Want that sunken, lounge-all-day feel of a pit couch—without bulky furniture taking over your space? Here’s how to get the look with the right sectional.
What is a pit couch or pit sofa?
A pit couch is a large, often square or rectangular seating setup that’s big enough to sprawl out on. It blends the comfort of a bed with the functionality of a sofa, creating an ultra-cozy spot perfect for movie nights, reading, or hanging out with friends.
The setup encourages relaxation and conversation—it’s all about creating a laid-back, inviting vibe. And if someone needs to crash overnight, the expansive surface works surprisingly well for sleeping.
That said, a true pit sofa can be bulky. Oversized, deep-seat sectionals can overwhelm a room and make it harder to move around. Cleaning can also be a hassle—you’ll need to pull the whole thing apart to vacuum underneath or get between the cushions.
Five sofa configurations inspired by the pit couch
You can recreate the informality of a pit couch – without the drawbacks – by arranging a modular set or a sectional sofa instead. Here are five models that lend themselves well to it.
Versatile sectional sofa
Set up a sectional sofa-bed with storage like the Wicek, and open up its large bed for impromptu sleepovers in front of your favourite movie. Plus, its two lounge chairs conceal large practical storage spaces, perfect for storing bedding.
Comfortable sofa bed for the night
Trendy and practical, our Espe sectional sofa bed model combines a two-seater sofa with a chaise longue and two generous armrests to ensure your comfort in many positions.
In just a few steps, it can be unfolded and transformed into an 89″ x 61″ bed, a slightly more spacious surface than a “queen-size” mattress. Add a few cushions to create an inviting “pit couch” that you can put away whenever you want.
Maximize space
With its generous dimensions of 118″ x 118″, a reclining sofa like the Whitmore arranged in a corner can take up the two walls of an average-sized room. However, its seats without backrests at the ends facilitate the visual transition and avoid hindering movement.
Result: you use all the available space to create your oasis of relaxation and conversation. Two reclining seats allow you to lie down but do not require any additional clearance when folded.
Wonderful modular
Combine the different pieces of a modular set, armless chair, modular corner, and ottoman — to create the exact arrangement you dream of. Start with a modular “L” set, like our Etienne model, arranged in one corner of the room, then add as many individual pieces as needed to fill the space.
Fabric ottoman chairs can be added in the center to obtain a real “pit couch,” but these remain easy to move if you change your mind. Experiment and vary your configurations according to your desires.
Share a cloud
The central piece of a European-style lounge, a sectional from our Euro world, is not lacking in audacity. Elkin, for example, with its rounded shapes and slightly elastic fabric, invites you to lie down comfortably, like on a cloud.
Recompose its four individual pieces (complete with a modular armchair or even a modular corner if necessary) to obtain the layout you want. Between the “L”-shaped sofa, armchairs arranged in a circle, or an intimate “pit couch,” everything is possible.
Choosing a large sofa in a small room
In a modestly sized room, a single full-size modular set makes better use of space than a sofa and accent chair duo, and can often accommodate more guests.
Choose neutral finishes
With proper maintenance, a modular set retains its comfort and appearance for many years. A neutral and timeless fabric or leather model acts as a backdrop, allowing you to customize the look with cushions, throw blankets, and accessories. Neutral finishes will also make the room appear more spacious and uncluttered.
Choose a pale colour
Opt for a pale gray, beige or off-white modular set in a cramped room that reflects more natural light. This will make the space appear clearer and larger.
Add a wall mirror
Create an illusion of depth by hanging a decorative mirror above the sofa.
Use vertical space
A pit sofa sectional layout takes up a lot of floor space. For more balance, free up the rest of the room by installing shelves or wall furniture as well as wall or hanging lamps.
If the idea of sinking into a big, soft surface and stretching out in any position you like sounds appealing, a pit couch might just be your dream setup. With the right furniture and a few smart layout choices, you can recreate that ultra-comfy vibe—without sacrificing flexibility or overwhelming your space.
