Best mid-century modern sofas

Top pick: Kano Cognac Leather Sofa — the cleanest mid-century silhouette here: low back, slim track arms, tapered legs, and full-grain leather that ages into a patina instead of wearing out. It's the one to buy if you want a sofa that looks better in five years than it does today.

Who the others suit:

• Savana Tan Leather Sofa — same leather look in a slightly wider, lower frame; pick it if you want a more relaxed, loungey sit.
• Brooklyn Tan Leather Sofa — the most premium leather of the group; for someone who wants the sofa to be the room's centerpiece.
• Modway Adept Tufted Velvet — velvet and button tufting read more "Mad Men" than "Danish modern"; best if you want color and a softer, plusher seat.
• Maddox Sofa — the biggest and deepest of the bunch; suits a large room and tall sitters.
• Carol II Sofa — a budget-friendly upholstered take on the shape; good for a first apartment or a den.
• Merax Velvet Deep Seat Couch — deep seats and a low profile for movie-night lounging rather than formal seating.

What to check before buying: seat depth (deeper = more lounging, less upright conversation), leg height (higher legs make a room feel bigger), and whether the frame is kiln-dried hardwood — that's what separates a sofa that lasts from one that sags.