There isn’t much of a functional difference between a loveseat and a settee, so your decision should be based on how you plan to arrange your furniture and the size of the room. For this reason, we will elaborate on the distinctions between a settee and a loveseat. Find decorative rather than practical seating in the form of antique loveseats and settees for your living room, as well as plush, modern versions for your living room or a child’s playroom.
Loveseat
The term “loveseat” refers to any small sofa or double chair that can comfortably seat two people. A loveseat can be found in a wide variety of designs. These variations are not present in vintage automobiles, but it is clear that only two grownups can ride comfortably. Loveseats can be purchased separately or as part of a set that also includes a regular sofa and an armchair. A loveseat can be upholstered in numerous ways, some of which include lower backs and higher armrests.
A loveseat can serve many purposes and look great in many different rooms. Loveseats, sofas, sectionals, and chairs all work well together to fill a large living room with seating for family and friends. It is possible to increase the seating capacity of a small room by combining a loveseat or two with accent chairs. A loveseat can be used to great effect in an unconventional manner in a large dressing room, home office, or bedroom. You can find a loveseat in any color or pattern that’s currently in style.
Loveseats and other accent furniture are frequently used, but their significance can vary from person to person. Whether you choose to go bold with the loveseat’s color or keep things simple with a neutral and some accent pillows or a slipcover, there are plenty of options to suit your needs. Consider whether you want a piece with arms or no arms, whether you want the frame to be hidden, and what kind of fabric you would like. The fabric you pick for your loveseat should be long-lasting, simple to maintain, and appropriate for its intended purpose.
Settee
A settee can be either a small or medium-sized sofa or a long wooden bench with a backrest. It has a back and arms, and can accommodate more than two people. Antique wooden settees with legs and modern upholstered settees with no visible legs are just two examples. It’s available both separately and as part of a full living room suite.
Although a traditional or antique sofa with elaborate moldings is fairly common, newer versions of these sofas are much more at home in a contemporary setting. Some settees are more casual than others due to their simplified forms and lack of ornate embellishment.
These days, settees can be found in a wide variety of neutral, solid colors that work well with any decor. Some settee styles have developed to better suit contemporary interiors. They are unarmed and feature round corners and minimal detailing.
If you’re furnishing a modern apartment, look for a settee in a striking neutral or bright color. A gray, black, or white sofa will blend right in to a monochromatic space. In a living room decorated in muted tones, a red settee can serve as a bold focal point.
There is a wide selection of leather settees available to complement any sophisticated interior design. Many of them have tufted backs for extra flair, and they are available in a wide range of hues. A settee is a good option if you want a leather sofa for two people but don’t want to sacrifice comfort.
Faux leather is a great alternative to genuine leather if you want to maintain your sofa’s leather appearance but are concerned about its durability in high-light areas.
What is the main difference between a loveseat and a settee?
What’s the dissimilarity between a settee and a loveseat, then? The main difference between a loveseat and a sofa is the number of people it can seat. Some loveseats and settees don’t have backs at all, while others have a low back. Although loveseats are typically considered a single piece of furniture, individual sofas can be added or removed to create a sectional.
Determine whether a settee or loveseat is more practical for your home or apartment based on the available space and other factors. A couch that opens into a bed is convenient if you need an extra bed but don’t have a spare room or frequent guests. Typically, a loveseat can serve as the sole sleeper for a child because children are small enough to fit comfortably in the small sofa. Design is another factor, and it can take both elaborate and simple forms.
The best settee chair
Article Sven Couch
Our survey of experts yielded 11 nominations for the Sven, making it the most recommended sofa overall. While the Article sofa is part of the aforementioned group of sofa startups, it is delivered fully constructed and requires no additional assembly beyond screwing on the included legs. Since its inception in 2013, the company has expanded its offerings to include not only sofas but also chairs, tables, and even outdoor furniture. However, the Sven sofa, which takes design cues from the mid-century era, continues to be the company’s best seller. Alexandra Kalita says of the Sven, “It has that iconic mid-century look that many clients are seeking.” Gokhale found it to be the most comfortable option, citing the firmness as the reason why: “when you sit back, there’s room to have your sacrum supported.”
The softness was the first thing I noticed when I sank into the leather-covered corner. The Strategist had previously noticed a stiffness to the leather Sven and had surmised that it would need breaking in. That assumption seems reasonable after having sat on one in the Indochino showroom (the Article store doesn’t have showrooms). The foam seats in the used model were very comfortable, and the leather (cowhide obtained as a byproduct of the food industry) was soft as butter.
The second thing I noticed was how practical the squared-off 27-inch-high armrests of the Sven were; unlike most sofas, you can easily balance a laptop on them while writing in a notebook. It’s the equivalent of a tray table, only integrated. The inability to use the armrests to prop up pillows reduces the napping convenience of the seat. The Sven partially satisfies Gokhale’s rule that a sofa should be as comfortable as a bed because of its single slab cushion, which makes it feel more like a mattress than separate cushions would.
Ideal for lounging and working/writing, the tl;dr sofa is both supportive and accommodating. The leather is also the best value here.
In addition, the Sitka (with three votes), the Burrard (with three votes), and the Timber (with two votes) were also popular Article sofa choices.
West Elm Harmony Down-Filled Sofa
As one industry insider put it, “we’ve used this sofa in so many projects as it’s insanely comfortable and has great lines.” This was the opinion of Joslyn Taylor, an interior designer at Swoon Studio. The fluffy armrests and down-filled cushions contribute to the relaxing atmosphere. The frame itself could be considered a source of comfort; it is supported by wide, wooden legs that give the Harmony a solid appearance and feel. (The chunky wood legs add character, and Taylor agrees that this is a welcome aesthetic touch.) The Harmony is one of the most comfortable sofas because it can be ordered with an “extra deep” seat that is 32 inches in depth.
How it felt: Lounging around on those plush down pillows was pure indulgence. While the other cushions we tested also had foam and feather/down alternatives, these had a more traditional European feel despite their modern construction. To test the sofa’s durability, I yanked on the arms and threw myself onto it, and the joints did not budge. It was so comfortable there that I hesitated to get out. The squared-off armrests on the Harmony are as plush as the sofa itself, and they’re something I’ve come to think of as a must-have in a modern sofa because there are times when you just have to set down your laptop or dinner plate on the couch.
The sofa with the most potential uses and configurations is the tl;dr. The regular configuration of the Harmony is not too deep or slouchy for sitting up in comfort. In addition, the armrests are square.
Two additional interior designers each recommended the Bardot and Shelter sofas from West Elm.
The Willoughby From Anthropologie
Experts agreed that the Willoughby sofa from Anthropologie, which received four nods and came in second place, had a pleasingly retro vibe thanks to its scrolled armrests and carved wooden bun legs on wheels. Taylor says it’s a steal because it “nods to an iconic George Smith” but costs much less. For some dynamic tension in a space, we recommend combining it with contemporary furnishings. The Willoughby scores high marks for coziness, appearances aside: One of the most relaxing pieces in the store, according to the sales associate at the Anthropologie I went to, and Dan Mazzarini of BHDM Design. Consider it a classic napping couch. The Willoughby is offered in a variety of materials, including leather and brushed cotton, but its most popular iteration is in velvet, which is composed of 75% cotton and 25% polyester.
How it felt: Despite its generically Victorian appearance, this sofa was surprisingly one of the most comfortable I’ve sat in. Particular kudos should be given to the cushions, which were constructed with foam-encased spring coils, fiber padding, and a down/feather blend. The quality of construction was apparent. The velvet was a deep blue color and felt soft to the touch without coming across as fragile.
The seat is 26 inches deep, so you’ll need a few pillows to sit in a way that would be acceptable to Gokhale. I propped up a couple and discovered that my back felt good in every position, though sitting at the Willoughby to type wasn’t quite as comfortable as lying flat. In terms of build quality, when I gave the arms a tug, I felt a little give. While this may be par for the course when testing a showroom model, it bears mentioning given that it did not occur with other floor samples.
The short version: it’s one of the best recliners I’ve used for reading, lounging, and looking stylish without going full-on mid-century.
Interior Define Maxwell Sofa
According to the reviews, Interior Define’s main selling point is its flexibility in design. The brand, like Article, offers numerous variations on a sofa design inspired by the mid-century era, but with even more possible arrangements and fabric choices. Maxwell Ryan, the creator of Apartment Therapy, created the classic Maxwell, which is available in 65 fabrics and 22 leg styles. (However, there is no leather option for the Maxwell; leather sofas at Interior Define begin at well over $2,000 each.) The cushions are filled with foam and down feathers, and the frame is placed low to the floor.
I found the Maxwell to be just as comfortable as the Willoughby, and the only thing that differentiates the two is whether you’re going for a more classic or retro look. The seat’s armrests are only 21 inches high, encouraging a casual stance. This sofa was made for relaxing on. I could see myself starting a show on it and watching it nonstop until I had finished the entire season. The Maxwell’s seat depth of 27 inches, like that of other deep-seated sofas, means that additional pillows are likely to be needed for proper back support. Going through all of Gokhale’s posture tests, it became clear that the Maxwell is most at home in a state of calm. Because of the depth of the seat, I had to sit cross-legged or with my legs folded beneath me in order to type or write, which was fine for a while but would have become uncomfortable after a while.
Traditional appearances belie the Maxwell’s cozy interior. This is definitely one for unhurried evenings. Due to its shorter armrests, this chair feels slightly more lounge-like than the Willoughby.
Neva Sofa by Sixpenny
According to industry insiders, “Sixpenny” is a new direct-to-consumer furniture line that debuted in the beginning of 2017. Emily Henderson suggests the Sixpenny Neva sofa because it breaks the mold of traditional sofa startups by having a curvy silhouette. “When we did the factory test, I practically disappeared into the seat.” “I love the unpretentious, casual air this sofa has,” said designer Jenn O’Brien. It’s not “clean and modern,” but its understated assurance makes it a notable exception.
To get a sense of how comfortable the Neva sofa is, I sat in a Neva chair instead, which is identical to the sofa in every way except width. The cushions on the back and seat are stuffed with feather down and wrapped around a foam core, making them comfortable and supportive even when working in an upright position at my computer. The arms were comfortable to lean against because there is a foam cushion between the wooden frame and the cover. Although many of the other sofas I looked at have a linen upholstery option, none of them quite captured the sensation of sinking into a bed with freshly laundered linen sheets quite like this one did, and that’s what clinched the deal for me.
The short version: The Neva is the most inviting couch in terms of design and comfort. It’s worth noting that the slipcovers are removable and washable for families with kids and pets.
The resident designer on Queer Eye, Bobby Berk, also thinks the Gabriel sofa from Sixpenny is “possibly one of the most comfortable sofas on the market.”
Palo Modular Two-Seater Sofa
According to critics, Hem is a Swedish furniture brand popular among design-savvy consumers and aesthetic connoisseurs. (The Strategist is a member of that sect.) It has a distinct Scandinavian aesthetic, but its pieces avoid overt references to the likes of Arne Jacobsen or Hans Wegner. The Palo begins at $1,899 for a version without armrests and can be upgraded with features like a chaise lounge or additional arms at a later date. “It’s actually very chic on its own and more comfortable than it looks,” says designer C. S. Valentin of the most minimalist version. Aelfie Oudghiri, a Brooklyn designer well-known for her rugs, says, “Hem is worth the splurge” if you spend more than $2,000. “I can’t believe how cozy these are.”
Feeling: I tried the Palo before the Artsy office opened one morning. I started the day with my journal (I follow Julia Cameron’s morning pages) because of the early hour. There were two main points: The Palo has a deep seat, so I can sit fully cross-legged and write on my lap; moreover, the backrest is low but firm, providing excellent lumbar support if I scooch all the way back. While I do agree with Valentin and Oudghiri that it is comfortable, I think that it is a very particular kind of austere comfort: I tried to make a depression in the sofa with my hand, but I barely succeeded. Unless you’re the type who prefers only the hardest of mattresses, it’s hard to imagine wiling away a Sunday night with movies and wine on this one.
The short version is that this is ideal for those who value simplicity in design and who have multiple living areas (and thus more than one sofa). It’s primarily professional in nature.
Piazza Sofa
According to our research, the Piazza is the most hip of our options; it consists of a slab of a frame, a slab of a seat cushion, and a long, skinny slab of a back pillow. Ashlie Broderic, a Homepolish designer and one of four experts who recommend this piece, notes that the seat cushion is roughly the size of a twin bed, making it ideal for Sunday naps or an unexpected overnight guest. Although it is the most inexpensive and minimalist option here, this sofa still manages to stand out. A bit artistic, like something Elsa Peretti might have in her ’70s studio, is how Taylor describes it.
How it felt: The Piazza was extremely comfortable, if a little impractical, and only worked for me when I was in complete repose (as opposed to perched upright, reclining for TV viewing, or leaning with back supported). Two things became immediately apparent as we sprawled out on the Piazza: (1) this is a sofa for young people who don’t have achy spines but do have friends who could often use a place to crash; and (2) the low-slung Piazza is a vibes sofa, made for those who aspire to one day own a sunken living room. However, this does not detract from the fact that it is a well-crafted piece. According to Jones, “CB2 has been really stepping up their game” in terms of material and fill quality. The Piazza’s soy-based poly-foam and down cushions are a great fit for nappers, and my push-and-pull test revealed that the minimal frame is well-assembled.
The short and sweet version is that this is the best sofa for lazing around on, like taking a nap, or for small apartments and studios in general due to its low profile and lack of armrests.
Note: a lot of CB2 couches were popular choices. The Piazza received four votes, while the Logan Bouclé, Vicente, and Forte Channeled each received three. Since the Logan’s bouclé is more on the trendy side, we opted to test the more classic Piazza.
The Best Loveseats of 2022
Pottery Barn Turner Square Arm Leather Sofa
- Seating: Genuine Leather
- Measurements are 64.5 by 38.5 by 35 inches, with custom sofa sizes also an option.
- Placement for 2
Pros
- Genuine, top-grain leather that breaks in beautifully
- Wrapped cushions with a down/feather blend for comfort
- Mortise and tenon construction for a long-lasting wooden frame.
Cons
- Color and grain variation in genuine leather is normal.
- strict cleaning procedures must be followed
- Sunlight causes gradual discoloration.
Novogratz Leyla 60″ Tight Back Convertible Sofa
- Microfiber Upholstery
- The item’s measurements are 56.303388 inches.
- There’s room for two.
Pros
- Quick and easy set-up
- Padding made of dense foam
- Separately available couch and chair options
- With under-seat space,
Cons
- Cleaning attached seat cushions is a pain.
- Scotchgard is ineffective on foam cushions.
Novogratz Leyla 60″ Tight Back Convertible Sofa
- 100% Linen Upholstery
- Size is 60x30x32 inches.
- Placement for 2
Pros
- Allows for four different configurations
- Fabric that doesn’t mildew
- Arms stuffed with pockets for storage
- Choices in a rainbow of hues
Cons
- The storage pockets of a futon may become a hazard if
- Not a good option for extended stays.
West Elm Finn Sofa
- Velvet, tweed, and canvas are just some of the options for upholstery.
- A 71-by-36-by-32-inch box.
- Two or three people can fit.
Pros
- Selectable fabrics and hues
- You can pick from three different heights.
- The product is GREENGUARD-certified and emits few volatile organic compounds.
- It’s 45 inches deep for a futon.
Cons
- Raises the user’s head and feet while in the futon position.
- Only clean in small areas
Andover Mills Edgar Reclining Sofa
- Faux leather upholstering.
- The item’s dimensions are 38.5″ x 81″ x 38″
- Two or three people can fit.
Pros
- A reasonably priced electric recliner
- Outsized style
- Consola centrale, opzionale
- Integrated drink holders
Cons
- Requires Assembling
- One and only one color option for the upholstery
Best Choice Products Faux Leather Upholstered Modern
- Polyester velvet fabric for upholstery.
- 47 x 30.5 x 31.5 inches in size.
- There’s room for two.
Pros
- Simple enough for two people to put together
- Upholstery made of plush polyester fabric
- Holds as much as 500 lbs.
Cons
- Use only a damp cloth to spot clean
- Not intended to provide cushy rest
Winston Porter Arrionna 50.4” Wide Outdoor Loveseat
Data Sheets
- Cushions and wicker made from polyester resin also made of polyester
- The product’s dimensions are 50.4″ by 27.6″ by 31.1%.
- There’s room for two.
Pros
- Cushions made of removable foam
- Simple to clean
- The structure and padding of the seats are waterproof.
- You can get a patio table and chairs that match if you want to.
Cons
- Extra pillows may be needed if the mattress has a firm back.
- To preserve quality over time, proper cold-weather storage is required.
Conclusion
It’s up to you to decide what to do. Learn the material, do your research, and compare your living space to others’. What you want, find, and discard the rest. A sofa or loveseat is the final piece in completing the ideal living space. Find out in this article what distinguishes a settee from a loveseat.
