. 3-Seat Couch Price
$-$$
$-$$
When comparing Living Spaces to IKEA couches, Living Spaces provides made-to-order lead times of 4-5 weeks, a focus on user-friendly experience, and a selection catering to various budget ranges. On the other hand, IKEA offers a wide variety of styles at affordable prices, with a strong commitment to sustainability, multiple delivery options, and a 10-year warranty on most sofa frames and cushions. While Living Spaces emphasizes convenience and customer satisfaction, IKEA shines in affordability and sustainability efforts.
BRAND #1: Living Spaces
Founded in 2003 with a mission to simplify the furniture-buying experience, Living Spaces has grown into a nationwide retailer with both physical stores and an online presence. They offer a vast selection of sofas, ranging from budget-friendly options to high-end pieces, all focusing on convenience and customer satisfaction. While their sustainability efforts are not extensively detailed, they have recently established a Sustainability Council to guide their practices.
Living Spaces | Brand Summary
Living Spaces remains focused on making the furniture buying experience easier for customers. It offers a wide range of sofas that cater to people on a budget or ready to splurge. The choices are myriad if you’re looking for a Living Spaces couch, but they make things easier for you with a well-built site that can help you filter the best choices. The same is true when you visit their outlets. They have friendly staff who will take the time to walk you through their different products. The brand's emphasis is to help the customers be in control and not get overwhelmed with all the choices. If you are shopping for a Living Spaces sofa online, it’s easy to browse through all the options, compare products, and even customize one.
Wide range of traditional, modern, and trendy pieces
User-friendly website and in-store experience
Same-day or next-day delivery in some areas
Free delivery
Lifetime warranty on frames
Financing options available
Cons
Limited transparency about sustainability practices
10% restocking fee on returns within 7 days
Custom orders not returnable
Additional fees for delivery beyond doorstep
Specifics of construction materials and methods not detailed
Living Spaces gets it – sometimes you just want to find a stylish, comfy couch without all the fuss. That's where their wide selection of Living Spaces couches and user-friendly website shine, making it easy to find the perfect match for your taste and budget. And hey, who doesn't love free delivery and the option for same-day delivery in certain areas? Plus, their lifetime warranty on frames is a serious vote of confidence.
That being said, while Living Spaces excels in convenience and affordability, their commitment to sustainability could use a boost. Details about their eco-friendly practices are a bit sparse, leaving eco-conscious shoppers wanting more. And let's be real, those extra fees for delivery beyond the doorstep can add up, so factor that into your budget. While their 7-day return window is pretty common in the industry, it's worth noting that custom orders aren't eligible for returns.
So, if you're after a stylish sofa without the headache of endless browsing and complicated shipping logistics, a Living Spaces couch is worth a look. But if sustainability is a top priority or you're prone to second-guessing your purchases, it might be wise to consider other options alongside this one.
IKEA, a Swedish furniture giant with a global presence, has revolutionized the industry with its affordable, ready-to-assemble furniture. Founded in 1943, the company has become synonymous with modern, functional design and a commitment to sustainability. Their unique shopping experience, complete with showrooms and Swedish meatballs, has made them a beloved destination for home decor enthusiasts worldwide.
IKEA | Brand Summary
You know that feeling when you find the perfect pair of jeans on sale? That's how some of their IKEA sofas make me feel. Sure, IKEA isn't a high-end designer brand, but that doesn't mean they don't deserve a spot on your radar. You've just got to be a little pickier and know what to look for. Overall, I'm pleasantly surprised with their focus on modern design and budget-conscious craftsmanship. Let's just say, there are definitely some hidden gems at IKEA.
Limited transparency on material sourcing and construction details for some models
180-day return window for opened sofas may not be sufficient for everyone
Restocking fees for returns
IKEA is the undisputed king of affordable furniture, and their sofas are no exception. They've got a whole buffet of styles, from sleek and modern to cozy and traditional, so no matter your taste (or your budget), you're bound to find something you love. And the fact that they're putting serious effort into sustainability? That's the cherry on top of those delicious Swedish meatballs.
Now, let's get real. You're not buying an IKEA sofa for heirloom quality craftsmanship. These babies are designed for everyday life, not museum displays. That means some assembly is required (hello, Allen wrench!), and the materials might not be as luxurious as those high-end brands. Plus, while their 365-day return policy for unopened boxes is amazing, the 180-day window for assembled sofas might feel a bit short.
But here's the thing: IKEA knows its strengths. They offer a mind-boggling array of designs, with most sofas under $2,000. Their 10-year warranty on frames and cushions is surprisingly generous for the price, and their commitment to sustainability is more than just lip service. So, if you're after a stylish, functional sofa that won't break the bank, IKEA's got your back (and your bum!).
In the showdown between Living Spaces and IKEA, the crown goes to IKEA. With its wide variety of styles at affordable prices, strong sustainability commitment, and generous warranty, IKEA offers a winning combination for customers seeking stylish and budget-friendly sofa options. While Living Spaces impresses with convenience and customization, IKEA's overall package makes it the superior choice.
Alex Back
Couch.com CEO & Founder
Alex Back is the founder and CEO of Couch.com. Previously, he was the co-founder and COO of the popular furniture brand, Apt2B, which was acquired by a large US retail furniture chain in 2018. He worked to integrate Apt2B, one of the very first online furniture retailers on the Shopify platform, into the operations of the 100 year old larger business entity and was deeply immersed in the business operations of both online and brick and mortar retail for 4 years before leaving in 2023 to start Couch.com. Working in various parts of the furniture industry since 2004, he has 20 years experience in retail sales, e-commerce, marketing, operations, logistics and wholesale manufacturing and distribution. He has worked extensively with partners such as Costco, Bed Bath and Beyond and Amazon and his work has been highlighted in many publications such as Forbes, CNN and HGTV, among others. Alex is delighted to bring his experience and authority on couches and the furniture industry to this platform, along with many of his industry colleagues who are helping him keep the Couch.com audience informed and engaged on a daily basis.
