A Guide to the Many Different Types of Couches

If you've started doing your research for a new couch lately, you've probably run across some pretty bizarre terms that you might be confused by! Fear not – your friendly neighborhood couch gurus are here to help you decipher what's what so you can know exactly what type of sofa or sectional is right for you.

This article contains full explanations of each type of sofa, but if you're in a hurry, we've also put together a cheat sheet of short definitions and a link to the real deal sofa. 

What is a single-person couch called?

A single-person couch is often referred to as a "chair-and-a-half," depending on its size and design. It provides seating for one person and is smaller than a traditional two- or three-seater sofa.

What is a 'ghost sofa'?

The term "Ghost Sofa" refers to a specific type of couch designed by Gervasoni, an Italian furniture company. The Ghost Sofa couch type is characterized by its unique design, featuring a light and ethereal appearance.

What is a 'space saver sectional sofa'?

A “space saver couch” is a type of sofa (or sectional sofa) designed to optimize and maximize the available space in a room. 

Space saver couches might have features like modular designs, built-in storage, or the ability to be easily folded, transformed, or rearranged. They are particularly useful in smaller living spaces where optimizing space is essential. 

What is a 'cuddle sofa'?

A "cuddle couch" is a term used to describe a specific type of sectional that features an extended seat or cushioned area where people can comfortably snuggle or cuddle together. This term is commonly associated with sectional sofas that have an extended "cuddle" or "snuggle" seat, sometimes referred to as a "cuddler sectional."

What is a 'flex couch'?

A “Flex Couch” is a term for sofas with features aimed at adaptability and reconfiguration. Modular sofas are a prime example of this, as they can be tailored to fit various living spaces and changing needs. 

A Flex Couch might have features like adjustable backrests, fold-out components, or hidden storage compartments. It’s designed to provide flexibility in how you use the couch, allowing it to adapt to different situations or spaces. 

What is a 'zero wall sofa'?

A "zero wall sofa" is a type of reclining couch that can be placed flush against a wall without the need for clearance behind it. This design maximizes space utilization by eliminating the gap typically required for reclining mechanisms. In a zero wall sofa, the backrest and seat move forward as the recliner is engaged, rather than tilting backward.

This innovation permits the sofa to recline fully even when positioned close to the wall, saving precious floor space. Zero wall sofas are ideal for smaller living areas. 

What is a 'Bridgewater sofa'?

A “Bridgewater sofa” is a classic and timeless sofa style known for its casual elegance. It is similar to the English Roll Arm sofa, which adds character and depth to both traditional and modern interiors. This type of sofa typically features a comfortable and slightly rolled backrest, loose seat cushions, and low, set-back arms that are slightly curved.

The distinctive feature of a Bridgewater sofa is its skirt that covers the base, giving it a tailored and traditional look. The back cushions are usually soft and unstructured. Bridgewater sofas are versatile and can fit into various interior styles, from traditional to eclectic. 

What is a 'charging sofa'?

A "charging sofa" is a modern furniture innovation equipped with built-in charging stations and ports. It's one of those rare couch style names that actually makes sense!

It combines seating comfort with practicality by featuring USB ports or power outlets integrated into its design. This allows you to charge your devices conveniently while lounging, eliminating clutter in your living room. 

What is a 'Cooper sofa'?

A “Cooper sofa” refers to a style of sofa known for its sleek lines, minimalist design, and contemporary elegance. Another example of a modern sofa style is the track arm sofa, which is known for its straight and square arms, often associated with Mid-Century Modern style. Cooper sofas typically feature clean, squared-off shapes with simple yet sophisticated detailing.

They often have straight arms, clean edges, and a streamlined profile, embodying a modern and timeless aesthetic. The Cooper sofa’s understated charm makes it a versatile choice for various interior styles, from modern and industrial to Scandinavian and mid-century. 

What is a 'floating couch'?

A "floating couch" refers to a style of furniture placement where the couch is positioned away from the walls, creating a sense of space and openness in a room. This concept is part of floating furniture design, which involves arranging furniture pieces in a way that they don't touch the walls, allowing the room to appear more spacious and airy.

What is a 'half couch' called?

A "half couch" is also known as a "daybed." This is one of the types of couches that is designed with a mattress-like cushion that's long enough to support the legs and can serve as both seating and a place for relaxation.

Daybeds often have a backrest on one side and may or may not be fully enclosed by sides. They provide a comfortable space for lounging during the day and can sometimes be used as an extra bed for overnight guests. 

Why is a couch called a 'loveseat'?

A "loveseat" is a smaller-sized couch, named because it provides an intimate and cozy seating arrangement for two people, often associated with couples.

Why do they call a couch a 'Davenport'?

A 'Davenport' sofa is a catchall term for sofas originating from the A.H. Davenport and Company furniture manufacturer in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It can refer to a sofa from the Davenport company or just a sofa in general. 

What is the difference between a 'sofa,' a 'couch,' and a 'Davenport'?

The terms “sofa,” “couch,” and “Davenport” are often used interchangeably, but they can sometimes have subtle distinctions.

“Sofa” and “couch” generally refer to the same type of seating furniture, with “sofa” being associated with more formal styles, such as the classic chesterfield sofa with its rolled arms and deep button tufting, and “couch” having a more casual connotation. 

“Davenport” is an older term for a sofa or couch, originally used to refer to a specific style of sofa with a slanted, high back and upholstered arms, similar to the formal aesthetic of a tuxedo sofa with its high arms and clean-lined shape.

What is a 'cuddler couch'?

A “cuddler couch” is a type of sectional sofa that features a specialized seating area designed for enhanced coziness and intimacy. 

Cuddler couches are crafted to provide a warm and inviting seating experience, making them an ideal choice for those who value close interactions and relaxation. The cuddler section is designed to accommodate one or two people and is intended to create a cozy nook for reading, lounging, or simply spending quality time together.

Why do they call it a 'fainting couch'?

A "fainting couch," also known as a "chaise lounge," earned its name from its historical use during the Victorian era. During that time, women's clothing was often restrictive and constricting, leading to fainting spells due to restricted breathing and circulation. The design of the fainting couch addressed this concern by providing a chaise-like seating option where women could recline, offering relief from tight corsets and other discomforts.

The fainting couch typically had a sloping back and an extended seat, allowing women to rest in a reclined position and recover from their "fainting" episodes. While the term might seem a bit dramatic today, it reflects the historical context and purpose of the furniture piece.

What is a 'flip chaise'?

A "flip chaise" is a type of chaise lounge or sectional sofa that typically refers to a chaise section that can be flipped up or down, offering flexibility in how it's used. When flipped up, it provides traditional seating like a regular sofa. When flipped down, it extends to create a comfortable surface for lounging or reclining.

What is a 'Paris Sofa'?

A "Paris Sofa" is a specific style of sofa known for its luxurious design and elegant aesthetics. The term "Paris Sofa" doesn't refer to a widely recognized or standardized type of sofa, but it's often used by furniture manufacturers or retailers to describe a particular model or design.

The features of a Paris Sofa can vary, but they usually emphasize sophistication and comfort, often with details like plush upholstery, tufted cushions, and sleek lines. 

What is an 'Oxford Sofa'?

The "Oxford Sofa" is a distinct furniture piece known for its classic yet versatile design. The Oxford Sofa features timeless details such as rolled arms, welted seams, and turned legs. This sofa is designed to seamlessly blend into various design styles, making it a versatile choice for different interiors.

What is a 'psychiatrist's couch' called?

A psychiatrist’s couch is often referred to as a “chaise lounge”.  In the context of therapy or analysis, the chaise lounge provides a comfortable and relaxed seating arrangement for patients, allowing them to recline while speaking to the psychiatrist.

This arrangement is intended to create an open and comfortable environment for discussions, with the patient’s comfort being a priority. The chaise lounge in this context symbolizes a space of trust and introspection, where individuals can freely express their thoughts and emotions..

What is a 'camelback sofa'?

A "camelback sofa" is known for its distinctive design feature – a curved or humped backrest that resembles the silhouette of a camel's hump. The camelback sofa typically has a graceful and elegant appearance, with its curved back creating a focal point and adding visual interest to a room.

This classic design often features rolled arms and exposed legs, contributing to its timeless and sophisticated look. The camelback sofa can fit into various interior styles, adding a touch of refinement and charm to any home.

Do people still say 'settee'?

Yes, the term "settee" is still used today to refer to a type of upholstered bench or small sofa. While "sofa" and "couch" are more commonly used terms, "settee" has not disappeared entirely and is still recognized and used, especially in contexts that appreciate a more traditional or vintage aesthetic.

The terms "settee," "sofa," and "couch" are interchangeable and can vary based on regional preferences and personal choices.

What is a 'one-cushion couch' called?

A “one-cushion couch” is often referred to as a “single-cushion seat” sofa or a “bench cushion” sofa. Sofa cushions play an important role in sofa design, affecting both comfort and style. This type of sofa features a single large cushion for both the seat and/or the backrest, creating a seamless and continuous upholstered surface.

What is a 'kissing chair'?

A "kissing chair" or "kissing couch" is another term for a "tête-à-tête" or "courting bench." This unique type of loveseat is designed with two seats facing opposite directions, allowing two people to sit next to each other while facing each other.

The design encourages intimate conversations without having to turn one's head. "Kissing couch" suggests the close proximity of individuals seated on the bench, fostering a cozy and personal atmosphere. This style originated in the Victorian era and was favored for courting and private conversations.

What is a 'pocket sofa'?

A "pocket sofa" is a type of sofa designed with compactness and versatility in mind. The term "pocket" implies that these sofas can neatly fit into various nooks and corners. Pocket sofas are often designed to be space-efficient without sacrificing comfort, offering a practical solution for those in smaller living areas. These sofas typically feature streamlined designs and may include features like fold-out or pull-out mechanisms.

What style is the 'marshmallow sofa'?

The "Marshmallow Sofa" is a distinct style of furniture that falls under the category of Mid-Century Modern design. It was designed by George Nelson in 1956. This sofa is characterized by its unique and playful appearance, featuring individual circular cushions arranged on a metal frame. The design is minimalist, with a focus on clean lines and geometric shapes.

The Marshmallow Sofa exemplifies the innovative and experimental spirit of Mid-Century Modern design, which sought to combine functionality with artistic expression. It's often associated with the pop art movement due to its vibrant and unconventional design.

From timeless classics like "sofa" and "couch" to specialized names like "chaise lounge" and "kissing couch," each one of the different couch types reflects cultural trends, historical influences, and evolving preferences. Even if we're all confused (we probably are), these types of sofas and couch styles names offer a glimpse into the diversity of comfort, style, and functionality that furniture brings to our lives. Now that you know your terms, you are better equipped to navigate the vast landscape of couches. There will be a pop quiz this Friday! GULP.