The Centuries-Old Couch Design That Deserves A Serious Comeback

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From L-shaped sectionals to brightly colored loveseats and Art Deco tuxedo couches, there are enough couch options to suit everyone's taste. But today's homeowners are starting to lean toward something a little different, namely sculptural shapes and adaptable designs. This change means a particular outdated sofa is on the verge of a major comeback: the fainting couch.

Fainting couches are similar to chaise lounges with a few notable differences: they are more slender, have a partial backrest, and a raised headrest. The design can be traced back to the ancient Greeks, but people are most familiar with the Victorian-era couches, with their elaborate woodwork and lush textiles. Commonly thought to be used by women with too-tight corsets, recent theories suggest these stunning pieces were created as a place to relax and read. It was considered improper to rest in a made bed. As time went by, fainting couches fell out of style, possibly because Art Deco's more modern designs became favored.

So why are designers falling back in love with this outdated style? There are two possible reasons. Recent trends show that flowy silhouettes are taking over. There is also a desire to move away from cookie-cutter furniture. "We're seeing a growing appetite for character and storytelling. The fainting couch answers both: It's sculptural, romantic, and layered with meaning," says principal designer and owner of Chelt Interiors, Isabel Jackson (via Apartment Therapy). This unique piece of furniture may be the decor you've been searching for to add personality to your home.

Purchasing a fainting couch can feel a bit like those choose-your-own-adventure books. In this case, you can choose to purchase a new piece, like this gorgeous HomJoones Tufted Upholstered Rolled Arm Chaise Lounge, or something vintage. If you love the look of the Victorian-era fainting couches and are up for a hunt, there are a few tips to keep in mind to successfully buy vintage furniture for your home.

First, experts recommend shopping for vintage or secondhand furniture in person. You can get a good look at the item's size, condition, and style. If that isn't possible or you fall in love with a piece online, ask yourself if you really love the shape. Upholstery and fixtures can be replaced, but the frame is generally fixed. If you don't love the configuration or don't have the time or inclination for DIY repairs, it may not be the piece for you. Make sure, too, to thoroughly check the piece's condition for major damage.

When searching for fainting couches online, vary your search terms. 'Vintage' is a popular phrase, but searching for 'secondhand' can help you unearth gorgeous pieces, too. Also, check the item's title and measurements in the listing. For example, when we checked eBay for fainting couches, many of the first page results were either salesperson-samples or doll furniture. Many listings include the specifications farther down the page, but don't be afraid to ask the seller if you don't see them.

Just because fainting couches were originally designed for rest, it doesn't mean they only work in the bedroom — although they can be the perfect addition to a Victorian-inspired bedroom you'd want to sleep in. This slim-style couch is surprisingly versatile and can add a touch of elegance to any room. Place your new piece in your entryway to elevate the space and give yourself a comfortable spot to slip on your shoes. Use it as a luxurious velvet sofa in your living room — as the primary couch in a small room or additional seating in a larger one. Add it to your home office to boost creativity and give you a place to take a midday nap.

The key to adding this piece to any room is to leave some space around it or style it minimally. Because fainting couches are statement pieces, they tend to dominate an area. This can quickly overwhelm a design, so leaning into a less-is-more decor ethos will help the piece stand out. If your fainting couch feels like it's sticking out like a sore thumb, try adding modern pieces nearby. This could be a bold patterned throw blanket or pillow, a favorite contemporary art print on the wall behind it, or a modern floor lamp, like the LEPOWER Wood Tripod Floor Lamp. Layering modern with the antique helps blend the two design styles.