If a spring refresh of your home’s interior is on the to-do list, a new sofa is one item that will have an immediate – and huge – impact. And with the cost of new furnishings, choosing one that will stand the test of time is absolutely crucial. My favorite solution? The Chesterfield sofa. A Chesterfield sofa is one of the world’s most iconic, recognizable sofa styles, and is easily adapted to both a traditional or transitional interior. This style sofa – deep buttoning, attractive nail head studding, and rolled arms at the same height as the back – is both simple and sophisticated.But, don’t mistake simple or sophisticated for boring! Although the Chesterfield sofa has been around for decades, the look is still relevant today in terms of both style and function. The addition of a Chesterfield goes a long way to creating beautiful and timeless décor that has nothing to do with trends.
The origins of this classic piece are somewhat murky. Anecdotal evidence maintains that the Chesterfield sofa was invented when the fourth Earl of Chesterfield, Philip Stanhope commissioned a similar sofa in the mid-18th century. And, according to the Oxford English Dictionary, by the 1800’s, the word Chesterfield was commonly used in England to describe a leather couch.
In fact, the quintessential Chesterfield is upholstered in a dark leather, with contrasting nail head trim, a look that is the perfect addition to a traditional paneled library or den. But, this adaptable piece also makes a statement in a sleek Manhattan condo paired with a Lucite coffee table and modern art, or a rustic thatched country cottage, nestled beneath rough hewn beams.
In addition to traditional leather, today, there are many more original takes on the sofa. A more modern look, using upholstery (especially in a shocking, bright velvet, which is wonderfully unexpected!), can vastly lighten up the clubby original.
As with all major furniture pieces, pricing a Chesterfield sofa can be something of a mixed bag. For example, pieces from Distinctive Chesterfields in the UK will stand the test of time (in fact, your great grandchildren could possibly inherit them, they are so well made). Hand crafted in a Lancashire workshop using only the highest quality materials, prices range from approximately $2000 (USD) for a petite apartment sized piece, to upwards of $5000.
However, if your home isn’t quite as grand as Downton Abbey (mine certainly is not!), there are still plenty of affordable options to suit. Believe it or not, Amazon is actually a great source! From the Poly & Bark “Lyon” Sofa in full-grain Italian leather (Retail $2320) to the much more affordable Jennifer Taylor Home “La Rosa” Victorian Chesterfield Tufted Sofa (Retail $1129), there are so many ways to get the look, no matter what your budget is.
I’ve collected some inspiration photos of beautiful Chesterfield sofas in a variety of colors and materials to get you started. For even home design inspiration, please visit the Fabulous Interiors tab.
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DISCLAIMER: No monetary compensation or product samples were received in exchange for this Chesterfield Sofa post. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.
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