Descriptions of Sofas

Camelback

• A more formal style, the traditional camelback, or Chippendale sofa was originally designed by Thomas Chippendale in the 18th century. Featuring a gently curving, serpentine back and high rolled arms, this sofa is known for its tight, tufted back rather than loose cushions. The legs and stretchers are often exposed, though a tailored skirt is sometimes added to disguise the framework.

Chesterfield

• The Chesterfield sofa has a formal style with its high back and arms at one continuous level. This sofa is often found in English libraries or men's clubs with rich tufted leather-back seat and arms. The back and arms roll dramatically outward, and the short legs are typically exposed turned wood.

Bridgewater

• A more casual style, the Bridgewater sofa has a slightly angled or rolled back and loose seat cushions. The low-profile arms are set back from the front of the seat to give it an elegant profile. Most Bridgewater sofas have a tailored skirt, hiding the upholstered base.

Lawson

• Lawson sofas have a squared shape with a straight back and arms. The back is often high and may have loose or attached tailored cushions. The straight arms are low and can be set back from the front edge. The seat is typically made with removable T-shaped cushions that can be flipped over to hide wear and stains.

Tuxedo

• The tuxedo sofa has a modern style with a very straight, high back and arms at one level. Though some perceive this style to be uncomfortable, it can easily be softened with a round bolster pillow set at each side to rest an arm on. If you are looking for a streamlined style, this sofa may be what you are looking for.

Mid-Century Modern

• Mid-century modern sofas have straight lines and a streamlined form. The arms are low and reach to the front of the seat edge. The back and seat may be either fixed or removable cushions that are clean and straight rather than loose and fluffed. The exposed legs are low and either round or square with a very contemporary style.

English

• The English or Club sofa has a refined, casual style with slightly rounded back and arms and tight back rather than loose cushions. The low arms are set back from the front of the seat, which is often made up of a tight seat, but sometimes removable cushions are substituted. There is no skirt, exposing the low, turned legs on casters.

Cabriole

• A classic 18th-century sofa, the cabriole sofa was designed by King Louis XV. Its formal style features wood trim along the top of the back and arms and carved, wooden legs. The arms have a down-swept curve toward the front of the seat. Some cabriole sofas built today are given a contemporary flair to make them look more up to date.

Sectional

• A versatile sofa style is the sectional, which features lots of seating in modular components. Depending on the configuration, there may be armless, end, corner and chaise sections. Some have a built-in recliner or fold-out bed. They can be streamlined or have rolled arms and are offered in a range of styles to fit the decor of many rooms.