A Guide to Sofa Designs

Consider the focal point of any living room: the sofa. But when you shop for a sofa, couch, or a loveseat, did you know there are several different styles to choose from? Defining the styles and knowing what to look for can be tricky — the arms, backs, silhouettes, seat cushions, tufting. We’ve gathered up a few classic sofa styles so you can find that perfect design to fit your living space.

Cabriole Sofas

We love the bowed leg look of the classic and popular cabriole sofas. They also have continuous, equal-height back and arms with curvy legs. Many mid-century modern sofas have a cabriole design, but we tend to think of ornate, timeless designs as well. Cabriole sofas in soft fabrics and velvet upholstery add to the refined, elegant design. Check out some of the cabriole styles we love for the living room.

Sublime Vertical Curve Back Performance Velvet Sofa

Telluride Cabrioamele Sofa

Radcliffe Tufted Leather Sofa

Take Five Barclay Sofa

Chesterfield Sofas

On a chesterfield sofa, you’ll see that the arms and back are the same height, and the upholstery is tufted. The arms are rolled out for a regal look that adds comfort. Chesterfields are usually associated with masculine-looking spaces or man caves, but the look of a grandiose chesterfield in a more light and airy space can be a great style statement. Many of this style are upholstered in leather but you’ll find velvet and other fabrics now as well.

Grand Chesterfield Brown Top Grain Leather Sofa

Morven Tufted Chesterfield Velvet Sofa

Liza Sofa

Griffon Sofa

Quitaque Tufted Chesterfield Sofa

Lawson Sofas

The Lawson is very much the sofa of today, with a simple and comfortable design and modern style. The original design had three back cushions; today the designs vary a bit. It’s an incredibly versatile design, as you’ll find just about every size and fabric option. The Lawson sofa boasts a boxy shape with low arms, free of ornate details. Many modern sofas and mid-century modern sofas are Lawson style.

Blaine Faux Leather Sofa

Taylor Sofa

Lawrence Sofa

Camelback Sofas

Quite literally, the camelback designs are named for the camel’s hump. The arched middle and high points at both ends make it an easy sofa style to recognize. This elegant style is right at home in just about any living room, whether it’s traditional and formal or easy, contemporary, and laid-back for contrast.