How to Shop for a Sofa

Down cushions? Hardwood frame? New York City interior designer Timothy Brown gives us a quick tutorial on what to inspect when you’re inspecting. Slideshow

Cushion the Blow

I prefer foam-wrapped cushions with some down. The down is soft, and the foam retains the shape of the cushion. With pure down, the cushion needs to be fluffed every time you get out of your seat and it looks sloppy.

Murphy 81-inch sofa by Room & Board, $1,399.