The Settee: From 17th Century Till Today

Decorative furniture is wonderful for its beauty and function. You get to raise your home’s level of style and class, while simultaneously bringing in pieces of furniture that can actually be sat in, lounged on, or the like. The upholstered settee is one such elegant example.

Settee furniture is actually a fancy phrase for sofa, and can be used in such general terms, but most people refer to specific style of sofa dating back to the seventeenth century in Europe. They are designed to accommodate two or more people, often in a reclining position. Over the centuries interior designers came to include matching chairs, as well. The seats of settees are always upholstered, while the back and arms may or may not be. Different versions of settee sofas have come into popularity, like the chaise lounge and chesterfield. Each have a particular character. Some look particularly old century, others are more contemporary.

The original French settee is of delicate and intricate design. A wooden frame and fully upholstered, the style is lightly stuffed. The upholstery fabric often has delicate patterns, sometimes is textured, as well. The frame often has arches and special carvings. The arms are short, not quite reaching the front edge of the seat. A Victorian settee is similar in basic design, but even more dramatic. For example, the arches are steeper, or even progress into more intricate shapes. Even more dramatic fabrics are used for the upholstery. If you are searching out for a true antique settee, these are the designs you will be looking at.

In deep contrast, a modern leather settee will have sleek lines. Usually, it is upholstered in overstuffed leather and the metal frame is barely noticeable. Any style of throw pillow or shag pillow can be tossed onto modern leather settees to create a real contemporary “lounge” look. They are for getting comfortable.

Both antique and contemporary styles can be built for different spaces. Some are more appropriate in halls or entryways. Others offer so much reclining space that they look best in the bedroom. A small corner settee is a prime example of living room decorative furniture. Constructed to fit neatly into the corner (true to its name), these settees provide extra decorative seating. Usually, you’ll want other chairs and even sofas in addition to the corner piece.

Take advantage of settee cushions, as well. Especially if your settee is only lightly stuffed, a few elegant or designer throw pillows will go far to create a more comfortable and welcoming environment. Only in hall settee, perhaps, would you shy away from extra cushioning; those pieces are truly decorative, and not often for actual lounging. Of course, that’s all up to your discretion.

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