Traditional Upholstered Sofas

Types

• There are many types of traditional upholstered sofas. The stately Chesterfield has a tightly tufted back and seat and large rounded arms. The Lawson sofa is a classic style with a skirt, rolled arms and two or three loose cushions on the back and seat. The Colonial camel back has an undulating back, high rolled arms and exposed legs. The tuxedo sofa is sleek and rectilinear with a tight back and arms of the same height.

Upholstery

• Fabrics for traditional upholstered sofas fall into levels or grades, usually labeled with the letters A through D. The highest quality is grade A, and the lowest quality is grade D. Ratings are based on the fabric's durability, quality of materials and source of the design. Famous-maker fabrics are typically grade A, due to the name recognition.

Features

• Traditional sofas can be identified by several characteristics. Many have curved backs and rounded arms, giving them a soft but substantial look. Large or overstuffed cushions are often signs of a traditional style. Throw pillows are typically used to add style or additional color. And pleats, buttons, welting and embellishments such as fringe are other common features.

Legs

• The legs of traditional upholstered sofas are sometimes exposed. One such style is the cabriole leg, which curves and narrows at the bottom into a decorative foot, often a ball-and-claw design. A Chippendale leg is a less ornate, straight leg, often carved with vertical lines. Traditional sofas can also have pleated skirts concealing the legs and creating a tailored look.