Chesterfield furniture is a popular choice across the globe. Even if you are not familiar with the name, you have probably spotted this style of furniture. After all, the distinct design has made this style very recognisable and highly sought-after. It’s mostly associated with luxury and class, which is why you will commonly find such furniture in period properties, stately homes and exclusive clubs.
While the name Chesterfield mostly paints the picture of a sofa in everyone’s mind, there are other pieces that are designed and built this way, including the Chesterfield king size bed, Chesterfield armchairs and even Chesterfield headboards.
Regardless of which type of furniture you’re considering, let’s look at how this three-hundred-year-old legacy style furniture design has taken a modern turn and find out how well it works for today’s interiors and architecture.
CHESTERFIELD FURNITURE & ITS LEGACY
Though currently there are several variations and structural differences of Chesterfield furniture, a Chesterfield generally means a large sofa wrapped in high-quality burgundy leather, with deep buttoning, and rolled arms that are the same height from front to back.
From its very outlook and name, anyone would guess its origin is British. Dating back to the 1700s, Lord Philip Stanhope wanted a distinctively beautiful sofa that didn’t crease the suits of fellow seated gentlemen. He was the fourth Earl of Chesterfield; hence the name grew to fame. It has become such an icon and its style remains timeless. Of course, it has established a place in the world of modern furniture, too, and continues to be in fashion.
Today you will find a range of Chesterfield style furniture, from single piece chairs to beds designed as sleighs or scrolls with huge headboards. Their gorgeous accents and bespoke look are loved by many.
The best thing about this style is that it effortlessly oozes luxury with minimal styling. In fact, a Chesterfield piece holds the potential to become a focal point of any room. If you’re on a budget, you’ll be happy to learn that the cost of this style of furniture can be significantly lower than furniture that shows a lot of wood. If you aren’t picky about the type of the wood used in your furniture and need something elegant, a Chesterfield is most likely to grab your heart.
VARIETY AND LUXURY – WAYS TO STYLE YOUR INTERIOR
Chesterfield style upholstery can be integrated into interior spaces in several ways. Although commonly associated with sofas, you can find this style of upholstery not just on beds but walls, doors and other unexpected places.
You might even recognise this style of door from the James Bond films. whenever Mr. Bond enters M’s office, his/her door is beautifully wrapped in exquisite leather with deep buttons, exuding opulence and sophistication.
Read: 5 armchair buying tips for the discerning homeowner
This one of a kind interior style can go pretty much anywhere, especially in dark-themed rooms with wooden accents and features. When it comes to styling, you don’t need to do much. While you can incorporate cushions, rugs and other soft furnishing, Chesterfield furniture looks great on its own, too.
AVAILABILITY & QUALITY CHECKS
In addition to a unique and timeless look, and the fact it’s ideal for both period properties and more contemporary apartments, Chesterfield furniture is also highly durable. With proper care and maintenance, this style of furniture can retain its look for generations. Considering its popularity, you can find a ton of suppliers selling a wide range of Chesterfield furniture and it’s very easy to get your hands on one.
That said, shopping indiscriminately won’t guarantee you the highest quality.
Like any popular item, the Chesterfield market attracts and entertains many dodgy duplicates and fakes. You need to ensure you’re getting the right thing by spotting a few signature features that are mostly hidden under the upholstery.
In particular, we urge you to pay attention to the chunk of the rails, grain of the beechwood used for the frame, and the firmness of the cushion filling.
Get these right, and you’ll be set for life with your newfound or continued love for Chesterfield furniture!