Armchair - a short guide

First, lets answer the question - what armchair is? So armchair is very simply a chair with armrests. The chair is designed with a place to rest the arms. Although shapes, lines, and upholstery of the armchair can be very different - in this guide we well go through all available types.

Probably you don't know that but the idea of the armchair was developed for comfort. Before the popularity of the French fauteuil designs furniture was very stiff and hard with straight-edges. Furniture in the 18th century reflected more intricate designs, curved lines and comfort. Due to it popularity, armchair become a common addition to a living room, bedroom, or library.



Now, something about different styles of armchair. The traditional armchair design was initiated as a way to incorporate lounging into the design by softening edges and upholstery. An ever growing middle class sought more practical and comfortable furniture which influenced the design.

The fauteuil comfortable (comfortable armchair) grew in popularity in France and France quickly became a world leader and forerunner in the design of new furniture styles. A typical fauteuil is an armchair with open sides, exposed ornately carved wood and graceful curved lines.

The bergere style armchair also originated during this period. A bergere chair is an upholstered armchair with closed sides. The sides, back, and seat were all upholstered and the seat is wider and cushioned.

This wingback style of armchair was made popular in England. The wingback chair is taller than it is wide and has 2 side panels that extend from the back of the chair - in a winged shape. These panels connect to the closed-in arms. Originally, the wingback style was developed to protect delicate ladies from the heat of a fireplace.

The Queen Anne style armchair is a delicate version of the wingback chair. This type of chair has the same winged shape and extended side panels however the shoulders and the back of the chair droop slightly to give a design a more feminine look.

Last, but no least - the club chair that become popular in the early 20th century. It has a low backed, widely ample seat design and is most often completely upholstered in leather. This style of armchair was most typically found in English gentlemen’s clubs so this explains the name of the chair.