In Praise of the Chaise

Romantic. Stylish. Comfortable. I can think of no better way to while away the afternoon than sprawled out like a Hollywood starlet on a chaise longue, which, as you can probably guess, is French for long chair. Originating in 18th-century France, the divine recliner was upholstered for bedroom-style comfort, but many contemporary descendants of the classic offer a more streamlined profile. If you’re considering buying one soon (and there are many to suit modern decor schemes), take inspiration from these swoon-worthy styles.

The chaise may be associated with the fainting couch favored by damsels in distress, but don’t think they’re old-fashioned. Even when plumply tufted in purple velvet, they can be handsomely hip as the main feature in your living room.

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Learned friend. Settle back with a four-legged friend and read away your weekend on an extra-wide chaise made for two. Generous upholstery makes this kind of lounge one of the most comfortable. Covered in a durable natural fabric in a cheerful color, it’s a refreshingly pretty addition to a home.

See more of this candy-colored apartment in Manhattan


Globetrotter style. Evoking the suave sophistication of a gentlemen’s club, this guest bedroom features a leather-tufted Chesterfield-style chaise. Surrounded by some impressive occasional furniture with globetrotting credentials, such as a Chinese lacquer screen, a bamboo bedside table, a Moroccan octagonal side table and a zebra-print rug, this is a couch on which to dream of faraway adventures.


Modern master. Often found in boutique hotel lobbies or swanky warehouse lofts, the low-profile black leather chaise is the ultimate in sleek minimalism. This Barcelona daybed is a signature piece of one of the greats of modern architecture, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. It was designed as part of the collection for his pavilion at the 1929 Barcelona International Exposition, and it’s still in production today.

Barcelona daybed: Dedece


Parlor-pretty. If you’re a secret fan of Victoriana but have been reluctant to indulge your passion, you’ll probably like this modern twist on the style. Covered in deeply tufted velvet, this scroll-armed chaise is an exercise in opulence (although the turquoise color is quite contemporary), and it looks
especially enticing framed by windows that look out onto a leafy garden.


Stylishly simple. A little bit midcentury modern, a little bit Freudian couch, this classic William Haines chaise was introduced in 1950 and has continued to be a favorite with stylistas and starlets ever since.

Valentine sofa: William Haines Designs


Far horizons. There must have been a glimpse into the future of furniture when famous design trio Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret and Charlotte Perriand designed the chaise known simply as LC4. The form-follows-function recliner was conceptualized in 1928 but became famous when it went into production via Italian design house Cassina in 1965. It’s built for relaxation: The chrome-plated steel frame is adjustable and able to move through angles of inclination. The seat is usually upholstered in either black or white leather or a pony skin or cowhide.


Fireside chat. Fill a nook by a cozy fire with a plush new chaise to create a warm and toasty zone. Place a small table and a lamp by the chaise and you’ll not only have a relaxing place to read but a perfect place to unwind before bed.


Window seat. As a dramatic statement more suited to being looked at than sat on, La Chaise is artwork as much as armchair. It was designed by Charles and Ray Eames for a competition at the Museum of Modern Art in New York in 1948 and its form was inspired by “Floating Figure,” a sculpture by Gaston Lachaise. Its voluminous scooped-out shape allows for a wide range of sitting and reclining positions, which no doubt could form part of a little performance art display.


Bed buddy. Why should only outdoor furniture be made of wonderful weaves in natural rattans and cane? Bring the outdoors in with this Swedish poolside recliner to replace a more traditional chaise in the bedroom.

Karlskrona chaise: Ikea


Curvy collectable. This gorgeous and comely chaise begs to be lounged on. It has a swooping arm perfect for striking a seductive pose, which is possibly why it’s named after Cleopatra, the Egyptian queen famous for reclining and ordering minions about. Despite its contemporary look, the Cleopatra was designed in 1970 by Geoffrey Harcourt for Artifort. It also has wheels so it can be trundled from room to room.


Cozy corner. Have an empty corner to fill? Rest naturally on this chunky chaise, which will suit most homes, as will the light gray upholstery. Alternatively, if you want to liven things up a bit, some colorful patterned cushions should do the trick and will make the chaise extra comfy for nap time.


Sturdy stuff. Kids love a chaise too, so don’t keep them all to yourself. Let your children enjoy the comfort of a chaise in a family room or study. Find one with a fun shape that has sturdy springs and upholstery to endure a bit of bounce, such as this slippery-dip-shaped leather option.

Slinky Chaise: Freedom


Formal favorite. More showpiece than snooze spot, this elegant chaise is just the thing to set the tone in a formal entry or lobby, signaling an upmarket style in the rest of the home.

Do you have a favorite chaise? What kind is it? Tell us about your divine recliner in the Comments section below.

More: Browse chaises in every style in the Shop section

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