The Chesterfield leather sofa is perhaps the most iconic piece of home furniture and its popularity, whilst undimmed amongst certain discerning furniture lovers has been on the decline, seen as old fashioned and stuffy, until recently. The love for Chesterfield leather sofas is increasing again.

Sam Neumann of leather sofa manufacturer and retailer, English Sofas, explains: "A Chesterfield sofa is a classic piece of furniture that dates back hundreds of years. As with many old fashion icons their desirabilty comes and goes and we and other leather sofa retailers have seen an increase in sales for these beatiful pieces of leather furniture.”

A Chesterfield sofa is much more than just somewhere to park yourself, it is ultra stylish, decadent and smacks of smoky, wooden panelled rooms and 'Olde England'. The main characteristics of Chesterfield sofas are their arms which are typically as high as their backs, deep set studs and high quality English leather.

The name ‘Chesterfield’ (commonly used in the 18th century as a word for sofa) is believed to originate from the furniture made for the ‘Earl of Chesterfield’ who saw himself as something of a trend setter of the period, helping the sofa style become quickly popular in well to do places.

Chesterfield leather sofas are renowned for their quality of construction and even now most Chesterfield sofas will be hand built incorporating original techniques and many man hours.

Some companies are making replica antique Chesterfield sofas based on 18th and 19th century originals using the old techniques and materials. Nowadays the diversity of Chesterfield sofas on sale is simply amazing with some sofas being sold in lucid colours and even in materials other than leather.

Part of the appeal of Chesterfield sofas is their versatility and that they look right at home in the most regal of houses, down the pub or in your very own living room.