The Leather Chesterfield Is More Than a Sofa
The leather chesterfield is more than an ordinary sofa, it's a living link to the past. With its premium leather button tufting, deep button tufting, and rolled arms similar in height to the backrest, this design is timeless.
Leather develops a lovely patina with time and its soft texture makes it comfortable to sit on. Fabric upholstery is also available but leather upholstery is more durable and simple to clean.
Origins
The chesterfield leather suite is a timeless piece of furniture that is now synonymous with elegance and luxury. The design dates back to England in the 1800s, and has since become an integral part of the living room. The leather chesterfield suite features a deep button tufting, roll-up arms, and high-end upholstery. The sofa is an emblem of class and status and is well-liked by homeowners and interior designers.
The origins of the chesterfield leather settee are not entirely clear however it is believed that Philip Dormer Stanhope, the 4th Earl of Chesterfield was the first to commission the Chesterfield settee in the 1700's. The Earl was a well-known writer and diplomat, as well as a statesman and was known as a pioneer in his day. When he presented his Chesterfield sofa to his godson, word got out and the chesterfield suite was very well-known.
It was at this point that the idea of bespoke leather furniture began to take shape. These furniture pieces were upholstered with the finest materials and often customized with intricate designs like buttons and quilting. Chesterfield sofas were originally reserved for the wealthy and elite, but as Britain expanded, they became a standard in homes around the world.
One of the most fascinating stories surrounding the genesis of the Chesterfield suite is the tale of Sigmund Freud and his love for the sofa. The Austrian psychoanalyst was a firm believer in the concept that people are more honest and open when they are comfortable. He would put the statue of Chesterfield in the consulting room of his office to help his clients to unwind and relax.
Chesterfield sofas began to become more popular in the 19th century, as people from all across the globe began to admire and strive towards them. In the 1920s, chesterfields were the symbol of wealth and luxury. It was not unusual to see gentlemen sporting top hats or bowlers reclining on their sofas. Today the Chesterfield is still a classic piece of luxury furniture that is adored by many clients, including those at Fleming & Howland. The company believes that the Chesterfield is a classic piece of furniture, and offers customers custom-designed sofas that are made from the most durable materials.
Styles
The Chesterfield is a tufted leather Chesterfield is more than a sofa; it's an icon, a style chameleon, and a piece of historical significance all in one. The Chesterfield can be used to bring a touch of luxury style to any living space, regardless of whether it's contemporary, traditional, or eclectic. Chesterfields have been popular since its aristocratic beginnings to the present, and are a testament to the timeless design that is never out of fashion.
The story behind the majestic Chesterfield begins in the mid-1700s when Philip Stanhope, the fourth Earl of Chesterfield ordered furniture that would become the ancestor of the famous design. Lord Stanhope, a prominent politician, wished to decorate his home with furniture that were a symbol of wealth and status. The tufted Chesterfield was the perfect piece for him. Chesterfield chairs, originally covered in horsehair and leather were more practical than they were comfortable. In the 19th century, deep-set buttons and suspensions with coiled springs were introduced to increase comfort. Chesterfields started to appear in the luxurious palaces and libraries of the nobility across Europe and North America.
A standard sofa can be any size or style however it is a Chesterfield is a specific kind of sofa distinguished by its quilted or buttoned upholstery, rolled arms, with equal back and arm height. The distinctive appearance makes it an ideal choice for formal settings.
Today, Chesterfields can be crafted in any finish or material and can feature a variety of accents and designs from contemporary to traditional. Some Chesterfields come with short legs or bun feet. Some have contrasting front panels that are incorporated into the arms. Chesterfields are also available in fabrics like velvet, linen and other fabrics to give them a more contemporary appearance.
As the British Empire increased its influence, new styles, values, and customs were introduced along. The Chesterfield was no exception. It quickly became a symbol for the gentlemanly pride of that period. Contrary to other furniture, a hand-crafted Chesterfield will never go out of style, it simply evolves with the times. From contemporary, chic interiors to extravagant traditional spaces, a custom Chesterfield is a piece of furniture that can be enjoyed for a lifetime.
Materials
The materials used in a Chesterfield will have a major impact on the quality. This is particularly true when it comes the upholstery. A substandard material can affect the comfort and durability.
The frame is another aspect that should be examined carefully. Frames that are poorly constructed are less sturdy and more fragile over time. This is typically because of a lack of dowelled joints and an over-sizing of the timber thickness. Cheaper frames may also use chipboard rails and panels that will soon lose their shape.
If you decide to go with leather, ensure that you purchase genuine hide instead of split hide or imitation material. Make sure that the leather is not too soiled or old-fashioned, as this can reduce the life span of your sofa.
A good-quality Chesterfield will use individually hand-tacked studs. This process is more time-consuming however it will ensure that each stud is securely attached to the furniture. Strip studding is commonly used on cheaper sofas with only one stud of only a handful is hammered into the frame. This leaves the studs in between floating on the furniture's surface, which can be vulnerable to wear and tear.
Wool is another popular upholstery material for Chesterfields. This fabric is famous for its capacity to hold colour and can be dyed to suit any interior design scheme. It is extremely robust and is able to naturally repel moisture. This makes it ideal for areas that experience humid or damp weather.
Other fabrics that are suitable for Chesterfields include corduroy and velvet. Velvet is hypoallergenic. This makes it an ideal fabric for people who are sensitive to leather and other traditional materials. Corduroy is a luxurious appearance and feel, which makes it ideal for any living space.
Comfort
The Chesterfield sofa's structured shape can make it uncomfortable to lie on. The Chesterfield style of sofa is characterized by its tufted, upright design, rather than the cushioning for the seat. This can make it difficult to shape your body. However, there are a few ways to increase comfort while sitting on this sought-after sofa.
The frame and suspension system are key to an upholstered chesterfield that is comfortable. Genuine, high-end chesterfields are handmade with sturdy hardwood frames and expertly upholstered with premium upholstery leathers and fabrics. In the past, horsehair was a popular filling for these sofas, helping to create a supportive structure and cushioning for the seat. Today foam fillings are widely used. Internal suspension systems are built to last by making use of quality, robust spring coils and a durable webbed base.
Traditional leather chesterfields have turned wood or bun feet, which help to elevate the sofa a bit off the floor. This adds to the overall look of the sofa, and also provides an important benefit - the ability to vacuum under the sofa without damaging the base or carpeting.
Modern Chesterfields have been a long-time favorite of designers and architects, combining aristocratic history with a modern, slick style. They can be found in everything from noble libraries to chic urban lofts, and are a perfect complement to traditional or contemporary decor.
When selecting a leather, take into account the finish and how it will age. Vintage distressed leather has a soft, waxy texture that naturally develops highlights and character as time passes. Sofas & Couches adds charm and allows it tell its own story.
It is important to match a Chesterfield couch with furniture that has an alternative style, like modern pieces from the mid-century era or a soft carpet. This can help to balance the formality of the sofa and add some interest to a space that makes it more suitable for sitting down on a regular basis. You can also utilize throw pillows to add color and texture, further in balancing the overall style of your room.