The Perfect Sofa for You

There are some classic sofas that, while widely interpreted, are instantly recognizable. One that comes to mind is the Chesterfield. Need I say tufted, leather, rolled arms? This most coveted of sofas has found a place in the modern home. And while now offered in many colors and materials, to land a well-worn chestnut colored leather classic is a true find. And, there are the camelbacks, settees, slippers, and tuxedos to name but a few. But – not quite how it works anymore.

Rather, I would suggest, you look at a sofa as you would a custom tailored suit. Gather your preferred features and you will either find something very close or can have one custom built as many companies offer this service. Let me just say that the sofa is an anchor piece for your living space and great care should be taken in its selection. You will be looking at it for a long time!

1. Dimensions – height, depth, length. 
2. Cushion style – beginning with the back, there is the “tight back (no cushions), the box cushion (cushion has an extension to go over the arm), a knife cushion (no extension over arm), or throw pillow style. In the case of box cushions, which should match the width of the seat cushions, will you have 1, 2, or 3? 
3. Arm style – there are armless sofas, roll arm in several configurations, the more contemporary Track and crossover arm.
4. Tailoring – welted or unwelted cushions and arms.
5. Base options – Skirted, square leg, tapered leg, concealed leg, turned foot base (with or without castor). 
6. Cushion material – foam or feathers
7. Upholstery – leather, fabric… plain, striped, floral, patterned. Maybe a linen slipcover. 

One last thing… Green. To go green with your sofa is to find a timeless style constructed in such a manner to live a long life and be worthy of recovering once worn. Buy quality and reuse. Kiln dried hardwood construction, double doweled joints screwed and glued with corner blocks, and an 8 way hand tied spring system. That’s green!