It’s Valentine’s Day, so it seemed fitting for us to study the loveseat – the one piece of furniture dedicated to love. At least, that was the intention.

This two-seater sofa made its first appearance on the furniture scene back in the 17th Century. Its sole purpose was not to invite cuddling and romance, but to give more sitting space to ladies as the fashion of the time was skirts with large layers and hoops. So you see, the intention of the loveseat was highly utilitarian. In fact, the first loveseats were not upholstered and consisted of solid wood. As fashions evolved and women began wearing slimmer silhouetted clothing during the 18th and 19th centuries, the “wide chair” was observed to accommodate more than one individual. Social trends still upheld austerity and conservatism, so many couples and sweethearts took advantage of the loveseat to sit relatively close to one another without talk of scandal. This is how the loveseat came to be the love seat.

Into the 19th Century the loveseat was a sign of wealth, as it was only seen in upper class homes. Today, they are used as functional space-saving seating in small homes or apartments – or as part of living room sets.  Simply because we’ve uncovered the myth of the loveseat doesn’t mean you can’t indulge in the romanticism of their function.

 

Courtesy of Catharine from the Smart Furniture Website

Photo Courtesy of The Millionaire’s Daughter