The History of Sofas in London: A Tale of Style and Comfort

Famed for its rich heritage, London has been the hub of creativity and design innovation for over 2000 years. And, as suppliers of some of the most luxurious furniture brands on Earth, delving into the origins of fine décor is one of our favourite pastimes.

So, as a nod to their long and diverse antiquity, we bring you a tale of style and comfort about the history of sofas in London.

The multiplicity of designs, materials and production methodologies over the years has reflected Londoners’ changing tastes and ideals through the ages. And, having maintained its role as a cosmopolitan hot spot for world trade since the days of the British Empire, the city continues to be a trendsetter.

With its distinctive luxury sofa offerings now gracing contemporary homes and corporations across the globe, here are some highlights of their incredible journey.

The Evolution of Luxury Sofa Design in London

Originally surfacing in ancient Egypt and the Roman era, sofas actually only took off in Europe during the Renaissance (yup, a bit slow off the mark). But once the concept caught on, they played a significant role in the development of Big Smoke’s social culture.

Dating back as far as the 1400s, the Renaissance impacted England heavily during the Elizabethan Age.

With a newfound sense of national pride and classical ideals influencing the arts, growth in industries like weaving and cloth-making set new precedents in offshore trade.

English Rococo rose in popularity in London during the 18th century and sofas were restyled to include curvaceous lines, elaborate carvings and gilded finishes. Amongst the innovators of the time was Thomas Chippendale, whose celebrated (to this day) creations included mid-Georgian and Neoclassical styles.

With the help of the Industrial Revolution, this time period saw reduced manufacturing costs and significant breakthroughs. The development of steel springs and new upholstery techniques allowed designers to fill a void in the mass market, creating pieces that were both functional and affordable.

By the Victorian era, the fundamental principles of sofa design were developed and established as a thriving industry. London-based offerings gained respect throughout the continent and were held in high regard for their enduring quality, comfort and style. From sturdy frameworks to plush padding and upholstery, their journey of refinement was set in motion.

As new manufacturing processes progressed and the art of upholstery became more refined, sofas slowly evolved from exclusive trappings in stately homes to modern-day must-haves.

After World War 1, the middle class took a much greater interest in furniture design. Art Deco’s lavish sense of glitz and glam, and Modernism’s celebration of simple shapes, clean lines and innovative materials (like metal and plastic) were in great demand. Both styles had a significant impact on sofa development at the start of the 20th century, fuelling a need for constant exploration into innovative new ideas.

Today, after the birth of sofa beds, ingenious modular units and a pressing need for sustainability, London continues to rock the ever-changing world of design.

4 Iconic Sofas That Impacted the London Design Industry

Throughout the history of British furniture manufacturing, there have been a number of noteworthy sofa designs that put London on the map as a serious contender in the global furniture market. Here are four that stand out amongst the crowd.

1. The Knole Sofa

One of the most revolutionary pieces of furniture of its day, the Knole sofa has a somewhat mysterious history. Originally commissioned in around 1640 for Knole House in Kent, it is recognised as a forerunner of modern designs.

Distinguished by its high, straight back and adjustable arms, it allowed its user to lounge comfortably as needed – a first of its kind. Typically upholstered in luxurious fabrics like velvet or brocade, it was often adorned with tassels or other decorative elements to add to its charm.

This alone represented a radical departure from the typical benches of the time and made it an object of historic importance.

However, the rumours around its original purpose are rather enigmatic and extremely varied. Some claim that it was made to serve a more regal function, where a king and queen might sit side by side while hosting important guests.

Others believe that it accommodated the expansive attire of the time, while many take a more romantic approach, insisting that it aided indiscretions in the boudoir (don’t blush).

Remaining a well-liked and enduring icon through the ages, it has been remade in several formats and has been modified to suit different styles and tastes. And while the over 300-year-old original remains at Knole House, many of its reincarnations have become sought-after objects amongst collectors and London-based interior designers alike.

2. The Chesterfield Sofa

Perhaps one of the most revered sofas of all time, it may surprise you to know that the Chesterfield was first commissioned by Lord Philip Stanhope, the fourth Earl of Chesterfield, in the mid-1700s.

Custom built as per his requirements, its original purpose was to provide fellow gentlemen with a comfortable seat that would refrain from wrinkling their clothing. Gaining rapid popularity, it soon became a symbol of wealth and aplomb, adorning the homes of aristocrats throughout England and then further afield.

The original Chesterfield was packed with horsehair, adorned with hard leather buttons and had no suspension at all (in keeping with the terrible seating of the times). It was also rumoured that Lord Stanhope had intended for it to be as uncomfortable as possible so that visitors wouldn’t overstay their welcome. So the charming vision we have of it today was not quite so lovely all those years ago.

However, when the Victorians later started to place more emphasis on the comfort of their chairs, their profile started to change. Deep-set buttoning and coiled springs were added in 1828.

Over time, they began appearing in a number of upscale gentlemen’s clubs in London, frequented by some of the city’s most powerful men, further solidifying their grandiose status.

Evolving with the trends, Chesterfields can now be customised in an array of upholsteries, sizes and styles, ensuring that their incredible legacy will never die.

3. The Howard Sofa

Furniture business Howard & Sons was founded in 1820 in Victorian England and quickly became well-known for its opulent offerings.

Initially cabinet makers, they soon earned global acknowledgement for their expert craftsmanship and distinctive designs which included their highly acclaimed Howard sofa.

This classic piece featured an elegantly curved back, low arms, ample seat and lashings of English country-house charm. It was also typically upholstered in neutral colours, except in the mid-1900s America, which gave it a sense of refinement and grace.

In 1862, the company was honoured for its work at the prestigious Crystal Palace International Exhibition and subsequently received a royal warrant in 1901. This sought-after accolade both cemented its exceptional reputation and allowed it to start selling high-end furniture to the British monarchy and London’s elite. The Savoy Hotel was among its esteemed clientele.

Owner, George Howard, also invented the coil-sprung sofa – originally patented as the “Elastic Seat”. This innovation revolutionised the upholstery industry, provided much-needed comfort, and steered manufacturing away from its previous (and hideous) hair-stuffed counterparts.

London-made and built to last, the Howard sofa was a significant part of the history of British design and is still a sought-after profile in the contemporary homes of the 21st century.

4. The Fainting Sofa

This rather frivolous addition to London's design adds a touch of whimsy to our story.

The fainting sofa, born in the Victorian era, was thought to have gained popularity amongst the gentry as a means to recover after a fainting spell. Brought on by tight corsetry, ladies of the day often felt overwhelmed by a lack of oxygen (and handsome men) which resulted in slightly hypertensive breathing.

The cure was found in the form of an elegant sofa, much like a chaise longue, featuring a long, reclining backrest and covered in luxe fabrics like velvet or silk. However, there is another theory that this furniture piece was actually used by ladies on which to nap or read during the daytime. It is speculated that, once the housekeeper had made her bed, she was forbidden to return to it until it had been turned down for the night.

Either way, the concept itself originated from ancient Greek and Roman times, when reclining on a seat during meals was popular.

Renowned psychoanalyst, Sigmund Freud, was also famous for his use of the fainting sofa during his therapy sessions and it became an iconic tool in his patient/doctor approach.

Now back in circulation and in popular demand, this lovely addition to the décor industry continues to be a source of relaxation for all who use it.

The Future of Contemporary Sofa Design in London

Teeming with creativity, the Big Smoke remains one of the most revered design hubs in the world, bringing some of the globe’s finest furniture offerings right to your doorstep.

These exciting times have given rise to massive changes in sofa manufacturing, all influenced by shifting consumer preferences, technological developments and the need for greater sustainability.

Customisation is also a prime commodity with top brands like Gamma & Dandy and Meridiani offering customers the option to personalise their choices to suit their needs.

Since the pandemic, there has been a notable upswing in online shopping and design professionals are using tools like augmented reality more substantially.

All of these factors are pointing the way for the innovations of the future, giving the world of luxury sofas an exciting new and ever-changing makeover.

At FCI London, our expert team has been creating beautiful interiors for over 30 years and has its finger on the pulse when it comes to the best offerings in London. So if you’re in need of a little inspiration, why not browse through our latest projects portfolio today? Or read our article on sofa placement tips to ensure that you style your home like a pro.

3 London Sofas We Love

While there are literally millions of options to choose from, here are 3 luxury London sofas reminiscent of the giants of yesteryear.

1. The Tulip

Sporting a similar profile to the Knole sofa, the two-seater Tulip by Gamma & Dandy is upholstered in the finest leather and features a high back with extra lumbar support. Its slender side arms and ample seat make for roomy relaxation, topped by a multitude of customisation options to suit your aesthetics. Also available in a modular format and with a matching armchair.

2. The Chester

If you’re after a modern twist on a classic, the Chester sofa by Laskasas will have your living space or study looking refined and fabulous in no time. With its deep-buttoned back, rolled arms and lower detailing, it brings with it the timeless appeal that is synonymous with its ancestry. The brand offers a vast array of customisations including colour, size and upholstery - so you’ll end up with exactly what you’re looking for.

3. The Daniel

The original concept of the fainting sofa has morphed through time and now takes on many forms including the chaise longue and outdoor sun lounger. We adore the ultra-luxurious Daniel version by Dom Edizioni. This cosy recliner for two will have you enjoying intimate evenings in front of the TV or just hogging it all to yourself with a really good book.

Shop Luxury Sofas at FCI London

We’re passionate about providing style aficionados with furniture that will turn your London pads into spectacular spaces, so connect with us today and let’s get the ball rolling.

From high-end sofas and dining tables to beds, rugs and everything in between, we’re confident we’ve got something you’ll fall in love with.