Get the Country House Look

The country house look exudes class and traditional English style. And it wouldn't be complete without classic chairs and sofas. What exactly is classic upholstery, and how can you style it to get that country home appeal?

What makes a classic style sofa?

A classic sofa has traditional design features which may include scroll arms, turned feet, a curved back or deep button detail. It can be upholstered in fabric or leather and may feature a high back or a low back.

Tetrad, Duresta and Parker Knoll are all established British brands that offer a selection of classic style sofas. Duresta and Parker Knoll have many attractive fabric options to suit a country house. Tetrad offer a selection of traditional style sofas and chairs, including chesterfield sofas and wing chairs, which are upholstered in natural leathers and Harris Tweed fabrics.

Modern twists on the classic sofa

While certain shapes and design features remain signature elements of classic sofas, they have also been given a variety of twists to suit a modern home.

Luxurious velvets, big, botanical patterns, metallic fabric accents, and contemporary fabrics and leathers will give any classic sofa a style update
Some classic styles offer a pillow back option. The extra colours, patterns and textures will add interest to your sofa set
Stud detail adds decoration and gives your sofa some 21st century glamour
A contemporary design feature or two, such as a tapered arm or leg, will subtly modernise the whole sofa

The Charisse, Somerset and Harrison are all contemporary adaptations of classic upholstery.

What fabrics or leathers are suitable for classic styling?

Classic style sofas look best in either fabric or natural leather.

Natural leather sofas

Natural leather sofas in brown, beige or tan are perfect for country styling. Natural leathers are softer and warmer than protected leathers. They also include characteristics such as scarring, insect bites and colour variations, giving your furniture a unique appearance and an aged, authentic feel. This makes natural leathers perfectly in keeping with a characterful country property.

If you like the look of natural leathers but would prefer the feel of fabric, you can also find sofas and chairs in a fabric and leather mix. Some of our classic leather sofas, such as the Hamilton, feature fabric seat and back cushions for added comfort and breathability.

Traditional fabric sofas

Country homes can be styled in a variety of different ways. The style of your home will impact the colours and patterns you choose for your classic fabric sofa.

Lavish creams, deep, regal blues and monochrome schemes will give your living room an opulent feel. Mix velvets, metallic patterned fabrics and damask patterns for best results
Pastels and neutrals in plain fabrics, floral patterns, stripes and checks all offer a homely, down-to-earth look. Good for a family home
Old country houses often include striking wallpapers, curtains and scatter cushions. Don't let your sofa get lost amongst these kinds of furnishings: take a risk by using bold colours and patterns

Mix and match

Country homes accumulate an eclectic mix of upholstery over time. While your sofas and chairs shouldn't clash, there's no need to limit yourself to buying matching pieces, either.

Accessories and accents

Wing chairs and scatter cushions are the ideal way to accent your home.

Wing chairs

The country house is the natural habitat of the wing chair. It stands to reason, therefore, that wing chairs are a popular choice for accenting a traditional style room. You can upholster the chair in a natural leather, or go for something in a floral or checked pattern, depending on your furnishings.

Scatter cushions

Scatters add that finishing touch. If you are going for a more opulent look, you may wish to add scatters and bolsters that match your colour scheme. However, if your style is more eclectic, you will be able to get away with having a selection of different scatters in a range of brave patterns.