What is an English Roll Arm Sofa?
An English Roll Arm Sofa is a type of couch characterized by its low, tight back and rolled arms. For many, it’s a popular choice because it pairs comfort with a classic look.
According to Karen Rohr, the sofa gets its name from the shape of its arms: they are rolled forward and have a rounded appearance that makes it easy to identify. Rohr explains that “this gives it a more relaxed look compared to other types of sofas.”
The Maxwell Sofa from Interior Define
If you’re having trouble spotting an English Roll Arm Sofa, Allison Smith suggests looking for arms that sweeps or gullies from the front of the sofa to the back. “The arms will have a soft tuck to them. On the side of the arm itself, it will have sweet little pleats that come together with welting,” Smith explains.
While the English Roll Arm Sofa has a distinct style, the material it’s made from differs. Common upholstery materials include leather, velvet, and cotton, but it wouldn’t be surprising for the sofa to be made of other material as well.
Why Choose an English Roll Arm Sofa?
Although people love the English Roll Arm Sofa for a variety of reasons, many are drawn to its classic, timeless design.
“Trends are ever-changing and evolving, so I think there’s always an attraction to the classic, timeless details on furniture,” says Chris Walsh. “English Roll Arm Sofas are just that: they will never go out of style, and you won’t have to worry about changing furniture to keep up with the changing trends.”
“Trends are ever-changing and evolving, so I think there’s always an attraction to the classic, timeless details on furniture."
Additionally, the sofa is known for its variability. Nancy Lupo personally appreciates the sofa’s ability to “be presented in so many ways.” Allison Smith explains that they can work with a variety of home decor styles depending on what you cover it in. “These sofas work well in bohemian, to eclectic, to very traditional or transitional,” she says. “The bottom line is, the style can work if it is slipcovered right.”
For those looking to modernize the English Roll Arm Sofa, Nancy Lupo suggests using a one cushion bench seat or pulling all the fabrics taut and tight to create a sleeker, more modern look.
Our Top Picks: The Best English Roll Arm Sofas for 2022 According to Interior Designers
1. Carmine
Brand: Maiden Home
Price: $2,775
Dimensions: From 60" Wide, 37" Deep, 34" Tall
This classic English Roll Arm Sofa by Maiden Home has been given a fresh look. According to Chris Walsh, the classic shape of the Carmine “will never go out of style.” Walsh also says that he appreciates the ability to customize the fabric and color of the sofa to fit each individual’s design preference, allowing for all to ensure that the sofa is a perfect fit in their home.
2. Maxwell
Brand: Interior Define
Price: $1845
Dimensions: From 82” Wide, 23.5” Deep, 31” Tall
Known for being “comfy, cozy, and approachable,” Maxwell has taken the classic elements of the English Roll Arm Sofa, such as turn legs, contoured arms, and piping details, and made it light and airy with a thin frame rail.
The low back, low arm height, and deep seat of the Maxwell invite you to sit back and relax. Choose between hundreds of fabrics and upgrade the cushions of the sofa for customized comfort.
↦ [Shop now at interiordefine.com](https://www.pjtra.com/t/8-12889-233551-301130?sid=roll arm&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.interiordefine.com%2Fmaxwell-custom-sofa%3Flegs-type%3D355783%26material-type%3D59136%26options-134%3D470%26options-2647%3D59136%26options-2648%3D355783%26options-610%3D9114%26options-611%3D2446%26options-6740%3D153883%26sku%3DMXWL.FABRIC.SOFA.STNDRD.CUSHION-2.DC-03.DEPTH-37.Leg014-3.LENGTH-82.ROY-005)
3. Saxon
Brand: Apt2B
Price: $2,748
Dimensions: From 80” Wide, 37” Deep, 32” Tall
With a deep seat and ultra-plush cushioning, the Los Angeles-crafted Saxon brings a “modern twist to shabby-chic.” The sofa’s deep bench seat makes it easy to curl up on cozy nights in, while it's cleanable hypoallergenic fabrics make for easy hosting.
Additionally, knife’s edge trim frames both the seat and back cushions, adding a distinct and unique flair to the classic design. Customize both the fabric and wood finish to ensure that the piece fits your space.
4. Lundsbury Sofa
Lundsbury Sofa
Brand: Arhaus
Price: $4,399
Dimensions: From 89" Wide, 43" Deep, 38" Tall
Sleek design and clean lines meet comfort in the Landsbury Rolled Arm Sofa. Karen Rohr “loves its classic look” as “it’s a sleek and luxe piece featuring a frame crafted in North Carolina from sustainably sourced hardwood.” Others note that the sofa’s plush cushions deliver on maximum comfort while blending into its sleek design.
5. Rivington Sofa
Brand: Lulu and Georgia
Price: $3,798
Dimensions: From 72” Wide, 40" Deep, 34" Tall
Known for fitting into any aesthetic, the Rivington Sofa is an exclusive by Lulu and Georgia that features low, sloping arms and specialized detailing. The sofa is made in California and available in a variety of fabrics and color options, offering maximum customizability.
↦ Shop now at luluandgeorgia.com
6. Lotus 88” Sofa
Brand: Joss & Main
Price: $1,490
Dimensions: 88” Wide, 37” Deep, 32.5” Tall
The Lotus Sofa is the definition of classic meets modern. According to Karen Rohr, the sofa’s “streamlined silhouette adds a timeless, modern touch while keeping the beauty of a classic piece with the rolled up arms.” Fabric colors are available in both vibrant and neutral color palettes, allowing you to make the sofa a statement piece if you wish.
7. Dodiy Sofa
Dodiy 3-Seater Sofa
Brand: Homary
Price: $2,299
Dimensions: From 86.6” Wide, 37” Deep, 31.9” Tall
This elegant 3-seater sofa transforms your living room into a luxurious lounge. With diamond tufting and microfiber leather upholstery, it adds rich texture and maximum comfort. The sturdy pinewood frame and metal legs ensure durability, making it a stylish and practical addition to your space.
Additionally, the sofa’s down cushions allow you to keep it comfy when you’re not entertaining.
↦ Shop now at homary.com
8. Pales 95" Velvet Rolled Arm Chesterfield Sofa
Brand: Perigold
Price: $5,265
Dimensions: 95” Wide, 38” Deep, 28” Tall
With removable seat cushions, a solid wood frame, and tufted cushions, the Velvet Rolled Arm Chesterfield sofa delivers comfort and elegance. Karen Rohr says that the sofa “is the perfect mix of classic and modern” because its “sleek lines make it a perfect timeless piece, and versatile to any style.”
The sofa’s chesterfield style, meaning that the arms are equal to the back in height, make it easy to settle into the sofa from all sides. Choose from a variety of finishes for the sofa’s wood legs to create a customized look.
9. Gala Reverse Roll Arm Sofa
Gala Sofa
Brand: Crate&Barrel
Price: $2,599
Dimensions: From 75” Wide, 36” Deep, and 33” Tall
The Gala Reverse Roll Arm Apartment Sofa combines contemporary aesthetics with cozy comfort. Its streamlined design, featuring plush cushions and unique reverse roll arms, is tailored for compact living areas. Upholstered in soft, durable fabric, this chic sofa enhances any modern living space while ensuring practicality and style.
↦ Shop now at crateandbarrel.com
10. Atifah 85” Sofa
Atifah Upholstered Roll Arm Sofa
Brand: Canora Grey
Price: From $1,030
Dimensions: 85” Wide, 33.5” Deep, 36” Tall
The Atifah 85" Rolled Arm Sofa offers a perfect blend of classic charm and modern comfort. With its elegant rolled arms and reversible cushions, this stylish piece adapts effortlessly to your living space. Upholstered in soft fabric, it combines durability with a cozy feel, making it an inviting focal point for any room.
↦ Shop now at wayfair.com