The Leather Chesterfield Is More Than a Sofa
The Chesterfield leather sofa is more than just a sofa. It's a living connection to the past. With its premium leather with deep button tufting and rolled arms that are similar in height to the backrest, this model is timeless.
Leather develops a beautiful patina over time, and its smooth texture is comfortable to sit on. Fabric upholstery is available, but leather upholstery is more durable and easy to clean.
Origins
The leather chesterfield is a timeless piece of furniture that has become synonymous with elegance and luxury. The design has a rich history that has been around since the 1800's in England and has become an iconic feature of many living rooms. The leather chesterfield features deep-buttoned tufting, rolled armrests, and a premium leather. The sofa is an emblem of elegance and class, and continues to be popular with homeowners and interior designers.
The origins of the Chesterfield settee made of leather are not entirely clear but it is believed that Philip Dormer Stanhope, the 4th Earl of Chesterfield ordered the first Chesterfield sofa in the late 1700's. The Earl was a well-known writer, diplomat and statesman and was a pioneer in his day. When he presented his Chesterfield sofa to his godson, the word spread and the chesterfield suite became very well-known.
At the same time, the concept of bespoke furniture made of leather began to appear. These furniture pieces were upholstered with the finest materials and were often customized with intricate designs, such as buttons and quilting. Chesterfield sofas were originally reserved for the rich and elite However, as Britain increased its population, 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 adoration for the sofa. The Austrian psychoanalyst believed that people are more honest and open when they feel comfortable. He would employ a Chesterfield in his consulting room to inspire his patients to relax and unburden themselves.
Chesterfield sofas became increasingly popular in the 19th century when people from all across the globe began to admire and aspirate towards them. By the 1920's, it was considered a symbol of wealth and luxury and it was common to see gentlemen wearing top hats and bowlers lounging on their chesterfield sofas. Today the Chesterfield is 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 timeless piece of furniture, and offers customers custom-designed sofas made of the highest quality materials.
Styles
The leather tufted Chesterfield is more than just a sofa; it's an icon and a style chameleon and a piece from history all in one. The Chesterfield can be used to add a touch of upscale style to any living space, whether it's modern, traditional or eclectic. Chesterfields have remained popular since its aristocratic beginnings to the present day, and they are a proof of true design that never goes out of fashion.
The story of the elegant Chesterfield began in the mid-17th century when Philip Stanhope - the fourth Earl of Chesterfield was given a commission to design furniture that would later be the ancestor to the famous design. Lord Stanhope, a prominent politician, wanted to embellish his home with pieces which represented wealth and prestige. The tufted Chesterfield was the perfect piece for his needs. It was originally upholstered with horsehair and with robust leather buttons, the original Chesterfield chairs were more practical than comfortable. By the 19th century deep-set buttons and suspensions with coiled springs were introduced to improve comfort. Chesterfields started to appear in the posh parlors and libraries of the nobles across Europe and North America.
A regular sofa can come in any size or shape, but it is a Chesterfield is a specific kind of sofa characterized by its buttoned or quilted upholstery, rolled arms, and a similar back and arm height. This unique design makes it an ideal option for formal spaces.
Today, Chesterfields can be crafted in any finish or material and can feature a variety of styles and accents from classic to contemporary. Some Chesterfields have bun feet or short legs. Some also have contrast front panels in the arms. Chesterfields can also be upholstered in linen, velvet, or other fabrics for an updated appearance.
As the British Empire expanded new styles, values, and traditions were brought with it. The Chesterfield was not an exception, and quickly became an emblem of the period's sense of dignity and pride. A handcrafted Chesterfield is timeless, in contrast to most furniture. It evolves with time. A custom Chesterfield can be used in many different interiors, ranging from sleek modern spaces to extravagant, traditional ones.
Materials
When evaluating a Chesterfield the material employed will have a significant impact on the quality. This is particularly true when it comes the upholstery. A substandard material can cause discomfort and decrease the durability.
Another area that needs to be carefully examined is the frame. Frames that are poorly constructed are less robust and will be affected by a decline in stability as time passes. This is due to a lack of dowelled joints and a decrease in thickness of timber. Cheaper frames may also use rails and chipboard panels, which will quickly lose their shape.
If you decide to go with leather, look out for genuine hide, not split hide or imitation materials. Make sure that the leather is not overly treated or dated since this can affect the life span of your sofa.
A top-quality Chesterfield will have studs that are individually hand-tacked. This is a longer process, but it will ensure that each stud is securely attached to the furniture and will not become detached over time. Cheaper sofas will often use strip studding, in which only one in a few studded studs is put into the frame. This leaves the studs in between 'floating' on the furniture's surface, which could be susceptible to wear and wear and tear.
Another common upholstery option for Chesterfields is wool. This material is known for its ability to hold color and is dyeable in any colour scheme. It's also extremely robust and has a natural ability to resist moisture. This makes it ideal for areas with humid or damp weather.
Velvet and corduroy are suitable fabrics for Chesterfields. Velvet has the added benefit of being a non-allergenic fabric which makes it ideal for those who are sensitive to traditional materials such as leather. Corduroy is a luxurious appearance and feel, making it the perfect choice for any living area.
Comfort
While the Chesterfield sofa might appear elegant and elegant, its sculpted shape can make it uncomfortable to sit 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 contour to your body. There are ways to maximize your comfort while relaxing on this sofa.
The key to a comfortable chesterfield is in the design of the frame and suspension system. Authentic, high quality chesterfields feature a solid wood frame that is made to last, and are expertly covered with premium leathers and upholstery fabrics. The past was when horsehair was a common filling for these sofas, assisting to create a supportive structure and cushioning for the seat. Foam fillings are still used. Internal suspension systems are made to last by using high-quality springs that are strong and durable and a sturdy webbed base.
best chesterfield sofas turned wood or bun-footed feet that help lift the sofa off the floor. This adds to the overall elegant look of the sofa, while providing an important benefit - the ability to clean underneath the sofa without causing damage to the base or carpeting.
Designers have adored modern Chesterfields for a long time, since they blend aristocratic heritage with a modern, slick style. They are found in everything from chic libraries to chic lofts, and are the perfect complement to both traditional and contemporary decor.
When choosing a type of leather, consider the finish and how it will age. Vintage hand-distressed leather is a soft, waxy feel that naturally develops highlights and character with time. This adds to its appeal and allows it tell its own story.
It's important to pair a Chesterfield sofa with furniture with distinct style, such as modern pieces from the mid-century era or a luxurious carpet. This can help balance out the formality of a sofa and provide some interest to the space which makes it more comfortable for everyday use. You can also make use of throw pillows to add color and texture, further in balancing the overall style of your living space.