The history of the Chesterfield sofa has been compared in its inherent complexity to the development of the aristocracy or elite of English society. According to most primary sources, this model of sofa first appeared with the fourth Earl of Chesterfield, Philip Stanhope, a famous diplomat and writer. The elegance and subtle taste of his work made it possible to name a famous sofa model in honor of the count.
A little history of Chester...
Historical evidence indicates that Chesterfield sofas adorned government buildings and served as a fixture in many luxury homes for generations. An aristocrat's room at the beginning of the 19th century simply could not have a complete look without such a sofa. Serious men in hats leaned back on the leather sofa and indulged in political discussions, while elegant ladies held tea parties on it. Exquisite design and comfort are the true definition of Chesterfield sofas.
Classic Chesterfield design
The upholstery made of high-quality leather with diamond-shaped stitches made the sofa a constant choice of aristocrats and wealthy people. This screed was called a “carriage” screed and was used to distribute the filler as evenly as possible (in the original version, natural horsehair was used for this). In turn, the stitches were covered with medium-sized decorative buttons.
Armrest and back dimensions
The same height of these elements makes the Chesterfield sofa the most ergonomic and comfortable model for people of different heights and body compositions, and provides high-quality support for the back muscles.
Armrests in the form of scrolls
The original design of the armrests in the form of scrolls makes it possible not to place this sofa close to the wall; it can be freely placed in an island style. Both from the back and from the front this model looks equally impressive and presentable.
Modern motives
- Color – Chesterfield sofas were originally available in earth and clay tones. Gradually, the color range expanded and was replenished with new tones, as well as original combinations of several colors.
- The material of the classic sofa of this model is genuine leather. In modern versions, the Chesterfield style can also be found in fabric upholstery of varying textures and degrees of softness.
- The shape of the armrests - ambitious designers can change this characteristic element of the model. Armrests in some modern styles often have a more rounded appearance or look deliberately “plump”.
- The classic quilted base can be replaced with smooth, removable cushions that add practicality and functionality.
The Chesterfield sofa will become a real decoration for a spacious living room, business office or library in a classic style. It looks appropriate in any interior and is good in combination with natural wood, metal and fur elements.
This model is a profitable purchase for all owners of good taste, since such a sofa does not lose its sophistication and respectability over time.
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THIS IS INTERESTING:
I know you, Chesterfield
The Chesterfield sofa, leather or textile upholstery, has a number of characteristic features that set it apart from others, namely:
- Diamond stitch. In those days when such sofas first appeared, it had not so much a decorative as a functional task. Since the filling of the sofas was horsehair, it was precisely due to the stitching that it was evenly distributed. This stitch is also called carriage stitch. Although fillers are now more modern and do not require such functionality, this characteristic feature remains.
In the classic models of Chesterfield sofas, which can still be found in interiors, stitching is used throughout the entire area, including on the seat. Modern models are equipped with soft, removable pillows.
Upholstered furniture in a desaturated blue color with a classic sofa is suitable for a traditional living room
Beautiful leather Chesterfield sofa with metal rivets
Bright loft-style living room with brown leather Chesterfield sofa
- The armrests are the same height as the backrest. This makes the model very comfortable for people of any height.
- The shape of the armrest is a tightly rolled scroll. It is characteristic and somewhat reminiscent of elements of antique columns.
- The legs are either barely noticeable or completely invisible.
A small blue sofa on small legs in a gray interior
Bright yellow Chesterfield sofa in a fusion style living room
Today you can buy a Chesterfield sofa not only with leather upholstery, but also in other designs - velvet, brocade, velor and others.
How to make a carriage tie for a Chester sofa?
The upholstery is responsible for the comfort and appearance of the sofa. The traditional material used to stuff this sofa is horsehair. Not everyone will be able to tie a sofa the first time, so it’s best to practice on a small piece of plywood. In order to practice correctly laying upholstery, tightening the thread securely and firmly securing the button. After training, you can move to the sofa.
Typically, only the inside of the sofa is covered by the carriage tie. To do this, a separate blank is cut to size, which will be applied to the base of the sofa and secured.
You will need the following materials and tools:
- It is necessary to make a piece of plywood according to the size of the back;
- Polyethylene foam, foam rubber;
- Sintepon;
- Leather;
- Decorative laces;
- Buttons or rivets;
- Special glue for rubber;
- Large and long needle;
- Stapler;
- Jigsaw;
- Drill;
- Tsifenbor drill attachment;
- Marker;
- Hammer;
- Cardboard;
- Scissors.
Step by step process of skin tightening:
- We glue the appropriate size foam rubber or polyethylene foam onto the pre-cut backrest blank.
- Cut a diamond of the desired size from cardboard.
- Using a cardboard diamond, we mark the future pattern of the screed with a marker and outline the location of the buttons.
- Small holes are made at future button locations.
- The padding polyester material is glued to the workpiece on the foam side.
- Holes on the padding polyester, holes are also made in place of the buttons.
- Then the leather is stretched over the workpiece so that there are no folds.
- Next, appropriate holes are made in all layers.
- The next step is to sew on the buttons.
- On the reverse side, all the cords are well stretched and secured with a stapler.
- The sheathed blank is attached to the back of the sofa.
Instead of buttons, you can use special rivets or rhinestones. It is worth considering that a large amount of materials under the skin will create a larger volume of screed.
Advice from experienced craftsmen
- Making a Chester sofa will take several days, so for this it is better to choose a separate room where the workpieces will not interfere.
- To save money, you can use the frame of an old sofa if it is in good condition.
- For durable and high-quality operation, it is better to use genuine leather.
- The carriage screed can be used not only for the back of the sofa, but also for other structural elements.
Classic and modern models
Although there is a strong belief that leather is the classic type of upholstery, this is far from the case. In those days when Chesterfield appeared, it was very difficult to tan leather. Velvet upholstery was most often used.
But leather sofas with all the characteristic features of Chesterfield are still very popular. The most common colors are earth tones. In particular, black, clay, brick, terracotta.
If we talk about new trends, designers offer textile upholstery in bright, rich colors. You can often see printed options, for example, with the British flag all over the upholstery.
English style office with classic leather sofa
Classic black Chesterfield leather sofas in a black and white living room
Classic Chesterfield sofa model in a small beige living room
In 2008, craftsmen from Holland presented the world with an inflatable Chesterfield, and it met all the main criteria - stitching, an armrest flush with the back, no legs. You can easily take this with you to a picnic or barbecue. The manufacturer's assortment includes two- and three-seater sofas and armchairs.
Another modern trend is the Chesterfield corner sofa. It looks quite original and at the same time has high functionality, as it accommodates many guests.
Stylish modern interior with large gray Chesterfield sofa
Spacious living room interior of a private house with a gray Chesterfield sofa in a modern design
Trends of the times
The first changes that the Chesterfield design underwent were not drastic. It was uncomfortable to sit on the carriage screed, so smooth and comfortable pillows soon appeared.
Next came the turn of the back, armrests and legs - modern models do not always have the same height. The legs are much higher than the usual model. The “depth” of the sofa’s seating has increased, and for the same reason, original shaped armrests appeared. The characteristic “scroll” is barely visible in them. The Chesterfield folding sofa is also a novelty, but there are others like that.
Chesterfield-type chair models have become popular. They are like smaller copies of their “big brother”.
Light Chesterfield sofa in the living room with fireplace
Fusion style in the design of the living room with a luxurious purple Chesterfield sofa
Stylish modern interior with black parquet and black leather sofa
Large corner Chesterfield sofa in a loft style interior
Reasons for popularity
The main feature of Chester sofas is their refined, elegant design. Soft quilted upholstery made of genuine leather looks perfect in the luxurious interior of a living room, office or hall. The popularity of the models is due to numerous advantages:
- attractive stylish appearance from any angle;
- harmonious combination with different interior styles;
- high quality construction, filling, upholstery;
- long service life of the sofa;
- relevance at all times.
Rounded backs and handles have long become traditional elements that provide ease of use. Many modern designers create unusual interior items, inspired by Chesterfield sofas.
Types and brands of foam rubber for sofas, main characteristics
You can fully appreciate all the advantages of furniture only if you purchase a high-quality original model. Although, even in this case, some users note a number of shortcomings of the sofa: the sleeping place does not have a high level of comfort, and the wide armrests will not be comfortable for everyone.
Original models are expensive, so they are available only to a narrow circle of consumers.
Materials of manufacture and dimensions
For the manufacture of the Chesterfield sofa, only selected quality materials are used, which are characterized by strength, durability, and environmental friendliness. It is interesting that each company has its own set of raw materials for the production of luxury furniture. The stability, comfort, and service life of the product depend on the reliability and strength of the frame. Expensive high-quality wood is used to make the frame, armrests, and legs. Oak is best suited for these purposes - a strong, durable material. A sofa made of wood will last a long time, maintaining its original shape.
The beautiful appearance of the product depends on the upholstery. Various modern materials are used for it, but the traditional furniture option is the Chester leather sofa. It looks great in any interior and decorates various settings. The advantages of expensive genuine leather are:
- high tensile strength;
- long service life;
- moisture resistance;
- ease of care.
The disadvantages include:
- flammability;
- low resistance to mechanical damage;
- minimum flowers.
Equally popular for upholstery is eco-leather, which has almost no inferior properties to natural material. It has a number of advantages:
- resistance to moisture;
- wide choice of colors;
- softness and elasticity;
- environmental cleanliness;
- wear resistance;
- ease of care.
The disadvantages are:
- susceptibility to mechanical damage;
- adhesion to human skin;
- flammability.
Fabric velor is another covering option. The material consists of various components: cotton, polyester, viscose. The advantages are:
- good air permeability;
- stretch resistance;
- softness and velvety surface.
The disadvantages include:
- difficult stain removal;
- fragility, as the fabric wears out quickly;
- gentle cleansing.
Natural horsehair or modern synthetic materials are used as filler for the production of Chesterfield sofas. The first is taken from the mane and tail of the animal. Horsehair has a number of undeniable advantages:
- excellent air permeability;
- durable;
- absorbs moisture well;
- hard.
Thanks to the hardness and rigidity of horsehair, the sofa perfectly holds the human body and also follows the contours of the body.
The cheapest models use synthetic materials, mainly polyurethane, as padding. Such filler must be of high density. Then the product will not deform and collapse over time.
Genuine leather Eco leather Velor
Modern Chester sofas vary in size. Two- and three-seat spacious designs are popular. The Chesterfield folding sofa can have any roll-out mechanism, easily turning it into a sleeping bed. Sofa models are produced in volume for spacious rooms, where they can be placed in the center, which is perfect for the living room. There are small sofas for rooms with small dimensions. Single products can be placed in the kitchen or office.
Double Triple For spacious rooms
Single for small rooms
Manufacturer's choice
Many furniture factories, Russian and foreign, specialize in the production of Chester sofas. The most popular among Russians are:
- "March 8". The company has been operating since 1996. Offers two variations of furniture: straight and corner sofas. Respectable models with leather covering are ideal for the office, and with multi-colored fabric upholstery - for residential premises.
- "Angstrom". The Voronezh factory has been operating since 1991. Sofas come in various configurations and sizes. The colors of upholstery materials are varied, which allows them to be used for any style. Among the advantages of the product: durability, preservation of the original shape, practicality.
- "Horeca". The company's branches are located throughout Russia. Furniture is available in different variations, sizes, and colors. The range includes products for home and office.
When choosing a specific brand, you need to contact only branded stores, which will protect you from purchasing low-quality goods.
Chesterfield sofas are timeless classics; the furniture is distinguished by its practicality and stylish design. Thanks to the variety of configurations, colors, and sizes, you can always choose the right option for any room. The sofas are presentable and comfortable; modern models can be supplemented with a transformation mechanism and are in perfect harmony with most styles.
"SHERLOCK MINI"
Leather folding sofa in a minimalist style with narrow armrests. High footboard with bolster, cushions and armrests highlighted with piping, decorative stitching on sofa elements. Equipped with a transformation mechanism entirely on a welded mesh with a spring orthopedic mattress. Frame made of solid wood and plywood, beech supports.
In the photo there is a folding sofa “SHERLOCK MINI” Upholstery: natural. Italian leather CIGAR TERRADimensions (LxDxH), cm: 175x100x78 Sleeping place (WxL), cm: 140x195
Sleeping place (WxD), cm | Dimensions (LxDxH), cm | CIGAR | LOFTTOSC | CLUB |
Armchair | 80x92x78 | 110000 | 115000 | 120000 |
100x195 | 140x92x78 | 180000 | 190000 | 200000 |
120x195 | 160x92x78 | 190000 | 200000 | 210000 |
140x195 | 180x92x78 | 200000 | 210000 | 220000 |
It is possible to produce a non-folding version.
Design features, varieties
The design of the Chester sofa differs from other models due to the same level of the back and sides. Combined with carriage upholstery and curved armrests and backrests, the piece looks prestigious and expensive. It is impossible to confuse the Chester with any other model. The filling is dense, and the classic upholstery is dark, thick leather. The original frame was made from solid wood. This is evidenced by the beautiful, thick wooden legs.
Modern furniture manufacturers have come up with many types of chaster sofas. Now in the interior it not only emphasizes the prestige and status of the owner. But it also acquired wider functionality, thanks to various variations of execution.
Straight classic chester
The first English sofas were intended for business negotiations. That's why they looked stiff and rude. At the same time, they fully complied with what was required of them. Straight models were small and designed to seat 2-3 people. It was impossible to sleep on them comfortably, as they did not fold out.
Sofa bed
A common option today among upholstered furniture for the living room. They are found in both straight, 2- to 4-seater models, and angular ones. For a comfortable sleep on models with seat upholstery, you must purchase an additional thin mattress topper. With it, relaxing on a sofa with similar upholstery will become much more comfortable.
But the designs of modern models can have a complex mechanism, thanks to which a folding Chester sofa turns into a full-fledged comfortable bed.
Round model
Round or semicircular models are a non-standard solution not only for Chester sofas. But it is the Chesterfield that looks original and even more prestigious in spacious open rooms. In the living room, two round sofas placed opposite each other will create a space for comfortable communication.
Corner sofa chester
Corner furniture is more functional, which is why Chester corner sofas are no less valuable. With their help it is easy to achieve maximum comfort, in addition, it has niches for storing things. But it is worth remembering that the Chester sofa does not harmonize with minimalism in any way - it is always large in size and fits into the interior of spacious rooms.
Chester double sofa
The Chester double sofa is a miniature model of upholstered furniture, and its dimensions are significantly smaller than a standard sofa. In the interior of the living room it will not look particularly harmonious, but it will fit perfectly into the design of the kitchen, hallway, and office. With small dimensions, such a headset can be very convenient and functional. With the help of roll-out mechanisms, it can easily be transformed into a full-fledged double bed. Models that do not have a folding function can be equipped with drawers under the seat in which you can store a variety of things.
Chester three-seater sofa
Furniture such as Chester sofas looks beautiful in classic interior styles, especially when it comes to a full-fledged, comfortable set of large sizes. This is a three-seater sofa, on which it is convenient not only to sit with a cup of coffee or read your favorite book, but also to lie down. A three-seater Chester sofa is an ideal option for decorating a living room.
Chester sofa with ottoman
First, let's talk about what an ottoman is. In fact, this is a pouf, made in the same design as a sofa or soft corner. An ottoman for a Chester sofa is a soft, low ottoman, the top of which is finished in the same way as the back of the sofa, the upholstery and legs are exactly the same as in the main set. More often you can see corner models of a set with an ottoman in stores, but it’s worth knowing that a straight Chester sofa in the interior with a pouf included will look very stylish, functional, and will bring even more comfort to your everyday life and relaxation.
What is the advantage of such a solution?
- Even more comfort. When relaxing on the sofa, it is very comfortable to put your feet on a soft ottoman.
- Practicality. The ottoman can also be used as a seating area. Often the pouf that comes with a Chester sofa is of impressive size.
- Functionality. There is free space under the pouffe seat that can be used to store books and magazines.
Chesterfield sofa: modern interpretations
The seat of a classic Chesterfield was the base of the sofa, usually tufted. Later versions began to be supplemented with smooth cushion seats.
Classic Chesterfield
Later version
The height of the armrests has also ceased to be constant: in modern Chester cars they may not correspond to the height of the backrest. And the legs are taller than before.
In new models, the armrests and backrest can be given original shapes. Of course, this is not the same Chester, but the carriage screed and scroll armrests allow us to at least conditionally classify these innovative examples as belonging to the glorious Chesterfield family.
You can also find corner sofa models on sale, which is also an extremely modern solution.
The Chester sofa over time transformed into an armchair of a similar shape, which became no less popular.
What types of upholstery materials are there?
Since ancient times, the Chesterfield sofa was made only from genuine leather. It was supposed to emphasize the elegance of the English style and look luxurious; leather upholstery only enhanced this effect.
Pictured is a corner Chesterfield in velvet
In modern variations, craftsmen use much more materials, so finding one that suits your taste and budget is not difficult.
- Leather. Natural or artificial, often used to create replicas of antique models. But before buying, weigh the pros and cons: natural material will last for many years, but sitting on it is not always comfortable. Artificial, even the highest quality, will begin to crumble and crack after 5-7 years, ruining the appearance of the sofa.
- Suede leather. If the surface of the leather seems unpleasant to you, there is an analogue that is no less refined and durable. Natural or artificial suede perfectly emphasizes the shape of the Chesterfield and looks sophisticated in light colors.
- Velvet. Want to make an accent? Place a velvet Chester sofa in your interior. The fabric is “bright” in itself, so even in a dark color it will stand out against the background of the decoration. The pile looks noble, giving upholstered furniture a touch of luxury.
- Velours. The fibers resemble velvet, but are considered more practical. In dark and rich shades it looks rich. Goes well with Capitonne.
What you should not sheathe a Chesterfield with is matting. The texture of the fabric is similar to burlap and instead of a luxurious piece of furniture you will get maximum “rural chic”. Although in a loft or boho style such a technique would be appropriate.
Chester sofa: choosing upholstery
Types of covers for IKEA sofas, their features and advantages
Chester sofas produced in England are considered luxury furniture. Therefore, for their production only environmentally friendly, durable and reliable materials of high quality are used: a frame made of solid wood, filling made of real horsehair, and upholstery - genuine leather. It is she who is responsible for the appearance of the sofa, making it elegant, sophisticated and practical.
However, new modern technologies have come into the production of Chester leather furniture sets. In the design of the sofa, they increasingly began to use a transformation mechanism, and small legs were replaced with practical wheels. Natural filling has been replaced by synthetic materials, and instead of classic natural leather upholstery, eco-leather, velor or regular upholstery fabric are now used.
Genuine Leather
Since ancient times, Chester sofas and armchairs have been upholstered in genuine leather. Classic leather models look impressive, elegant and respectable. However, this magnificent furniture has its drawbacks, one of them: a Chester leather sofa is incredibly expensive. That is why furniture manufacturers increasingly began to use other, less expensive upholstery materials.
Eco leather
Although this material is classified as artificial, it has many advantages:
- Ideally conveys the texture of natural leather.
- Excellent air permeability, elastic and soft.
- Has increased wear resistance.
- Available in a wide selection of colors.
- Easy to clean.
With an inexperienced eye, it is impossible to distinguish artificial leather from natural leather, and it also looks luxurious and expensive.
Velours
Velvety fabric looks very stylish and rich. Thanks to its special shine and voluminous texture, it resembles natural suede. At the same time, a velor Chesterfield sofa is much cheaper than a leather one. But it has one big drawback: the material is extremely impractical, even the slightest stains are clearly visible on it, and after a few years the upholstery may lose its appearance.
Plush can be a good upholstery option. This fabric has a long pile and a large selection of colors. And the Chester sofa itself with plush upholstery has a durable and wear-resistant coating, is pleasant to the touch and looks quite cozy.
Furniture fabric
The most inexpensive option for chester sofas are products with dense and durable fabric upholstery. When choosing textiles for a sofa, you should pay attention to a huge range of color options. But you should not use unlimited freedom of choice, but several nuances should be taken into account:
- The Chester sofa does not allow color combinations and must be monochromatic.
- It is better to opt for muted dark tones or light neutrals. A red, crimson or yellow Chesterfield will look extremely ridiculous.
- The fabric should not be shiny; it is better to choose a matte and smooth one.
Color solutions
When buying a Chesterfield-style sofa, you should pay attention not only to its design or the quality of the upholstery. The color scheme of upholstery materials is no less important. Traditionally, Chester sofas were made from black or brown-red leather of varying intensities.
But we advise you to pay attention to other colors
Traditionally, Chester sofas were made from black or brown-red leather of varying intensities.
But we advise you to pay attention to other colors
For small, bright rooms, it is better to choose upholstered furniture to match the main color. A beige or white sofa will not only combine beautifully with a light floor and the same walls, but will also visually enlarge a small space.
If you want to highlight a relaxation area in a spacious room, give preference to furniture whose upholstery will sharply contrast with the overall design of the room.
Models with chocolate upholstery look especially attractive. This color can harmonize with many colors and create amazingly beautiful ensembles.
Color options
If you look at old photos of Chesterfield sofas, you will notice that a dark palette used to dominate. This was partly due to the upholstery material (natural leather), partly to the style in which the sofas were used (English classics).
Brown, black, burgundy, green make the furniture visually more sophisticated and refined. The shades are still relevant for Chester.
In the photo there is a set: an armchair and a sofa in the same style
As the range of fabrics has expanded to incredible sizes in recent years, Chesterfields have begun to be made in colors that customers like. Light furniture is suitable for rooms less than 10-12 sq. m: it will not seem bulky or too pretentious. Bright colors (yellow, red, green) will create contrast and enliven an overly monochrome living room.
The sofa should not be monochromatic: for fusion-style interiors, “patchwork” upholstery is acceptable, combining many shades in one product.
"SHERLOCK"
Types of click-clack sofas, features of transformation
Leather folding sofa in a minimalist style. High footboard with bolster, cushions and armrests highlighted with piping, decorative stitching on sofa elements. Equipped with a transformation mechanism entirely on a welded mesh with a spring orthopedic mattress. Frame made of solid wood and plywood, beech supports.
In the photo there is a folding sofa “SHERLOCK” Upholstery: natural. Italian leather CIGAR CONGO Dimensions (LxDxH), cm: 195x100x78 Sleeping place (WxD), cm: 140x195
Sleeping place (WxD), cm | Dimensions (LxDxH), cm | CIGAR | LOFTTOSC | CLUB |
Armchair | 80x92x78 | 110000 | 115000 | 120000 |
100x195 | 140x92x78 | 180000 | 190000 | 200000 |
120x195 | 160x92x78 | 190000 | 200000 | 210000 |
140x195 | 180x92x78 | 200000 | 210000 | 220000 |
It is possible to produce a non-folding version.
What style will the interior suit?
A fabric or leather Chester sofa in the interior of an apartment or house will fit into most design styles. In addition to the English style, it looks good in a loft, chalet, or Scandinavian style. Playing with color, size or type of upholstery, it’s easy to adjust upholstered furniture to any size room
Loft
The attic style, as you know, has a fairly contrasting interior design. It combines not only large areas and initially poor design of rooms; contrast of surface textures and paints, etc. But, thanks to its popularity among all segments of the population, another distinctive feature has appeared: expensive high-quality materials with increased decorativeness are combined with objects of initially non-interior origin - elements of factory, warehouse structures, mechanisms, etc. Therefore, a sofa in a loft interior looks ideal. Beautiful design, expensive upholstery against the background of shabby walls and pipes looks expressive and stylish.
Chalet
A Chester sofa in the living room of a country house against the backdrop of a fireplace and surrounded by brutal wood complements the rough but cozy space. Prim upholstered furniture perfectly complements the serene rustic interior. In a large living room, the sofa’s companion may well be another identical or similar model or a pair of armchairs. Two sofas like this in the living room create a great place for socializing.
English style
An English-style office with a Chester sofa is ideal for business negotiations. The strict design will highlight the business environment of the home office.
"MANCHESTER"
The upholstery is entirely in genuine Italian leather. The armrests are decorated with furniture nails, the back and footboard are decorated with carriage screed. Equipped with a transformation mechanism with an orthopedic mattress, soft seat cushions are decorated with piping. Frame made of solid wood and plywood, turned beech supports.
The photo shows a folding sofa “MANCHESTER” Upholstery: natural. Italian leather CLUB VERDE Dimensions (LxDxH), cm: 175x100x78 Sleeping place (WxD), cm: 120x195
Sleeping place (WxD), cm | Dimensions (LxDxH), cm | CIGAR | LOFTTOSC | CLUB |
100x195 | 140x92x78 | 200000 | 210000 | 220000 |
120x195 | 160x92x78 | 210000 | 220000 | 230000 |
140x195 | 180x92x78 | 220000 | 230000 | 240000 |
It is possible to produce a non-folding version.
Why choose Chesterfield?
The choice of this model dictates the style. At all times, those who had such a sofa in their home automatically belonged to the elite. His choice and ability to fit into the interior (although this is, in fact, not so difficult) have become a style criterion.
Despite its enormous versatility, the Chesterfield should not be placed in a small living room. In order to appreciate its beauty, you need to have a good overview, because this sofa, like any work of art, needs to be contemplated from afar.
Square bright living room with dark Chesterfield sofa
A brown leather sofa looks good against blue cabinets
Artificially aged leather Chesterfield sofa
A few more factors:
- They uniquely combine femininity and brutality. So, a black leather sofa will become truly masculine, and its location in the office will make the room more solid and serious. But as soon as you place the same black sofa in a glamorous white living room and at the same time casually throw a fur cape over it, it becomes truly feminine. This sofa can change its floor, but you just need to choose the right environment for it.
- Versatility. It can equally successfully emphasize a traditional classic interior and at the same time fit perfectly into an ultra-modern one.
- It is aesthetically pleasing from all sides and in any room. And this is a huge difference from other sofas! The Chesterfield can be placed under the wall, or maybe in the middle of the room. There are no flaws in its rear.
- Chesters are timeless. This is especially true for models with leather upholstery. These only get better over the years and decades. A patina of time appears on them, an exclusive aging.
The Chesterfield comes from England and may well become a family heirloom that is passed down from generation to generation.
Fusion living room with brick walls and Chesterfield sofa
Retro style living room with leather sofa
Yellow Chesterfield sofa in a Mediterranean interior
How to assemble and make the frame of a Chester sofa?
First of all, all the frame parts are cut out according to the drawing. The wood must be carefully sanded, especially in the cut areas, and treated with products that will protect it from insects, moisture and fungi. If the boards have already been treated with impregnations, this step is skipped.
To facilitate the assembly process, you can use 10x10 timber as corner parts, the length of 4 pieces from which should correspond to the height of the sofa. The boards are fastened between the beams:
- First 1 pc. at the very base and above.
- The base is strengthened with transverse and longitudinal bars or boards, which are placed along central horizontal and vertical lines.
- A high board is installed at the bottom of the front part of the frame, which will serve as a facade.
- In the upper part, the frame of the Chester sofa is equipped with blanks that are located above the corner bars. They should cover them across their entire width, creating a transition between the backrest and armrests.
- For reliability, all components can be reinforced with metal corners.
Then, using a corsage ribbon, they tighten the entire perimeter. It will serve as a shock-absorbing base for the upholstery. In addition, since the surfaces of the frame are hollow, ties will be attached to the tape layer.
Creating a frame involves attaching the filler. First, the foam rubber is placed on the inner vertical surfaces of the back and armrests, running upward and backward. You can create a “scroll” without additional equipment. Enough to cover the edge of the thick foam rubber that extends to the outer edges with a cloth to prevent damage, and nail it firmly to the frame. Over the entire area it will retain its height, and at the point of fastening it will shrink to almost zero.
Before proceeding to the seat, the back and front board are tightened with the selected material, immediately using ties. Then filler is placed on the lower plane and a simple covering is performed.
How to choose and not make a mistake?
This original and comfortable sofa will become so only if you choose it correctly. Key selection criteria:
- We check the quality of the screed. A professionally made sofa has a characteristic deep screed. In this case, polyurethane with a thickness of at least 8 cm is used. The smaller the thickness, the worse.
- Geometry of rhombuses. A criterion for the quality of a sofa is the correct diamond shape across the entire area of the upholstery. Most often, unscrupulous manufacturers sin in the corners and behind. Although a good sofa simply must be beautiful from all sides. For high-quality upholstery of even the smallest sofa, it takes at least 3 days.
- Armrests. To form their characteristic outlines, the upholstery material must be carefully laid out. There should be no sloppy folds in the fabric or leather, and symmetry should be maintained for both armrests. This requires utmost attention and, of course, skill.
- Upholstery. Since it consists of many small parts, it is quite possible to see how well the seams are made. If there are errors in the evenness and uniformity of the stitches, it is better to refuse to purchase such a sofa.
- Upholstery and material of manufacture. It is impossible to check what the inside of the sofa is made of, unless it damages the upholstery. As for the upholstery itself, the best option would be leather or velor.
A sofa made of leatherette, with the exception of high-density eco-leather and abrasion resistance, will quickly lose its original appearance. Age certainly won’t suit someone like that.
A dark brown leather Chesterfield sofa also looks good in an office space
Classic living room in beige and brown tones with a brown sofa
Modern living room in dark colors with a dark blue Chesterfield sofa
Small light Chesterfield sofa in fusion style
Cozy living room with classic Chesterfield sofa
What is a sofa bed
In Soviet times, it was enough to say that a sofa bed was needed, and it became clear to everyone what a person needed. Modern sofas, which can also be used as a bed, differ not only in appearance, but also in the way they are transformed.
Type of mechanism | Description and method of transformation |
The mechanism of a simple book can safely be called the oldest, but at the same time the simplest. In order for such a sofa to turn into a bed, it is enough to raise the front part until a characteristic click appears and lower it. To assemble the sofa, the steps are repeated. Among the positive characteristics, we can note the presence of a box for storing linen and the low cost of the mechanism, but there is a significant drawback - you need to make a lot of effort to transform it. A certain distance from the wall must also be maintained for the backrest to be lowered freely, which is not always convenient in small apartments. | |
This sofa is an improved “book” model and is distinguished by the fact that the backrest can be installed in an intermediate state, that is, reclining. The transformation mechanism is more expensive, but more functional. When unfolding the sofa, you need to focus on the number of clicks of the backrest locking mechanism - one or two. The size of the department for storing linen depends on the design features. | |
The mechanism of such a sofa is very durable, so you don’t have to worry about it wearing out if you unfold it frequently. It unfolds without much effort - just pull the strap, and the front part will slide out, followed by the entire mechanism. After these steps, the sofa can be used as a bed. | |
This mechanism is most often used in corner sofas. The transformation mechanism is very simple - there is a retractable part at the bottom, with a soft pillow in it, which is manually fixed in place. Even a physically weak person can decompose. This sofa does not have a drawer for linen. | |
The mechanism of such a sofa is hidden under a soft pillow, which will need to be removed each time before laying it out. After this, the mechanism extends and unfolds. The bed consists of 3 sections, which are not very comfortable to sleep on, so a sofa with such a mechanism is extremely inconvenient for everyday use. It’s better if you have to lay it out occasionally, for example for guests. There is no drawer for linen. | |
Unlike the French version, the American version uses a different principle - folding occurs along with the backrest. It’s not at all difficult to unfold – just pull the back towards you. When unfolded, such a sofa bed is more comfortable for sleeping, and the convenience of the layout makes the model more popular. | |
A sofa with an accordion mechanism is very comfortable for sleeping, as it is wide and the mattress is flat. Unfolding such a sofa is also not difficult - just lift the seat until a characteristic click appears, and then pull it out. It is during the transformation that it becomes clear why this mechanism is called that - it moves apart like the bellows of an accordion. A sofa with such a mechanism is quite reliable, takes up little space when folded, and it is possible to use drawers for linen. | |
“Eurobook” is very reliable, since there are no mechanisms at all. Having pulled out the front part, the back is simply lowered - it is fixed on hinges. It is comfortable to sleep, and there is also a large drawer for linen. In order not to damage the flooring with the legs, they need to be upholstered with soft material, plastic extensions must be nailed, or casters should be installed. |
Advantages and disadvantages
The elegant and graceful Chesterfield sofa has numerous advantages:
- has a stylish, beautiful appearance;
- looks attractive from any angle;
- goes harmoniously with any interior style;
- has high quality workmanship;
- characterized by a long service life.
The Chester soft sofa has not lost popularity for five decades thanks to all the listed advantages. But in addition to the undeniable advantages, the model has some disadvantages. The product does not always have a comfortable sleeping place, and wide armrests are not suitable for all users. The cost of the original model is quite high, so not every buyer will choose a Chester sofa.
When choosing a product you need to approach it very carefully, paying attention to all the details, as you can purchase a low-quality analogue.
Location options
Luxurious and at the same time elegant Chesterfield is suitable for decorating any interior. It combines soft lines with rough leather. A dark brown leather sofa is suitable for installation in a library or office. In small rooms it is installed along the wall. If the area of the room allows, the sofa divides the space into functional zones and is installed in the center.
For the living room, it is better to choose furniture in light or bright colors, which will become a color accent and add individuality to the interior. You can complement the composition with armchairs and an ottoman, made in the same style.
Chester models are suitable for interior decoration in classic, colonial, and baroque styles.
The brighter the upholstery, the more stylish and contrasting the furniture looks. Colored Chester will become an accent of the interior, diluting neutral colors. Remember that to install such upholstered furniture you need spacious, bright rooms in which the product will not be bulky.
In the living room, the Chesterfield can be installed anywhere, if the area of the room allows it:
- near the wall (saves free space, creates an atmosphere of comfort);
- in the center of the room (divides it into functional zones (rest, dining, work, etc.);
- in the corner (ergonomically fills the space, does not overload).
Installing a sofa in the office allows you to emphasize the status of the owner, set you up for work, and contributes to successful business negotiations. Depending on the characteristics of the room, furniture can be placed opposite the table, along the wall or near the window.
The versatile Chester fits perfectly into the kitchen or dining room. The shape and dimensions of the sofa are selected depending on the area of the room. A small corner model will accommodate several people without additional furniture. For the kitchen, it is better to choose durable, wear-resistant upholstery designed for constant use.
Chesterfield is rarely installed in the bedroom. However, if the model provides:
- a full, flat bed with an orthopedic mattress;
- simple and reliable folding mechanism;
- the upholstery on which the bed linen is held, the sofa will complement the bedroom interior and will become its key element.
When choosing upholstered furniture, consider the style of the room, area, and color combination. Don't be afraid to experiment and combine different styles. Sometimes this gives the most unexpected and pleasant results.
Description, pros and cons
The bright and recognizable appearance of the Chester sofa cannot be confused with any other. It has several distinctive features:
- The same thickness of the back and armrests, located at the same level;
- Armrests curved at the top in Baroque style;
- A peculiar inclination of the back and armrests;
- Diamond pattern that does not affect the seats;
- The material for the sofa is leather or its equivalent - high-quality leatherette;
- Tall wooden legs.
The base of the original Chester sofa consists entirely of a natural wooden frame. The upholstery material is leather, and the filling is horsehair. Another interesting fact that is directly related to the design of Chester sofas is that sofas manufactured in Great Britain still maintain the tradition of hand assembly. It is worth considering that because of this and the high-quality materials used, such products have a very high cost.
In a modern interpretation, Chester sofas may differ slightly from the original English production, nevertheless maintaining their impeccable style of execution. For example, many manufacturers modify the usual legs, use a diamond-shaped pattern not only on the back, but also on the seat, and develop their own color scheme that differs from the original (brown, maroon colors). Horsehair, traditionally used as a filler, is often replaced with some kind of synthetic material.
In general, Chester sofas have a number of undeniable advantages:
- Timeless appearance - a classic solution will always be relevant;
- Aesthetic appearance from any side;
- Harmony in any interior;
- Over time, an original sofa can become a family heirloom, passed down from generation to generation.
- High quality ensured by simplicity of design.
However, you should not turn a blind eye to minor but existing shortcomings, namely:
- The likelihood of encountering a low-quality analogue;
- The Chester sofa may not always be a comfortable sleeping place;
- The width of the armrests may seem uncomfortable to many owners.
Chester sofa and interior
Could anything be more ideal than a triple Chesterfield sofa in an interior, especially a classic one? It will never go out of fashion and will continue to decorate the interior of the premises:
- In libraries and study rooms made in a classic or colonial style, models with dark leather upholstery will look great.
- A model with an open armrest pattern with a pronounced curl at the top will fit perfectly into a guest room decorated in a retro, shabby chic or art deco style. Sofas upholstered in aged faux leather and rich-looking mahogany legs look interesting.
- In the living room, designed in modern modern and loft styles, you can place a double Chester corner sofa with plain velvet or velor upholstery in black or snow-white with legs in the same colors.
- The brighter the Chester folding sofa is chosen, the more stylish and contrasting the room will look. It will become an accent that can dilute the meager design picture. Therefore, for neutral interiors, very rich and bright shades of sofas are often chosen, sometimes even acidic options.
You need to keep in mind that all Chester sofa models are installed in fairly spacious rooms, only there they can look the way they deserve.
Sources
- https://happymodern.ru/divan-chesterfild-foto/
- https://mebel-sovet.ru/divany/raznovidnosti/1107-divan-cester
- https://cornas.ru/divan-chester-v-interere/
- https://womanadvice.ru/divan-chester-kak-ego-udachno-vpisat-v-interer-komnaty
- https://design-homes.ru/komnaty/gostinaya/divan-chester
- https://mblx.ru/mjagkaja/raznovidnosti/1123-divan-cester.html
- https://granistilia.ru/blog/divan-chesterfild-v-interere/
- https://RoomPlan.ru/dekorirovanie/divan-chester/
Chester sofa: choosing upholstery
Chester sofas produced in England are considered luxury furniture.
Therefore, for their production only environmentally friendly, durable and reliable materials of high quality are used: a frame made of solid wood, filling made of real horsehair, and upholstery - genuine leather. It is she who is responsible for the appearance of the sofa, making it elegant, sophisticated and practical. However, new modern technologies have come into the production of Chester leather furniture sets. In the design of the sofa, they increasingly began to use a transformation mechanism, and small legs were replaced with practical wheels. Natural filling has been replaced by synthetic materials, and instead of classic natural leather upholstery, eco-leather, velor or regular upholstery fabric are now used.
Genuine Leather
Since ancient times, Chester sofas and armchairs have been upholstered in genuine leather. Classic leather models look impressive, elegant and respectable. However, this magnificent furniture has its drawbacks, one of them: a Chester leather sofa is incredibly expensive. That is why furniture manufacturers increasingly began to use other, less expensive upholstery materials.
Eco leather
Although this material is classified as artificial, it has many advantages:
- Ideally conveys the texture of natural leather.
- Excellent air permeability, elastic and soft.
- Has increased wear resistance.
- Available in a wide selection of colors.
- Easy to clean.
With an inexperienced eye, it is impossible to distinguish artificial leather from natural leather, and it also looks luxurious and expensive.
Velours
Velvety fabric looks very stylish and rich. Thanks to its special shine and voluminous texture, it resembles natural suede. At the same time, a velor Chesterfield sofa is much cheaper than a leather one. But it has one big drawback: the material is extremely impractical, even the slightest stains are clearly visible on it, and after a few years the upholstery may lose its appearance.
Plush can be a good upholstery option. This fabric has a long pile and a large selection of colors. And the Chester sofa itself with plush upholstery has a durable and wear-resistant coating, is pleasant to the touch and looks quite cozy.
Furniture fabric
The most inexpensive option for chester sofas are products with dense and durable fabric upholstery. When choosing textiles for a sofa, you should pay attention to a huge range of color options. But you should not use unlimited freedom of choice, but several nuances should be taken into account:
- The Chester sofa does not allow color combinations and must be monochromatic.
- It is better to opt for muted dark tones or light neutrals. A red, crimson or yellow Chesterfield will look extremely ridiculous.
- The fabric should not be shiny; it is better to choose a matte and smooth one.
Color solutions
When buying a Chesterfield-style sofa, you should pay attention not only to its design or the quality of the upholstery. The color scheme of upholstery materials is no less important.
Traditionally, Chester sofas were made from black or brown-red leather of varying intensities. But we advise you to pay attention to other colors.
For small, bright rooms, it is better to choose upholstered furniture to match the main color. A beige or white sofa will not only combine beautifully with a light floor and the same walls, but will also visually enlarge a small space.
If you want to highlight a relaxation area in a spacious room, give preference to furniture whose upholstery will sharply contrast with the overall design of the room.
Models with chocolate upholstery look especially attractive. This color can harmonize with many colors and create amazingly beautiful ensembles.
And a few more tips
- Making a Chester sofa can take several days, or even weeks, so it is better to assemble the frame and cover it not in the apartment, but in a separate room, where nothing will interfere. For example, you can use a garage for this.
- To save money, you can use parts from an old sofa for the frame if they are in good condition.
- To make the sofa last longer, it is better to choose genuine leather rather than artificial leather. It will look decent, even if it becomes shabby.
- Carriage tie elements can also be made on the front of the sofa seat. And with buttons that fix the pattern you can also decorate the armrests.
- When working with leather, you should be careful so as not to make an extra hole, for example, but if this happens, you can find special glue in stores that can help hide leather defects.
"BRISTOL"
The sofa is in a traditional English style, it has a sense of history and independence from fashion. Five-row screed for the back and armrests, the footboard is decorated with a two-row screed and an upper bolster. The facade is emphasized with furniture nails, soft pillows are decorated with piping, decorative stitching of the sofa elements. The upholstery is entirely in genuine Italian leather. Equipped with a transformation mechanism entirely on a welded mesh with an orthopedic mattress, solid wood frame, turned beech supports.
The photo shows a folding sofa "BRISTOL" Upholstery: natural. Italian leather CIGAR GRASSDimensions (LxDxH), cm: 220x100x78 Sleeping place (WxD), cm: 140x195
Dimensions (LxDxH), cm | Sleeping place (WxD), cm | CIGAR | LOFTTOSC | CLUB |
180x100x78 | 100x195 | 200000 | 210000 | 220000 |
200x100x78 | 120x195 | 220000 | 230000 | 240000 |
220x100x78 | 140x195 | 240000 | 250000 | 260000 |
it is possible to produce a non-folding version
Interior use
When choosing a black straight sofa, you should take into account the design of the room in which it will be installed. If the dominant tones are grey, orange and brown, the furniture is unlikely to go well with them. A black sofa in the interior is a sign of good taste. Let's consider the main style directions in which it would be appropriate:
- Classic. A soft two-seater sofa or a large one with strict shapes and a soft seat without unnecessary additions or decor looks good in a traditional style.
- Minimalism. A gray sofa or models painted in other dark colors fit perfectly into this design, since bright colors are inappropriate. The main features of the direction are rigor, conciseness and functionality. Eco-leather products are often used to create minimalist interiors.
- Ethnic style. This direction is considered difficult, but very interesting. A living room with a black sofa will be bright and attractive thanks to colorful pillows with embroidery, textiles with animal prints, and colored accessories.
- Art Deco. Strict angular models are suitable. The style tends to be symmetrical, so the ideal solution would be to use identical gray sofas located opposite each other.
- Baroque. The direction requires sophistication of forms and luxury in decoration. An elegant Chester sofa with gilded legs or elegant carved armrests looks great.
- Scandinavian style. The main features are natural materials, practicality, light colors. Dark furniture looks luxurious against the background of snow-white walls.
- Italian style. A suitable sofa should have traditional shapes, clear lines, elegant additions in the form of fine wood carvings. Products made from natural or eco-leather are best suited.
- Ecostyle. From the name it is clear that the emphasis in the interior is on natural materials. A beige and black sofa with natural upholstery will suit perfectly.
- High tech. The kitchen is often decorated in this style, since there are many metal and chrome parts located here. The kitchen sofa must correspond to the chosen direction.
Upholstered furniture with black upholstery will be an excellent solution for a cozy living room or a comfortable kitchen. High-quality models are durable and practical and can last for several decades. Dark upholstery does not stain, it is easier to remove stains and remove dirt. Many models can transform into a full bed
https://youtube.com/watch?v=TUdO-45iAPw