Not many companies can trace their history back to the 1700s but Fleming & Howland is one of the exceptions. The Chesterfield history now goes back more than 200 years later, and the vision of the company is still very much alive. Their beautiful products are so desired they have a long waiting list.
The original Chesterfield
The Chesterfield sofa is the world’s best-known iconic British design when it comes to upholstered furniture. It has a highly distinctive visual design which has been preserved since its origin in 1780. The design has become an elegant and functional classic piece both fit for stately homes, modern houses, and complements both a classic home bar area as well as the living room.
Kingston Classic Chesterfield Sofa
The Kingston Classic Chesterfield Sofa is made with top grain, pigmented cow hides with antiqued finish. The frame consists of a hand-joined hardwood internal frame which is dowelled, glued and screwed and the iconic brass studding is individually hand nailed. Each sofa takes around 40 hours to complete and the buying process starts with an invitation to the factory floor to meet the upholsterer and see the leather.
The vision of Solomon Howland
In 1780, Solomon Howland decided to change profession from Cordwainer to upholder (the archaic term for upholsterer). In his new profession he transferred the application of an antiquated coloring technique formulated for shoes across to the patination of leather chairs. The value of customization still exists with Fleming & Howland – they believe that a chair or sofa should be tailored to a client’s height, weight and taste.
More leatherwork: How “The Egg” is made
The price
If you want a piece of the Chesterfield history, there are endless possibilities. Your chair or sofa can be customized with different sizes, colors and cushion filling – price for the Kingston chair is €1,730.00 and the 3-seater sofa €2,550.00. Average waiting time is three months.
