Emma J Page
Hi, I’m Emma J Page, an interiors and trends writer for a variety of newspaper supplements and glossy magazines; formerly features editor and commissioning editor on two leading interiors titles. Imaginative schemes, well-considered architecture and beautifully made furniture are my passion.
Is there anything more appealing than a perfectly designed sofa or chair – one that effortlessly combines comfort and ergonomics? Standout seating is the lynchpin of a welcoming interiors scheme, setting the mood, anchoring a space and defining its colour palette. At this time of year, home life is centred around hanging out with family and friends or enjoying precious downtime – whether you’re lounging on a modern classic or spending Sunday mornings curled up with the papers on your favourite armchair. But not all seating is created equal – luckily Sofology’s new Winter collection leads the way: here are a few of my favourites.…
SOMERFORD: Classic with a twist
There’s a reason why the classic Chesterfield sofa defies trends – it works in almost any setting, from country cottages to cool members’ clubs. Elegant yet sturdy, traditional yet timeless – it’s shorthand for style, and it’s why you can’t go wrong with the handcrafted Somerford, a contemporary take on this enduring classic. With its strong but sleek silhouette and eye-catching detailing, it captures the essence of an icon while being rooted in the here and now. Tapered arms, button finished pintuck detailing and fluted back cushions provide an on-trend twist, while high-set angled feet in a choice of finish lend mid-century appeal.
Ideal for a relaxed, modern-luxe setting, the sofa’s tactile, velvet-like fabric adds depth to a living space. Butterscotch or Hunter Green hues feed into the season’s wintery, cosseting colour palette, while softer neutrals such as Shadow Grey work brilliantly in monochrome schemes. Add an unexpected twist with a contrasting chevron cushion or bolster or go for pared-back, easy-on-the-eye style with a coordinating finish. Seats and back cushions provide support and comfort in equal measure – whether you’re lounging with a laptop or kicking back with Netflix. Best of all, fixed back cushions result in an effortlessly tailored look, 24/7. The range is available in a selection of sofa sizes, including a super-roomy 4-seater, as well as a loveseat, chair and footstool.
FAENZA CHAIR: Curve appeal
Defined by gently curved seats and angular chrome legs, this cool-as-a cucumber chair recalls the design classics of the 1950s and 60s. Italian designed and fittingly named after a city known for its creativity and craft, it’s a piece that can comfortably take centre stage or effortlessly elevate your favourite reading nook (pair it with a classic Anglepoise and a marble-topped side table for an on-the-pulse feel). The key is in the proportions: this piece is generous enough in size for cosy lounging and super-comfortable thanks to its cosseting shape and quilted pintuck detailing. Layer up the look with a wool or cashmere throw.
Choose from luxurious velvet for cosy appeal or supple, pigmented leather to compound its modern-classic credentials. There’s a range of shades to pep up schemes, from Ocean Blue for a soft colour pop, to Cappuccino Brown for a touch of retro chic. Style it up with a sofa or footstool from the Loreto range, whose laidback, mid-century feel perfectly complements the vibe.
INFINITY: Laidback lounging
‘Sustainable innovation’ are the buzzwords in interiors right now, as we try to make sure that big ticket items don’t make a dent on the planet. As a result, it’s worth investing in pieces whose subtle modernity will stand the test of time. The Infinity ticks those boxes with fabric options made from recycled textile waste, combined with a bold, square silhouette and flexible configuration. Think generous, plump cushions and sink-in comfort in soft velvets or warm tweeds, across a range of colours.
For comfort and support, the cosy seats are made using Quallofil(R) Blue fibres, which use 50% recycled plastic from the Plastic Bank.
This is a generously proportioned statement piece whose hidden feet and discreet piping create a modern, streamlined look – perfect for making a laid back style statement. Available in a range of sofa sizes, corner configurations, loveseat and accent chair, as well as a wide selection of modular options.
ABRUZZO: Contemporary cool
The modern home is also big on multi-function – hero pieces such as upholstered benches, side tables, stools and chairs are all indispensable when it comes to making a scheme work as hard as possible. And a great sofa should play its part too. The Abruzzo, with its narrow arms, smooth piping and sleek silhouette, is an exercise in contemporary cool, but with one single movement roll-out action, it also doubles up as a luxurious guest bed – perfect for modernist living rooms or home offices-cum-spare bedrooms.
Angled metal legs in a gunmetal shade raise the sofa off the floor, creating a sense of space, while finishes including durable microfibre, soft chenille, sumptuous velvet or pigmented leather keep the look on-trend. This is a sofa with serious style credentials, designed to strike the ideal balance between support and a soft, sink-in feel for instant relaxation. Opt for a neutral leather shade for a timeless feel or burnt orange chenille paired with brass accent lighting and soft greys for an instantly contemporising look. The range includes a variety of sofa sizes as well as a chair and footstool.
