Ashley Furniture: A Guide to Sofa Styles

Distinguishing one sofa design from another can be a tricky task. How do you tell a Lawson style sofa from a Chesterfield sofa? How do you properly pronounce “chaise lounge”? And what does a tuxedo have to do with furniture?

It may sound arbitrary, but these details can make a huge difference when out sofa shopping—or when you’re trying to show off your inner Design Star with friends and family. From sofa styles to sizes and materials, we’ve created a mini crash course with all you’ll ever need to know about sofa design.

The Chesterfield:

This classic sofa design is known for its deep button-tufting and high rolled arms. The sofa arms reach the height of the back seat, creating a dramatic silhouette. Traditionally, the classic Chesterfield sofa was made of leather and commonly found in gentlemen’s studies or libraries. Nowadays, the Chesterfield sofa can be found in a wide range of colors and upholsteries, making it a great fit for a variety of spaces. Smaller loveseat versions are fantastic for small spaces in need of a bold look.

IDEAL FOR:
Use this in formal or traditional rooms. The high-drama details and upscale vibe make the Chesterfield sofa and loveseat a perfect match for these types of spaces.

Chesterfield Button Tufted Elegant Worn Gray Leather Look Sofas

Lawson:

This silhouette of a Lawson is fairly similar to the English roll arm sofa, with the exception of loose back cushions and higher, untucked sofa arms. These arms are an ideal height for napping and are typically, but not always, rounded. This is a popular design for a reason—it’s cozy, comfy and simply chic.

IDEAL FOR:
This is perfect for casual spaces. The Lawson style sofa is all about comfort, making it perfect for everyday lounging. It’s extra refined when covered in leather.

Lawson Relax into the deep cushioned Fiera sofa with ultraplush seating

Tuxedo:

Consider it a modern take on the Chesterfield sofa. The tuxedo style features the same high, sheltering arms, but they are square shaped instead of rolled. You’ll oftentimes see this sofa sporting a button-tufted back.

IDEAL FOR:
Use this in modern, or even mid-century modern spaces. The sleek, clean lines perfectly capture the look, even if designed with fanciful trims.

Tuxedo The Vilonia sofa lets you relax in grand elegance

Track Arm:

Similar to the tuxedo sofa, the track arm sofa is known for its linear profile. The arms are mid-height and square with a clean silhouette that complements most decor styles. You can find the track arm sofa style in all kinds of upholsteries, from leather to microfiber to linen.

IDEAL FOR:
Because it works virtually anywhere, place this in modern, mid-century, transitional or contemporary spaces. The track arm sofa and loveseat are truly versatile and work in most spaces. Try pairing it with a similarly sleek chaise lounge.

Track Arm

Camel Back

The camel back sofa has a distinct “hump” shape on the back seat. It is the only detail that truly characterizes this sofa design, which means you can find this type of sofa in a wide range of styles, although most tend to remain on the traditional side. For a truly regal look, try pairing it with an elegant chaise lounge.

IDEAL FOR:
Use this in traditional or formal spaces. The overall design of a camel back sofa tends to follow the elegant curve of the back seat, which can be subtle or dramatic.

Camel Back Rich Classic Antique Brown Couch Wrapped in Leather Like Roll Arms and Soft Chenille Seating

Sectional:

Sectional sofas provide an ample amount of seating in one cohesive look. The two main shapes are L-shaped and U-shaped. While shopping for sectional sofas, you will often see the terms “RAF” and “LAF”, which are abbreviations for “right-arm facing” and “left-arm facing”. This refers to the position of the arm when you face the piece, which is important if you want to place your sectional along a specific wall in your home.

IDEAL FOR:
Place this in casual or contemporary spaces that require of a larger size sofa. This type of sofa is inviting and perfect for large families, or for those who love entertaining.

Sectional

Reclining

Reclining sofas come in all kinds of styles, materials and sizes. Most have an attached back and seat cushions. If you enjoy lounging in total comfort, or if you know you may have overnight guests, the reclining sofa is a great solution. And, there’s always a reclining loveseat option for those who may be tight on space.

IDEAL FOR:
This is perfect in relaxed or informal spaces. The reclining feature makes this the ultimate type of sofa for lounging, which feels just right in a casual setting.

SLEEPER SOFA

Reclining Deep Tufted Cushioning on the Birch Brown Loveseat and Power Reclining Sofa Set Accented with the Ottoman Coffee Table

Sleeper Sofa:

This ultra-convenient sofa comes in a wide range of styles, from traditional to casual to contemporary. Flimsy mattresses are often associated with the sleeper sofa, but technology and design has come a long way. You can find them with quality memory foam mattresses that your guests will love for overnight visits.

IDEAL FOR:
Anyone who plans on hosting guests once a year or more. Or, a memory foam sleeper sofa in lieu of a bed could be a great solution for small studio spaces.