Modern Leather Sofa

Are you in misconception that sofa and couch is same? Then you are wrong! Some say that sofa is simply an exaggerated version of ‘up-market couch’. These are interchangeable words used by Americans.  Both these words have an interesting background.

Actually these two have an interesting history because the word ‘coucher’ simply means to lie down and this one of the first words that was introduced in English language. Therefore in 14th century English heard about couches but not about sofas. Soon in seventeenth century people got attracted to all Oriental stuff especially among elite Europeans. Then the word sofa came from an Arabic word “suffah” which was a long reclining bench for relaxing. Then it became a status symbol where the rich and famous sat and drank coffee.

   

There is no doubt that sofa has been around for several years. Even ancient Romans and Greeks have dined in sofas, a privilege given to men whereas women sat on chairs. Till sixteenth century modern sofa was not developed when the wooden ones were framed with horsehair, feathers and even with dried moss. The seats and backs were wrapped with rich wool, silk or leather. They were expensive and were prerogative of elite classes. Those days it was meant for reclining then sitting.

But in nineteenth century reclining leather sofa was found in bedrooms where people entertained their guests and relaxed during the day. The industrial revolution dramatically lowered the price of sofas which made the production cheaper. During this time spring coil came into existence so sofas were largely seen in living rooms of houses.

Today the price of sofa is relatively what a middle class can afford and it is more of family item. This is where you love to have polite conversations and a place where kids can loll around. This is where the whole family sits down to watch TV. So in a way it has become a part of our lives therefore it is important to understand the anatomy of sofa.

The first thing to consider is that what kind of berkline furniture you want for your house. It is advisable to shop keeping the price in mind. You might think of going for a white silk sofa which looks stunning and beautiful. But something in leather and ultra suede will go on for years. Yes! the price depends on the type of fabric  you choose.

If you have planned to get your first sofa then why not take the test drive before you buy. Buying sofa is major investment and you will feel frustrated if it is not comfortable enough. Take your own time to choose a best sofa and do not go by looks. You need to understand how you will feel once you relax on it. You also need to consider other aspects like styles, height and depth. Try to sit in different fills to check the firmness of the sofa. Test different fabric before you make the final choice. One important thing that you should is the frame of the sofa which helps to retain its shape.