The Chesterfield Sofa: A British Design Classic
Iconic, classical and a nod to style and function; the Chesterfield is one of the most famous sofa designs. Recognisable by its high seat, scroll arms, low rolled back and tufted deep-buttoned leather or fabric upholstery, this popular sofa is part of British history. The design originally favoured noble, stately homes and established gentlemen’s clubs with wood-panelled walls and ambient lighting. Nowadays, this sought after piece of furniture has been adapted for a more contemporary living room. Designs have been updated with modern twists of colour and material.
Rich in heritage, distinctive details characterise the Chesterfield. The deep button detailing and tufted brown leather upholstery creates a luxurious statement. High arms sit at the same height as the low back of the sofa, rolled and oversized for maximum comfort. The leather Bamburgh is what springs to mind when talking about the timeless classic Chesterfield. Available options include a 2 seater sofa, 3 seater sofa, 3.5 seater sofa and 4 seater sofa.
With both fabric and leather sofas available, Bamburgh is a popular best-seller. This sophisticated Chesterfield sofa is hand crafted from quality materials. Proven traditional techniques are used in homage to the design’s history. Bamburgh is upholstered in the traditional thick, brown semi aniline leather that we all think of. If you are looking for a true classic, this is it.
Similarly, Warwick is a quintessential Chesterfield. It is upholstered in grey leather, with deep button tufting and hand tacked stud detailing. Also available as a fabric sofa in sizes such as 4 seater, club or wing chair, Warwick is the perfect piece for relaxing and providing back support.
In a further tribute to British legacy, Saxby takes on the Chesterfield design, perfectly combining prestigious woollen tweed fabric with characterful natural leather accenting. Beautiful and stylish, this is a mix that boasts a timeless fascination. Saxby is a sophisticated living room sofa that moves way beyond the depths of a dusty gentleman’s club.
According to previous furniture lore, the Chesterfield is a term that derives from the late 18th century. The fourth Earl of Chesterfield, Philip Stanhope (1694-1773), commissioned a piece of furniture with a high back. As a proper gentleman in the mid-1700s, he wanted to stop his suit from wrinkling as he sat down. The original design was likely to be different to the Chesterfield we know and love today. Function was still very much a priority over comfort back then.
In the mid-1800s, the furniture world saw a breakthrough with the invention of the coiled spring. Comfort became important. As Chesterfields were also covered in leather to match their regal surroundings, a fusion of luxury and relaxation was born. People began to realise that this iconic sofa would stand the test of time.
Nowadays, people still want to bring that vintage vibe to their home. Woden is a neat, fashionable option with natural leather and quality Harris Tweed upholstery. The range includes a chair, 2 seater sofa and 3 seater sofa. This is an ideal way to enhance your living room or dining room with a gesture to our heritage.
As a British brand established for over 150 years, Parker Knoll know exactly how to design and develop an Art Deco inspired Chesterfield. Wycombe is part of the exclusive Parker Knoll 150 collection. It offers the classic scroll arms with stylish buttoned detailing. Luxurious coordinating fabrics and leathers give it a subtle modern twist.
Retaining the classic look with contemporary styling, the sofa can now enhance a modern home. Huxton’s neat compact proportions with soft curves and velvet upholstery depict this idea perfectly. Reinterpreted materials and subtly altering the shape with taller legs and a slimmer back and arms give the Huxton chesterfield a definite modern edge.
Rupert is a stylish, understated contemporary reinterpretation of the classic Chesterfield design. Its slim, perfectly proportioned form is neatly upholstered in soft velvet or semi-aniline leather. The range includes a heritage deep buttoned foot stool. Useful as an extra seat, coffee table or foot rest, this is the epitome of modern casual socialising.
Likewise, Crescendo is the definition of classic with a contemporary twist. The hand tufted buttoning and neat pleats capture tradition. The plush velvet and graceful, curved shape suit modern surroundings. With timeless elegance in mind, add decorative scatters to complete the look and improve comfort.
If it’s an understated approach you prefer, Linum favours the simple, Scandi retro style. Perfect for a home office or sophisticated dining room, Linum perfectly combines chic quilted detailing with a sleek, low slung contemporary reinterpretation. Available as a corner chaise, this is an up-to-date take on the Chesterfield.
A Chesterfield tub chair is the perfect complementing accent to a larger, statement 3 seater or 4 seater sofa. Although typically smaller than a traditional armchair, a tub or accent chair can also be a standalone piece in it’s own right. Boasting iconic button detailing and antique brass studding, a classical design like Archie would also suit commercial areas, maybe a bar or restaurant. Although it will look just as stylish, in a living room, dining room, hallway or home office.
The Chesterfield sofa is extremely versatile. With so many designs available, you can make a statement in your home, whether it is modern or traditional. Using time-honoured techniques and the finest materials, our extensive selection of classic designs is one of the largest in the Midlands. Our team at Cousins are experts in both craftsmanship and style, and can advise you on what would best suit your preferences and needs. Many of our Chesterfields are in stock and ready for fast delivery.
Be part of the legacy today and enhance your home with an iconic British Chesterfield sofa. Shop our collections here.