It's Been Around For Centuries — The Classic Sofa Design That Deserves A Comeback

If you're on the hunt for a new couch and crave something classic, the English roll arm sofa could be just the piece you desire. Today, sofa trends are all about choosing the right shapes and materials, but comfort is also high up on the list of sofa must-haves. The English roll arm sofa can satisfy these needs, introducing a charming and timeless shape to the space while also exuding comfort and coziness.

The English roll arm sofa can be identified most notably by its low, gently rolled arms. The armrests are lower than many other sofas, creating a more relaxed and ergonomic feel. Further, the arms on the English roll arm are curved outwards slightly and are recessed on the couch in such a way that the cushion extends to the edge in front of the armrest. Another notable feature of this sofa is its legs, which are typically raised and stylized.

The English roll arm couch arrived in interiors around the late 18th century as a more practical and comfortable seating solution than the luxurious and extravagant furniture of the century prior. This may have been in response to the shifting needs of the home at the time, when folks preferred spaces meant for casual living over formal setups meant to impress guests. Today, the sofa is a timeless piece that looks great in traditional spaces. And while it has never really gone out of style, it may just deserve a moment in the spotlight once again.

While opinions are mixed on whether an English roll arm is trending, we think it could be an old-school sofa look that deserves a comeback in homes today. The low curved armrest offers comfort that typical armrests can't. Not only is this great for propping up your arms, but some folks find it much more comfortable as a place to lay their head when reclining on the sofa. Additionally, the deep cushions boost the comfort level of this sofa, making it great for leisure spaces.

When it comes to looks, the T-shaped cushion and recessed arms create the effect of the sofa appearing smaller in your space. This could be great for small living rooms where a giant sofa could look overwhelming. Also, the raised legs introduce height to the furniture and allow for more visible floor space, which can help a room appear larger. One of the couch mistakes that make a small living room feel even more cluttered is having large furniture that sits flush to the ground.

Of course, the English roll arm isn't necessarily the perfect sofa for everyone. It has a very traditional appearance, which isn't ideal in every design style. Another concern is that the deep cushions can be quite large and may not be a good choice for every room, especially in homes where clunky cushions could take up too much space.