Club Chair: What It Is, Typical Sizes, Leather Styles and Club Chair vs Armchair

A club chair is a deep, low-backed, heavily upholstered lounge chair, traditionally covered in leather. One source traces it to 19th-century gentlemen’s clubs. Listings show sizes from about 35 inches wide and 37 inches deep up to 51 inches wide for large chesterfield-style versions. All club chairs are armchairs, but not all armchairs are club chairs.

This article is part of our accent chairs, recliners and seating guide, where you can compare related options.

A club chair is the kind of seat you sink into with a book. It looks solid, feels sturdy and ages well in leather. It suits libraries, dens, bedrooms and living rooms. But the term is used loosely, and sizes vary a lot.

A club chair is a compact, upholstered lounge chair with a low back and a substantial seat. This guide explains the style, sizes, materials, how it compares with an armchair and how to place and choose one. I found no standard armchair size range for a size comparison.

What is a club chair?

Club chairs are deep, low-backed, heavily upholstered lounge chairs, according to one source, and they date to 19th-century gentlemen’s clubs. Leather is the traditional covering, though fabric versions are now common. Leather club chairs often have decorative nailhead trim, and some are tufted. Chairish lists vintage English-style cowhide club chairs and Art Deco leather club chairs.

How big is a club chair?

Dimensions vary widely. Listing examples: The Burton leather club chair measures 35 inches wide, 37 inches deep and 35 inches high, with a 21 inch seat height and 24 inch arm height. The Sarreid Papa’s leather club chair measures 39 by 36 by 36 inches, with a 21 inch seat depth, 19 inch seat height and 24 inch arm height. A tufted British leather chesterfield-style club chair measures 51 by 39 by 29 inches, with an 18.5 inch seat height.

These are examples, not standards. Club chairs tend to be wide and deep with a plush seat. Measure your space and check the listing’s dimensions. Our barrel chair guide gives sizes for a similar style.

Is a club chair the same as an armchair?

Not exactly. The main difference is arms. One source says an armchair is always built with arms, while club chairs may be armless or have just one arm. That makes all club chairs armchairs, but not all armchairs club chairs. In practice, most club chairs have arms, and the term mainly signals a deep, low, cushioned style.

Armchair listings for similar styles show a seat height of about 17.5 inches and an arm height of 22 inches, but I didn’t find a standard armchair size range.

What materials suit a club chair?

Leather is the classic choice. It ages and develops character, and it suits dens and libraries. Fabric club chairs are softer and easier to color-match. Velvet adds richness, as our velvet couch guide explains. Faux leather is cheaper but may crack with age. Check the frame, springs and padding.

Cymax publishes a buying guide for club chairs. Look for a hardwood frame, firm seat support and strong stitching.

How do I style a club chair?

A pair of club chairs across a coffee table makes a conversation area. A single club chair next to a lamp and a side table creates a reading nook. Use a leather ottoman as a footrest, as our leather ottoman guide describes. Mix a leather chair with wood furniture and warm lighting for a classic feel.

For a modern look, choose a fabric club chair in a bold color. Our green accent chair guide explains color pairings.

Where should I place a club chair?

Because club chairs are large and low, they need floor space. Leave walking room around them. Keep them away from direct sun, which can fade leather and fabric. Place a small table within reach, and make sure the chair doesn’t block a door.

How do I choose a club chair?

Measure your space and compare listing dimensions. Choose leather or fabric. Check the seat height and depth. Sit in it if you can. Check the frame, springs and cushions. Compare vintage and new, and inspect vintage leather for cracks. Read reviews and check the return policy.

How do I care for a leather club chair?

Dust it regularly with a soft cloth and wipe spills right away. Keep it out of direct sun and away from heaters, which dry leather. Use a leather conditioner if the maker recommends one. Vintage leather can crack, so check the surface before you buy. For deep stains or damage, ask a leather specialist.

What mistakes should I avoid?

Don’t buy a club chair without measuring, since they’re wide and deep. Don’t ignore the seat height: very low, deep chairs are hard to get out of. Don’t assume vintage is better, because condition varies. And don’t forget the room’s traffic flow, as a big chair in a doorway path is annoying.

Where does a club chair work best?

A club chair suits a den, library, bedroom corner or a living room seating group. Its deep seat and sturdy look pair well with a wood side table and a floor lamp. In a small room, pick a more compact model, since some listings reach 39 inches wide or more. Place it where you can lean back without hitting a wall.

Is a vintage club chair a good buy?

It can be. Vintage leather chairs often have character and strong frames, but they may need repairs. Check for cracks, loose joints and sagging springs, and ask the seller about restoration. Compare the price with a new chair of similar size. For a valuable piece, a specialist can help judge condition and value.

What should I look for in the cushions?

Press on the seat and back. The foam should spring back, and the seat shouldn’t bottom out. Check that stitching is straight and that tufting, if any, is secure. Loose cushions can be flipped and rotated to extend life. Ask whether cushions can be replaced later.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a club chair?

A deep, low-backed, heavily upholstered lounge chair.

Where does the name come from?

One source says it dates to 19th-century gentlemen’s clubs.

Is a club chair the same as an armchair?

All club chairs are armchairs, but not all armchairs are club chairs.

How wide is a club chair?

Listings range from about 35 to 51 inches.

Is leather the only option?

No. Fabric versions are common too.

Conclusion

A club chair is a deep, cozy seat with a classic look. Choose leather for tradition or fabric for color, check the size against your room and test the comfort.

Because sizes vary, rely on the listing’s measurements. A well-chosen club chair becomes the favorite seat in a room.