How long do you think a sofa will last a consumer? New UK research reveals that Brits have a big gap between what they expect from their furniture, and the reality of how often they replace it.

The sofa lifecycle – expectation VS reality

A nationwide survey of 3,050 homeowners by design-led furniture brand, Swoon, shows just how short the furniture lifespan really is within British homes.

While nearly half of respondents (48%) believe their new sofa should last between five and 10 years, and 37% expect it to endure for over a decade. But, the reality tells a different story.

In fact, 29% of Brits swap their sofas every five years, 51% every 10, and a mere 8% say they’ve never replaced their sofa. It’s clear that while we expect longevity, we’re ditching our furniture far more frequently than anticipated or hoped – and it turns out we’re constantly upgrading.

That said, geography plays a role in these surprising stats. Homeowners in the South East (54%) and London (50%) are the biggest sofa-swappers, replacing theirs more frequently than other regions.

On the flip side, those in Northern Ireland (61%) and Wales (58%) tended to hold onto their sofas for more than a decade, proving that some Brits are still willing to stick it out for the long haul.

Trend-driven, or driven to change?

The survey revealed that 74% of Brits feel justified in replacing a sofa if it’s broken or damaged. Younger buyers, aged 18-25, are particularly prone to replacing their sofas when they’re damaged beyond repair (90.7%), suggesting they might be choosing cheaper, less durable options as their first purchase.

But, that’s not the only reason. Nearly 70% admitted they’d replace their sofa simply because it no longer fits their interior design style, and 12% confessed to swapping it out when it no longer suited their personal taste.

With personal taste and trends driving a large portion of sofa replacements, it’s no surprise that 90% of respondents are planning to redecorate within the next year, with 43% expecting to spend over £2,000 on their next home update.

Surprisingly, over a third (36%) of homeowners said their interiors are no longer to their taste, while 31% said their current furniture simply doesn’t work for their lifestyle anymore.

What’s more, 46% admitted to experiencing ‘house-barrassment’ – feeling ashamed of their homes. The pressure to keep interiors fresh and stylish is evidently high across the country.

So, what can be done to ensure that our furniture lasts longer? A significant 81% of those surveyed said they’d be willing to spend more on a piece if it promised durability, while 68% are drawn to unique designs and 50% would pay more for items with a warranty.

Interestingly, while younger buyers are more focused on aesthetics and trends, older Brits (56+) are increasingly prioritising furniture longevity and eco-friendliness. This suggests a shift towards sustainability as age increases.

Swoon’s Expert Advice

To help buyers make choices that will stand the test of time, Sam Greig, senior designer at Swoon, offers some sage advice: “If you are looking for timeless, long-lasting furniture that will be with you for life, there are two main factors to consider; design, and durability.

“Buying into trends, whether that be current colour crazes or influencer-driven fads, will often eventually mean your piece will feel outdated. Instead, choose a sofa that you identify with. Something versatile, and most importantly, irresistibly comfortable. After all, you may well be sitting on it for 10+ years.

“Additionally, look for base pieces that will stand the test of time. Models with low-cost materials and flimsy designs are often doomed to a short lifespan. Higher quality pieces are designed for longevity, adapting to your needs and being there through every milestone. In the end, a well-made sofa is an investment that can be passed down or repurposed, rather than ending up in a landfill.

“If you are a trend lover, or simply enjoy regularly switching up your interior – opt for neutral base pieces that can then be accessorised to suit a multitude of looks. Switch out seasonal throw pillows to freshen up the space, or paint a feature wall in that trending tone if you truly love it.

“Or, opt for a Swoon ‘Full Circle’ sofa, which features an innovative clip system allowing technicians to easily reupholster the sofa in your home – transforming your look at a fraction of the cost of a new sofa.”