Sofa Arm Style Full Guide From Rolled to Square

When it comes to choosing a sofa for your home, there are many factors to consider, including size, shape, fabric, and comfort. But the arm style can also play a key role in the overall look and feel of the piece. From rolled arms with a softer, more traditional look to sleek and contemporary track arms, the arm style can help define the character of a sofa.

There are several common sofa arm styles to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and appeal.

In this article, we will delve deeper into the various sofa arm styles. Whether you're looking for a classic and refined English arm sofa or a sleek and contemporary track arm piece, there is a sofa arm style to suit your taste and needs.

Square Arm Sofa

A square arm sofa is a type of sofa that has square-shaped arms that extend from the backrest to the front of the sofa. These arms are typically wider than the sofa's backrest, and they may be cushioned for added comfort. Square arm sofas are often considered a more traditional or classic design, and they can be made in a variety of styles and materials. Some common materials used to make square arm sofas include leather, fabric, and microfiber.

The history of the square arm sofa is closely tied to the history of furniture design in general. Furniture has been an integral part of human civilization for thousands of years, with ancient cultures producing a variety of seating options for homes and public spaces. The earliest known examples of sofas are believed to date back to ancient Egypt, where they were used as seating in public spaces and private homes.

The modern sofa, as we know it today, has its roots in the 18th and 19th centuries, when furniture design began to focus more on comfort and functionality. During this time, sofas began to take on more varied forms, including those with square arms. Square arm sofas became particularly popular in the mid-20th century, when furniture design began to focus more on clean lines and simple, geometric shapes. Today, square arm sofas are still a popular choice for many people, and they can be found in a variety of styles and materials to suit different tastes and decor preferences.

Key Characteristics of Square Arm Sofa

Some key characteristics of square arm sofas include:

Square Arms: The most distinctive feature of a square arm sofa is the shape of its arms. As the name suggests, these arms are square in shape, rather than round or curved.

Comfortable for Shorter People: The arm rests are smaller than those on standard sofas, which makes it more comfortable for shorter people.

Seat Depth: The depth of the seat is often deeper than other types of sofa shapes, which helps to make it feel more comfortable and supportive.

Solid Hardwood: The armrests are made of solid hardwood, which gives it a rich, sturdy feel and helps it stand out from other sofas in the market.

Pros

Perfect for Small Places: They are perfect for small living spaces, but also offer plenty of seating space for friends or family members.

More Padding than Other Sofas: The main advantage of square arm sofas is that they are very comfortable. They tend to have more padding than other types of sofas, which makes them much more comfortable to sit on for longer periods of time.

No Curves or Angles: Square arm sofas also tend to be more durable than other types of sofas because they do not have any curve or angle where one side might hang over another side like some other types of sofas might do. This makes them sturdier and more long-lasting than other types of sofas which often have curves and angles where one side might hang over another side making them more likely to break down sooner than other types of sofas might do.

Cons

Not Adjustable: They're not adjustable, so you can't customize them to your height or your torso size.

No Storage: This type of couches doesn't have storage space underneath them. This means you'll need a cabinet or cabinet storage unit if you want somewhere to put all your things like books or magazines.

Rolled Arm Sofa

A rolled arm sofa is a type of furniture that features arms with a rounded or curved shape. This design element gives the sofa a traditional or classic look and can add a comfortable and inviting feel to a room. Rolled arm sofas can come in a variety of sizes and styles, ranging from formal and traditional to casual and modern. They can be made of a variety of materials, including leather, fabric, and microfiber, and can be upholstered in a wide range of colors and patterns. Rolled arm sofas can be a great addition to any living room, family room, or den, providing comfortable seating for relaxing, entertaining, or simply enjoying the company of others.

The rolled arm sofa is a classic piece of furniture that has been around for centuries. It is believed to have originated in England during the Victorian era and became popular in the United States during the early 20th century. Rolled arm sofas were often made of wood, with the arms and backrests featuring intricate carving and other decorative elements. The cushions and upholstery were usually made of soft, luxurious materials such as velvet or silk, and the sofas were often adorned with fringes, tassels, and other ornamental details.

In the mid-20th century, rolled arm sofas began to evolve and became more streamlined and modern in design. The arms and backrests became less ornate and the cushions and upholstery were made of more practical materials such as fabric or leather. Rolled arm sofas became popular in a variety of settings, from formal living rooms to casual family rooms, and were used for everything from relaxing and reading to entertaining guests. Today, rolled arm sofas are available in a wide range of styles and materials, making it easy to find one that fits any decor and budget.

Key Characteristics of Rolled Arm Sofa

Rounded or Curved Arms: The defining feature of a rolled arm sofa is its arms, which are shaped in a rounded or curved fashion. This design element gives the sofa a traditional or classic look.

Upholstered Cushions: Rolled arm sofas typically have upholstered cushions on the seat and backrest. These cushions can be made of a variety of materials, including fabric, leather, and microfiber, and can be upholstered in a wide range of colors and patterns.

Fringes and Tassels: Some rolled arm sofas may have decorative elements such as fringes, tassels, or piping that adds a touch of elegance or interest to the design.

Pros

The Best of Both Worlds: The rolled arm sofa provides the comfort and style of a traditional sofa and the functionality of a recliner.

No Stuffing: They're also more durable than their counterparts because they don't have any stuffing inside of them—so there's less potential for wear and tear over time compared with other types of furniture.

No Loose Threads: Finally, rolled arm sofas are easier to clean than some others because there aren't any loose threads or pieces inside of them that can get caught up in your vacuum cleaner or brush!

Cons

No Back Support: There is no back support for your feet when sitting on one of these sofas. So, if you like to sit up straight, this may not be the best choice for you.

Footrests: Some people find that their feet slip off the footrests when they sit down on them.

Round Arm Sofa

A round arm sofa is a type of couch or sofa that has curved or rounded armrests. This style of armrest is typically wider and more rounded than traditional square or rectangular armrests, and it can add a softer, more organic look to the overall design of the sofa. Round arm sofas are often used in modern or contemporary design schemes, but they can also be incorporated into more traditional or vintage-inspired styles as well. Some round arm sofas are upholstered in a single fabric, while others may have a mix of fabrics or patterns on the arms, back, and cushions.

It is difficult to pinpoint the exact history of the round arm sofa, as furniture design has evolved over time and different styles have emerged and fallen out of favor. However, it is likely that round arm sofas have been around for quite some time, as they are a variation on the classic couch or sofa design.

The earliest sofas were probably invented in ancient Egypt, where they were used as seating for royalty and other high-ranking individuals. These early sofas were made of stone or wood and were often decorated with intricate carvings and ornamentation. In ancient Rome, sofas were used for reclining and were often made of leather or other materials that were more comfortable to lounge on.

As furniture design evolved over the centuries, sofas became more popular and were produced in a wider range of styles and materials. Round arm sofas may have emerged as a variation on the traditional rectangular or square arm sofa, with the curved or rounded arms adding a softer, more organic look to the overall design. Today, round arm sofas are a common sight in homes around the world and are available in a wide range of styles and materials to suit different design preferences.

Key characteristics of Round Arm Sofa

Curved or Rounded Armrests: The most defining feature of a round arm sofa is the shape of the armrests. Instead of being square or rectangular, the armrests are curved or rounded, which gives the sofa a softer, more organic look.

Variety of Materials: Round arm sofas can be upholstered in a variety of materials, including fabric, leather, and synthetic materials. Some round arm sofas are covered in a single fabric, while others may have a mix of fabrics or patterns on the arms, back, and cushions.

Circular Shape: The most popular feature is its circular shape, which creates a sense of openness and space even when the sofa is placed against the wall.

Pros

Ergonomic Cushioning: Cushioning is ergonomic and provides support to your back, neck, and head.

No Sharp Edges: The round shape makes it easier to fit into smaller spaces, and the lack of sharp edges means that you won't have to worry about hurting yourself on the furniture.

Wider Seats: The seats on round arm sofas are wider and softer which makes them much easier to sit on for longer periods of time without getting tired or uncomfortable from sitting too long in one position.

Cons

Low Back: The back of the sofa is low, which can make it difficult for taller individuals to sit comfortably on it.

Impractical for Smaller Spaces: While it does provide ample space for both guests and family members to sit comfortably, its overall size makes it an impractical choice for smaller spaces. If you have limited space in your living room or bedroom, this sofa might not be the best option for you.

Flared Arm Sofa

A flared arm sofa is a type of couch or sofa that has arms that flare outwards at the top. The arms of the sofa are typically wider at the top than they are at the base, giving the sofa a distinctive, flared appearance. This design element can add visual interest and a touch of style to a room, and it can also provide additional comfort when sitting on the sofa. Flared arm sofas are available in a variety of styles, sizes, and materials, and they can be a great addition to any living room or den.

The flared arm sofa is a relatively modern design element that has gained popularity in recent decades. It is not clear exactly when the flared arm sofa first appeared, but it is likely that it developed as a result of the evolving design trends in furniture.

Flared arm sofas are often associated with mid-century modern design, which emerged in the 1940s and 1950s and is characterized by clean lines, organic shapes, and a focus on functionality. Mid-century modern furniture often featured flared arms as a way to add visual interest and personality to the piece.

In recent years, flared arm sofas have continued to be popular, with many designers and manufacturers offering a range of styles and materials to choose from. They are now available in a variety of styles, from traditional to contemporary, and can be found in homes and commercial spaces around the world.

Key characteristics of Flared Arm Sofa

Flared Armrests: The arm rests are shaped in a way that makes them appear to flare outward slightly from the sofa's back.

Foam or Leather: The seat cushion is made from foam or leather, which are both durable materials that can hold up well over time.

Tapered Legs: The sofa's legs are tapered to create an elegant look.

Pros

Good for Arthritis: This type of sofa will especially benefit those who have trouble sitting down for long periods of time due to back problems or other health issues such as arthritis.

Thick Back Cushion: Flared arm sofas are also very easy to clean. This is because they have a thick cushion on the back of the sofa that protects it from spills and stains.

Sturdy Legs: Additionally, they have sturdy legs that prevent them from tipping over easily when someone sits on them too hard.

Prevents Slumping: The flared shape also helps to prevent a common problem in armchairs: slumping. Slumping is caused by pressure on the thighs, which can be uncomfortable and lead to fatigue over time. Flared arms help to prevent this by keeping the legs up in an elevated position that doesn't put any pressure on the thighs.

Cons

Tacky Look: The flaring of the arm section of the sofa can make it look tacky.

Cannot Recline: They can't recline or convert into a bed, which means you won't be able to use it for sleeping.

Allergic Reactions: Flared arm sofas can cause allergic reactions from people who are sensitive to certain fabrics or dyes used in them.

Recessed Arm Sofa

A recessed arm sofa is a type of sofa that has arms that are set back or recessed from the front edge of the sofa. This design feature creates a more streamlined and modern look, as well as providing a bit more space on the inside of the sofa for people to sit or relax. The recessed arm design can also make it easier to get in and out of the sofa, as the arms do not protrude as far out as on a traditional sofa.

In the past, recessed arm sofas were often found in modern and contemporary spaces, but today they can be found in a wide range of decor styles. As with any piece of furniture, the design and style of recessed arm sofas have likely been influenced by various cultural and aesthetic trends throughout history.

As time passed, sofas became more common and began to take on various forms. In the 16th and 17th centuries, sofas were often made with large, curved arms and were used as statement pieces in formal living rooms. In the 18th and 19th centuries, sofas became more functional and were often used in a variety of settings, including parlors and libraries. In the 20th century, sofas continued to evolve and take on new forms. The recessed arm sofa is one example of this evolution, as it represents a more modern and streamlined approach to sofa design. Recessed arm sofas can be found in a variety of styles and materials, and they are often used to create a contemporary or minimalist look in a space.

Key characteristics of Recessed Arm Sofa

Recessed Arm: The recessed arm design gives it an extra level of comfort and style without sacrificing functionality.

Curved Backrest: The Recessed Arm Sofa has a curved backrest that provides support to your back while you sit on the sofa.

Curved Arms: The arms are also curved, which allows you to lean back against them as well.

Bean Bag Feeling: The curves of the armrests are curved to match the curve of your body and make you feel like you're lounging in a luxurious beanbag chair.

Pros

Versatile Design: The sofa comes with comfortable cushions and has been designed with versatility in mind so that you can use it as an armchair, loveseat or recliner.

Easy to Relax: The recessed arms make it easy for you to relax on the couch or watch TV if you want something more comfortable than sitting on the floor!

Removable Cushions: The cushions can be removed and washed separately from the rest of the sofa if necessary to keep them looking fresh!

Strong Frame: It has a strong frame that supports the sofa's weight.

Cons

Limited Armrest Space: Because the arms are recessed, there may be less space available for armrests, which could be a drawback for some people who like to rest their arms while sitting.

Recessed Arms Reduced Durability: The recessed arm design may be less durable than traditional sofas with larger arms, as the arms may be more prone to damage or wear and tear over time.

Tuxedo Arm Sofa

A tuxedo arm sofa is a type of furniture that is characterized by its straight, rectangular arms that are the same height as the backrest of the sofa. This style of arm is called a "tuxedo arm" because it is similar in shape to the lapels of a tuxedo jacket. Tuxedo arm sofas are generally considered to be a more formal and traditional style of sofa, and they may be upholstered in a variety of materials including leather, fabric, or velvet. Some tuxedo arm sofas may also have tufting or other decorative details.

The tuxedo arm sofa is a classic and traditional style of furniture that has been popular for many years. The exact origins of the tuxedo arm sofa are not well documented, but it is likely that this style of sofa has been around for at least a century. Tuxedo arm sofas are named after the lapels of a tuxedo jacket, which are typically straight and rectangular in shape. This style of arm is often associated with formal and traditional furniture, and it is often seen in more formal settings such as living rooms, libraries, and parlors.

Key Characteristics of Tuxedo Arm Sofa

Leather and Suede: The Tuxedo Arm Sofa is made with a combination of leather and suede that provides a rich, luxurious feel.

Straight, Rectangular Arms: The defining feature of a tuxedo arm sofa is its straight, rectangular arms that are the same height as the backrest of the sofa. This style of arm is also known as a "box arm" or a "cube arm."

High Backrest: Tuxedo arm sofas often have a high backrest that extends up to the same height as the arms. This creates a formal and upright silhouette.

Foldable Footrests: The sofa has a small footrest that can be folded up if you want more room to sit on the couch.

Pros

Polyester: The tuxedo arm sofa is made from 100% polyester, which means it's super durable and easy to clean.

Can Fit in Any Kind of Space: It comes with a very high backrest and also has a slightly rounded shape with a sharp edge at the bottom. This allows it to fit in any kind of space without taking too much space.

Excellent Reclining: The first thing we noticed is that the sofa has an excellent backrest. Unlike most sofas, which have only one or two positions for reclining—and then only if you get a really nice one - the tuxedo arm sofa can go through every single position!

Good for Entertaining: The formal and elegant style of a tuxedo arm sofa makes it a good choice for entertaining guests. It can provide a comfortable and stylish seating option for guests to sit in during events or gatherings.

Cons

Noisy Fabric: The only downside is that the fabric can be noisy when you sit on it. The sound of fabric rubbing together is quite loud, so if you are someone who wants to have a relaxing home environment, this sofa may be too much noise for you.

Not Long-Term: Another downside is that the tuxedo arm sofa isn't made to last—the fabric will fade and get holes over time, which means that you'll need to replace it sooner than later.

Pillow Top Arm Sofa

A pillow top arm sofa is a type of sofa that features a soft, padded top on the arms of the sofa. This can provide additional comfort for people sitting on the sofa, as well as a more stylish and luxurious appearance. Pillow top arm sofas are available in a variety of styles and sizes, and can be made from a range of materials, including leather, fabric, and microfiber. They are often more expensive than other types of sofas due to the additional padding and materials used in their construction.

It is difficult to pinpoint the exact history of the pillow top arm sofa, as this type of furniture has likely been around in various forms for centuries. However, the concept of adding padding to furniture for comfort dates back to ancient civilizations, with the ancient Egyptians being credited with creating some of the first cushioned furniture.

The modern pillow top arm sofa likely evolved from the traditional Chesterfield sofa, which was named after the 4th Earl of Chesterfield in the 18th century. The Chesterfield sofa is characterized by its deep button tufting, rolled arms, and low back, and was originally designed for the comfort of men in the Earl's smoking room. It is possible that the pillow top arm sofa was developed as a more comfortable variation of the Chesterfield sofa, with the addition of a soft, padded top on the arms.

Key Characteristics of Pillow Top Arm Sofa

Removable Pillows: The pillows are removable, which allows you to change the look of your sofa by removing or replacing the pillows.

Padded Back: The back of the sofa is also padded, so you don't feel any pressure on your back when you lay down or sit up.

Padded Armrests: The armrests are also padded so that they don't hurt your arms when you sit down.

3 Reclining Positions: It comes with three reclining positions: upright, recline and flat, making it easy for anyone who uses this sofa to get comfortable at their own pace.

Pros

Light Weight and Sturdy: It's lightweight enough that it doesn't feel bulky when you're sitting on it, but sturdy enough that it won't sag or wobble when you lean back against it.

Soft Cushion Top: The pillow top arm sofa provides the best comfort for your body in any position. You can have the best sleep with this design. It has a very soft cushion top which is ideal for a good night's rest and relaxation.

Classy and Modern Look: The couch has a look that is both modern and classic, making it perfect for any living room or bedroom.

Cons

High Armrests: The arm rests are too high, which makes it difficult for people with long arms to reach the armrests without contorting their bodies awkwardly.

More Prone to Wear and Tear: Pillow top arm sofas are designed with rounded edges, which means that they're more prone to damage than traditional couches because there's less surface area for the body weight of an individual to sit on them without damaging the edges.

Slope Arm Sofa

A slope arm sofa is a type of sofa that has arms that slope downward rather than being straight or perpendicular to the back of the sofa. This design feature can give the sofa a more modern or contemporary look and can also make it more comfortable to rest your arms on. Slope arm sofas are available in a variety of styles, sizes, and materials, so you can find one that fits your personal taste and needs. Some common materials used for slope arm sofas include leather, fabric, and microfiber.

The use of sloping arms on furniture dates back at least to the mid-20th century, when it became popular in modernist and contemporary design.

In the 1950s and 1960s, furniture designers such as Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, and Harry Bertoia incorporated sloping arms into their work as a way to create a more streamlined, minimalist look. These designers were influenced by the functionalist and modernist movements, which emphasized the use of simple, geometric forms and a focus on utility.

Slope arm sofas continue to be popular today and can be found in a range of styles, from traditional to modern. The design is often associated with a sleek, modern aesthetic and can be a stylish and comfortable addition to any living space.

Key characteristics of Slope Arm Sofa

Sunken Seat: They have a sunken seat, so you can sink into the space of the sofa and relax.

Angled Armrests: The arm rests are often angled to help you find a comfortable position to sit in.

Arms Positioned on Both Sides: The arms are often positioned on both sides of the sofa, allowing you to sit either side of the sofa comfortably.

Sloped Back: They have a sloped back, which means that the head and leg area are angled towards the ground.

Pros

Comfortable for Resting: The slope arm sofa is a great option for those who want to have a sofa that will allow them to sit up in it and still have the armrests that are comfortable for resting.

Fully Reclinable: This sofa is fully reclinable.

Inviting Look: They have a much more inviting look, since they're sloped in such a way that they seem to go on forever, like a long slope from one side of the room to another. This makes them perfect for larger rooms, as well as spaces where people congregate in small groups or at least spend many hours together on these sofas.

Cons

Slip Around: An issue with slope arm sofas is that they tend to slip around when someone is sitting on them because they're not sturdy enough.

Limited Legroom: Slope arm sofas have limited legroom.

Low to the Ground: The couch is also very low to the ground, so if you have a pet who likes to jump up on things, this could be a problem.

Fold up Mechanism is Hard: The slope arm sofa has a hard fold-up mechanism that makes it hard to clean. The crevices between the arms are also very tight and hard to get into, so you might have some trouble getting all of your pet hair out.

Track Arm Sofa

A track arm sofa is a type of sofa that features armrests with a straight, horizontal design, often referred to as "track arms." This style of armrest is characterized by its clean lines and angular shape, which gives it a modern, contemporary look. Track arm sofas are typically made with a sturdy frame and high-density foam cushions for comfort and support. They can be upholstered in a variety of materials, including leather, fabric, and microfiber, and are available in a range of colors and styles to suit different decorating preferences. Track arm sofas are often used in modern and minimalist spaces, but can also be used to add a touch of contemporary style to more traditional spaces.

It is likely that the track arm style evolved as a response to changing tastes and preferences in furniture design.

In the mid-20th century, there was a shift towards more minimalist and modern designs in furniture, and the track arm sofa is a product of this movement. As people became more interested in clean lines and a more streamlined look, the track arm style emerged as a popular choice.

The track arm sofa has continued to be a popular choice in furniture design, and it remains a common sight in modern and contemporary homes. It's simple and elegant design makes it a versatile choice that can fit into a variety of decorating styles.

Key Characteristics of Track Arm Sofa

Straight, Horizontal Armrests: The most distinctive feature of a track arm sofa is its armrests, which are straight and horizontal, rather than curved or angled. This gives the sofa a clean, modern look.

Uncluttered Design: Track arm sofas are known for their simple, uncluttered design. They often have a sleek, streamlined appearance, with minimal embellishments or decorative elements.

Sturdy Frame: Track arm sofas are typically made with a sturdy frame to ensure durability and support. They may have wooden or metal frames, depending on the design.

High-Density Foam Cushions: Most track arm sofas are made with high-density foam cushions for comfort and support. These cushions are often firm, but may also have a layer of softer foam on top for added comfort.

Pros

Easy Moving: The track arm also makes it easy to move the sofa when needed and adjust its height, making it a good option for any situation where there is space constraints.

Different Features: Some models have storage spaces under the seat cushions, which makes it easy for you to put away your belongings without having to move them around too much. Other track arm sofas have extra space on top of each cushion for storing things like books or magazines.

It is Suitable for Both Indoor and Outdoor Use: You can use this sofa in your house or at the park, or even in the office if you need to relax after work.

Cons

Takes More Space: The Track Arm Sofa looks very different from the traditional sofa. If you have a large living room, this type of sofa will not be good for you because it can take up too much space in your room.

Low Back: One of the biggest problems with track arm sofas is that they often have a low back or no back at all. This means that if you want to sit on them for longer periods of time - like watching TV or reading - you might end up getting uncomfortable because your lower back is pressed against the armrests.

FAQs

How do I choose the right sofa arm style for my home?

When choosing a sofa arm style, it's important to consider the overall aesthetic of your home. If you have a traditional or formal decor, a rolled arm or English arm sofa may be a good fit. If you prefer a more modern or minimalistic look, a square arm or track arm sofa might be more suitable. It's also important to consider the size of the room and the amount of space you have available for the sofa, as well as the purpose of the sofa (e.g. for entertaining guests or for daily use).

Can I customize the arm style of my sofa?

Some sofa manufacturers or retailers may offer customization options, such as the ability to choose the arm style or fabric of your sofa. It's worth inquiring about these options if you have specific preferences or if you're looking for a more unique piece. Keep in mind that customizing a sofa may come with an additional cost and may take longer to be delivered.

How do I care for a sofa with a specific arm style?

To care for a sofa with a specific arm style, follow the manufacturer's recommendations for cleaning and maintenance. In general, it's a good idea to vacuum the sofa regularly to remove dust and dirt, and to use a soft, damp cloth to gently clean any spills or stains. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the fabric or finish of the sofa. If the sofa has removable cushions, be sure to flip and rotate them periodically to ensure even wear.

Are there any tips for styling a sofa with a specific arm style?

To style a sofa with a specific arm style, consider the overall decor of the room and choose accessories and accents that complement the sofa's design. For example, if you have a rolled arm sofa with a traditional look, you might add throw pillows in classic patterns and textures, or add a decorative throw blanket in a coordinating color. If you have a track arm sofa with a modern look, you might opt for sleek, minimalistic accessories in metallic or monochromatic tones. Experiment with different combinations of accents and accessories to find the look that works best for you.

Can different arm styles affect the comfort of a sofa?

Yes, different arm styles can affect the comfort of a sofa. For example, a sofa with rolled arms may have a more formal and upright feel, which may not be as comfortable to relax on as a sofa with English arms or a loose back pillow. Similarly, a sofa with track arms may not provide as much support as a sofa with a more substantial arm style. Consider your own comfort preferences and the intended use of the sofa when choosing an arm style.

Can arm style affect the price of a sofa?

The arm style of a sofa can potentially affect its price, although other factors such as size, materials, and overall construction will also be important considerations. In general, a sofa with a more intricate or elaborate arm style may cost more than a sofa with a simpler arm style. However, this will vary depending on the specific sofa and manufacturer.