A living room is a must, the sofa is a must have if you want a comfortable and cozy seat for more than two people at once. Because these large furniture pieces can be big investments, it is a nice idea to know exactly what styles you have to choose from before you invest. In this guide, learn about all the different sofa types including popular sofa arm and back styles.
Sofa Types
Standard:
A standard sofa consists of a bench that can seat two or more people, arms on both sides, and a back. Mostly, standard sofas are totally upholstered and include either sewn-in or removable cushions that rest on the seat of the bench and line the sofa back.
Loveseat:
Designed to seat two people, historically, a couple – loveseats are much smaller and cozier than standard sofas. A loveseat can otherwise be identical in design to a standard sofa; the only important distinction is it is smaller in size.
Futon:
Futons are sofas that can be laid flat to be used as beds. Many futons are low to the ground and armless for easier conversion.
Settee:
Mostly formal and bench-like in appearance than casual, everyday sofas, settees are meant for more formal settings that see less wear and tear.
Sectional:
A sectional is a very large sofa composed of a minimum of two pieces. These sofas can seat anywhere from four to ten people and are commonly shaped like a U or L.
Sofa Styles
Chesterfield:
The most prominent feature of this vintage sofa style is its full-body tufting. Traditionally made to embody careful craftsmanship, modern chesterfield sofas enhance timeless elegance. These sofas typically have rolled arms.
Camelback:
Falling on the more formal end, the defining feature of the camelback sofa is the curved profile of its back that resembles the humped back of a camel. The flourish of this style’s back is often paired with an ornate exposed skirt or leg.
Mid-Century Modern:
If we compare with the more decorative, lavish sofas of earlier decades, 1950s-inspired mid-century modern sofas show off clean, straight lines and simple, exposed wood legs. The mid-century modern sofa is often finished with traditional fabrics, like leather or tweed, with tufting on either the back cushion or the seats.
Bridgewater & Lawson:
Broad and comfortable, Bridgewater sofas are perfect for hosting cozy movie nights. These sofas are characterized by rolled or flared arms that are shorter than their simple split backs. Lawson sofas are similar in design, but their arms are square and their upholstery tends to be more filled.
Cabriole:
The cabriole sofa is composed of an ornately carved wooden frame and matching, curved legs and is fashionable in the 1700s. These sofas are often upholstered in English-inspired light fabrics, like cotton and linen that enhance the elegance of the time period.
English:
A nod to centuries past, the English sofa features a low profile with a deep seat and tight cushioning over recessed arms. English sofas are deceptively comfortable despite their tight, tailored appearance.
