6 of the best leather sofas

Leather is a natural material and is a popular choice for sofas due to its many unique qualities. Its strength and durability allows it to withstand daily wear and tear, whilst maintaining its appearance for years to come.

In addition to this, leather sofas offer a luxurious style that enhances the character of any room. The smooth and supple texture of leather contributes to a timeless and elegant appeal. Moreover, leather possesses a remarkable ability to age gracefully, developing a patina that adds charm as it matures.

Practicality is another notable aspect of leather sofas. The material is resistant to allergens, making it a suitable choice for households with allergies. Additionally, leather is easy to clean, providing a low-maintenance solution for busy households. With a variety of colours available, leather sofas offer versatility, allowing you to choose a piece that seamlessly integrates with your décor.

While there might be a higher initial cost, the investment value of a leather sofa becomes apparent in its longevity and enduring style.

Our in-house stylist, Vicky, says: ‘Leather furniture has continued to rise in popularity with every year that passes. Today it’s very much classed as being a design statement, capable of instantly making living rooms feel more homely. Leather sofas in particular are a popular focal point. Not only are they tactile and practical, they’re available in the widest range of shades, shapes and styles that will never go out of fashion.’

Types of leather sofas

The manufacture of leather sofas has evolved of the centuries and there are now a variety of different materials available, including:

• Full grain leather – the most genuine form of leather
• Top grain leather – the second-most popular type of leather used to make furniture. It’s buffed on machines to remove any imperfections and make the leather softer
• Split grain leather – comes from the underlayers of top grain leather. It tends to be a bit rougher and is easier to scratch and stain
• Nubuck – a form of top grain leather that has been buffed or sanded down to make it appear almost suede-like
• Bi-cast leather – a split grain leather that has been injected with colour and isn’t as durable as top or full grain leather
• Bonded leather – made from combining leather straps and other fibres. It’s easier to maintain and also more affordable than many other types of leather
• Faux leather – as the name suggests, isn’t really leather. Instead, it’s made from synthetic materials, such as rubber and plastic
• Royaline leather – a type of natural leather with distinctive natural markings that needs to be taken care of with a protective treatment to maintain its condition. It’s one of the most expensive forms of leather
• Aniline leather – leather that’s been dyed inside a large drum and contains some natural markings. It’s most commonly made from full-grain leather and is just as expensive as full grain leather

Sofas can be made from 100% leather or a mixture of leather and faux-leather to give a range of styles and price options.