The History of the Chesterfield Sofa

When it comes to sofas, there may be a model that comes to your mind. It's a Chesterfield sofa, am I right?

As we all know, the Chesterfield leather sofa has made an impression on the world 

with its luxurious, classic, and timelessly elegant, and has even the world-renowned iconic British in upholstered furniture sofa design. 

Here's a fun fact it used to be common for Canadians to refer to any kind of sofa as a chesterfield.

But do you really  know the history of the Chesterfield sofa story?

Stories about the origins of Chesterfield sofa abound, and one of the most popularly known and understood is that,

in 1780, the very first Chesterfield sofa was commissioned and created by Lord Phillip Stanhope, 

the 4th Earl of Chesterfield, allowing his gentlemen guests to sit comfortably, but without creasing their suits. 

As an admired politician, Earl was known as a major trendsetter during that time. 

Soon after, the Chesterfield sofa became a symbol for the upper class.

In around 1828, the Victorian era, Chesterfield sofas became enormously popular. 

With the deep-set buttoning and spring suspension were added to improve its comfort, 

the Chesterfield sofa ushered in a style of elegance and comfort, 

and has become a firm favorite in the living rooms of the affluent.  

With its timeless, elegance, and reputation, handmade Chesterfield sofas 

gained worldwide popularity over the years, and are still incredibly popular to this day. 

Thankfully we are in the 21st century, what was once a sofa that could only be enjoyed by

the wealthy is now a timeless one that can be placed in any home and is an enjoyable seat for anyone.

EARL STANHOPE of Iconic Society

Here at Iconic Society, we call our Chesterfield sofa design with vintage leather, 

deep buttoning, typically rolled arms that are the same height as the back, 

as“EARL STANHOPE” -- Honor to his commissioned creator, the 4th Earl of Chesterfield (1694-1773).  

Over the years, the timeless Chesterfield sofas have made tremendous 

strides in comfort and all the hand-finished details, 

with companies like ours doing things in the right direction that 

make our furniture truly one-of-a-kind. Check out the processes to see how our Chesterfields are made.

The Hidden Support – Hand-Built Lumber Frames

Frame construction is an integral part of our sofa construction process. 

We choose the solid wood frame which is good for the planet and good for you.

And we know that the moisture content of the wood is one of the main concerns of many customers.  

By drying the wood, we keep our wood in the ideal dry and moist condition, preventing it from cracking, 

warping and moulding over time, which in turn contributes to the longevity of the sofa.

What’s more? To reinforce the frame's integrity, our solid hardwood frames feature screw-fixed corner blocks and doweled joints.

The Core of Quality – our Superior Spring

After finishing the sturdy frame, the springs and suspension are also one of vital elements in sofa construction.

In order to ensure long-lasting strength and durability, our seats use sinuous or called Zig Zag spring unit 

and linked together with silent wires to give extra strength and comfort. And all of the springs are double tempered and no-sag.

Inspection & Cutting

As a natural material, leather showcases the scars, marks, stretch marks, bites, and pores inherent in its skin. 

But it is also because of these wonderful natural characteristics that make each sofa unique.

Our specialists handpick every single one of the hides and then 

double-inspected by cutters with years of experience to make sure that 

they match the leather masters grade requirements and then we cut them by shape, 

making sure that every single hide has just the right amount of characteristics, to ensure the highest quality.

Skilled sewing

Our skilled seamers use premium-quality thread to sew each sofa's components together. 

Take a closer look at the sewing and you will be pleasantly surprised by its exquisite details.

Attractive Detailing -- Tufted Buttons & Antique Studs

The buttons on the sofa are elaborately hand-finished completed by our master craftsmen, 

ensuring that they are inserted deeply, correctly, and firmly into the sofa, and maintain the sofa's shape and tension.

Each stud is meticulously positioned and nailed into place by our skilled craftspeople.

I Have My Own Design, Can I Customize My Chesterfield?

Of course you can! As a custom furniture manufacturer, 

we can customize Chesterfield in both a variety of sizes as well as variations.

Please just contact us. Let's work together to turn your inspiration into reality！

Below are the different designs for our Chesterfield sofa sets,

or you can click here to see our hot-sale Chesterfield leather sofa- EARL STANHOPE