High Backed Sofa Styles

High Back Styles

• High back upholstered furniture appears in nearly every furniture display as the trend moves away from waist-high pieces and embraces not only new styles but hundreds of variations of traditional styles. The trend can be seen in chairs as well and in the popularity of tall upholstered headboards for beds. Along with an appreciation for taller upholstered furniture, there is a growing interest in softness and comfort, an abundance of pillows and serene color choices.

Wingbacks

• Wingback sofa styles have endured for centuries, but until recently were usually confined to Victorian or traditional interiors. Now, however, the style of a high back that either curves or bends around to meet the angle of the sofa's arms has reappeared in contemporary styles. Some of the wingback sofas, such as those with camel backs and curved wings, are strictly reminiscent of tradition. Newer variations present horizontal backs and angular wings that taper without curves, but all carry with them a suggestion of formality.

Mid-century Modern

• Sofa styles that became popular in the 1950s were characterized by their square shapes, many of which have endured until the 21st century, but some startling innovations are taking place in the relatively simple design of these pieces. Instead of the back rising only to shoulder level, it rises head-high or even higher. The arms of such a sofa may also be higher than normal, but comfort is accommodated with back and arm cushions at conventional heights.

Traditional Combinations

• Casually comfortable furniture may be traditionally styled with high, curving backs that taper gradually into cozy, soft arms. Such styles, in a variety of types of upholstery, would seem to appeal mostly to those who prefer not to sit upright and who enjoy a sense of enclosure. Even more familiar may be the use of oversize cushions in the backs of upholstered pieces. These taller cushions suggest the presence of head support for the television viewer or reader.