Scatter Back vs Standard Back Sofas

Choosing the right sofa for your home is not always as straightforward as it sounds. There are a lot of factors to consider before making the final decision, such as:

• What’s the right size?
• What’s the best material?
• And of course, the style – traditional or contemporary?

But what about a scatter back or standard back? If you’ve heard the terms scatter back and standard back sofa and aren’t too sure of the differences, we’re here to help! While both sofas offer an abundance of style and comfort, there are a few fundamental differences. Here’s our rundown of everything you need to know about scatter back vs standard back sofas.

What is a Scatter Back Sofa?

Let’s start with the definition and then we’ll consider a scatter back sofas pros and cons. Also known as a pillow back sofa, a scatter back sofa has a few large cushions positioned loosely as back supports. Scatter back sofa cushions don’t always mirror the number of seat cushions. Our Devon Range is an example of a scatter back sofa because there is more scatter back cushions than seat cushions and they overlap slightly.

When it comes to styling a scatter back sofa, it’s no different to a standard back sofa – it is simply a case of the style dictating the options. Some scatter back sofas are available in fabric and leather, while others are available only in fabric. If you’re unsure which material is best for you, use our free swatches to see which option looks best in your home.

Pros of a Scatter Back

In terms of pros and cons of a scatter back sofa, let’s start with the pros. Scatter back sofas tend to have a lower back and are deemed to be more inviting and comfortable because you can really lean back into them and relax. Some pillow back sofas also offer the option to choose a different material to the main body of your sofa, which can be of interest if there is a specific theme you want your sofa to complement.

Cons of a Scatter Back

However, if you’re looking for sofas with back support, the disadvantages of a scatter back must be considered. Because of its lower back, you won’t receive the same level of support and stability with a scatter back. It’s also worth knowing that because the scatter back cushions aren’t fixed in place – they will be prone to movement, and you’ll need to fluff them regularly and put them back in place. While this isn’t a major inconvenience, it may be something that doesn’t appeal to everyone. If there are young children in the house, these cushions may move more frequently!

What is a Standard Back Sofa?

When it comes to the fundamental difference between a scatter back and standard back sofa, it all comes down to the back. While both are sofas with cushions, a scatter back has loose back cushions, whereas a standard back has fixed large back sofa cushions that are the same size as the seat cushions.

Available in a range of styles and sizes, the other key difference between the two sofas is that there is more variety with a standard back sofa, with lots of stylish high back sofas and low back sofas to choose from. The other thing to bear in mind is that a fixed back sofa offers more support, so if you have problems with your back, this would be the better option for you.

Examples of standard back sofas include the Whinfell Range, the Bromley Range and the Galloway Range. Again, when it comes to size and material, standard back sofas offer a plethora of options.

Now that you understand the distinction between a scatter back and a standard back sofa, you can choose which sofa best suits your aesthetic and lifestyle, and then look at the various styles available. Ultimately, both sofas will provide you with absolute comfort – it is purely down to personal choice as to which one you go for.

Happy shopping!