The IKEA Kivik and Finnala are two popular sofa options from IKEA, but they are built for very different homes. The Kivik is a large, modular sofa series with deep, plush seats designed for spacious living rooms and maximum lounging comfort. In contrast, the Finnala is a compact, multifunctional sofa often equipped with a sleeper function and storage, making it ideal for smaller spaces and guest rooms.
Here's everything you need to know to decide whether the comfortable, customizable Kivik or the practical, space-saving Finnala is right for you.
IKEA Kivik Sofa
The Kivik is one of IKEA's most popular sofa collections, admired for its generous proportions and modern, low-profile design. It's a modular system, which means you can combine different sections like chaises, loveseats, and corner pieces to create a configuration that perfectly fits your space. Its main selling point is comfort, with deep seats and thick cushions that invite you to sink in and relax.
- What it is: A line of modular sofas, sectionals, and chaises known for deep lounging comfort and contemporary Scandinavian style.
- Key features: Modular design allows for custom configurations, deep seats (approx. 24" seating depth), plush cushions with high-resilience foam, and fully removable, washable covers.
- Price: Approximately $499 to $1,199, depending on the configuration and fabric choice.
- Style: Modern, minimalist, and cozy. Its low arms and clean lines give it a contemporary look that works well in many interiors.
- Materials/Construction: Frame made from engineered wood and fiberboard with high-resilience polyurethane foam and polyester fiber cushions.
- Pros: Exceptionally comfortable for lounging, highly customizable modular setup, removable and machine-washable covers make it easy to clean, durable construction for everyday use, stylish modern design.
- Cons: Large size is not suitable for small apartments, lower profile might be uncomfortable for some people to get up from, higher price point compared to other IKEA options.
The Kivik is ideal for homeowners who prioritize deep-seated comfort and want a stylish, customizable sofa for a medium to large living room.
Shop this product: ikea.com/us/en/cat/kivik-series-18756/
IKEA Finnala Sofa
The Finnala is a practical and versatile sofa designed to solve the challenges of small-space living. Its compact footprint, combined with multifunctionality like a pull-out sleeper bed and built-in storage chaise options, makes it a workhorse for apartments, guest rooms, or finished basements. The design is simple and clean, focused on functionality over lavish comfort.
- What it is: A compact and multifunctional sofa, often available as a sleeper with a built-in storage chaise.
- Key features: Available as a standard sofa or a sleeper that converts into a bed, options for a storage chaise, smaller overall dimensions, and removable covers.
- Price: Approximately $399 to $799, making it a very budget-friendly option.
- Style: Simple, clean, and functional. Its straightforward design fits easily into modern or casual interiors without overpowering the space.
- Materials/Construction: Frame is typically made from engineered wood with polyurethane foam cushions.
- Pros: Excellent for small spaces, sleeper function is great for guests, built-in storage helps reduce clutter, very affordable, easy-to-clean removable covers.
- Cons: Seating is firmer and less deep than the Kivik, not ideal for deep lounging, more limited in size and configuration options, basic design might feel too simple for some.
The Finnala is perfect for those in apartments or studios who need a sofa that saves space, serves multiple functions, and comes at an accessible price.
Shop this product: ikea.com/us/en/p/finnala-sleeper-sofa-gunnared-medium-gray-00511871/
Kivik vs. Finnala Comparison
Dimensions & Scale
This is the most significant difference between the two. The Kivik sofa is built on a grander scale with a substantial visual presence. Its deep seats and wide arms are designed to fill a room and provide ample seating space, making it perfect for larger living rooms or open-concept areas. Its modularity means you can go from a simple loveseat to a massive U-shaped sectional.
The Finnala is the opposite. Its entire design is centered around being compact and space-efficient. With a shallower seat depth and slimmer profile, it fits neatly into small apartments, dens, or home offices where a full-sized sofa would be overwhelming. Its functionality is packed into a small footprint.
Comfort & Ergonomics
When it comes to pure lounging comfort, the Kivik is the clear winner. Its deep, soft cushions are made with high-resilience foam that conforms to your body, creating an ideal setup for movie nights and long-term relaxation. The low, wide armrests are comfortable for leaning against or even resting a laptop on.
The Finnala is comfortable for everyday sitting but is not a "sink-in" sofa. The cushions are firmer to support its dual function as a regular seat and a bed. The seating position is more upright, which is practical for short-term use but less suited for extended lounging compared to the Kivik.
Materials & Construction
Both sofas use a similar base construction of engineered wood frames and polyurethane foam cushions, which is standard for IKEA furniture in this price range. However, the Kivik's use of "high-resilience" foam in its cushions suggests a slightly better quality material designed to hold its shape longer and provide more contouring comfort.
Both models feature removable and washable fabric covers, a key benefit for homes with pets, kids, or anyone prone to spills. The fabric options for both are durable and designed for everyday life.
Price & Value
The Finnala is the more budget-friendly option, with its most expensive configurations costing around what the smaller Kivik configurations cost. The value of the Finnala lies in its multifunctionality - for under a thousand dollars, you get a sofa, a guest bed, and a storage unit. It's an excellent value for anyone trying to furnish a small space on a tight budget.
The Kivik offers a different kind of value. While more expensive, it provides a luxury lounging experience, modular flexibility, and a more substantial design that feels more premium. Its value is in its superior comfort and adaptability to grow or change with your living arrangements.
Style & Versatility
The Kivik embodies a plush, modern Scandinavian aesthetic. Its clean lines and low profile give it a contemporary look, while its generous size feels inviting and cozy. Its versatility comes from its modular nature, allowing you to design the exact shape and size you need.
The Finnala's style is simpler and more functional. Its design is stripped-down and minimalist, intended to blend in rather than make a statement. Its versatility isn't in its appearance but in its function - it can be a sofa, a bed, or a storage space whenever you need it to be.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both sofas are excellent choices from IKEA, but they serve completely different needs and spaces.
Choose the Kivik if:
- Comfort is your absolute top priority and you love a deep, lounge-worthy seat.
- You have a medium-to-large living room that can handle a substantial piece of furniture.
- You want the flexibility to customize your sofa's shape and size with a modular system.
- You prefer a modern, low-profile aesthetic in your living space.
Choose the Finnala if:
- You live in a small apartment, studio, or have a tight space.
- You frequently host overnight guests and need a functional sleeper sofa.
- You need extra storage and would benefit from a storage chaise.
- Your budget is a primary concern, and you need maximum function for your money.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the Kivik and Finnala?
The main difference is size and function. The Kivik is a large, deep-seated modular sofa designed for maximum lounging comfort in spacious rooms. The Finnala is a compact, multi-purpose sofa intended for small spaces, often including a sleeper function and storage.
Which sofa is more comfortable?
For lounging and relaxing, the Kivik is substantially more comfortable. Its deep seats and plush, high-resilience foam cushions are designed for sinking into. The Finnala is comfortable for regular sitting but has a firmer and more upright feel.
Are the covers on Kivik and Finnala removable and washable?
Yes, one of the best features of both sofa lines is that their fabric covers are fully removable and machine washable, making them easy to maintain and keep clean.
Does the IKEA Finnala come with storage?
Yes, many Finnala configurations are available with a chaise lounge that lifts to reveal a hidden storage compartment, which is perfect for stowing bedding, blankets, and pillows.
Is the Kivik a good sofa for a family?
Yes, the Kivik is an excellent choice for families. Its large size, durable construction, and washable covers make it a practical and comfortable hub for a busy household.
Which one is easier to assemble?
Due to its smaller size and simpler design, the Finnala is generally easier and faster to assemble. The Kivik's modular nature means there can be more pieces to connect, depending on the configuration you choose.
What is better for a small apartment, Kivik or Finnala?
The Finnala is definitely the better choice for a small apartment. It's specifically designed to have a small footprint and offer space-saving features like a built-in bed and storage.
Is the Finnala comfortable enough to be an everyday sofa?
Yes, the Finnala is suitable as an everyday sofa, especially if you prefer a firmer, more supportive seat. While it's not as plush as the Kivik, it provides adequate comfort for daily use and TV watching.
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