We Tested (and Rated!) All the Living Room Seating at Burrow to Determine the Best for Every Space and Need

When it comes to sofa shopping, browsing models online is fun but can be tricky. It’s hard to tell how a given piece is going to fit into your space, or what that fabric you love actually feels like — and that’s where our Personal Shopper series comes in handy. We visited Burrow, the DTC (direct to consumer) brand behind some of our editors’ favorite furniture, back in 2023 to review the brand’s sofas — three years later, we ventured back to retest every sofa on the showroom floor. 

If you’ve ever been curious about reviews of Burrow’s popular Shift Sleeper Sofa, the Ember Sofa, and all the new sofas and accent chairs that have launched since our last in-store visit, we put them to the test (again!) to give you our updated thoughts and make online shopping even easier. The brand’s CEO and cofounder, Stephen Kuhl, even gave us the inside scoop on what makes every piece special. Whether you’re looking for a classic couch, a comfy WFH spot, or a place to lounge as you catch up on your favorite shows, we’ve got you covered.

If you’re new to our Personal Shopper series, we visit the physical showrooms of all your favorite furniture retailers and try products out firsthand to help you find the best pieces for your space. We’ve gone to stores like West Elm and Pottery Barn to test their living room seating, bed frames, and more. After these visits, we give you the full breakdown of which model is right for your space.

So far in our Personal Shopper series, we’ve covered large mainstream retailers whose reach goes far beyond just home improvement enthusiasts. Although Burrow is no under-the-radar brand, we think it’s worth exploring due to its stylish, functional, and easy-to-assemble modular designs that are particularly great for small-space dwellers — or anyone who values versatility in their home furnishings. 

What’s more, the brand offers affordable flat-rate shipping. Orders over $1000 cost $69, orders between $500 and $1000 cost $49, orders between $100 and $500 cost $39, and anything less than $100 ships free.

We judged every Burrow sofa and chair in-store based on the following five criteria to help us determine the best person, from the armchair reader to the WFH professional, for each piece.

• Overall sit: What posture does the sofa best support? How deep or shallow are the seats? Are the cushions soft or firm on the back and arms?
• Seat firmness: How soft or firm are the seat cushions? How do they contribute to overall posture and comfort?
• Comfort: Can you spend hours on this sofa or chair? And would you want to?
• Versatility: Can it serve multiple purposes within the home?
• Appearance: What style does it suit best? Does it lean more traditional (i.e., deep hues, tufted cushions, classic silhouettes) or more contemporary (i.e., clean lines, bright hues, modern silhouettes)?

In 2023, our former shopping writer Nikol Slatinska spent the day at the Burrow store in New York City to evaluate the brand’s sofas and accent chairs on their overall sit, comfort, and appearance. She tested and reviewed furniture for the Personal Shopper series to help readers find the best pieces for their homes — especially those in small spaces. She covered it all — from sofas and bed frames to dining tables and accent chairs.

Recently I revisited Burrow’s NYC store to re-test the sofas and armchairs, and evaluate all the new models that Burrow has released since Nikol’s original review. It’s essentially my job to test, review, and recommend products, whether it’s easy-to-assemble bed frames, modular sofas, coffee tables, and anything else you may be looking for. I’ve covered them all, so I know what makes a piece of furniture worth buying. I was previously the commerce editor at Design Milk and Well+Good.

Before we get into the sofas and chairs, we felt it was necessary to point out that Burrow also has its own line of customizable sleep kits. Each bundle has everything you need to turn your couch into a bed, including a memory foam topper, quilted blanket, pillow, eye mask, and both a fitted and flat sheet.

And, when we say customizable, we're referring to the three different kits available for the Nomad, Field, and Range sofas (more info to come on all of those!). Everything in the kit fits neatly into its own bag, which you can stow away effortlessly and bring out when you have overnight guests. Depending on which sofa you buy, you can also add a sleep kit directly to your order.

Burrow has launched a new collection of sofa models since our last in-store visit, called the "Pro" models. Designed to be a step up from Burrow’s other sofas in terms of style and comfort, Burrow’s Pro models are essentially a more premium take on the brand’s most-loved designs, like the Range, Ember, and Union sofas (which we’ll get into shortly!).

What Impressed Us: If you want a sofa that’s large enough for the whole family, doubles as a guest bed, and has built-in storage, you’re going to want to check out the Span sectional. There’s a cheeky lift-up storage compartment hidden in the chaise, and while you’ll need the floor space to accommodate its 128.5-inch-wide silhouette, it’s well worth what you’ll gain in versatility. The chaise can also be configured on either side of the sofa, so it’s a couch you’ll keep in your life as you move homes. 

The Span sectional has bouncy foam cushions that felt super firm when I first sat down, but will soften over time for lasting comfort. Combined with its shorter seat depth and taller height, it gives you a supportive, upright sit. This isn’t a sofa that’s difficult to get up from, and it’s not difficult to convert into a sleeper either! The all-foam (that’s right — no metal bars here!) sleeper folds out effortlessly thanks to the hidden handles on the seat cushions, so overnight guests can make and stow the bed with ease. Even the arm cushion inserts can be removed and used as sleeping pillows (they’re made of a plush down alternative). Burrow thought of everything with this one! 

Specifications:

• Styles: The Span line includes a storage chaise, two-seat sleeper sofa,  and double storage sectional configuration 
• Dimensions: 128.5“ long, 65.5” wide, 34.5“ high
• Colors: Five upholstery options

What Impressed Us: The first thing I noticed about the new Range Pro sectional was its luxe, camel-toned leather upholstery. Burrow’s store associate told me they refer to it as their “magic leather” internally, because of its exceptional durability. The model I tested was styled right at the entry of the showroom in front of a giant window — and it showed zero signs of fading, scratches, or wear-and-tear from the constant flow of foot traffic. Combined with the blocky silhouette, the sofa has an incredibly high-end look compared to Burrow’s original Range model. 

It’s softer than the OG Range, too, with 38-inch-deep seats, and plush back and arm cushions that invite you to plop down and relax. And for surprise sleepovers, the back and arm cushions can be flipped back to expose more of the seat so guests can have a comfortable place to crash. 

Specifications: 

Styles: The Range Pro line includes a two-seat sofa and a three-seat sofa
Dimensions: 109” long, 38” deep, 30” high
Colors: One leather option, and two performance fabric options 

What Impressed Us: The Ember Pro exudes MCM energy with its long, sculptural silhouette and tapered walnut legs. The legs are also about two inches taller than Burrow’s original Ember sofa, which gives you a bit more under-sofa storage space and makes it easier to get up from. I saw it in the sage performance chenille upholstery, which is soft to the touch and has a beautiful sheen that adds to the sofa’s polished and sophisticated appearance. Plus, the covers are removable and machine-washable for easy upkeep. 

I could definitely see the Ember Pro fitting right into a more formal living space — but that doesn’t mean it’s not comfortable. Its supportive, medium-firm seat cushions and softer back cushion allow you to lean back if desired without sinking. And the lower, square arm rests are lightly padded, so you can comfortably rest your head on them while lying length-wise, or perch a cup of coffee on top while chatting with guests. 

Specifications: 

Styles: The Ember Pro line includes a left-facing chaise sectional, right-facing chaise sectional, and a two-seat sofa 
Dimensions: 96" wide, 34" deep, 32" high
Colors: Two performance fabric options 

What Impressed Us: With its extra-deep seats and plush, pillowy cushions, the Russet sofa definitely has more of a relaxed appearance compared to Burrow’s other models. The layered foam seat cushions sit on top of a foam base, which gives the sofa a comfy, cloud-like feeling — although I did hit the base slightly when I plopped down. Due to their pillowy construction, the cushions did appear flatter once I stood up, so you’ll need to fluff them up regularly. But if you’re looking for a couch with a more casual, lived-in vibe, this would be a great choice. 

Measuring at about 85.5 inches wide, the Russet sofa is small-space-friendly — and the fact that it’s fully modular makes it even more so. It arrives in compact boxes that are relatively easy to maneuver through narrow apartment hallways. And if you move into a home with a larger living space, you can always add modules for a configuration that works for you. I saw the Russet in the brand’s Crushed Gravel chenille upholstery, a performance fabric that’s totally stain-resistant. The covers can always be removed and machine-washed for a deeper clean, too. 

Specifications: 

Styles: The Russet line includes a three-piece sofa, a four-piece reversible chaise sectional, four-piece sofa, five-piece reversible chaise sectional, three-piece reversible chaise sectional, six-piece double chaise sectional, four-piece corner sectional, five-piece corner sectional, and a six-piece corner sectional       
Dimensions: 85.5" wide, 40" deep, 34" high
Colors: Four performance fabric options 

What Impressed Us: Compared to Burrow’s OG Union sofa, the Union Pro sports a more structured silhouette that spans traditional and contemporary styling. I saw it in the ivory performance chenille fabric upholstery, which had a velvety-soft texture and gave the sofa a cloud-like appearance — that’s also resistant to stains and scratches. 

I found that it had a shallower seat than the original, which makes it a great choice for those who prefer a more upright sit. While the cushions are slightly softer than the original, too, I’d say they have a balanced, medium-firm feel that bounces back for all-over support. The Union Pro also has taller armrests that give it a more enveloping feeling, and paired with the plush arm cushions it’s downright cozy. And if you do want to kick back and relax, the sofa’s wide ottoman chaise gives you plenty of room to do so. 

Specifications: 

• Styles: The Union Pro line also includes a two-seat sofa and a three-seat sofa
• Dimensions: 108“ long, 39“ deep, 33“ high
• Colors: Three performance fabric options 

What Impressed Us: Burrow's most compact sofa, the Nomad can seat up to three people comfortably (or even four if you're okay with getting a little personal). It's the stylish answer to the common question: "How do I outfit my tiny living room without defaulting to a sofa that looks like it belongs in a dorm?"

You'll also be happy to learn that the Nomad is Burrow's most customizable sofa, with three armrest styles, reversible back cushions, six leg finishes, and 11 upholstery colors. This seating staple strikes the perfect balance between modern and traditional. In other words, it's timeless in design but fit for everyday life, complete with a built-in USB charger.

Specifications:

• Styles: The Nomad line includes a leather sofa, velvet sofa, sectional, loveseat, an armchair, and an ottoman
• Dimensions: 85" wide, 35" deep, 33" high
• Upholstery: Available in 11 upholstery options

What Impressed Us: You don't even need a pull-out sleeper when you have the five-seat Union sectional in your living room. Not only was it designed for lounging, but the sofa's deep cushions also give you plenty of (literal) wiggle room during movie marathons — and feel free to use the side pillows as fluffy headrests!

You'll find the Union sectional's seats to be soft but supportive, so you won't feel like you're sinking into a pit. Plus, the sofa will keep its traditional shape over time. Chunky legs further add structure to this overnight guest oasis. Also of note: If you have a large household, don't be surprised if your cohabitants constantly fight over the corner seat.

Specifications:

• Styles: The Union line includes a sofa, ottoman, and loveseat
• Dimensions: 102.75" long, 102.75" deep, 31.5" high
• Upholstery: Available in 4 upholstery options

What Impressed Us: The first thing we noticed about Burrow's Range line was its clean lines and contemporary look. As we got closer and sat on this three-piece sofa, however, what impressed us was its simultaneously firm and ergonomic feel. Not only will this piece provide the perfect amount of back and seat support throughout your entire 9-to-5 shift, but its back cushion also curves toward you so that you're never hunched over.

The Range sofa can also be customized to include an attached side table — an ideal spot for snacks, your laptop, and other work essentials! Other features that stood out to us were the sofa's pillow-shaped side cushions and low profile.

Specifications:

• Styles: The Range line includes a sectional, one-arm sofa, side table, and loveseat
• Dimensions: 91.5" long, 31" deep, 28" high
• Upholstery: Available in five upholstery options

What impressed us: One of Burrow’s newest releases, the Ember sectional boasts the brand’s signature mid-century design aesthetic, which can be further modernized with your choice of upholstery color. The Ember is the second softest sofa to the Union in terms of support. Despite its plushness, you get plenty of lumbar support thanks to the short seat backs and body-contouring cushions.

We were especially impressed with the sectional’s extra wide chaise. It’s not overly long, which is good for small rooms, but it offers tons of space to spread out. The other seats are also quite wide, so all of your guests will be able to curl up the next time you host.

Specifications:

• Styles: The Ember line includes a sofa, sectional, double chaise sectional, and U sectional
• Dimensions: 111” long, 34” deep, 31” high
• Upholstery: Available in four upholstery options

What Impressed Us: When we learned that Burrow released a new sofa model, we had to go back to the showroom a second time and see it for ourselves. Once there, the Mambo did not disappoint. Its large frame makes a statement right away, as do its blocklike seat cushions.

Although the sofa would certainly work in a family home, it does add a contemporary appeal that young adults will especially appreciate. We found the sofa’s cushions to be firmer than expected, but you still get plenty of space for lounging, not to mention ergonomic back cushions that provide lumbar support.

Specifications:

• Styles: The Mambo line includes an armchair, ottoman, 5-piece sectional lounger, 5-piece sectional, and loveseat
• Dimensions: 100" long, 37" deep, 28" high
• Upholstery: Available in 3 upholstery options

What Impressed Us: Like the Nomad, the Field sofa is characterized by a classic silhouette, albeit a bit more relaxed. Its three-seat cushions are wide and roomy and thus effortlessly able to accommodate your entire brood. But that's not the only reason we've deemed this the best sofa for families; its polyester fabric is simultaneously soft and durable.

It resists stains, which means that after a simple spot-clean, your sofa will look as good as new. Although the plush seat and overstuffed back cushions might incite some playful jumping, the couch's strong plywood frame and reinforced steel hardware help protect against serious wear and tear.

Specifications:

• Styles: The Field line includes a sectional, two-piece lounger, and loveseat
• Dimensions: 91.5" long, 31" wide, 33" high
• Upholstery: Available in seven upholstery options

What Impressed Us: Burrow’s Shift sleeper isn’t recommended for daily lounging. In other words, you wouldn’t place this model in your living room and use it as your main seating. Instead, this sophisticated new offering works best in the office or spare room that could use some extra seating for guests. Simply unfold the bench-style seat to open the sofa’s queen-size sleep surface — no pulling or tugging required.

We tried it in-store and found that the entire process takes less than a minute. Plus, the sleep surface’s three-layer foam construction is just as comfortable as a regular bed! Just place your bedding on top, and you’re good to go. You can even unzip the sofa’s side pillow covers and pull out the cushions, which double as bed pillows.

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 84" long, 32.5" wide, 33.5" high
• Upholstery: Available in five upholstery options

What Impressed Us: With the outdoor Relay sofa, you'll never have to move your patio seating indoors, even if it rains, thanks in large part to its quick-drying foam cushions. Regardless, you still have the option to add a custom-fit protective cover to your purchase. What's more, the Relay sofa is a great lounging spot on sunny days, and you'll find that it has a firm, ergonomic feel.

The standard size has three seats that can comfortably fit up to four people. Other pros include the ability to take apart the sofa's sturdy steel frame for easy out-of-season storage.

Specifications:

• Styles: The Relay line includes a sectional, chair, and 2-piece sofa
• Dimensions: 92.4" long, 32" deep, 33" high
• Colors: one upholstery option

What impressed us: Every piece in Burrow’s latest outdoor collection, the Dunes line, sports a teak frame, which is made from sustainably sourced wood durable enough to withstand all weather conditions. That includes this three-piece sofa, which is bound to develop a striking silver patina over time.

As is common with Burrow sofas, the Dunes has low backs and mid-deep but wide seats that are perfect for lounging. Although it’s technically a three-seater, we could easily envision four people sharing its long surface. You’ll also notice the sofa’s wide arms, which provide plenty of storage space for beverages, phones, and other patio accessories.

Specifications:

• Styles: The Dunes line includes an ottoman, chair, 2-piece sofa, 4-piece sofa, and sectional
• Dimensions: 93.5” wide, 33” deep, 28.5” high
• Colors: three upholstery options

What impressed us: If we’re being honest, we did not expect the Gimlet chair to be comfortable when we first saw it online. But it’s a tad wider in person than you’d expect, and despite its armless silhouette, you don’t have to worry about falling out of its spacious seat.

Additionally, the chair's seat is angled upward while its ergonomic back slopes inward. As a result, it hugs your body and makes you feel supported. The Gimlet would function splendidly in an empty corner of your living room, but we think it would make an especially great accent piece for the bedroom, especially if you could use a spot to drape “not dirty but not clean” clothes.

Specifications:

• Styles: The Gimlet line includes an ottoman
• Dimensions: 24.75” long, 29.25” deep, 29” high
• Upholstery: Available in three upholstery options

What Impressed Us: Although the Union sectional is our pick for Burrow's most nappable seating option, the Union chair isn't far behind. Sure, you don't have as much space to sprawl out across, but you get the same deep seat, cloudlike cushions, and impressive width to work with.

The chair's arms are wide enough to comfortably hook your legs over, while the side pillows provide just the right amount of padding. Like all of Burrow's sofa and chair offerings, this armchair has a simple, clean-lined design, but its softly rounded edges provide those homey vibes we just can't get enough of.

Specifications:

• Styles: The Union line includes a sofa, ottoman, and loveseat
• Dimensions: 40" long, 39" deep, 31.5" high
• Upholstery: Available in four upholstery options

What Impressed Us: If you do end up going with one of Burrow's streamlined sofa silhouettes, that's all the more reason to opt for an out-of-the-box accent piece, such as the Lodge chair. Inspired by furniture you'd find in a ski lodge and Danish mid-century design, this angular seat is bound to earn you tons of compliments on your space — no interior styling skills required.

The chair provides a relaxed yet upright sit, its wide, plank-like arms ensuring that you never feel uncomfortably snug within their confines. The smooth wooden frame and upholstered cushions work in tandem to create a warm, contemporary resting spot you'll never want to leave.

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 29" long, 31" wide, 33" high
• Upholstery: Available in four upholstery options

What Impressed Us: The Nomad chair, much like the sofa from the same line, has its own built-in USB charger and 72-inch power cord, meaning endless scroll time as you lounge. Whether you're catching up on your latest Kindle read or swiping through TikTok, this is hands down the best spot to do it from.

Thanks to its square shape, the chair also adds structure to whichever space you put it in. A soft initial sit gives way to lots of support, preventing the typical cramps you might get after sitting in a less ergonomic armchair.

Specifications:

• Styles: The Nomad line includes a leather sofa, velvet sofa, sectional, loveseat, and an ottoman
• Dimensions: 34" long, 35" wide, 33" high
• Upholstery: Available in 11 upholstery options

What Impressed Us: I must confess, the Vesper chair is my personal favorite piece among all of Burrow's seating options. It looks incredibly sophisticated not only online, but even more so in person. And I'd definitely recommend getting the matching ottoman (consider them a package deal).

Upon sitting in the chair and kicking my feet up, I became even more aware of the duo's inward V-shape. They basically hug your body, resulting in a naturally relaxed position. Part of what makes the Vesper so striking is its custom-pressed plywood shell, which is beautifully juxtaposed with its fabric upholstery and black steel legs. You also have the option to add a matching lumbar pillow to the chair.

Specifications:

• Styles: The Vesper line includes an ottoman and leather chair
• Dimensions: 29.5" long, 29.5" wide, 30" high
• Upholstery: Available in nine upholstery and wood combinations

What Impressed Us: There's something about leather that has the ability to make just about anything look cool and modern. Case in point: the Field armchair, which is available in two shades of top-grain Italian leather. It goes without saying that this piece makes a statement, albeit not in a loud, in-your-face kind of way, but rather an, ooh, what's that over there? kind of way.

Whereas the Field sectional feels slightly more traditional because of its family-size construction, the chair iteration more closely resembles something you'd find in a sophisticated city dweller's apartment. The chair's high arms and back form a protective fortress around you, while its cushy seat practically invites you to stay the entire day.

Specifications:

• Styles: The Field line includes a leather lounger and fabric lounger
• Dimensions: 32.5" long, 31" deep, 33" high
• Upholstery: Available in two upholstery options

What impressed us: Many chaise lounges feature a barred plastic or metal surface that can make you feel like you’re lying on railroad tracks. So when we sat on the Dunes lounger, we were pleasantly surprised to find that its seat and back felt sturdy yet soft. When we lifted the all-weather foam seat cushion and saw the fabric webbing underneath, we understood.

Also of note is the lounger’s wide surface; you can lie down, sit cross-legged, or angle yourself toward your pool buddy without feeling constrained. Other details we appreciate about this piece include the luxurious ivory-colored fabric and the wheels on the back legs, which, in addition to the lounger’s easy assembly, make setup a breeze.

Specifications:

• Styles: The Dunes line includes an ottoman, chair, two-piece sofa, four-piece sofa, and sectional
• Dimensions: 24” long, 72.5” wide, 14” high
• Color: Available in two upholstery options

What Impressed Us: The Rye recliner was so sleek and compact that I actually couldn’t tell whether it was a recliner at first. Its 27-inch-wide silhouette is a welcome departure from the bulky, oversized recliners I’m used to seeing, and would fit perfectly in a cramped living room, home office, or guest room (and just imagine how great it would be in a reading nook!). As soon as I sat down, I marveled at its comfortable, supportive seat. But what really impressed me was its effortless recline. There’s no cumbersome lever to pull; all I had to do was hold the armrests and gently lean back. Even when fully extended, it doesn’t take up much space. 

I saw the Rye in Burrow’s camel, top-grain leather upholstery which, combined with the chair’s clean-lined silhouette, gave it a retro mid-century modern appearance. This leather felt smooth and luxe, and was surprisingly resilient; the floor model didn’t display any scratches or signs of wear despite being on display for months. 

Specifications: 

• Dimensions: 27“ wide, 44” high, 39“ deep
• Colors: One leather and two fabric options 

What Impressed Us: Just look at it! The Airmail chair has the coolest retro look, with an enveloping cocoon-like silhouette and a deep, V-shaped seat. Situated on a smooth, 360-degree walnut swivel base, it looks like a one-of-a-kind, MCM find. I saw it in the oatmeal performance bouclé upholstery, which had subtle color variations and a plush, cozy texture. 

The chair is definitely on the firm side, and due to its steep recline getting in and out of it is a bit awkward. But once you’re on it, it’s surprisingly comfy! The swivel is super smooth, too; I could’ve twirled around on it all day. For a leveled-up lounging experience, you can purchase the matching ottoman separately. 

Specifications: 

• Dimensions: 27" wide, 39.25" deep, 33.5" high
• Colors: Three fabric options 

What Impressed Us: I immediately loved the Palmer chair’s stylish mix of materials. Between the plank-style wood arms, sleek powder-coated steel legs, and the bubbly chenille-upholstered seat, it has a cool Scandinavian vibe that would elevate any living room. As soon as I sat down, I was blown away by how comfortable it was; the rounded cushions contour my back perfectly and offer exceptional lumbar support. And because the flat, solid-wood arms practically double as side tables, it’s a great spot to chill out with a cup of coffee. 

True to its Scandi vibe, the Palmer chair is super-low-maintenance. Its medium-firm cushions bounce back instantly, and the performance chenille upholstery stands up against stains and spills. It’s the kind of chair you could sit in for hours, whether you’re engrossed in a book or swept up in conversation. 

Specifications: 

• Dimensions: 27.5" wide, 29.25" deep, 27" high
• Colors: Four fabric options