Styling

How To Tablescape Your Way

Nothing sets the scene for seasonal celebrations quite like a festive table. But forget the picture-perfect table-scapes you’ve seen on Pinterest and Instagram. Instead, consider yours a blank canvas for no-holds-barred creativity, and a chance to express your personality, showcase your tastes and make your guests feel truly welcome. This year, more than ever, it’s about investing in a few key pieces, mixing-and-matching with what you already have, and fashioning a table that’s uniquely (and unapologetically) yours. Here, we show you how to table-scape your way – and more, besides ­– helping you to create a background against which to eat, drink and be very merry indeed. Massa Dining Table by Heal’s Set the stage A table-scape begins with the table. Not just for Christmas, think of yours as an investment piece to inspire many future gatherings with friends and family, from casual mid-week meals to glamorous dinner parties and themed seasonal soirées. First, consider the size of your space and family – as well as the number of friends you usually entertain – and pick a table with appropriate proportions. It needs to sit everyone comfortably while providing enough room to move seamlessly around it. For small-space living, an extendable table (like Massa, pictured) is just the ticket, scaling-up and down as and when you need it. Next, pick a style that suits your home and tastes: traditional, contemporary or something in-between? A modern style can look spectacular in classic surroundings, and vice versa, while something timeless might be a longer-term investment than trend-led. Lastly, think about the material the table is made of, and whether the surface is tough enough to stand up to life. Massa is heat-, scratch- and thermal shock-proof, while being non-porous. Loveseat by L.Ercolani, Stacking Chair by L.Ercolani Choose your chairs Next, think about the chairs to tuck beneath the table and seat your guests: matching chairs never go out of style while mismatched couldn’t be more in vogue. The Stacking Chair, pictured, is spot-on for maximising space as the outward-facing legs allow it to be stacked vertically when not in use. Better still, its ergonomic design in solid ash timber invites guests to linger a while after dinner is done, preferably with a digestif in-hand. For something a bit different, an iconic Loveseat – also by L.Ercolani – enables guests to cosy up to one another while its gentle curves align with the natural contours of the body. Both are comfortable and create a beautifully eclectic look around the table. Remember: you’ll be forgiven for pulling up a few extra chairs from elsewhere in the house at Christmas, too. Sheepskin Short Wool Curly Pearl 90x60cm, Christina Lundsteen Paula Cushion 40x60cm, Edinburgh Weavers Circles Cushion 45x45cm by Heal’s Add some texture Once you’ve chosen your furniture, it’s about adding texture for extra warmth, depth and interest, so consider a cushion or two for padding seats or a selection of cosy throws for slinging over the backs of chairs. When it comes to colour or pattern, there are no rules, but why not get inspired by the shades of your Christmas decorations or the style of your crockery and glassware? Choose a few contrasting but complementary textiles for character. Pearl White Dinner Plate by Costa Nova, Pearl White Salad Plate by Costa Nova, Pearl White Soup Bowl by Costa Nova, Tvis Cutlery Rose Gold 16 Piece Cutlery Set by Broste Copenhagen, Champagne Saucers Lens Set of 2 by The Vintage List, Hammered Glass Tumbler Set of 4 by Broste Copenhagen, Red Marble Crackers Set of 6 by Undercover, Linen Napkin by Heal’s, Deko Decorations Gradiated Dusky Pink Set of 6 by Bronte Copenhagen, Warm White 480 LED Indoor or Outdoor Micro Lights Copper Cable by Noma, Deko Decorations Dusky Pink Set of 6 by Broste Copenhagen, Glass Acorn Decoration with Beaded Top Dark Green by Gisela Graham, Gold Glitter Tin Snowflake Decoration Set of 3 by Gisela Graham, Double Hand Forged Wavey Candlestick by Heal’s, Frankincense & Pine Tall Pillar Candle by Heal’s, Twist Candles Set of 2 by Broste Copenhagen Pick your place-settings When it comes to place-settings, it’s all about layering for luxury, starting with plates – we suggest keeping it simple in neutrals with a plate for the starter placed on top of a plate for the main – followed by cutlery (gleaming metallics add seasonal magic) and sparkling glassware of varying heights and styles for the drinks you’re planning to serve (water, fizz and wine). Then, it’s all about dialling up the drama in details, from statement crackers placed at jaunty angles, neatly-folded (and ironed) napkins spruced-up with a Christmas decoration, plus a centrepiece of faux or natural foliage surrounding pillar candles. Finish with taper capers in different colours for a look-at-me flourish and a bowl filled with Christmassy walnuts to wrap things up. Supernova LED Long Pendant Light Style the space While a table-scape may begin with the table, it certainly doesn’t end there, as the lighting that hangs above and the rug that sits beneath can help to set the stage for a festive feast. Certainly, a gathering of nearest and dearest provides a timely reason to refresh both, so look at statement lighting that will make for a conversation-starter while casting just the right light for dinner and drinkers (a flattering glow, naturally). Styles like the Balance Linear Chandelier or Supernova LED Long Pendant Light should do the trick. For underfoot, consider something hard-wearing that’ll endure heavy-traffic while dressing-up the space at the same time, such as the Hadschlu Rug by Louis de Poortere. Patterned or textured, too, can hide a multitude of sins and withstand a spill here or there… Anais Console Table Marble by Heal’s, Manhattan Natural Table Lamb Natural by Heal’s, Sky Coaster Set by Georg Jensen, Tank Whiskey Glass Set of 2 by Tom Dixon, Float Decanter by LSA International, Fein Bottle Opener by ferm LIVING, Brew Tray by Tom Dixon, Hammered Glass Tumbler Set of 4 by Broste Copenhagen, Cocktail Glasses Spears Set of 4 by The Vintage List, Deko Decorations Dark Red Set of 6 by Broste Copenhagen Raise the bar Nobody wants to be stood around all day serving drinks. Fashion a sideboard into a drinks station by assembling an assortment of wine, spirits and mixers; a variety of gorgeous glassware; a bowl of garnishes and a bucket of ice; and a few decorative touches like Christmas decorations and presents. A statement lamp at one end adds further style and a warm glow. Then, simply announce that the bar is open and allow guests to help themselves!

Buying Guides

Perfect Presents For Particular People

From grand gestures to little luxuries, we’ve got something covetable for everyone on your list this Christmas, no matter how discerning your friends or family. As ever, exquisite design is at the heart of our seasonal edit – combining showstopping aesthetics with superior craftsmanship – while we’ve curated gifts by personality type to help you get just the right present for exactly the right person. Meaning they’ll unwrap something they truly love this year. Expertly handpicked by Heal’s buyers, whether exquisite objects, gourmet treats or cutting-edge tech, these are just a few of our favourite things… Champagne Saucers Ovals Set of 2 by The Vintage List, Champagne Saucers Lens Set of 2 by The Vintage List, Red Marble Crackers Set of 6 by Undercover, Linen Napkin by Heal’s, Tank Decanter Black by Tom Dixon, Old Gold Resin Jungle Cats Decoration Set of 4 by Gisela Graham For hedonistic hosts From gorgeous glassware to tableware treasure, serious hosts require more than dazzling charisma to throw spectacular parties this Christmas, and we’ve got a jewel-box of twinkling, gleaming must-haves that rise to the occasion. Pop the cork on the Champagne and pour. Buyer’s pick: “These crackers by Undercover are a conversation-starter on any table: they’re exclusive to Heal’s, use beautiful paper that’s been hand-marbled in England in colours to reflect our new-season colour palette, and the gifts inside use recycled leather as small accessories you’ll want to keep forever…” Jane Murray, Home Accessories Buyer Vegan Sea Salted Fudge by Cartwright & Butler, Spiced Orange Honey in Jar by Cartwright & Butler, Timeless Treasures Gold Caramelised White Chocolate Bar by ARTHOUSE Unlimited, Dinosaurs Milk Chocolate with Smoky Malt Crunch Sea Salt and Cinnamon Bar by ARTHOUSE Unlimited, Swim with Whales Milk Chocolate with Caramel and Sea Salt Bar by ARTHOUSE Unlimited, Billionaires Shortbread Truffles Single Layer by Charbonnel et Walker, Whisky Truffles Single Layer by Charbonnel et Walker, Ottolenghi Feast Delicious Coffee Cup Pink Set of 4 by Serax, Ottolenghi Feast Delicious Plate Pink and Blue Medium Set of 2, Salted Caramel and Chocolate Stirrer by Cartwright & Butler, Marshmallow and Chocolate Stirrer by Cartwright & Butler, Milk Chocolate Stirrer by Cartwright & Butler, Afternoon Biscuit Selection in Tin by Cartwright & Butler For selective gourmands Whether truffles, chocolate or fudge, sweet treats don’t come much more sophisticated than the delectable spoils in this delicious collection, made from quality ingredients and sourced from artisanal makers. Oh, go on then… just the one. Buyer’s pick: “The chocolate bars by ARTHOUSE Unlimited are, as you’d expect, works of art. They come beautifully wrapped while being absolutely delicious. What’s more, the charity represents the artistic talents of adults living with neuro-diverse and physical support needs, with 100% of sales helping it to grow and evolve.” Sabina Miller, Head of Buying Brew Stove Top Coffee Maker Stainless Steel by Tom Dixon, Fog Scent Giftset Royalty by Tom Dixon, Girard Dolls No 9 Two Pointed Hat by Vitra, Cocoa Dusted Sea Salt Caramel Truffles by Coco Chocolatier, Orange Melt Biscuits by Coco Chocolatier, Cold Brew Coffee Dark Chocolate Bar by Coco Chocolatier, Christmas Spice Chocolate Bar by Coco Chocolatier, Type 75 Mini Desk Lamp Paul Smith Edition 1 by Anglepoise®, Vuelta Table Lamp White by ferm LIVING For design aficionados Combining form and function, our divine collection of covetable objects is crafted by both up-and-coming talent and big-name designers, enabling those lucky enough to receive one of these under their tree to enjoy a little bit of luxury at home. Friends will be green with envy… Buyer’s pick: “The stove-top coffee maker by Tom Dixon makes an everyday task feel so much more elegant. I love making my brew in this each morning and display it on the counter for all to see rather than stash it away in a cupboard.” Berengere Favraud, Brand & Concession Buyer Caramel and Orange Luggage Tag and Passport Set by Undercover, Canopy Pitcher by LSA International, Canopy Tumbler Set of 4 by LSA International, Fusion Recycled Glass Vase by Heal’s, Feel The Air Shampoo Bar by ARTHOUSE Unlimited, Duo Reversible Velvet Cushion by Heal’s For eco aesthetes Now, more than ever, sustainability and style go hand-in-hand. This luxe lot – made with people and planet firmly in mind – combine exquisite looks with ethical credentials to spectacular effect for a Christmas present with a conscience. Buyer’s pick: “This vase is by Lea Randebrock – a designer who was spotlighted as part of Heal’s Discovers, our platform for emerging up-and-coming talent – and is handblown from recycled glass here in the UK. I love how no two are the same, each with its own organic shape.” Georgia Fisher, Assistant Buyer aWAKE Alarm Clock Ivory Sand by Kreafunk, aGO II Bluetooth Portable Speaker Shady Green by Kreafunk, aGO II Bluetooth Portable Speaker Black by Kreafunk, aGO II Bluetooth Portable Speaker Ivory Sand by Kreafunk, toCHARGE Mini III Power Bank Black by Kreafunk, Mouro Portable LED Table Lamp by Case For technology obsessives Forward-thinking in technology and futuristic in design, our sleek gadgets and gizmos fuse the very best of both worlds, and are sure to dazzle your most discerning loved ones. Geek at its chicest. Buyer’s pick: “The Mouro by Case is at the top of my list this year: the table lamp is small enough to fit in the neatest of spaces, is portable so you can take it where it’s needed, and looks super-cool to boot – especially when you use it to wash a wall with light.” Claire Anstey, Lighting Buyer Leather Scented Candle by MALIN+GOETZ, Grapefruit Face Cleanser by MALIN+GOETZ, Cilantro Hair Conditioner by MALIN+GOETZ, Peppermint Shampoo by MALIN+GOETZ, Vitamin B5 Body Moisturiser by MALIN+GOETZ, Eucalyptus Deodorant by MALIN+GOETZ, Cannabis Perfume Oil by MALIN+GOETZ, Best Sellers Travel Kit by MALIN+GOETZ, Bloomsbury Bath Soak Gift Box by Soapsmith, Camden Town Handmade Soap by Soapsmith, Brick Lane Handmade Soap by Soapsmith, Essential Detox Kit by Norfolk Natural Living, Lady Muck Bath Milk Lavender and Bergamot by ARTHOUSE Unlimited For beauty gurus Those into pampering and preening – who isn’t? – will unwind in style with these magical lotions and potions. Enabling nearest and dearest to recreate all the splendour of a spa from the comfort of home, they’re curated from the best beauty brands in the world. Miracles, guaranteed. Buyer’s pick: “The MALIN+GOETZ eucalyptus deodorant is a beauty essential: I’ve used it for years and I’ve got one in every bag. As well as smelling amazing, it’s translucent, and made with all-natural ingredients.” Letisha Johnson, Buyer's Admin Assistant Cedarwood & Myrtle Dusk Candle by Heal’s, Bitter Orange & Cassis Dusk Infuser by Heal’s, Winter Spice Scented Glass Candle by Heal’s, Frankincense & Pine Short Pillar Candle, Winter Spice Tall Pillar Candle with Botanicals by Heal’s, Frankincense & Pine Natural Reed Diffuser by Heal’s, Black Rose & Walnut Scented Candle by Heal’s, Amber & Pink Pepper Natural Reed Diffuser by Heal’s, Botanicals Winter Spice Brick Candle by Heal’s For candle connoisseurs The flicker of a wick and the fragrance of a candle can transform a space and boost your mood. So, give those who appreciate the power of scent one of these wax wonders, sure to evoke the senses. Whether for the bedroom or bathroom – or simply on a console in the hallway – one can never have too many. Buyer’s pick: “Who doesn’t want to recreate the fragrant scent of an alpine retreat for the festive period? Hand-poured in Sussex with a hand-picked blend of luxury oils, the Frankincense & Pine candle does just that, and the green ribbon adds a finishing flourish as a gift.” Mousami Chanda, Buyer's Admin Assistant Neroli & Bergamot Dusk Diffuser by Heal’s, Fig & Petitgrain Dusk Candle by Heal’s,Ottolenghi Feast Swirl Coffee Cup Blue and White Set of 4 by Serax, Women’s Lambswool Ankle Socks Zebra Navy Yellow by Catherine Tough, Kids Lambswool Mittens Pink Stripe by Catherine Tough, Lambswool Scarf Wide Stripe Blue Rust by Catherine Tough, Kids Lambswool Bobble Hat Blue by Catherine Tough, Lambswool Hot Water Bottle Set Large Spot Soft Green by Catherine Tough, Kids Lambswool Gloves Blue Stripe For haute homebodies From pulling on a pair of woollen socks to slipping a snuggly hot water bottle between the sheets, there’s an art to cosy, and these creature comforts have got your homebody covered. Hygge, anyone? Buyer’s pick: “Socks are a classic present and I’m always happy to get another pair. The lambswool socks by Catherine Tough in a statement zebra print are beautifully-made in Portugal and I love the pop of yellow.” Hannah Thistlewaite, Senior Buyer Brew Stove Top Coffee Maker by Tom Dixon, Brew Espresso Cups Set of 4 by Tom Dixon,Caramel and Orange A5 Notebook by Undercover, Fir and Green A5 Notebook by Undercover, Sipsmith Gin Truffle Single Layer by Charbonnel et Walker, Eggnog Truffles Single Layer by Charbonnel et Walker, Raspberry and Amaretto Truffles Single Layer by Charbonnel et Walker, Milk Sea Salt Caramel Thins by Charbonnel et Walker For discerning hot-deskers Allow hybrid workers to adorn their spaces with a beautiful array of accessories. Stationery for taking notes in style. Carafes for pouring coffee with panache. Gourmet snacks for getting through the afternoon slump. Just call it ‘al desko’… Buyer’s pick: “Not only are these covetable notebooks from Undercover made from recycled leather and FSC paper, but they come in gorgeous colours and smell amazing, too.” Sabina Miller, Head of Buying Yoga Essentials Kit by Norfolk Natural Living, Chess Set by Printworks, Four in a Row Game by Printworks, Backgammon Board Game by Printworks, Tumbling Tower Game by Printworks, Rosebud and Lilac Luggage Tag and Passport Set by Undercover, Navy and Teal Luggage Tag and Passport Set by Undercover, Seafoam and Khaki Luggage Tag and Passport Set by Undercover, Fir and Green Pencil Case by Undercover, Seafoam and Khaki Pencil Case by Undercover For sophisticated stockings There are plenty of stockings to stuff over the season, so fill yours with fabulous, from gorgeous games to beauty buys, stylish stationery to travel accessories, plus more besides. Heal’s Gift Card For those who have everything When it come to those who have everything – we’ve all got them in our lives – a Heal’s Gift Card brings comfort and joy. Simply charge it with the desired amount, add a personal note and gift in a small but perfectly-formed envelope. From furniture to accessories and lighting, the recipient is free to spend it as they choose, limited only by their imagination. Assorted Top tip Table presents are this year’s secret Santa and are unwrapped before tucking into a festive feast. Why not bestow a bejewelled Christmas decoration on guests as a token they can treasure and hang on their tree for years to come? Everyone loves a beautifully-made decoration to add to an eclectic collection.

Buying Guides

How To Buy Ethical And Sustainable Furniture

The world is becoming more sustainable and environmentally conscious day by day. We’re switching to LED bulbs, cutting meat from our meals and carefully considering every piece of clothing we buy. So, why aren’t we applying the same thought process to buying ethical and sustainable furniture? This switch to more eco-friendly living isn’t a fleeting fad. Our 2021 survey showed that people are becoming more and more aware that what they do or don’t buy really matters. The material a piece of furniture is made from, the packaging it arrives in and the carbon it takes to deliver it to your home should all be important considerations. Read on to discover how you can make more ethical and sustainable choices when buying furniture. What is sustainable furniture? Ethical and sustainable furniture is made in an eco-friendly way and leaves little impact on the planet. Different factors come into this, including where it’s made, how it’s made, who made it and how it’s transported. When choosing a piece of furniture, ask yourself some key questions. How far has it travelled? What’s it made of and does it come from a sustainable source? Does the factory it’s made in treat its workers well? Is this just a trend? What chemicals are used to make the furniture? Will I be happy using this for the rest of my life? Considering points like these will help you to decide if the piece of furniture fits your criteria of ethical and sustainable furniture. But remember, ethics and sustainability don’t always come hand in hand when it comes to furniture. After all, a chair could be handcrafted by artisans using local materials, but if it’s shipped from the opposite side of the world it might not fit your criteria. For many people, if it’s a quality piece of furniture that’ll last a lifetime then it’s an easy call. What are the best ethical and sustainable materials? It can be hard to choose between materials whilst shopping sustainably. After all, so many materials claim to be eco-friendly and it can be hard to see through the greenwashing. To us, the key thing is that it leaves a minimal impact on the planet, and that it’s made well to last a lifetime. Here are some of the best ethical and sustainable materials around. Recycled materials Most of us recycle as much as possible in our day-to-day lives. Now, furniture brands are using our waste to create sustainable furniture from recycled materials. Materials like metal and wood are being reused to create brand new pieces of furniture. Even plastic bottles are being transformed into upholstery, sustainable garden furniture and rugs. Rather than chopping down trees or forging metals, furniture made from recycled materials turns yesterday’s waste into today’s raw material. Without these additional manufacturing steps, the carbon footprint of your new piece of furniture is reduced massively. Wood Wood can be one of the most sustainable materials to use when crafting furniture. After all, trees help to absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen, making them an essential part of our ecosystem. Plus, it’s a renewable resource, meaning we can continue growing more trees and replenishing our forests, within reason. However, just because a piece of furniture is made using wood, that doesn’t mean it’s ethical or sustainable. If the forest the wood comes from isn’t well managed or contributes to deforestation then it might be best to pass. Look out for the PEFC and FSC logos as a sign the wood comes from a sustainable source. To find out more information on choosing sustainable wood furniture check out this article. Organic cotton When shopping for upholstered furniture like a sofa, headboard or armchair, it’s also important to consider the fabric. Plenty of upholstery materials are made using synthetic fibres so that they can keep up with daily use. For many people that’s a fine choice, but for the most sustainable upholstery we suggest organic cotton. Cotton is a natural material that comes from plants, making it a renewable fibre. However, not all cotton is grown organically and unfortunately, non-organic cotton is often grown with help from pesticides. These pesticides can seep into the soil and wreak havoc on local ecosystems and water sources. That’s why we suggest organic cotton as the most sustainable and ethical upholstery choice. For the same reasons, organic linen also makes a great upholstery option and even uses less water. The source of the cotton is also important, as some countries are known to use forced labour to harvest it. The best thing you can do is ask the manufacturer what their policies are and where their cotton comes from. This should help you make an informed choice. Is quality furniture more sustainable? Yes, absolutely. Investing in a piece of furniture that you’ll love for a lifetime is far more sustainable than buying fast furniture that breaks in five years, only to be replaced. If a piece of furniture is handcrafted using the best materials, it’s bound to be a household favourite for years to come. Premium materials and long-lasting finishes are key to your furniture lasting a long time. Plus, maintaining your furniture with the right wax, detergent or varnish will help your furniture to last even longer. Does it matter where my furniture comes from? Yes, it’s incredibly important to check where your furniture has travelled. Even the most premium furniture often travels around the world. So, do your research to estimate the carbon footprint of your new furniture. For the lowest possible carbon footprint, look for local suppliers. If they craft their furniture using locally sourced materials, then even better. The most sustainable furniture is often the one closest to home, providing it’s well made using ethical materials and that you’re sure you’ll love it for years to come. Like what you see? Explore our collection of furniture made using recycled materials.

Buying Guides

How To Choose A Dining Table Colour

The dining table is central to every home. It’s the place you host family dinners, where you entertain friends and sit to enjoy an afternoon cuppa. Whether it’s a special occasion or a quiet evening in, your dining table caters to a whole assortment of occasions. So, it’s important to choose your dining table colour carefully to make sure it’s central to your design scheme as well as your home. We’ve created this handy article to show how to choose a dining table colour that suits your home. Read on to discover more. Decide on a style Sure, the dining table is central to your home, but it isn’t always the place to start designing. On your first step to choosing a dining table colour, decide on a style that your table should match, not the other way around. For example, if you decide on a more retro style for your dining room, perhaps a white Eero Saarinen dining table will be the perfect match. Or maybe your chosen style is a little more rustic. In that case, a light wood dining table may suit your room best. If you’d like to create an opulent and luxurious vibe, perhaps consider black marble. Deciding on a style first will help you to create a well-thought out and cohesive dining space. Consider materials When asking yourself how to choose a dining table colour, materials should always be an early consideration. Your dining table’s material can have a huge influence on your choice, in a similar way to your room’s style. That’s because materials can make a huge difference to your decision making. Since narrowing down materials tends to cut out some colour options, it can also be a great way to move one step closer to a decision. For example, choosing a wooden dining table means your colour selection is often limited to natural browns, white and black. A marble dining table offers a little more choice in terms of colour. The luxurious material comes in reds, greens, whites and blacks, so it’s perfect for injecting colour into your space. In contrast, man-made materials like linoleum mean you can choose any colour under the sun for your dining table. How will you use the room? When you’re thinking about how to choose a dining table colour, it’s important to consider how you’ll use the room. Will you mainly be enjoying low key family dinners in it or hosting opulent dinner parties? Answering this question will help you choose a colour. Wood is a great choice if you’re using the room for plenty of family meals and evenings in. That’s because it’s a warm and welcoming material. Colourful linoleum is another great choice as it brings character to the room and it’s easy to clean marks left behind from messy family dinners. Or perhaps the room will be a little more formal? Opulent materials like marble, brass and walnut make for a sophisticated dining space. Big celebrations and special occasions will feel even more monumental sat round a white marble table. How large is the room? The colour of your dining table can really impact your room as a whole. The right choice and a small dining room can suddenly feel sprawling. The wrong choice and you may find it feeling dark and gloomy. If your room is on the smaller side, we suggest choosing a brighter dining table. Think shades of grey and white, or lighter woods like ash. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t add a splash of colour to a more compact dining room. Bring in colour with accessories like placemats, curtains and dining chairs. For larger dining rooms you have a little more freedom. Rich, dark tones like black, blue and purple take advantage of the space and are a little bolder. Light colours will also work, but make sure to add a rug underneath to pull the design together. Like what you see? Discover our collection of modern dining tables.

Buying Guides

Leather vs Fabric Sofas: Which Is Best for Your Home?

Lots of decision making goes into finding the perfect sofa. Once you’ve picked your silhouette, the next big decision is upholstery. Often the first choice is between leather or fabric upholstery and there’s lots to consider. That’s everything from your space and style to comfort and durability. Really, there is no right or wrong choice between leather or fabric upholstery. It’s a decision that’s completely personal and depends lots on your style and how you plan to use the sofa. In this article we’ll help you make the crucial choice between leather or fabric sofa upholstery. Read on to learn more… Which is more comfortable, leather or fabric? Plenty of things help to make a sofa comfortable, like springs, cushioning and lots of support. However, upholstery also plays a huge role in making sure your sofa is comfy to sit on. After all, you’ll be touching it every time you sit, lie or lounge on it. Too itchy, sticky or delicate and you won’t enjoy your downtime quite so much. When it comes to comfort, the choice between leather and fabric is often down to personal preference, but a beautifully crafted leather sofa can be every bit as inviting. The Barrington II Sofa demonstrates why. Inspired by the relaxed proportions of a classic French club chair, it combines soft 'pull-up' leather with fully sprung support and generous foam and feather cushions for a seat that feels comfortable from the very first sit. Over time, the leather develops a rich patina unique to your home, making Barrington a sofa that only becomes more characterful with age. Experience the comfort of the Barrington Sofa here. If your idea of comfort is sinking into soft, enveloping cushions, a fabric sofa is hard to beat. The Astrid Sofa collection has been designed with relaxation in mind, pairing a signature wrap-around back cushion with generously filled duck feather and down cushions to create an irresistibly cloud-like seat. Upholstered in the UK in a choice of exclusive fabrics, its modular design can be tailored to suit your space. Complete the look with tactile throws and decorative cushions to add warmth, texture and personality, creating a living room that's as inviting as it is beautifully considered. Sink into comfort with the Astrid Sofa. So, take your time to try sitting on sofas upholstered in both materials before deciding. Our winner: Fabric upholstery Is leather or fabric more stylish? Leather and fabric upholstery can both make a strong style statement in your home. The best thing to do is look at your existing furniture and decide whether fabric or leather is the right fit. Fabric upholstery offers lots of choice when it comes to finding the right style. With the freedom to choose between different colours, textures, patterns and fabrics, you can really customise your sofa to suit your space. When it comes to style, there's no single winner. Leather offers timeless appeal, while fabric opens up a world of colour, texture and personal expression. Upholstered here in Smart Luxe Velvet Peridot, the Harri Sofa collection shows how fabric can transform a living room, bringing warmth, depth and a luxurious finish to contemporary interiors. Its clean-lined silhouette, subtle double-stitch detailing and slim black feet keep the design feeling refined, while the rich velvet upholstery adds softness and character. Complete the look with contrasting cushions and a textured rug to create a space that's both sophisticated and inviting. Discover Harri in your favourite fabric. You might lack the same choice as fabric upholstery but choose the right quality leather and it’ll look elegant in your home for years to come. The Quadro Sofa range embodies this timeless appeal, pairing a clean, mid-century-inspired silhouette with buttery-soft Italian leather that develops character over time. Its slim metal legs and neat proportions create a light, contemporary feel, while generous arms and a supportive seat make it as comfortable as it is refined. For those seeking an understated look that won't date, leather offers effortless sophistication that only improves with age. Experience timeless style with Quadro. Our winner: Leather upholstery Which sofa will stand the test of time? When it comes to choosing between leather or fabric upholstery, longevity is a big factor. After all, no one wants to invest in a sofa with upholstery that won’t last long. Always check the Martindale rub count of a fabric, that’s the test done to understand how durable it is. The higher the rub count, the more robust it should be. Leather is famously durable, easy to clean and long lasting. With just a little maintenance, a new leather sofa will be a permanent fixture in your home for years to come. Over time it will develop a beautifully unique patina and bring even more character to your living room. Matera Leather Sofa With fabric upholstery, it’s much more dependent on the material. As a general rule of thumb, the better quality the fabric, the less wear and tear you’ll notice. On the other hand, fabric is harder to scratch than leather. So, if you expect pets and children to clamber over your sofa, quality fabric upholstery hides the signs of wear and tear better in some ways. However, lots of wear can make fabric upholstery look tatty. A well-worn leather sofa normally just means it has more character. Overall, there’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to leather or fabric upholstery lasting longer. They both offer lots of longevity and it depends on how much you’ll be using the sofa. Our winner: That depends on your home… Is leather easier to care for than fabric upholstery? Leather furniture is super easy to clean. All it normally needs is a bit of a dust and a wipe down every now and then. Of course, any spillages should still be cleaned up straight away and conditioning it on a regular basis will stop it from splitting and cracking. Overall, even the smallest amount of maintenance will help your leather sofa last for years. On the other hand, cleaning fabric upholstery depends a lot on what the material’s made from. Fabrics like wool, cotton and linen call for different cleaning techniques to synthetic materials like polyester and acrylic. Luckily, fabric upholstery is normally finished with a stain-resistant treatment to make it easier to clean. That mean spillages, pet hair and mucky fingerprints on any fabric are fairly easy to clean. Specialist cleaning products and a steam cleaner will make your task even easier. To keep it nice and clean, vacuuming and washing removable covers will keep your fabric upholstery in tip top condition. Somerset Fabric Sofa Of course, wiping down leather upholstery and giving it the occasional condition makes it much lower maintenance than fabric. So yes, leather is easier to clean than fabric upholstery. For those with allergies, a leather sofa also offers a reprise from dust mites and pet fur. Fabric upholstery tends to trap them both and only a regular vacuuming will help. However, leather is normally hypoallergenic. Our winner: Leather upholstery If you love the relaxed look of fabric but are concerned about practicality, choosing the right upholstery makes all the difference. Upholstered in Capelo Linen, the Novara Sofa offers a beautifully soft, textured finish that brings warmth and a naturally lived-in feel to your living room. Linen's breathable qualities make it a comfortable choice throughout the seasons, while its subtle weave helps disguise everyday wear, making it well suited to busy homes. With a little regular care, a linen sofa will develop character over time, creating an inviting space that's designed to be lived in rather than simply admired.   Which one’s your winner? Explore our leather sofa and fabric sofa collections today.

Buying Guides

Best Velvet Fabric For Upholstery

Velvet is one of the world’s most luxurious fabrics with its smooth texture and subtle sheen. It’s been a fixture on catwalks and in our homes ever since it first reached Britain. The original velvets were crafted using silk, making them incredibly expensive and only available to nobles for centuries. Even today, the techniques needed to craft silk velvet make it an incredibly costly addition to your soft furnishings. That’s why upholsterers often turn to cotton and polyester velvet as an alternative. Each type of silk offers different qualities, making them suitable for different types of upholstery. Read on to find out more about the best velvet fabric for upholstery… A brief history of velvet Velvet is a fabric with plenty of heritage. The ancient Egyptians made a similar style fabric as long ago as 2000 BC. To create it, they used process that isn’t too different to the ones we use today to make velvet. However, ancient Egypt isn’t alone in its claim to fame in the history of velvet. In fact, Iraq and China are also two of the first producers of velvet in the world. Once trade was established and velvet reached the Mediterranean shores, it became an instant hit in Europe, particularly in Italy. Italy became a dominant producer in velvet during the Renaissance and after the industrial revolution it became cheaper and more widely available. That’s how velvet became a staple in our soft furnishings and on the catwalk. Different types of velvet upholstery Velvet upholstery has been a favourite in interior design for years. Even today, it’s still the go-to for designers looking to add a little lustre and finesse to homes. With a soft, plush texture, it’s great at creating a cosy ambience in living rooms, bedrooms and dining areas. The best velvet fabric for your upholstery will change depending on how much it’ll be used. In busy homes, a more durable velvet is normally needed, whereas furniture that’s used less needn’t be quite so hard wearing. Read on to discover the best velvet fabric for upholstery in different homes. Silk velvet Best for: sophisticated living rooms Silk velvet is beyond a doubt the most luxurious option when it comes to velvet upholstery. It has a truly refined texture and a beautiful sheen that’s hard to replicate. It’s made by weaving two layers of silk on top of one another before being joined by a second silk thread. When the layers separate it creates the smooth velvety texture we love. Compared to other velvets, silk velvet tends to have a lower Martindale rub count, the scale that measures the durability of fabrics. That means it isn’t always the right choice for higher use rooms. So, we recommend considering silk velvet upholstery if your furniture’s in a space that isn’t subjected to kids and pets clambering all over it. Polyester velvet Best for: busy family homes With a similar luxurious finish to silk velvet, polyester velvet is a more cost effective and durable option for upholstery. It’s made using similar techniques to silk velvet but using high-quality polyester instead. This hard-wearing fabric resists fading and is often water and stain resistant. Polyester velvet also tends to have a particularly high Martindale rub count. For example, our own Smart Luxe velvet has a rub count of 100,000. That makes it strong enough for commercial use where it's perfect for the most heavy-duty settings. So, whilst polyester velvet is made using synthetic fibres, it’s super durable and bound to last well. We reckon it’s perfect for busy family homes or households where pets climb on the sofa. Cotton velvet Best for: well-used sofas Cotton velvet also offers a much more durable alternative to silk velvet. It’s got the same subtle glint when it catches the light, and a matte finish that stays when brushed back and forth. Over the years cotton velvet upholstery develops a subtle patina that makes it unique to your home. This patina doesn’t change the fabric’s durability, as cotton velvet is robust with a rub count of over 60,000. That makes it perfect for well-used living rooms or dining spaces. Shop velvet sofas and discover how to care for your velvet upholstery.