Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
Why is it called a sofa?
1 Answer

Why it is called a sofa is due to the history of the term. Sofa originated from the Arabic word soffa, which describes a low seat covered with plush pillows. French makers began producing their own versions of these furnishings in the 17th century, and by the 18th century, they had spread to other areas in Europe and were being referred to as sofas. Find a wide variety of sofas on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
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Shop for Sofas on 1stDibs
Ubald Klug Iconic 'Terrazza' Sofa Island for De Sede
By Ubald Klug
Located in Tilburg, NL
Ubald Klug DS-1025 'Terrazza' Sofa Island (4 pieces together) for De Sede, Switzerland. New, current production.
The timeless classic 'Terrazza' sofa by De Sede in wonderful high-en...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Mid-Century Modern Sofas
Materials
Leather, Wood
$69,685 / set
American Designer, Sofa, Oak, Velvet, USA, 1950s
Located in High Point, NC
A beige velvet and oak sofa designed and produced in the US, c. 1950s.
Reupholstered in brand new velvet. Dents and patina present to wood frame.
Overall Dimensions (inches): 30” H...
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas
Materials
Velvet, Oak
Swedish Designer, Sofa, Wood, Velvet, Sweden, 1930s
Located in High Point, NC
A dark-stained wood and green velvet sofa designed and produced in Sweden, c. 1930s.
Vintage fabric in distressed condition, ideally reupholstered.
Dimensions: 32” H x 74” W x 36” ...
Category
Vintage 1930s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Sofas
Materials
Velvet, Wood
Ubald Klug Pair of Iconic 'Terrazza' Sofas for De Sede
By Ubald Klug
Located in Tilburg, NL
Ubald Klug Pair of DS-1025 'Terrazza' Sofas, Outdoor Version in Fabric Upholstery for De Sede, Switzerland. New, current production.
The timeless classic 'Terrazza' sofa by De Sede ...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Mid-Century Modern Sofas
Materials
Wood, Leather
A. Brandt Ranch Oak, Sofa Fabric, Oak, USA, 1950s
Located in High Point, NC
An oak and off-white fabric sofa designed and produced by A. Brandt Ranch Oak, USA, c. 1950s.
Reupholstered in brand new fabric.
Dimensions: 32.25” H x 85.5” W x 40” D
Seat Height...
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas
Materials
Fabric, Oak
Rare Gio Ponti Corner Sofa in Pierre Frey Dual Tone Fabric
By Gio Ponti
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Gio Ponti sofa, Pierre Frey fabric and walnut, Italy, 1960s
Stunning sofa by Gio Ponti. This particular sofa breathes the luxurious feel of well-balanced Italian furniture designs o...
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sofas
Materials
Fabric, Walnut