What is a Bridgewater Sofa?

A Bridgewater sofa is a style of sofa which tends to look very casual, yet comfortable. Many contemporary home designers use Bridgewater sofas to create a desired casual, friendly look in their rooms. Most furniture stores carry several basic sofas in the Bridgewater style, and it is typically possible to order more if desired. You can also find Bridgewater sofas at antique and thrift stores, although these used sofas may require some work before they are serviceable.

Several features distinguish a Bridgewater sofa. The first two are the comparatively low arms and high back, which give the sofa a very casual appearance. Most Bridgewater sofas also have a skirt which conceals their feet, and they have loose seat and back cushions which are typically heavily padded for make lounging more comfortable. Many are designed to seat three people comfortably, and they often have two large seat cushions.

In a typical case, a Bridgewater sofa is designed to be covered with a slipcover which fits under the seating and back cushions. These cushions can be covered in matching materials or in other fibers, depending on personal taste. It is also possible to find Bridgewater sofas with wooden or metal arms and backs, where the frame of the sofa is showcased, rather than hidden under a slipcover, although the skirt tends to remain.

Depending on how a Bridgewater sofa is styled, it can be casual or more formal. The use of unique textiles and throw pillows can also contribute to a desired overall look. This style of sofa can be paired with a variety of chairs, ranging from classic armchairs to more modern and sleek slipper chairs, depending on the design scheme that one is going for. Some furniture companies make matching sofa and chair sets in the Bridgewater design, for people who want to coordinate.

Like other sofas, a Bridgewater sofa typically has springs to make the seating more comfortable. If you are purchasing a used sofa, you may want to test the springs out to ensure that they are in good shape when you check on the condition of the sofa, as a single protruding spring can cause extreme discomfort. It is also a good idea to look for a sofa with removable slipcovers, allowing you to wash the covering for the sofa periodically to remove stains, pet dander, and any other materials which may have accumulated.