What is a sofa

In Europe, any sofa is usually called a sofa. It is considered a mandatory attribute of the living room, since a party without such a cozy place to relax is simply unthinkable. True, it is quite difficult to ensure comfort while sleeping on it, judging by Hollywood films. But is it?

What is a sofa

Explanatory dictionaries describe it as a soft bench with a back and armrests. The designers clarify: all sidewalls must be at the same level and can play the role of additional seats. But experts prefer to remain silent about the prospect of getting a good night’s sleep on it.

Story

The name of this piece of furniture came to us from the east. Among the Turks, a sofa was a raised platform covered with a soft carpet, on which the nobility sat while receiving guests. Away from home, this role was played by a stylized and quite comfortable bench, which retained the name of its older relative.

At the end of the 17th century, the sofa appeared in Europe, where the nobility accepted it with delight. The furniture was slightly modified, turning it into a small sofa with carved armrests and a high back. Small and narrow, it took pride of place in the living room, allowing guests to relax during the ball.

At that time it was status furniture, therefore it was made from expensive types of wood. The frame was covered with brocade, silk or leather. And additional comfort was introduced thanks to sheep wool and horsehair, with the help of which the seats could be made comfortable, durable and always even.

Since then, the concepts of beauty and convenience have changed several times. The sofa, which won the hearts of the nobility, became available to everyone, transforming depending on taste preferences and fashion trends. But despite numerous innovations, she managed to preserve the characteristic features of this furniture.

Description

This type of sofa is distinguished from its “brothers” by its typical armrests and backrest: not too high, wide and straight, they perfectly complement the main seat. You can lean on them or sit down if desired, since the design is designed for both types of loads.

Second difference — rigidity. This, of course, is not a wooden bench, but you won’t be able to “drown” on such a sofa. And even if we are talking about a transformer with an orthopedic mattress, the furniture always remains moderately hard.

A modern sofa is characterized by laconicism and functionality, right angles and hidden fittings.

Well, the form. Carved legs and elaborate backrests with armrests are a thing of the past and are now extremely rare. A box for storing linen or a retractable transformation mechanism, if provided, is hidden under the seat so that when viewed from the side one cannot even assume their presence.

Peculiarities

The depth of the seats and the width of the sofa allow it to be seated by a large number of guests. But if a tall person decides to sit on it reclining, he will be in for an unpleasant surprise - there is no headrest. And the armrests and backrest are too low to allow you to rest your head against them while relaxing your neck.

You won't be able to get a full night's sleep on the sofa because of its hardness. Even if you chose a transformer that converts into a large bed, you can’t dream of a sweet sleep on it.Although it will be useful for people with back pain.

What are there

Considering all the characteristic features of the sofa, it is quite logical that its types differ only in size, shape and functionality. According to dimensions they are distinguished:

• double;
• three-seater - equivalent to a standard sofa;
• multi-seat (4-6).

Based on functionality, there is a classic version (with a box) and a transformer. The conversion mechanism is usually of a retractable type - on wheels or walking.

But if we are talking about shape, then we mean the possibility of finding a corner (by analogy with a sofa) option. As for color solutions, they are limited only by the imagination of the designers and the taste preferences of the owners.