Earlier this year, our Product Team started the process of updating our existing Sofa. Combining years of learning and development with customer feedback, they pored over every detail as they worked to improve one of our most popular products.

We spoke with Tony Rotman — our VP of Product Design, and Product Designer Andrew Heathfield about what went into the process.

First off, why change The Sofa?

We’ve been collecting and listening to customer feedback on the original sofa for years. Last year, we began to explore designs and construction methods to improve on an already successful product.

From the beginning, we were focused on comfort, modularity, and more fabric options. Most importantly, The Sofa 2.0 will include a deeper seat deck and redesigned cushion construction for improved comfort. We’re also introducing new add-on products to enhance functionality. Last but not least, we’ve expanded our upholstery offerings with 20 new fabrics.

[1] The Team reviewing components. [2] A view of the added webbed well for improved sit, pitch, and comfort.

What went into these enhancements?

A lot of thought went into dimensions and the overall experience of sitting. After dozens of iterations, we finally felt like we were achieving what we set out to – while still remaining true to the original design. The new design features a deeper seat, improved cushion design, and a webbed construction for an improved sit. We’ve also streamlined the cushions for a cleaner, more modern profile. While cushions are lower profile, they sit far more comfortably.

Throwback: R&D of the original Floyd Sofa.

"Sweaty, moments of anxiety, almost cracking under the immense pressure of it all. Tears were shed and sleep was lost."

What was the design process like?

It started by listening to our customers’ feedback; what they loved and what they felt needed improvement. We knew that any updates would be made through details, seen and unseen, small but impactful. Through sketch, model, and prototype, we scrutinized every component; from the smallest dimension to every structural connection, up to a cushion’s first sit.

We chose textiles based on quality, color, and texture. And maximized holistic structural efficiency by improving the frame construction, stability, and material makeup.

What upgrades are you most excited about?

The depth and the new two-tone fabric options! The overall sit has really improved, and we think it looks great too (if we do say so ourselves). We’re also excited about the added modularity, like The Ottoman, which can be attached to the either side of the couch or left free-floating.

Plus, we're planning additional add-ons coming later this year that will turn The Sofa into a modular product ecosystem — similar to The Bed Frame or The Shelving System — designed around seating.

An early look at the Sofa Table Add-On (still in progress).

So, obviously, a lot has changed. What components of the original design remain? Why did you choose to keep those?

To ensure aesthetic continuity with our original design, we have retained the same leg hardware. This not only preserves its iconic look, but provides a consistent infrastructure for our long-time customers. Aligned with our 'Made for Keeping' philosophy, the existing legs can be easily attached to the new sofa platform. This approach breathes new life into the product, making it both new and familiar — like seeing an old friend for the first time in years :)

The Sofa 2.0 has been designed and meticulously tested for both comfort and durability.