When it comes to great upholstery, it's all about the details. Tufting or no tufting? Loose cushion or tight seat? Nailhead trim or piping? To get the skinny on the details that matter most, we looked to George Smith (the gold standard in upholstery) for the anatomy of a timeless seat.
Castors
Made of brass, castors give a piece a very classic (somewhat British) aesthetic. Not only are these little wheels charming, they make pieces easier to move around, making periodic rearranging of your furniture a breeze.
Tufting
Done by hand and secured with covered buttons, tufting brings to mind a classic Chesterfield sofa. This extra bit of ornament can take on a masculine (think brown leather) or feminine feel, depending on the fabric.
Nail-head Trim
Nail-head accents are like jewelry for your sofa or chair. Typically available in a number of different finishes, this trim treatment adds interest and a healthy dose of tailoring to any upholstered piece. "Depending on the look you want, nail heads closer together creates a stately vibe and farther apart goes more rustic."
Straight Leg or Turned Leg
The clean, tapered lines of a straight leg give a piece a more contemporary feel, whereas a turned leg is a British hallmark and brings with it a more classical look.
Tight or Loose
The terms "tight back" and "tight seat" mean that both the back and seat are part of the body of the sofa or chair, resulting in a very crisp and polished look. Sofas and chairs with a "loose seat" or "loose back" have a more casual, comfy feel. Try a tight back and loose seat to get the best of both worlds!
