English fireplace chairs in combination with various interior styles

For hundreds of years, the majestic and elegant “chair with ears” has been decorating the homes of connoisseurs of comfortable furniture. This item is best known as the English high-back chair. However, it also has other names. In England itself it is called a “wingback chair”: a back with wings or a winged chair. We usually call these protruding elements of the back ears, but the French decided that they look like cheeks. Definitions for the chair such as “fireplace” and “grandfather’s” have also taken root. In Russia for a long time it was called “Voltaire”, because in the era of the great philosopher this furniture became most widespread in Europe. The chair is over three hundred years old, so it is not surprising that it has acquired many names.

Appearance and features

Armchairs with high backs have become widespread in modern interiors. A feature of the Voltaire model is the size of the supporting surface. It often depends on the depth of the seat. You can recognize a traditional English-style chair by the following characteristics:

• low curved wooden legs;
• massive deep seat;
• a narrow high back on which you can rest your head;
• wings (ears, cheeks) on the sides of the back.

Ears can be compact or large, curly or standard rectangular. In some models they resemble the wings of a bat or moth. Today, a stylish fireplace chair comes in various variations: with a quilted or smooth surface, with a rounded or straight back. Armrests can be made of wood or decorated with textile upholstery.

Modern fireplace chairs can be very different from classic models. There are low, straight, rounded products. A variety of options are allowed, but the Voltaire version can always be recognized by the presence of 4 wooden legs and specific armrests.

Bathroom decoration

Traditions require that the decoration of the walls combine natural panels and painted or wallpapered areas. Tile is not entirely appropriate, but if the choice falls on it, then it is better to choose a pattern that imitates classic wallpaper.

The stiffness of the British dictates that decorators make bathroom floors from natural wood. As an alternative, laminate has proven itself well. Another idea is a black and white “chessboard” made from small tiles on the floor.

The plumbing is very aristocratic. The bathtub must certainly stand on large curved legs. Copper or bronze-colored fittings complement the sink, toilet and bidet.

The furniture is made of wood. But, given the humidity of the bathroom, you can replace the material with plastic with a printed pattern.

Decorative little things are also placed in this place. Large frames on mirrors, gold towel hooks and racks, prints, and flower pots are great ways to decorate a room.

Perhaps some will consider the English style in decor to be old-fashioned, but connoisseurs of the classics will like it. Stylish and discreet, it will create home comfort in your apartments.

The fact of a harmonious combination of ancient English traditions and modern trends does not escape the observant person. Agree that if you skillfully combine tradition and modernity in the interior, you can achieve special uniqueness and originality.

Varieties

There are several forms of winged chairs, but the differences between them are minimal. The exception to the rule will be designer models. Traditional varieties include:

1. Bergere. A French variation with a semicircular back, similar in appearance to a shell. The side panels are slightly beveled.
2. Bergere with a curl. The wings in such products are rolled up at the edges. The backrest is slightly shorter than that of traditional chairs, reaching the middle of the shoulder blades of the seated person.
3. Straight back. Classic furniture, made in compliance with the English style. Solid sidewalls with cheeks are located with a minimal bevel and almost at a right angle to the back. The armrests are the narrowest.
4. Provence. The design is no different from previous varieties. The differences include the wide comfort bolsters. The sides are produced independently of the ears.

There are models whose creators used the features of Voltaire’s chairs. Although they have their own unique features, they still remain recognizable:

1. Egg and swan. Based on English products, a couple of pieces of furniture with an interesting interpretation were developed. At the same time, the characteristic features were preserved, and therefore they are easy to recognize.
2. Gaming chairs. Fireplace chairs have gained immense popularity, so the side panels of gaming models have become a continuation of the classic wings. The lateral support expands downwards, turning into a second ear.

It is no coincidence that fireplace chairs are called that. Thanks to the design features, a seated person is completely protected from drafts, and the heat emanating from the fire will be retained. Many writers and artists who worked in the Victorian era invariably depicted idyllic episodes of family life with a burning fireplace and a cozy eared chair.

Bergere Bergere with curl

Straight back

Provence

Egg chair

Classification of chairs by purpose

Chairs are divided into several types depending on the task they perform.

Interior armchairs

There is an incredible variety of chairs available for interior design. The models not only look stylish, but are also great for rest and relaxation. The main criteria by which you should choose interior chairs:

• The appearance of the chair should correspond to the overall design of the room and not deviate from the design concept.
• The soft yet elastic filler is designed to provide a comfortable body position.
• The tactile sensations from the upholstery should be pleasant to you, so choose a chair made of quality materials.

Types of chairs: interior chairs

Office chairs

Office chairs are perfect for a home office, children's room, or creative workshop. The main criteria by which you should choose an office chair:

• Category “for staff”. These chairs have a minimal set of functions and are most often made of inexpensive materials.
• Category “for managers”. The models look very respectable and are made of high-quality fabrics, leather and suede.
• Ergonomic and orthopedic office chairs are designed to provide maximum comfort to the seated person and can even correct posture.
• An office chair must be equipped with a lifting mechanism to adjust the seat height.
• The crosspiece with wheels must be solid and durable, because it makes the office chair stable and at the same time mobile.

Types of chairs: office chairs

Outdoor chairs

There are several types of outdoor chairs that you can use to decorate a balcony, terrace or suburban area:

• Folding chairs are a cost-effective purchase for those who like to have picnics. They are compact, so they do not take up much space when stored.
• Chaise lounge chairs are an ideal model for relaxation. They have an adjustable back and the ability to fold compactly. There are also ergonomic models and models with mattresses on sale.

Types of chairs: outdoor chairs

This is interesting: Wrought iron garden furniture - a variety of choices

Types of legs

The main support of the chairs are the legs, which are also the base of the furniture. Legs have always been given special importance, so each master made them in his own way. The most popular types of bases are:

1. Direct. All 4 legs will be smooth, without bends, with the same height.
2. Curved. They have a double bend and are decorated with carvings. The turned legs are thin; in the lower part you can see a slight thickening, reminiscent of an animal paw. This base gives the product elegance and unique charm.
3. Inclined. Mounted to the body at a slight angle. The legs themselves are teardrop-shaped or even. Compared to straight ones, they will be more massive; in some cases, they are made of chrome-plated steel.
4. Combined. The pair of hind legs are straight, the front legs are curved. An English fireplace chair with such a base looks unusual, but looks most impressive from the side.
5. Globular. Only used on bergeres. The elements are short and even, ending in a small hemisphere.
6. Stand. The basis is relevant for designer products (egg and some other models). The chair has only one leg, which ends in a semicircular base, located in the center.
7. Cross. Suitable for gaming chairs only. As in the previous case, there will be only one leg. The design rests on a five-pointed cross with several movable wheels.

Each Voltaire chair has legs. Modern models are equipped with casters for convenient movement.

Frame

Let's call this stage the chair frame.

Of course, almost the entire skeleton will be covered with foam rubber and fabric. Only part of the legs will remain visible.

The back legs are the most important parts of a wooden chair because you need to make them at some angle.

Without thinking for a long time, to make the back part of the chair structure, we took an ordinary dining chair that was available, although it did not have a seat. But he was well suited for the role of template. You can take some old grandma's chair.

Markings were made on a 50x150 board.

Be sure to mark the level of the seat of the chair, make it the same as for the chair. In this case it was approximately 410 mm from the floor.

Use a jigsaw to cut out the legs of a homemade fireplace chair.

Then we used the finished part as a template to make three more legs, because we are making two chairs at once with our own hands from scrap materials.

Manufacturing materials

When choosing a suitable fireplace chair with ears, you need to pay attention to the materials from which the body and outer covering are made. The lifespan of the furniture depends on these factors. The most common materials are:

1. Tree. Used for the production of frames for classic products. These chairs have an attractive appearance. Sometimes individual parts of the structure are created from wood.
2. Plywood. One of the most common materials. Possesses strength and durability. The basis of plywood is often birch.
3. Chipboard. Economical option. To add aesthetic appeal, external elements are covered with laminate.
4. Fiberboard. Separate parts of the back or body are made from this material.
5. Metal. An expensive option, it is used less often than all those listed above.

Elite fireplace chairs are made of teak and oak. Modern manufacturers offer more economical models that are not inferior in quality to valuable wood species.

A variety of fabrics are used to create upholstery. It is important that they are strong and not stretchable. In terms of performance properties they are excellent:

1. Flock. Not too expensive material with a soft fleecy surface. Among the disadvantages are low strength indicators.
2. Velours. Also a fleecy fabric, which will cost more than flock. Lasts longer due to better strength.
3. Jacquard. Reliable material with a dense structure and original appearance.
4. Chenille. The characteristics are close to jacquard, but softer and pleasant to the touch.
5. Tapestry. Reliable material, can have different density indicators.
6. Split. It is a type of genuine leather. It lasts a long time, does not deform, and is immune to minor mechanical stress.
7. Full grain leather. Soft surface with attractive appearance. Suitable for long-term use.
8. Net. Elastic material with a delicate texture. It is not used too often, because due to its low strength it does not last long.
9. Laika. Thin leather has an original appearance and a short period of use.

Each type of upholstery material requires special care, so when choosing, you need to think through all the nuances in advance. If the furniture will be in the kitchen or hallway, it is better to choose leather covering; it does not require complex care and is easily cleaned of dirt. Armchairs for the bedroom are upholstered in soft natural fabrics.

Soft flock

Soft husky

Natural velor Luxurious jacquard

Durable tapestry Beautiful chenille With fragments of full-grain leather

Fragile mesh Cozy split

Bedroom - bedroom

We move to the bedroom. This room is intended for more private purposes and does not include visiting guests. Only if guests are planning to stay overnight.

Bonus: list of bed types:

• Cot/crib – baby cot
• Cradle - cradle
• Travel cot – “travel” crib
• Divan - sofa
• Futon – futon (Japanese sleeping mattress)
• Four—posterbed – four-poster bed
• Bunk beds – bunk beds
• Single bed – single bed
• Sofa bed – sofa bed
• Hammock - hammock
• Camp bed (cot) / sleeping bag – light camp bed / sleeping bag
• Airbed/ air mattress – air bed/mattress

Dimensions

People who want to get unique furniture make fireplace chairs with their own hands. For this it is important to know the exact dimensions. The total width is usually no more than 60 cm, depth - up to 90 cm.

The standard height from the floor reaches 50 cm. Taking into account the backrest, this figure increases to 1.2 m. Bergere models are lower, the height with the backrest rarely exceeds 70 cm. The seat height will also be lower, about 40 cm.

Comfortable fireplace chairs are a popular piece of furniture. Thanks to their comfort and attractive appearance, such products will not lose their relevance for a long time. To meet modern requirements, models can be modified and improved. Creating an elegant chair with ears takes place in several stages:

1. The frame is made of beams. To simplify the process, you can use the design of an old chair. To give the desired shape, the body is supplemented with the necessary elements.
2. The ears are created from small strips that are connected to each other. Using an electric jigsaw, their shape is adjusted.
3. Foam rubber is fixed to the seat and back with construction glue. The upholstery material is secured on top with a stapler.

Excess pieces of textile are cut off with scissors. To decorate the backrest, a large piece of fabric is used, which is folded over the backrest and attached under the seat.

If a fireplace chair with ears is made by hand, difficulties often arise in creating an elegant base. The legs are given curved shapes to give an aesthetic effect, but it is important that the furniture can withstand sufficient loads.

Frame without ears

Ears made from planks

Frame made of beams and plywood

Foam rubber on the ears and armrests Fixing the foam rubber on the seat

Fabric upholstery

The finished result

The history of the appearance of a chair with ears

Two countries, England and France, are credited with creating this model. As often happens with furniture, similar ideas were born approximately simultaneously in different parts of the Old World. Now it is difficult to establish who first came up with the “eared” model of the chair. Louis XV celebrated his reign with the appearance of a large number of varieties of seats. Among them, special attention should be paid to the model called bergere. The armrests and back were a semicircular single structure without joints of parts. In appearance it is very reminiscent of a traditional English chair. A little later, they began to make the back straight, and also added those famous ears or wings (another name). In the English version it is very difficult to establish the specific period of the origin and spread of the English chair with ears. Presumably this is the heyday of colonial England. But the chair became widespread so quickly, thanks to its good protection from drafts, that now every Englishman will tell you that there have always been “eared” models. To this day, it is rare that a home can do without this option.

Decor

When creating an unusual room interior, decorative furniture elements are important. Voltaire's chairs don't have so many of them:

1. Carriage tie. This design looks luxurious and expensive. Initially, the method was used to uniformly distribute the filler. To apply this decorative effect, you will need a thick fabric without patterns. Suitable leather, satin, high quality leatherette. Only dense material will not tear when tightened. On a canvas with drawings, the carriage tie will be almost invisible.
2. Carved frame. It is fixed at the bottom of the product or frames the back. The carving looks harmonious in tandem with the elegant shape of the English chair. When decorating, it is important to adhere to the measure; the width of the decor should not exceed 8 cm.
3. Bent turned and carved legs. Great idea for decorating furniture. Curves may be present on all 4 legs or only on the two front legs, while the back legs remain straight.
4. Decorative rollers. The upholstery of the products can have folds and be complemented with interesting overlays with silk tassels.

The carriage screed appeared in the middle of the 19th century. This method was originally used to decorate the interior surfaces of royal carriages, hence the name. Since then, such decor has been associated with high status, luxury and wealth.

Application in the interior

Despite the features and aristocracy of the English chair, it is successfully used to create interiors of a wide variety of styles. We list the directions in which the furniture will look most organic:

1. Classic. An elegant fireplace chair will highlight all the advantages of a classic design and bring a solemn, luxurious atmosphere to palace halls.
2. Art Deco. The style, which emerged at the beginning of the last century, combines the features of expensive apartments and technological progress. Leather furniture with modern shapes will come in handy. The variety of upholstery materials and color combinations opens up enormous opportunities for implementing bold solutions.
3. Provence. The elegant simplicity of the French province with aged objects, sheer curtains and lavender shades is organically complemented by a Voltaire armchair upholstered in light fabric.
4. Retro or vintage. No matter what the fireplace chair with ears looks like, it will fit harmoniously into black and white vintage interiors. The furniture will look no less organic against the backdrop of rural retro notes. The colors are selected in accordance with the overall design of the room.
5. Shabby chic. Models with mesh upholstery will fit into an atmosphere of feminine patterns, calm tones and cracked surfaces.
6. Boho. The direction gravitates towards rich colors, oriental motifs, energy and a bohemian atmosphere. To highlight the features of your style, just choose a chair that matches the color. So, a bright red model will become one of the main accents in the room.

Comfortable fireplace chairs are an indispensable attribute of a cozy living room or relaxation room. It is convenient to do handicrafts, read books or simply relax in them, enjoying the peace. Today, furniture is installed in home libraries, hallways, and offices. To add variety to your usual relaxation routine, you can complement the chair with a suitable footrest.

Classic

Art Deco Provence

Retro

Shabby chic boho

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