Plus, designers note, sofas with curves can more comfortably seat a crowd during a party. “No straight-line sofa breaks up ...

She bought the Lotus sectional from CB2 ($499-$799 per piece, www.cb2.com); she puts the three pieces together into a wrap-around when she has company and manages to seat eight to 10 people on it.

Q: The sectional sofa does not go up against a wall. Because of the curve, it is sometimes difficult. Also, with a beige sofa and blue and green pillows, what do you recommend for tables? A: Since … ...

As part of the first full collection under new vice president of product design and development, Sebastian Brauer, Crate and Barrel has introduced a sleek, solid-backed sectional known as the Strom.