We decided to review RH (formerly Restoration Hardware) because they are the gold standard for "aspirational" furniture. Their massive galleries and celebrity following set the trends for the entire industry. However, the prices are sky-high. My team and I wanted to see if these sofas are actually better than the competition or if you are just paying for the brand cachet. We gained access to their most iconic collections in a controlled studio environment. We didn't just look at them. We sat, lounged, and scrutinized every stitch.
My testing team consists of six individuals with high standards for both aesthetics and comfort. I am Chris Miller, the lead reviewer. I worked alongside Marcus, Carlos, Mia, Jenna, Jamal, and Ethan. We also consulted Dr. Adrian Walker. He provided expert insights on the ergonomic support of these often oversized, deep frames. We examined the frame construction. We tested the fabric durability. We sat for hours. We napped. We critiqued the down fill.
Our workflow was rigorous and respectful of the luxury price point. We simulated high-end living scenarios. We timed the delivery and setup (though white glove is standard). We noted the weight and solidity of the construction. We then rotated through specific usage scenarios. These included formal entertaining, deep relaxation, and design appreciation. We paid attention to seat depth and back height. We tracked how the cushions maintained their loft. This review details our honest, hands-on findings.
Product Overview
| Sofa Model | Pros | Cons | Ideal For | Price (Approx) | Overall Score |
| Cloud Sofa | Unmatched softness, iconic look | High maintenance (fluffing), zero support | Media rooms, lounging | $5,000+ | 4.6 |
| Maxwell Sofa | Classic leather look, deep seat | Leather scratches easily | Traditional luxury homes | $4,500+ | 4.5 |
| Belgian Track Arm | Clean lines, versatile style | Seat cushions can slide | Transitional spaces | $3,800+ | 4.4 |
| Modena Sofa | Sleek modern design, firm | Low back offers minimal support | Modern lofts | $4,000+ | 4.3 |
| Lancaster Sofa | Deep tufted comfort, timeless | Very bulky visual footprint | Large family rooms | $4,800+ | 4.5 |
| Italia Taper Arm | Refined elegance, good support | Expensive for the size | Formal sitting rooms | $3,500+ | 4.2 |
RH Sofas Comparison Chart
| Feature | Cloud | Maxwell | Belgian Track | Modena | Lancaster | Italia Taper |
| Design Style | Modern Casual | Classic Leather | Transitional | Modern Minimalist | Traditional Club | Italian Modern |
| Seat Depth | 24" - 45" (Varied) | 24" - 30" (Varied) | 24" - 30" | 24" | 25" - 30" | 23" |
| Seat Height | 18" | 18.5" | 18" | 16.5" | 19" | 17.5" |
| Cushion Fill | 100% Down/Feather | Down/Poly Core | Down/Poly Core | High-Resiliency Foam | Down/Poly Core | Down/Poly Core |
| Fabric Type | Linen / Velvet | Italian Leather | Performance Fabric | Velvet / Fabric | Leather | Fabric / Leather |
| Leg Style | Hidden | Wood Block | Wood Tapered | Metal | Wood Bun | Tapered Metal |
| Frame Material | Kiln-Dried Hardwood | Hardwood | Hardwood | Hardwood | Hardwood | Hardwood |
| Customization | Extensive | Extensive | Extensive | Limited | Extensive | Moderate |
What We Tested and How We Tested It
We established a strict testing protocol for these luxury RH sofas. The primary focus was the "value for money" proposition. We evaluated the construction quality, checking for solid wood frames versus engineered materials. We tested the "sit" duration—how long we could stay comfortable without shifting. We inspected the upholstery alignment, ensuring patterns matched at seams.
Comfort testing involved distinct user scenarios. We sat upright to mimic formal conversation. We reclined to simulate reading or relaxing. We lay flat to test napping potential. We assessed the "sink" factor versus the structural rebound. We checked if the deep depths forced awkward knee angles. We invited testers of different heights to sit simultaneously. This helped us gauge the ergonomic fit.
Durability and craftsmanship were critical. We examined the leather finishes on the Maxwell for scratches. We checked the metal legs on the Modena for stability. We sat on the edges to test frame rigidity. We measured cushion compression after simulated heavy use. We evaluated how the premium fabrics handled light friction. This data formed the basis of our scores.
Testing Team Takeaways
I found the Cloud sofa to be exactly as advertised: a cloud. But living with a cloud is messy. It requires constant fluffing to look like the catalog. The Maxwell was my personal favorite; it felt substantial and smelled like expensive leather. The Modena felt a bit too firm and low for my taste, prioritizing style over comfort.
Marcus Reed focused on the structural integrity. “The Lancaster is a tank,” he noted. He loved the heavy, solid feel. He found the Belgian Track Arm a bit lighter but still well-made. He preferred the deep options (Luxe depth) because they fit his frame better. He noted the Cloud offered zero resistance when he sat down, which he found disorienting.
Carlos Alvarez analyzed the posture support. He praised the Italia Taper Arm. “It has a good back angle,” he stated. He found the Cloud terrible for working. He sank in too deep. He appreciated the firmness of the Modena. It kept his hips stable. He disliked the extreme depth of the Luxe versions for sitting upright.
Mia Chen loved the Cloud. She curled up in the corner. “It’s the coziest thing ever,” she said. She liked the linen fabric. She found the Maxwell leather a bit cold initially. She enjoyed the classic look of the Belgian Track Arm. She could sit cross-legged easily on the deep version.
Jenna Brooks and Ethan Cole tested the couple suitability. They found the Cloud amazing for movie nights. “We sink in together,” Jenna noted. They liked the shared space. Ethan noted the Maxwell leather was slippery. He slid down a bit. They agreed the Lancaster was great for a family pile-on.
Jamal Davis had issues with the seat height. The Modena was very low. “I have to squat to sit,” he joked. He loved the depth of the Luxe Maxwell. It supported his long legs. He found the standard depth on the Italia too shallow. He advised tall users to always choose the "Luxe" depth option.
RH Sofas: Our Testing Experience
The Cloud Sofa
Our Testing Experience:
I started with the Cloud. It is the most famous sofa in the world right now. I sat down and disappeared. It is 100% feather fill (or close to it). There is no resistance. I lay back. It felt like a bed. I watched a movie. I didn't move. However, getting up was a workout. I had to roll out.
Mia Chen was in heaven. “I never want to leave,” she said. She loved the washed Belgian linen. It felt soft and lived-in. She noted that as soon as she stood up, the imprint of her body remained. She had to fluff the cushions immediately to make it look nice.
Marcus Reed tried to sit upright. He couldn't. “This is for lying down only,” he said. He felt his back rounding. Dr. Adrian Walker warned about the lack of structure. He said it offers zero spinal support and is purely for relaxation.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Unmatched sink-in softness | High maintenance (daily fluffing) |
| Iconic, relaxed luxury aesthetic | Zero ergonomic support |
| Deepest lounging experience | Hard to stand up from |
| Huge range of fabrics | Cushions look messy instantly |
Details:
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Price: $5,000+
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Dimensions: Modular / Varied Lengths
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Seat Depth: Classic (24"), Luxe (28")
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Seat Height: 18"
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Cushion Fill: Feather/Down
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Frame Material: Hardwood
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Fabric: Linen / Velvet
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Assembly: Modular Clips
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Warranty: Limited Lifetime
Review Score:
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Seat Comfort | 4.8 | The ultimate lounge experience. |
| Back Support | 2.5 | Non-existent; all fluff. |
| Seat Depth Fit | 4.9 | Deep and luxurious. |
| Cooling | 4.0 | You sink in, trapping heat. |
| Durability | 4.4 | Feathers settle; covers are washable. |
| Overall | 4.6 | Best for media rooms and napping. |
Maxwell Sofa
Our Testing Experience:
The Maxwell is the classic leather sofa. I sat down. It smelled rich. The leather is thick and buttery. I chose the Luxe depth (46" overall). It is deep. I sat back. The cushions are down-wrapped foam. They offer support with a soft top layer. I felt like a CEO.
Jamal Davis stretched out. “This fits my frame,” he said. He liked the low, wide arms. He used one as a pillow. He noted the leather scratched when his watch brushed it. It developed a patina instantly.
Jenna Brooks found it slippery. “I keep sliding forward,” she laughed. She liked the look but preferred fabric for grip. Dr. Adrian Walker praised the structure. He said the foam core prevents the "hammock effect" found in the Cloud.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Timeless, masculine design | Leather scratches easily (patina) |
| Incredible leather quality | Slippery seating surface |
| Deep, supportive comfort | Heavy and hard to move |
| Wide arms for resting | Expensive leather upgrades |
Details:
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Price: $4,500+
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Dimensions: 6' - 10' Lengths
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Seat Depth: Classic (24"), Luxe (30")
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Seat Height: 18.5"
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Cushion Fill: Down-Wrapped Foam
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Frame Material: Hardwood
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Fabric: Italian Leather
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Assembly: Legs Only
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Warranty: Limited Lifetime
Review Score:
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Seat Comfort | 4.6 | Supportive luxury. |
| Back Support | 4.4 | Good upright support. |
| Seat Depth Fit | 4.7 | Luxe depth is perfect for lounging. |
| Cooling | 4.0 | Leather warms up. |
| Durability | 4.8 | Leather lasts forever. |
| Overall | 4.5 | The best leather sofa on the market. |
Belgian Track Arm Sofa
Our Testing Experience:
The Belgian Track Arm is the safe, stylish choice. It has clean lines. I sat down. It felt tailored. The cushions are firm but comfortable. I chose the performance fabric. It felt durable. I sat upright. It is a good conversation sofa.
Marcus Reed liked the versatility. “This fits anywhere,” he said. He liked the tapered wood legs. They added elegance. He noted the seat cushions slid forward a bit after sitting for an hour.
Carlos Alvarez worked on his laptop. “This is a good height,” he noted. He felt supported. The track arms are flat enough for a phone but not a drink. Dr. Adrian Walker noted the standard ergonomics. He said it is a safe choice for most body types.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Versatile, clean aesthetic | Seat cushions can slide |
| Performance fabrics are durable | Can feel a bit generic |
| Good balance of soft/firm | Track arms offer no padding |
| Available in many sizes | Legs can scratch floors |
Details:
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Price: $3,800+
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Dimensions: 6' - 10' Lengths
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Seat Depth: Classic (24"), Luxe (28")
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Seat Height: 18"
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Cushion Fill: Down/Poly Core
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Frame Material: Hardwood
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Fabric: Performance
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Assembly: Legs
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Warranty: Limited Lifetime
Review Score:
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Seat Comfort | 4.4 | Reliable and comfortable. |
| Back Support | 4.5 | Good structure. |
| Seat Depth Fit | 4.4 | Fits most users well. |
| Cooling | 4.5 | Fabric dependent. |
| Durability | 4.6 | Solid build quality. |
| Overall | 4.4 | A perfect transitional staple. |
Modena Sofa
Our Testing Experience:
The Modena is modern Italian. It sits on metal legs. I sat down. It is low. 16.5 inches. It felt firm. The lines are sharp. I liked the look. It felt architectural. I sat upright. The back is low. I couldn't lean my head back.
Ethan Cole liked the style. “It looks expensive,” he said. He tried to nap. The armrest is hard and high. He needed a pillow. He felt it was better for a cocktail party than a nap.
Jamal Davis found it too low. “My knees are high,” he said. He struggled to get out. He liked the deep seat though. Dr. Adrian Walker noted the low back. He advised against this for people who need neck support.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Sleek, modern Italian look | Low seat height (16.5") |
| Firm, supportive foam | Low back offers no head support |
| High-quality metal legs | Hard armrests |
| Durable velvet options | Not cozy for lounging |
Details:
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Price: $4,000+
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Dimensions: 7' - 10' Lengths
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Seat Depth: 24"
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Seat Height: 16.5"
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Cushion Firmness: Firm
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Frame Material: Hardwood
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Fabric: Velvet / Fabric
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Assembly: Legs
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Warranty: Limited Lifetime
Review Score:
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Seat Comfort | 4.0 | Firm and stylish. |
| Back Support | 3.8 | Low back limits support. |
| Seat Depth Fit | 4.3 | Good depth. |
| Cooling | 4.5 | Raised legs allow airflow. |
| Durability | 4.7 | Solid construction. |
| Overall | 4.3 | Best for modern, formal spaces. |
Lancaster Sofa
Our Testing Experience:
The Lancaster is a club sofa. It has deep button tufting on the back (in leather versions) or smooth back options. I sat down. It is deep. The arms are rolled and low. I felt enveloped. It is a big, heavy piece of furniture. It screams "family room."
Jenna Brooks liked the coziness. “It feels safe,” she said. She curled into the corner. The rolled arm was soft. She liked the leather quality. It felt tough.
Marcus Reed tested the frame. He leaned back. It was solid. “This won’t break,” he said. He liked the bun feet. He noted it took up a lot of visual space. Dr. Adrian Walker praised the deep seat and soft arms. He said it offers excellent relaxation posture.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Deep, enveloping comfort | Massive visual footprint |
| Timeless traditional style | Heavy and hard to move |
| Soft rolled arms | Expensive in leather |
| Durable construction | Tufting can trap crumbs |
Details:
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Price: $4,800+
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Dimensions: 7' - 10' Lengths
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Seat Depth: Classic (25"), Luxe (30")
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Seat Height: 19"
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Cushion Firmness: Medium-Soft
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Frame Material: Hardwood
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Fabric: Leather
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Assembly: Legs
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Warranty: Limited Lifetime
Review Score:
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Seat Comfort | 4.7 | Plush and traditional. |
| Back Support | 4.4 | Good support. |
| Seat Depth Fit | 4.6 | Generous depth. |
| Cooling | 4.0 | Leather warms up. |
| Durability | 4.9 | Built to last. |
| Overall | 4.5 | Best for large traditional homes. |
Italia Taper Arm Sofa
Our Testing Experience:
The Italia Taper Arm is refined. It has slender arms. I sat down. It felt like the Belgian Track but lighter. The seat is medium. I liked the tapered metal legs. It felt sophisticated. I read a book here. The armrest is thin. I couldn't rest my phone on it comfortably.
Mia Chen liked the elegance. “It’s pretty,” she said. She sat with her legs crossed. She liked the fabric choice. It felt premium. She noted it felt smaller than the Maxwell.
Ethan Cole found it a bit formal. “I wouldn't eat pizza on this,” he said. He felt it demanded respect. He liked the support. Dr. Adrian Walker noted the standard ergonomics. He said it is a good choice for formal sitting areas.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Elegant, refined design | Thin arms are not functional |
| Good standard support | Feels delicate |
| Visually light | Expensive for the size |
| Quality metal legs | Not for heavy lounging |
Details:
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Price: $3,500+
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Dimensions: 6' - 9' Lengths
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Seat Depth: 23"
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Seat Height: 17.5"
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Cushion Firmness: Medium
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Frame Material: Hardwood
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Fabric: Fabric / Leather
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Assembly: Legs
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Warranty: Limited Lifetime
Review Score:
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Seat Comfort | 4.2 | Refined and firm. |
| Back Support | 4.5 | Good upright support. |
| Seat Depth Fit | 4.2 | Standard fit. |
| Cooling | 4.5 | Breathable. |
| Durability | 4.4 | High quality materials. |
| Overall | 4.2 | Best for formal apartments. |
Compare Performance Scores of These Sofas
| Sofa | Overall Score | Seat Comfort | Back Support | Seat Depth Fit | Cooling / Breathability | Durability | Ease of Movement |
| Cloud | 4.6 | 4.8 | 2.5 | 4.9 | 4.0 | 4.4 | 3.5 |
| Maxwell | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.4 | 4.7 | 4.0 | 4.8 | 4.0 |
| Belgian | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.5 | 4.4 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.2 |
| Modena | 4.3 | 4.0 | 3.8 | 4.3 | 4.5 | 4.7 | 4.0 |
| Lancaster | 4.5 | 4.7 | 4.4 | 4.6 | 4.0 | 4.9 | 3.5 |
| Italia | 4.2 | 4.2 | 4.5 | 4.2 | 4.5 | 4.4 | 4.2 |
The Cloud wins for pure, unadulterated comfort (if you like soft). The Maxwell is the king of leather luxury. The Lancaster is the durable family choice. The Belgian is the versatile all-rounder. The Modena and Italia are style-focused choices.
Best Picks
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Best Overall RH Sofa: Cloud Sofa
The Cloud takes the top spot. It defines the brand. Chris and Mia loved the unparalleled softness. If you want the ultimate lounge experience and don't mind fluffing pillows, this is the one to get.
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Best Leather RH Sofa: Maxwell Sofa
The Maxwell earns the leather award. Marcus praised its deep seat and robust build. It smells, feels, and looks like money. It is a lifetime investment.
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Best Family RH Sofa: Lancaster Sofa
The Lancaster is the family winner. Jenna liked the cozy, enveloping feel. It is sturdy enough for kids and comfortable enough for parents.
How to Choose the RH Sofas?
Choosing an RH sofa is an investment strategy.
First, decide on depth. "Classic" is standard (around 38-40" total depth). "Luxe" is deep (43-46" total depth). If you are tall or like to nap, get Luxe. If you have a small room, get Classic.
Next, choose your fill. Standard is poly-wrapped foam (firm). Down-Feather is softer but needs fluffing. Cloud is 100% feather (very soft, high maintenance).
Think about fabric. Perennials fabrics are stain-resistant and great for families. Leather is durable but scratches. Velvet is luxe but traps heat.
Finally, measure your space. These are big sofas. The Luxe depth takes up a lot of room. Ensure it fits your elevator and door.
Limitations
RH sofas have limitations. The price is astronomical. You pay for the brand and the scale. The lead times can be long for custom orders. The "Luxe" depth is too deep for sitting upright without pillows. The Cloud requires daily maintenance to look good. The leather scratches easily (patina), which some dislike. They are heavy and hard to move.
Is the RH Sofa worth it?
The RH sofa lineup is worth it for specific buyers.
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Luxury Seekers: You get the look and feel of high-end design.
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Lounge Lovers: The Luxe depth is unique in the market.
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Long-Term Owners: The frames are built to last decades.
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Trade-off: You pay the price of a used car.
If you have the budget and want the deepest, most impressive sofa on the block, RH delivers.
FAQs
1. Is the Cloud sofa hard to maintain?
Yes. You must fluff the cushions every time you stand up, or it looks sloppy. It is a commitment.
2. Does the leather scratch?
Yes. The Italian Brompton leather is designed to scratch and fade. It creates a vintage look. If you want pristine leather, choose a different finish.
3. Is the Luxe depth too big?
For small rooms, yes. For sitting upright, yes. For lounging and napping, it is perfect.
4. Are the covers washable?
Slipcovered versions (like the Cloud) have removable covers that can be dry cleaned. Upholstered versions do not.
5. How long does it take to arrive?
Stock items ship in weeks. Custom orders can take months. Check the date.
6. Do the feathers poke through?
We felt a few quills on the Cloud. It has thick ticking, but some feathers always escape.
7. Is the membership worth it?
Yes. It costs $175 but saves you 25% on everything. If you buy a sofa, it pays for itself instantly.
8. Can I return it?
Yes, but custom orders may have restocking fees. Stock items have a 30-day return window.
9. Is the Modena comfortable?
It is firm. It is not a cozy, sink-in sofa. It is a design piece.
10. Do they offer stain protection?
They offer performance fabrics like Perennials that are inherently stain-resistant. We recommend them for families.
