Did you know? Archaeologists have found evidence that humans living 120,000 years ago may have made leather clothing. This is based off leather-working tools unearthed at Contrebandiers Cave in Morocco that closely resemble tools still used today to process leather hides. Indeed, when it comes to materials that are prized for beauty, longevity, and timelessness, few are better than leather. The fact that leather has been entwined with human history for so long is a testament to its staying power.
At Copenhagen, leather furnishings are a core part of our collection. We curate the finest quality leather for your modern home, vetting each piece for comfort and durability. Italian leather holds an especially prized place in our inventory, with Incanto and Egoitaliano being two manufacturers we’re proud to carry. We also feature plenty of leather pieces in our Essentials Collection, bringing you luxurious furnishings at an affordable price point.
If you’re curious about designing with leather furniture, there’s no better time than now to fall in love with leather. Read on for a brief guide to choosing leather, followed by design tips and example aesthetics that incorporate this stunning material.
There is a plethora of reasons why leather has remained a beloved design staple with a timeless nature. Soft to the touch with a light, grained texture, leather upholstery is highly comfortable for sinking in and relaxing. It evokes a mood that is sophisticated yet welcoming. What’s more, the durability of high-quality leather pieces lets them keep their beauty and integrity for years or decades, making them a sustainable investment.
To get the most out of your leather purchase, make sure you choose the type of leather that’s right for your lifestyle. Protected and corrected leathers have a topcoat that shields against wear and tear, making them easier to clean. This type of leather is probably your best bet if you have children and/or pets, or are searching for a lower maintenance option.
On the other hand, aniline leather does not have a protective layer added. This gives it a softer and more natural feel, but also makes it more sensitive to stains, spills, and sunlight. Aniline leather will also develop a patina, meaning the surface will become darker, shinier, and smoother from body contact over time. Far from being a flaw, patina is prized among leather connoisseurs as a mark of character.
Semi-aniline leather is often the happy medium between protected and aniline leathers. It has a light protective coating that makes it relatively easy to care for, while also offering some of the softness and breathability of untreated leather.
Whether you choose to go big and bold or prefer subtler touches, it’s hard to go wrong with leather furniture, especially when you have a Copenhagen sales and design associate to guide you. Express your style with the sleek elegance of a leather sofa or add a pop of color with a fun accent chair – a world of possibility awaits.
Statement pieces
If you want to create an instant focal point and hub for gatherings, a leather sectional may be perfect for you. We love Incanto’s Mira Sectional in grey protected leather, with wide seats and power motion for top-tier comfort. The Sabrina Sectional in black is another inspired choice, featuring tufted stitching and walnut trim that evokes mid-century style.
For a flexible, guest-friendly setup, try pairing a leather sofa with a matching loveseat or armchairs – the new Alessia seating set in brown leather is a great example. If ergonomics are your priority, we recommend Stressless® seating like the Buckingham Sofa, which offers head and lumbar support whether you’re reclining or upright.
The bold style possibilities of leather are not just limited to the living room. A bed like the Fresi, with a headboard and frame fully upholstered in dark blue leather, infuses a modern bedroom with opulence. For superior comfort in the office, the Stressless® Wing Office Chair features a flared headrest and ample cushioning.
Leather matches well with a range of other materials, but we especially recommend pairing leather furniture with secondary pieces (like tables or case goods) in wood, glass, or ceramic marble. Wood and leather naturally enhance each other with their warm and organic look. Glass is great for creating a feeling of lightness, while ceramic marble amplifies leather’s luxury factor.
Complement pieces
Another approach to designing with leather is through secondary pieces like chairs, accessories, and decor. For instance, you could pair a fabric upholstered sofa with a leather occasional chair like Tate or Siesta for a pleasing contrast and an extra place to lounge. An accessory like the Art Deco Portrait Pillow, made with hair-on-hide leather, offers a vibrant pop of color for a modern living space.
With leather dining chairs, you can enhance the beauty of your dining table and create a sumptuous mood that makes each meal feel like a special occasion. A bestseller from our collection is the Jason Dining Chair, featuring a geometric profile, a stackable design, and five colorways to suit any design theme.
For a subtler option that rewards a second glance, consider non-leather pieces that incorporate a small leather accent. Check out the Ludo Swivel Chair, whose patterned fabric upholstery is bordered with leather piping for a tailored look.
The versatility and comfort of leather allow it to fit seamlessly into many interior styles from traditional to contemporary. Here are just a few design themes you can explore using leather as an anchoring material.
Cozy Luxe
Perfect for the holiday season – or any time of year – leather offers an inviting place to relax, unwind, and make memories. Start with a sprawling sectional like the Tanya in white protected leather and add accessories that amplify softness and sophistication. Try layering textures like the velvet of the Pisani Pillow with the faux fur of the Navy Pillow. Pull the room together with an artistic statement like the Bayshore Sparkle Rug in blue and gold, or the playful Night City Park Wall Art.
Comfy Minimalist
Leather brings a touch of comfort and softness to a pared-down interior that may otherwise feel stark or cold. For fans of minimalism, we recommend the clean lines of the Emilio Sofa in black leather or the casual vibes of the Luca Chair in beige. Complete your look with sleek companion pieces in wood, glass, or metal. The Terrace Coffee Table offers functional elegance with its tiered design, while the Willard Arc Lamp adds a touch of industrial flair.
Funky Eclectic
Leather provides a great canvas for creativity, allowing your personality to shine through. A neutral-toned sofa with a playful silhouette like the Andria is a great place to start. From there, experiment with splashes of color, fun patterns, or striking shapes to round out your eclectic haven. We love the ergonomic Consul Recliner in henna orange leather and the abstract art of the Kandinsky Pillow. A uniquely shaped coffee table like the Wyatt offers a place to set down beverages or display additional art objects.
From superior durability to effortless style, there are so many reasons to fall in love with leather. Visit your local Copenhagen showroom or shop online and discover why leather furniture is furniture for a lifetime.