HAY Sofas Reviews: Mags Soft, Quilton, Pandarine Tested

HAY has firmly established itself as a titan of contemporary Danish design. The brand is ubiquitous in design magazines and high-end lobbies, known for clean lines, bold colors, and an accessible approach to modernism. I wanted to move past the Instagram aesthetic and find out if these sofas are actually livable. My team and I sourced their most prominent models to see if the "European firmness" we often hear about is a dealbreaker for American lounging habits.

Our testing environment mimicked a standard living room, complete with hard floors and area rugs to test grip and sliding. I am Chris Miller, the lead tester. My team includes a spectrum of body types, from Mia’s petite 5'4" frame to Jamal’s athletic 6'3" build. We also incorporate ergonomic analysis from Dr. Adrian Walker to assess long-term posture implications. We spent weeks rotating through these sofas, watching movies, typing emails, and occasionally dozing off.

We focused heavily on modularity and fabric performance. HAY partners with textile giants like Kvadrat, and we wanted to see if those premium wools and blends hold up to snacks and pet claws. We looked at the connection mechanisms between modules to see if they drift apart. This review is a deep dive into whether hay sofas are merely sculptural art pieces or functional furniture for daily life.

Product Overview

The following table outlines the hay sofas we evaluated.

Sofa Model	Pros	Cons	Ideal For	Price (Est.)	Overall Score
Mags Soft Low	relaxed look, comfortable top layer, infinite modularity	low back height offers minimal neck support	deep loungers, open floor plans	$3,500 - $6,000	4.7
Mags Standard	architectural clean lines, holds shape perfectly	extremely firm seat	formal seating, reception areas	$3,000 - $5,500	4.3
Quilton	stunning "landscape" design, deep comfort	bulky visual footprint	large rooms, design enthusiasts	$4,200 - $7,000	4.6
Pandarine	adjustable backrests, elegant metal legs	narrower seat depth	versatile living/sleeping spaces	$4,500 - $6,500	4.8
Hackney	classic shape, foldable frame for moving	velvet can crush over time	apartments with tight access	$3,200 - $4,500	4.4
Can Sofa	flat-pack design, casual vibe	very relaxed structure	first apartments, casual dens	$2,200 - $3,000	4.1
Silhouette	high back option creates privacy	upright sit is rigid	open offices, reading nooks	$3,800 - $5,200	4.2
Arbour	sustainable wood frame, distinct Scandi look	cushions are quite hard	eco-conscious minimalist homes	$3,500 - $4,800	4.3

hay sofas Comparison Chart

Feature	Mags Soft Low	Mags Standard	Quilton	Pandarine	Hackney	Can	Silhouette	Arbour
Depth	40.7"	37.5"	43"	38.5"	37.75"	35"	35.5"	34.25"
Seat Height	14.5"	15.75"	16"	16.5"	17.25"	15.75"	17"	15.75"
Back Style	Low/Wide	Low/Boxy	Quilted/Rounded	Adjustable	Standard	Canvas Sling	High/Low	Wood Frame
Firmness	Med-Firm	Firm	Medium	Med-Firm	Soft-Med	Soft	Firm	Firm
Modularity	High	High	High	Medium	None	None	Low	Low
Legs	Hidden	Hidden	Hidden	Metal	Hidden	Steel	Steel/Wood	Wood
Vibe	Lounge	Minimalist	Sculptural	Sleek	Classic	Casual	Private	Industrial

What We Tested and How We Tested It

We established a rigorous protocol to evaluate these hay sofas. We wanted to push past the "showroom sit."

• Timeframe: We spent 14 days with the collection.

• Fabric Stress: We tested Kvadrat wools and Remix fabrics. We rubbed denim against light colors. We checked for pilling on the softer weaves.

• Modularity: We assembled and disassembled the Mags and Quilton sections. We checked the "click-lock" or metal bracket systems for ease of use and stability.

• Usage Scenarios:

  • The Movie Test: Two hours of continuous sitting.

  • The Laptop Test: Typing for one hour to check lumbar posture.

  • The Nap Test: Lying flat to test armrest height and cushion continuity.

• Ergonomics: Dr. Walker observed our spinal alignment. He noted the effect of the typically low European back heights on our cervical spines.

Testing Team Takeaways

I found the HAY aesthetic consistent, but the comfort varied wildly. The Mags Soft Low was my personal favorite for lounging. It has that "puddle" look but still supports you. I could sit cross-legged easily. However, the Standard Mags felt like sitting on a wrapped brick. It is beautiful, but I would not want it for a Netflix marathon. The fabrics are exceptional. The wool blends felt scratchy to some at first but softened with warmth.

Marcus Reed struggled with the seat heights. At 230 pounds and over 6 feet, the 14.5-inch seat of the Mags Soft was a challenge. I have to roll out of this thing, he noted. He preferred the Hackney. The higher seat and coil spring system gave him the lift he needed. He also loved the depth of the Quilton. It fits my whole thigh, he said.

Carlos Alvarez focused on functionality. He loved the Pandarine. The ability to recline the armrest into a pillow was a game-changer for his reading sessions. I can go from working to napping in two seconds, he observed. He found the Arbour too upright for relaxation. It forced him into a formal posture that became tiring after an hour.

Mia Chen had a different experience with the Mags. The deep seat meant her feet dangled. She had to pile pillows behind her to sit comfortably. I'm swimming in this, she said. She adored the Can sofa. It felt scaled to her size. She liked the canvas backing. It felt casual and unpretentious.

Jenna Brooks and Ethan Cole tested the couple dynamic. They found the Quilton interesting. The quilted bumps created natural zones. We don't slide into each other, Jenna noted. However, Ethan found the Mags Standard too slippery in the wool fabric. He kept sliding forward when he tried to slouch. They both agreed that the Pandarine was the best for shared versatility.

Jamal Davis maximized the modularity. He rearranged the Mags Soft into a giant pit. At 6'3", he rarely fits on sofas. On the Mags, he could stretch out fully. My heels are actually on the cushion, he said happily. He disliked the Silhouette. The high back felt confining to his broad shoulders. He felt boxed in. Dr. Walker pointed out that for tall users, the low back of the Mags offers zero neck support, which could lead to strain.

hay sofas: Our Testing Experience

Mags Soft Low Sofa

Our Testing Experience:

The Mags Soft Low is the one you see on Instagram. I approached it expecting it to be overhyped. It is not. I sat down and felt a distinct two-layer sensation. The core is dense foam, but the top is a down wrap. It gives just enough to feel cozy without collapsing. I spent a Sunday afternoon reading here. I sat sideways, using the wide armrest as a backrest. It works perfectly.

Marcus found the low profile difficult. He sat down heavily. The sofa absorbed his weight well. It did not creak. It feels like a solid block, he said. But getting up required him to engage his core significantly. He noted that the fabric pooled slightly after he stood up. He had to smooth it out.

Mia tried to nap. The low armrests are wide enough to act as a pillow, but they are firm. She needed a throw pillow. She liked that the modules did not drift apart. The connection is rock solid. Dr. Walker noted that while comfortable for lounging, the lack of upper back support forces the spine into a C-shape unless you are lying down.

Pros & Cons:

Pros	Cons
Relaxed, "puddle" aesthetic	Very low seat height (14.5")
Ultra-sturdy construction	Requires fluffing to look neat
Infinite configuration options	Low back offers no neck support
Wide arms serve as side tables	Expensive depending on fabric

Details:

• Price: $3,500 - $6,000

• Configuration: Modular (Corner, Chaise, Lounge)

• Seat Depth: 40.7"

• Seat Height: 14.5"

• Firmness: Medium-Firm

• Materials: Hardwood frame, foam, down wrap

• Fabric: Kvadrat wools, Linara, Leather

• Warranty: 5 years

Review Score:

Metric	Score	Remarks
Seat Comfort	4.6	cozy top layer over firm support
Back Support	3.5	low profile limits vertical support
Seat Depth Fit	4.8	luxurious depth for lounging
Cooling	4.2	wool options breathe well
Durability	4.9	heavy, solid frame feels permanent
Overall	4.7	the ultimate casual lounge piece

Mags Standard Sofa

Our Testing Experience:

The Mags Standard looks identical to the Soft but sits completely differently. I sat down and stopped immediately. There is no sink. It is firm. I felt like I was sitting on a bench in a high-end gallery. I tried to lounge, but the sofa resisted. It wants you to sit up straight.

Carlos appreciated this for his laptop work. He placed his computer on his lap. The firm seat gave him a stable base. I'm not fighting gravity here, he said. The lines are incredibly clean. There are no wrinkles. It looks architectural.

Jamal tried to get comfortable for a movie. He grabbed three pillows. Without them, the hard armrest dug into his ribs. This is for looking at, not living in, he joked. He did admit that for a reception area, it would be perfect because it never looks messy.

Pros & Cons:

Pros	Cons
Impeccable clean lines	Extremely firm seat
Always looks tidy	Not suitable for napping
High durability foam	Hard edges on arms and back
Modular flexibility	-

Details:

• Price: $3,000 - $5,500

• Configuration: Modular

• Seat Depth: 37.5"

• Seat Height: 15.75"

• Firmness: Firm

• Materials: Chipboard/Spring system, foam

• Fabric: Hallingdal, Steelcut

• Warranty: 5 years

Review Score:

Metric	Score	Remarks
Seat Comfort	3.8	too firm for typical home lounging
Back Support	4.2	good lumbar, poor upper back
Seat Depth Fit	4.3	standard depth works for most
Cooling	4.5	firm surface circulates air well
Durability	4.8	retains shape indefinitely
Overall	4.3	best for offices and minimalists

Quilton Sofa

Our Testing Experience:

The Quilton is described as a "quilted landscape." I can see why. I sat on the chaise section. The quilting creates these little hills of comfort. It is softer than the Standard Mags but firmer than the Soft. It feels substantial. I liked the rounded edges. It feels organic.

Jenna and Ethan tested it together. The separation between modules is seamless visually, but you can feel the transition. Ethan noted the backrest is angled nicely. I can lean back without sliding off, he said. The seat depth is generous.

Marcus loved the bulk. It feels anchored. He sat on the front edge. It did not collapse. The foam is high resilience. However, he noted that crumbs get stuck in the deep quilting lines. You need a vacuum for this one, he pointed out. Dr. Walker praised the slightly higher seat compared to the Mags for easier egress.

Pros & Cons:

Pros	Cons
Unique, sculptural design	Bulky visual footprint
Very comfortable back angle	Crumbs get trapped in quilting
Deep, supportive seat	Heavy and hard to move
Softens a room's look	-

Details:

• Price: $4,200 - $7,000

• Configuration: Modular

• Seat Depth: 43"

• Seat Height: 16"

• Firmness: Medium

• Materials: FSC wood, PU foam

• Fabric: Quilted Kvadrat options

• Warranty: 5 years

Review Score:

Metric	Score	Remarks
Seat Comfort	4.7	excellent balance of support and give
Back Support	4.4	angled back is ergonomically sound
Seat Depth Fit	4.6	great for tall users and loungers
Cooling	4.3	thick quilting holds some heat
Durability	4.8	construction is robust
Overall	4.6	a design statement that is actually comfy

Pandarine Sofa

Our Testing Experience:

The Pandarine surprised me. It has metal legs and looks sleek, almost fragile. But I sat down, and it was solid. The magic is the backrest. I adjusted the angle. It goes from upright to a reclined lounge position. This is rare for a "design" sofa. I lowered the armrest and used it as a pillow. It was brilliant.

Carlos spent hours here. He adjusted the back to vertical for typing. Then he reclined it for a phone call. It adapts to me, he said. The mattress-style seat is springy. It feels like a bed.

Mia found the seat depth a bit shallower when the back was upright. This was perfect for her. Her feet touched the floor. However, the metal legs worried her on our hardwood test floor. They slid slightly until we added rubber grippers.

Pros & Cons:

Pros	Cons
Fully adjustable backs/arms	Metal legs can slide on hard floors
Sleek, light visual profile	Moving parts may wear over time
Bed-like seating comfort	Cushion gaps can collect debris
Versatile for multipurpose rooms	-

Details:

• Price: $4,500 - $6,500

• Configuration: 2-seater, 3-seater, chaise

• Seat Depth: 38.5"

• Seat Height: 16.5"

• Firmness: Medium-Firm

• Materials: Steel frame, Nozag springs

• Fabric: Diverse upholstery

• Warranty: 5 years

Review Score:

Metric	Score	Remarks
Seat Comfort	4.9	springs and foam offer bed-like feel
Back Support	4.8	adjustability provides custom support
Seat Depth Fit	4.5	adaptable to user needs
Cooling	4.6	elevated frame promotes airflow
Durability	4.4	mechanisms introduce potential failure points
Overall	4.8	the most versatile sofa in the lineup

Hackney Sofa

Our Testing Experience:

The Hackney looks like a traditional velvet sofa. It has a coil spring system. I sat down and felt a familiar bounce. It is not dead foam. It pushes back. It is comfortable in a classic way. I liked the high arms. I could lean into the corner deeply.

Marcus was impressed by the frame. It folds. We tested this. We folded the back and arms down. It became a flat box. I could get this up a spiral staircase, he said. This is a huge engineering feat.

Jamal found the cushions a bit soft. He sank in more than on the Mags. After an hour, the velvet looked crushed where he sat. You have to brush this fabric, he noted. The seat height is decent at 17.25 inches. It felt like normal furniture, not low-slung lounge gear.

Pros & Cons:

Pros	Cons
Foldable frame for difficult access	Velvet requires maintenance
Classic, cozy coil spring feel	Cushions require fluffing
High arms for corner sitting	Boxy shape is a bit generic
Good seat height for easy exit	-

Details:

• Price: $3,200 - $4,500

• Configuration: 2-seater, 3-seater

• Seat Depth: 37.75"

• Seat Height: 17.25"

• Firmness: Soft-Medium

• Materials: Wood frame, coil springs

• Fabric: Velvet / Wool

• Warranty: 5 years

Review Score:

Metric	Score	Remarks
Seat Comfort	4.5	familiar springiness is welcoming
Back Support	4.2	upright cushions offer good support
Seat Depth Fit	4.4	fits standard users well
Cooling	3.9	velvet traps heat
Durability	4.3	folding mechanism is sturdy
Overall	4.4	problem solver for tight apartments

Can Sofa

Our Testing Experience:

The Can sofa arrives flat-packed. We assembled it. It took about 30 minutes. It is basically a steel frame with canvas stretched over it. I sat down. It felt like a hammock filled with pillows. It is casual. It moves with you.

Mia loved the vibe. It feels temporary in a good way, she said. She liked the canvas back. It molded to her spine. The cushions are loose. She could arrange them how she wanted.

Ethan found it flimsy. He sat down hard, and the whole frame shuddered. I don't trust this for a movie night, he said. The armrests are just pillows against a canvas side. If you lean too hard, you push the canvas out. It is for a dorm or a starter apartment, or a very specific casual aesthetic.

Pros & Cons:

Pros	Cons
Easy to transport and assemble	Frame feels less substantial
Cool, deconstructed look	Canvas stretches over time
Very soft and relaxed	Not for heavy daily use
Affordable entry point	Arm support is minimal

Details:

• Price: $2,200 - $3,000

• Configuration: 2-seater, 3-seater

• Seat Depth: 35"

• Seat Height: 15.75"

• Firmness: Soft

• Materials: Powder coated steel, canvas

• Fabric: Surface / Canvas

• Warranty: 5 years

Review Score:

Metric	Score	Remarks
Seat Comfort	4.2	soft and yielding
Back Support	3.8	relies on loose pillows
Seat Depth Fit	4.0	a bit shallow for lounging
Cooling	4.6	canvas is very breathable
Durability	3.9	steel is tough, canvas is not
Overall	4.1	stylish choice for casual spaces

Silhouette Sofa

Our Testing Experience:

The Silhouette is distinct. We tested the high-back version. I felt like I was in a private booth. The sides wrap around. I sat upright. It is firm. Very firm. It forces you to sit with good posture. I tried to read. It was great for focus.

Carlos liked the privacy. I could take a call here, he said. The leather piping detail is sharp. It looks expensive. But for relaxing, it fails. The sides are rigid. You cannot lean your head back unless you are tall enough to reach the top edge, and even then, it is hard.

Jamal felt too big for it. His shoulders touched both sides of the 2-seater. It's a tight squeeze, he noted. The legs are thin metal. It feels light. Dr. Walker praised it for short-term seating as it discourages slouching, but advised against it for living rooms.

Pros & Cons:

Pros	Cons
Creates acoustic and visual privacy	Very rigid seating
beautiful piping details	Confining for larger users
compact footprint	Not for relaxation
-	High arms make access harder

Details:

• Price: $3,800 - $5,200

• Configuration: High or Low back

• Seat Depth: 35.5"

• Seat Height: 17"

• Firmness: Firm

• Materials: Fiberglass reinforced, foam

• Fabric: Kvadrat / Leather

• Warranty: 5 years

Review Score:

Metric	Score	Remarks
Seat Comfort	3.7	firm and upright
Back Support	4.5	high back offers full spinal coverage
Seat Depth Fit	4.0	shallow, designed for upright sitting
Cooling	4.1	enclosed shape traps some heat
Durability	4.6	structure is very rigid
Overall	4.2	specific to open-plan privacy needs

Arbour Sofa

Our Testing Experience:

The Arbour is eco-conscious. It has a visible wooden frame. I touched the wood. It is smooth, oiled oak. It feels premium. I sat down. The cushions are separate from the frame. They are firm but uniform. It feels like Scandi-industrial design.

Marcus liked the height. The armrests are wood rails. He could not really lean on them comfortably without a pillow. It's like a park bench with really good cushions, he described. It is beautiful from the back. You should float this sofa.

Jenna found the aesthetic cold. It needs a blanket, she said. The cushions are Oeko-Tex foam. They are supportive. But it does not invite you to curl up. It invites you to sit and drink coffee. It is a social sofa, not a solitary one.

Pros & Cons:

Pros	Cons
Sustainable construction	Wood arms are hard
Beautiful visible joinery	Seat is quite firm
Easy to clean/replace cushions	"Cold" aesthetic for some
-	Not for lounging

Details:

• Price: $3,500 - $4,800

• Configuration: 2-seater, 3-seater

• Seat Depth: 34.25"

• Seat Height: 15.75"

• Firmness: Firm

• Materials: FSC certified wood, Eco-foam

• Fabric: Eco-labeled textiles

• Warranty: 5 years

Review Score:

Metric	Score	Remarks
Seat Comfort	4.0	supportive but lacks plushness
Back Support	4.3	good upright support
Seat Depth Fit	4.1	shallow depth promotes posture
Cooling	4.8	open frame is very breathable
Durability	4.7	wood frame is solid
Overall	4.3	for the eco-conscious minimalist

Compare Performance Scores of These Sofas

Sofa	Overall Score	Seat Comfort	Back Support	Seat Depth Fit	Cooling	Durability	Ease of Movement
Mags Soft Low	4.7	4.6	3.5	4.8	4.2	4.9	3.0
Mags Standard	4.3	3.8	4.2	4.3	4.5	4.8	4.5
Quilton	4.6	4.7	4.4	4.6	4.3	4.8	3.5
Pandarine	4.8	4.9	4.8	4.5	4.6	4.4	4.0
Hackney	4.4	4.5	4.2	4.4	3.9	4.3	4.5
Can	4.1	4.2	3.8	4.0	4.6	3.9	4.0
Silhouette	4.2	3.7	4.5	4.0	4.1	4.6	4.5
Arbour	4.3	4.0	4.3	4.1	4.8	4.7	4.2

The Pandarine takes the top spot for versatility. Its adjustability bridges the gap between design and comfort. The Mags Soft Low follows closely as the best lounger. The Mags Standard and Silhouette score lower on comfort due to their rigidity but excel in durability and support. The Can scores lowest on durability due to its casual construction.

Best Picks

• Best Overall hay sofas Award: The Mags Soft Low. It defines the brand. It combines that coveted low-slung aesthetic with a top layer of down that makes it actually usable for daily life. It is the centerpiece your living room wants.

• Best Versatile hay sofas Award: The Pandarine. The adjustable armrests and backrests are genius. It transforms from a formal seat to a daybed in seconds, making it perfect for dynamic living spaces.

• Best Design Statement hay sofas Award: The Quilton. It is a piece of art. The quilted detailing and bulbous shape create a landscape in your room that is both comfortable and visually arresting.

How to Choose the hay sofas?

Choosing a HAY sofa requires a reality check on your lifestyle. If you are a "flopper"—someone who throws themselves onto the couch—get the Mags Soft Low or the Quilton. They can take it. If you have bad knees or struggle to stand up from low surfaces, avoid the Mags series (14.5" height) and look at the Hackney or Silhouette (17"+ height).

Consider your space access. If you live in a walk-up apartment with tight turns, the Hackney (foldable) or the Can (flat-pack) are your only safe bets. The Mags modules are heavy and large.

Think about usage. For a home office or library, the Arbour or Standard Mags keeps you alert. For a media room, the Pandarine or Mags Soft lets you melt away. Fabric matters too. The Kvadrat wools are durable but can feel scratchy to sensitive skin. Hallingdal is bulletproof; Linara (cotton-linen) is softer but stains easier.

Limitations

hay sofas have a specific "European" sit. They are generally firmer than American sofas. If you are looking for a cloud-like sink (like a Restoration Hardware Cloud), you will be disappointed. Even the "Soft" versions have a firm core.

The low back height is a consistent theme. Most HAY sofas stop at the mid-back. This looks great visually—it makes ceilings look higher—but it offers zero head support. You cannot lean your head back unless you are lying down.

Lead times are significant. Unless you buy a "quick ship" stock model, you are waiting 12-16 weeks for custom Danish upholstery. And the price is high. You are paying for the name, the design pedigree, and the Kvadrat fabric.

Is the hay sofas worth it?

The hay sofas lineup is worth it if:

• You prioritize design longevity and architectural shapes.

• You prefer a supportive, firm seat over a soft, sinking one.

• You need modular flexibility that can grow with your home.

• You want high-grade upholstery like Kvadrat that lasts a decade.

• The value drops if you want instant gratification or plush, pillow-top comfort.

FAQs

1. Is the Mags Soft actually soft?

It is softer than the Standard Mags, but it is not "mushy." It has a layer of down wrap, but the foam underneath is dense. It is a "firm-soft."

2. Can I wash the covers?

Generally, no. most HAY sofas have fixed upholstery. The Can sofa has removable canvas parts, but for the Mags and Quilton, you need professional upholstery cleaning.

3. Do the modules slide apart?

They use heavy-duty linking devices (often metal alligator clips or brackets). Once connected, they are solid. We did not experience drifting.

4. Is the wool fabric itchy?

High-content wools like Hallingdal can feel prickly to bare skin initially. They soften with use. If you have sensitive skin, opt for the "Linara" (cotton-linen) or "Steelcut Trio" options.

5. How low is the Mags sofa?

It is very low. The seat is 14.5 inches. Standard sofas are 17-18 inches. Sit on a stack of books that high to test if you can get up easily.

6. Does the quilting on the Quilton flatten?

Over time, the "puff" will settle slightly, but the high-resilience foam keeps the shape well. It does not look deflated like loose-fill sofas.

7. Is the Can sofa durable?

It is durable for what it is (a steel frame), but the canvas will stretch and fade over time. It is not an heirloom piece like the Mags.

8. Can I add modules later?

Yes, for the Mags and Quilton. However, dye lots in fabric might vary slightly if you buy pieces years apart.

9. Are they good for pets?

The tight weave wools are excellent for resisting claws. However, hair sticks to wool. The leather options are the easiest to clean but scratch easier.

10. Where are they made?

HAY manufactures in Europe and Asia, depending on the component. The textiles are often European (Kvadrat is Danish).