How to Get the Curved Couch Look

In the sofa game, nobody wants to play it straight anymore.

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Wander into a furniture store today, and you’ll likely notice some sofas that look as soft, rounded and cuddly as a stuffed animal. Although the curves seem very contemporary, the sofa that inspired it all dates back over 70 years.

Jean Royère, a Parisian decorator and furniture designer, introduced the Polar Bear sofa in 1947. Today, the originals are highly coveted by collectors and sell for as much as $700,000.

If you like the look but lack a six-figure budget, no worries. We’ve gathered a variety of interpretations of the trend at friendlier prices.

1. Polar Bear Sofa

$3,199

If you want to get as close to the original as possible, you can’t do better than this.

Photo courtesy of  France Anderson

 

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2. Louna Plush Sofa

$2,499

This pleated-back style exudes a laid-back, casual vibe.

Photo courtesy of Crate and Barrel

3. Sylvain Sofa

$4,595

The Sylvain riffs off the Royère, edging it ever-so-slightly into the 21st century.

Photo courtesy of RH

4. Gus Modern Circuit Modular Sectional

$4,040 (AS SHOWN)

Each module of this sectional is sold separately, allowing you to customize it to your space.

Photo courtesy of Cream City Restoration

5. Roma 3-Piece Sectional Sofa

$3,897

Sleek lines give this sectional a slightly more formal feeling.

Photo courtesy of CB2

 

This story is part of Milwaukee Magazine‘s October issue.

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Editor-in-chief Carole Nicksin has worked in publishing for over 20 years. Prior to joining the staff of Milwaukee Magazine, she was the style director at All You, a Time Inc. publication. She also served as decorating editor at Home magazine. Carole has written for the New York Times, Martha Stewart Living, InStyle and numerous other publications.