Objects of Desire: New Ways With the Classic Chaise
Thinking of chaise longues calls to mind images of bygone days: Joan Crawford lounging in a silk robe and marabou bedroom slippers or Grandma with her book, a blanket tucked under her chin. For these reasons it never occurred to me to include a chaise longue in my decor. But when it came time to furnish our new living room, our interior designer guided me toward a modern, low-backed one.
It fit our space beautifully, creating a space for relaxation in an otherwise prim and proper room, while also offering a comfy spot where multiple guests could sit and talk. What I thought would be a seldom-used piece has ended up being the furnishing that draws me into the room most often. It’s the perfect spot for snuggling with my husband in front of the fireplace, curl up with a book on a chilly afternoon or sit and talk on the phone as I look out the window, watching the birch trees sway.
Here are five ways designers have put the chaise longue to good use.
Donghia Chaise
This two-sided chaise allows guests to easily converse with people sitting on both sides of the room.
Design detail: The homeowners already owned this piece and wanted to keep it when they moved. To adapt it for this space, Taylor & Taylor had it reupholstered in luxurious brown velvet with a faux-bois texture. The pillows were made using the same fabric as the drapery, a touch that holds the chaise in the space visually.
When it works: A two-sided chaise is the perfect piece for joining two separate seating areas.
Jane Bi-Sectional by Gus Modern Furniture
While a piece of a sectional is not technically a chaise, purchasing one is a great way to achieve the same look and function.
Design detail: This piece has nonmarking leveler feet, so it stays stable on uneven floor surfaces like stone or tile.
When it works: This piece is perfect for modern spaces with low furnishings. Just make sure to measure its height relative to the other furnishings; guests can feel awkward when they’re seated lower than the people they’re conversing with.
Tips: It’s a good idea to see the sectional in the showroom. Ask about any hooks or clips that might hook the lounge to the sofa and make sure they are either removable or invisible.
Robert Plumb Chaise
The unique shape of this chaise allows it to be used as either a chaise or a bench. It reminds me of a traditional recamier but with much lower end pieces.
Design detail: This piece was chosen specifically for this long, narrow space. Because it’s backless, the lack of volume keeps the space from feeling too cramped.
More reasons to love it: “We needed something to break up a living room yet unify it at the same time,” explains designer Samantha Freidman. The design of this piece allows for arm support, and the bolster pillows offers an opportunity to add pattern.
Source: Robert Plumb
Beach House Chaise by Mainly Baskets
While this home is a traditional Cape Cod, its interior design is quite modern. This wicker chaise incorporates a sense of tradition, creating continuity with the home’s exterior.
Design detail: This piece was made using traditional wicker techniques dating back a hundred years.
When it works: Wicker chaises work best in spaces with lots of light, evoking a garden feeling.
More reasons to love it: “The clients have nieces and nephews with small children and wanted a place where they could sit together or even take a nap,” says Shor Home’s Herbert Achevedo. “The chaise made perfect sense for a summer beach house.”
Source: Shor Home
William Haines Valentine Sofa #263
The style of this dramatic piece was inspired by the late actor Billy Haines, who starred in iconic films of the Roaring Twenties, including The Midnight Express.
Design detail: “The combination of the wood and metal frame make it an extremely sturdy and enduring piece of furniture,” says interior designer J. Randall Tarasuk.
When it works: Its dramatic, contemporary style and elegant proportion makes this chaise a versatile piece. Tarasuk suggests placing it in a setting where people congregate, creating a literal conversation piece.
Source: Profiles
More: Learn the differences between chaises, divans and more
