The sofa, a centrepiece in most modern homes, has a rich and diverse history spanning centuries and continents. From its humble beginnings as a simple bench in ancient times to becoming the luxurious and comfortable piece of furniture we know today, the sofa has evolved significantly. In this blog post, we explore the fascinating history of the sofa and how we have come to design EMME ’s exceptional sofas.
The Origins: Antiquity and the Middle Ages
The history of the sofa dates back to ancient Egyptian, Greek and Roman civilizations, where raised seats known as "klines" and "lectus" were used. These pieces of furniture were used both for lounging and for socializing during banquets. Made of wood and often decorated with cushions, they were a symbol of status and luxury.
During the Middle Ages in Europe, the concept of a sofa was not so common. Most people sat on wooden benches or chairs. However, in wealthier homes, upholstered furniture began to appear, precursors to modern sofas.
Renaissance and Baroque: The Birth of Comfort
The Renaissance brought about a revival of art and culture, which also influenced furniture design. Sofas began to gain popularity, with more elaborate designs and the use of more comfortable materials. During the Baroque period, sofas became even more ornate, with carved details and richly detailed upholstery.
18th and 19th centuries: Design Revolution
The 18th century saw the introduction of the "Chesterfield", a sofa with a distinctive deep buttoned design and arms and back of equal height. This style, associated with elegance and luxury, remains popular today.
In the 19th century, with the Industrial Revolution, furniture production changed dramatically. Mass production made sofas more accessible to a larger part of the population. New materials such as spring steel were also introduced, which significantly improved comfort.
20th Century: Innovation and Functionality
The 20th century brought an explosion of sofa styles and designs. From the minimalist sofas of the Bauhaus to mid-century modern designs, sofas became key pieces of home decor. During this period, sofa beds also emerged, combining functionality with comfort.
EMME: Combining Tradition and Innovation
At EMME, we draw inspiration from this rich history to design sofas that combine the best of tradition with modern innovation. We use high-quality materials such as solid Nordic pine wood and advanced suspension systems to create sofas that are not only comfortable, but also durable and sustainable.
Our commitment to quality and design is reflected in every detail, from the stitching to the finish. We believe that a good sofa is more than just a piece of furniture; it is the heart of the home, a place where people gather, relax and make memories.
The history of the sofa is a fascinating evolution of design, comfort and functionality. At EMME, we honour this history by creating sofas that combine the best of the past with the innovations of the present, ensuring that each piece is not only a testament to style and elegance, but also to quality and long-lasting comfort. Discover our collection of sofas .
