Page 50 - Designing Ways 275
P. 50
LEATHER
FURNITURE
Leather furniture
by Stienie Greyling
he beauty of leather lies in its One of the remarkable aspects of What leather variety is optional for
versatility, which is brilliantly leather sofa sets in 2024 is the diverse furniture use?
Tshowcased in the diverse finishes colour palette available. While classic The best leather for furniture is
it can adopt. These finishes, more than shades such as rich browns and deep typically full-grain or top-grain leather.
just surface treatments, play a pivotal role blacks continue to dominate, there is a These are known for their durability and
in dictating the leather’s final look, tactile growing trend towards unconventional authentic natural grain appearance. They
experience and longevity. colours. Earthy tones like olive green and can withstand the wear and tear of daily
In the ever-evolving world of interior cognac are gaining popularity, providing use, offering a luxurious look that matures
design one element that has consistently an opportunity to infuse a touch of beautifully over time.
stood the test of time is the classic leather personality into a living room.
sofa set. From classic Chesterfield styles
to sleek and modern designs, there is a
leather sofa set to suit every trade.
Leather History.
Like stone, wood and wool, leather is
a natural product. It has been a prized
commodity throughout history. All of
the earlier Renaissance styles, particularly
the Spanish and English, favoured leather
upholstery.
Fine leather upholstery used to be
found in the homes and living rooms
of only the very wealthy people. The
category was characterised by heavy,
traditional style and the use of strong
colours such as burgundy, oxblood, burnt
orange, rust, walnut, tortoise, navy and
blackberry. These leathers generally had
heavily glazed, shiny finishes. Massive,
traditional Chesterfields, tufted wing
chairs, traditional saddle-arm and double
bustle, club sofas characterised leather
upholstery furniture style.
More recently, advances in tanning
technology, globalisation, the introduction
of composite leather materials and changes
in consumer buying preferences have
helped leather furniture sales to grow at a
tremendous pace.
50 Issue 275 • dw