The quality of a sofa can vary widely based on the materials used, construction methods and intended use. Generally, higher quality sofas will have a hardwood frame with reinforced joinery to ensure longevity and strength, high-quality upholstery fabrics such as leather, linen or microfiber, generous cushioning filled with high-density foam and down, and detailed finishing such as brass nails.
Low-quality sofas are often constructed with low-grade, softwood frames and flimsy materials, little to no cushioning and inadequate finishing. Quality sofas should be aesthetically pleasing and comfortable, provide reliable support and retain their shape over time.
What is a William Birch sofa?
A William Birch sofa is a style of traditional English furniture originating in the early 1800s. The style became very popular in Victorian England as a bold and fashionable statement piece of furniture.
The hallmark of the style is a larger, comfortable sofa, often utilizing several seats and plenty of space for sprawling and relaxing. Signature features such as scrolled arms, with cabriolet legs, have become very popular with William Birch sofas, while some also feature attractive patterned upholstery.
The original pieces were often constructed from mahogany with a combination of hand-carved accents, though modern manufacturers now often use walnut or cherry for a more refined look. Though different versions exist, the look of a William Birch sofa is recognizable for its grand scale and sophisticated details.
What are sofas with no back called?
Sofas with no back are usually referred to as “daybeds”. Daybeds are traditionally used as seating for daytime lounging, but were also commonly utilized as beds for visitors in times past. They typically feature two lengths of arms instead of one, with an open back and a platform base, making them an ideal piece of furniture for when you want to add seating without blocking the view in a room.
They offer great versatility and can be dressed up with a combination of decorative pillows and blankets. Daybeds can help divide a large space into distinct seating areas, and are great for small apartments and homes.
They can also be used in outdoor spaces to provide more seating for guests.
What is camelback sofa?
A camelback sofa is a classic piece of furniture that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It is easily recognizable by its distinctive silhouette, which features a high back that slopes downward at both ends in a graceful line.
The sofa is usually upholstered in a fabric such as velvet or linen and has typically ornate legs and arms. Its name derives from the 18th century in Britain when the monarchy used a similar design on their traveling carriages.
It often comes with two or three seat cushions and two to three back cushions to provide more comfort. Camelback sofas are likely to be more expensive than other types of sofas due to their intricate design and materials used.
The camelback style is perfect for any living room as it offers tradition and timelessness and is also very comfortable for sitting and lounging.
What is the difference between a sofa a couch and a settee?
A sofa, a couch and a settee all refer to essentially the same type of furniture – an upholstered piece of furniture designed for seating up to three people. However, they do have slight differences in styling and usage.
A sofa is usually a large piece of furniture that typically comes with two arm rests, a cushioned back, and sometimes a chaise lounge that extends out from one side. Sofas are generally considered the most formal type of seating for a living room, and are often the focal point of the room.
A couch, on the other hand, is slightly smaller than a sofa, and often comes without the arm rests or chaise lounge. Couches tend to have a slightly more casual look, making them more suitable for a family room or a home entertainment center.
Finally, a settee is a relatively small piece of furniture that usually has just one arm rest and a short seat. Settees were originally designed in the 18th century as an alternative to chairs and are meant to seat just one or two people.
Nowadays, a settee is often used as an accent piece in a room and can also be used as additional seating in a dining or living space.
Why do they call it a fainting couch?
Fainting couches got their name because they were traditionally used in the past by women to recline after they had fainted—the intense corsets of the day apparently made it hard to breathe, leading to bouts of fainting.
Nowadays, fainting couches are no longer primarily used by women in need of a supportive surface to catch their breath; they have become an iconic piece of furniture in home décor, bringing a luxurious Victorian charm to living and drawing rooms.
Fainting couches are typically upholstered seats that often have armrests on either side and a high back. They often have curved legs or feet, and feature ornate details such as decorative buttons or embroidered cushions.
Unlike a chaise lounge or day bed, a fainting couch typically has a shorter seat depth and a smaller seating area overall. Typically more ornate than the other pieces of furniture they share a room with, a fainting couch serves as a statement piece in any home.
Are English roll arm sofas comfortable?
Yes, English roll arm sofas are quite comfortable. Their generous proportions and high armrests make them ideal for taking a nap or snuggling up with a favorite book. This style of sofa usually features a tight back, which provides plenty of support for your back, head and arms.
Soft cushions and loose, pleated skirts can add a layer of comfort and luxury. Depending on the fabric chosen, the upholstery can be smooth, plush and very inviting. English roll arm sofas are also excellent conversation pieces, good at encouraging conversation and making guests feel welcome in your home.
What are the different arm styles on sofas?
When selecting a sofa, it is important to consider all of the different arm styles available. There are a variety of arm styles to choose from that all bring their own unique look and feel to a space.
The most common arm styles for sofas are rolled arms, square arms, track arms, low arms, and sloped arms.
Rolled arms are rounded with a large curve at the front, providing a traditional look and offering a comfortable spot for lounging and putting your arms up. Square arms have a blocky, formal look and provide a crisp transition to the cushions.
Track arms are characterized by their clean lines and lack of visible padding, making them an easy fit in any modern space. Low arms are smaller than standard arms and rest just above the seat of the sofa, with the side edges of the cushions ending at the arms.
Sloped arms have a continuous curved shape that gracefully flares out to the sides and are a great choice to transition between contemporary and traditional styles.
Ultimately, the arm style you choose should reflect both your design preferences and the amount of space you have to work with. Taking some time to consider all of your options can help you to find the perfect sofa for your home.
What is a couch with high arms called?
A couch with high arms is typically called a “chesterfield”. This type of design has been around since the 1700s, and is characterized by high arms that are level with the back of the seat and typically rounded.
The back and arms are also typically tufted and/or upholstered with a variety of materials such as velvet, leather, or wool to give it a luxurious look. Chesterfield couches are timeless fixtures in traditional and modern homes alike, and often give a classic or formal air to any room.
What is English rolled arm sofa?
An English rolled arm sofa, also known as a cabriole sofa, is a classic piece of furniture characterized by its elegant rolled arms and gracious curves. The arms of the sofa are curved, or rolled, and reinforce the traditional, yet elegant design.
The thin spindles on the arm and the delicate curves along the sides and back, add an extra touch of beauty to the piece. It is often constructed using loose cushions for a traditional, relaxed look and feel, but can also come with fixed cushions to help achieve a modern look.
The English rolled arm sofa is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any living space and often comes in a variety of colors, fabrics, and finishes.