Start with the frame, not the fabric
Designers often pick the fabric first and hunt for a frame that fits. Reverse it: pick the frame (silhouette, arm style, back style, leg style, skirt) based on the room's scale and proportions, then layer fabric on top. Fabric is a finish decision; frame is an architecture decision.
The three cushion builds that matter
Standard foam-wrap cushions are the baseline. Down-wrap (foam core with down over) is softer and requires fluffing but reads as more relaxed. All-down cushions are the most luxurious feel and the highest maintenance. Pick based on the client's actual lifestyle, not the showroom demo.
COM yardage and its surprises
COM (customer's own material) yardage requirements vary by vendor and frame — a single sofa might take 16 yards at one vendor and 22 at another. Always get exact yardage before ordering fabric, and add a 10% buffer for match-railroad issues.
Tight back vs. loose back
Tight backs read tailored and don't shift; loose backs read relaxed and require fluffing. Tight backs are more architectural, loose backs are more comfortable for long sits. Neither is better — match to the room.