A contemporary sofa usually prioritises clean proportion, simplified detailing and a clear relationship between form and material. Low or moderate backs, restrained arms, deeper seats and modular elements are common, although contemporary design is not limited to one silhouette. Fleming Howland combines these characteristics with traditional hand upholstery and made to order construction.

Yes. Contemporary sofas can be upholstered in full grain leather, cotton velvet, wool, mohair and other suitable upholstery materials depending on the model. Leather gives a cleaner form additional depth through grain and patina, while fabric can soften the geometry and introduce a more tactile surface.

Fleming Howland makes furniture to order and can offer bespoke alterations to size, comfort, decorative detail and upholstery on many designs. Any dimensional change has to preserve the proportions and structural logic of the sofa, so bespoke requirements are reviewed as part of the design process.

Yes. A contemporary sofa can create useful contrast in a Georgian, Victorian or other period interior, particularly where the architecture already provides decorative detail. Restrained upholstery and strong proportion allow the furniture to sit comfortably alongside original mouldings, timber floors, fireplaces and traditional materials without competing with them.

Start with the architecture rather than the nominal number of seats. Consider circulation routes, sightlines, the position of windows and doors, and whether the sofa needs to divide or connect different zones. Deep modular sofas suit expansive rooms, while more linear designs can define a seating area without visually closing the space.