The Pros and Cons of a Pillow Back Sofa
Choosing the right sofa can be a hard decision because it is a big investment that will play a prominent role in your home for many years. From size to material, and style to level of comfort, there are various factors that you need to consider before you choose which sofa is perfect for you and your family. When researching styles, you’ll inevitably see a real range, which can be a little overwhelming. From high back sofas to Chesterfield sofas, and pillow back sofas to sofa beds, it’s important to understand what each style will bring to your interior and which style is right for you.
This blog will go into detail about pillow back sofas, what they are, the various options available, and whether they are right for you.
What is a Pillow Back Sofa?
First and foremost, let’s determine the meaning of a pillow back sofa. A standard sofa has fixed back cushions that are usually equal to the number of seat cushions. A pillow back sofa, also known as a scatter back sofa, does not have fixed back cushions; instead, they sit loosely against the sofa frame, and there are usually more back cushions than seat cushions. The term scatter back sofa comes from the fact that these cushions are scattered against the back of your sofa, whereas the name pillow back sofa focuses more on the size and shape of the back cushions.
The Pros of a Pillow Back
If you want to really kick back and relax on a sofa after a long day, the large back sofa cushions of a pillow back sofa give you more opportunity to do so, whereas a sofa with fixed cushions can be a little more rigid in its design. If you intend to spend many nights chilling in front of the television or reading a book, a pillow back sofa such as the Devon will let you do that in style. And if you go for a pillow back corner sofa, be warned, you may lie down and refuse to move for the rest of the night!
Some pillow back sofas allow you to mix and match the colour of your scatter back cushions with the colour of the sofa frame and seat cushions. If there’s a particular design theme you want your sofa to complement, the option of having two colours can be a real advantage.
The Cons of a Pillow Back
While large sofa back cushions are incredibly inviting, they’re not for everybody. If you have a bad back or find it difficult to get in and out of chairs, a chair with more structure, such as a standard back sofa or a high back settee, may be preferable. With pillow back sofa cushions moving independently and really allowing you to lean back and sink in, it may not be right for everyone!
When considering the look and feel of your sofa, keep in mind that scatter back cushions that are not fixed in place tend to move and will need to be replaced on a regular basis. While some people may not bat an eyelid at the prospect of reshaping their sofa’s back line, the thought may not appeal to those who have chosen a minimal aesthetic, with clean lines.
Ultimately, a pillow back sofa can be a wonderful addition to your home, bringing an abundance of style and comfort to your space. It’s about personal choice and deciding whether you would prefer a sofa with fixed cushions or a sofa with scatter back cushions. If you’re still undecided, head down to one of our showrooms where one of our friendly and knowledgeable team can show you both styles in person – sit back and relax and you’ll soon be able to work out which sofa will complement your home and your lifestyle.
