What is a Chesterfield sofa?

A classic, timeless sofa design defined by its deep button tufting, its rolled arms that sit level with the top of the back, and often studded detailing along the edges. The look dates back centuries. At Furniture Instore our Chesterfields are traditional, fixed-frame sofas in leather-look Leather Aire, in five colours.

What makes a sofa a Chesterfield?

The hallmark is the deep button (or diamond) tufting across the back and often the arms. The arms are rolled and sit level with the back rather than lower, so the silhouette is even all the way round, and many Chesterfields also have stud detailing along the edges and a low, generous seat. Together these details set a Chesterfield apart from an ordinary sofa.

Are Chesterfield sofas genuine leather?

No. Ours are upholstered in Leather Aire, a leather-look material with a smooth, wipe-clean surface. Leather Aire is not genuine leather — it's a hard-wearing, leather-effect material that gives the classic Chesterfield look and feel with easy care and a lower price than a natural hide. It isn't genuine leather, and we never describe it as faux either.

What is the difference between Leather Aire, genuine leather and faux leather?

Leather Aire is a leather-look material with a wipe-clean surface at a mid price. Genuine leather is a natural hide — breathable, long-lasting and full of character, at a higher price. Faux leather is a man-made, uniform material that costs least. Our Chesterfields are Leather Aire, which we never describe as faux; genuine leather and faux leather are separate ranges.

Are these real antique sofas?

No. They're brand-new sofas in the classic, antique-inspired Chesterfield style, not genuine antiques. You get the timeless, vintage look — the buttoning, the rolled arms, the studwork — in a new, made-for-everyday piece, with all the reassurance of a new purchase: free delivery, 14-day change-of-mind returns and your statutory rights.

What colours are available?

Five: black, blue, brown, grey and red. Black is smart and hides marks well, brown is warm and classic, grey is a cool contemporary neutral, blue is a rich navy for a modern-classic feel, and red is the traditional oxblood shade forever linked with the Chesterfield style. Check the product grid above for current stock in each colour.

Are they traditional or recliners?

Traditional. Our Chesterfields are fixed-frame sofas with no reclining mechanism, which suits the heritage style — there's nothing to plug in or maintain, just a timeless, comfortable sofa. If you'd prefer a reclining sofa, we have separate recliner ranges to choose from.

What sizes and combinations are available?

A single armchair, a 2 seater and a 3 seater, plus matching sofa set combinations such as 2+2, 3+2, 3+1+1, 3+2+1, 3+3 and 2+1+1, with more besides. A 2+2 or 3+2 suits a medium room, while a 3+3 or 3+2+1 gives a busy family plenty of matching seats. Check the product grid above for what's currently in stock.

How do I clean and care for a Chesterfield sofa?

Wipe the Leather Aire with a clean, slightly damp cloth and dry with a soft cloth; blot spills promptly rather than rubbing, and avoid harsh chemical cleaners and abrasive sponges. Unlike genuine leather it doesn't need conditioning. Pay a little extra attention to the buttoned tufting, running a soft brush or your vacuum's upholstery tool gently over the crevices, and keep the sofa out of prolonged direct sunlight.

What is your returns policy?

We offer a 14-day change of mind returns window from the day your sofa is delivered, on items returned in their original condition. To arrange a return, contact our team within those 14 days and we'll talk you through the next steps. This is in addition to your statutory rights, which cover goods that are faulty or not as described.

What happens if my sofa arrives damaged?

If your sofa arrives with any damage, contact our team as soon as possible — ideally within 48 hours — with a few photographs, and we'll arrange a repair, replacement or collection. It helps to check the sofa over on delivery before the team leaves where you can.

Do I need to assemble the sofa myself?

There's very little to do. Our two-person team brings the sofa into your room and fits any feet on-site, so it's ready to use. Larger sets arrive as separate pieces, with no tools needed.

What guarantee comes with these sofas?

Every sofa is inspected before it leaves us, and your purchase is protected by your statutory rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, which cover goods that are faulty or not as described. You also have our 14-day change of mind returns. For confirmation of any specific manufacturer guarantee on a particular model, please check the product page or ask our team before you order.