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Furniture Glossary: Sofa Arm Types

When it comes to choosing the perfect sofa, the arm style is more than just a design detail—it’s a defining feature that sets the tone for your space. From sleek and modern to cozy and traditional, sofa arms impact both aesthetics and comfort. Let’s explore some of the most popular sofa arm styles to help you find your perfect match!

Diagram of types of sofa arms

Track Arm

  • The Look: Simple, sleek, and structured, the track arm is defined by its clean, straight lines and square shape. This style exudes a modern and minimalist vibe, making it a versatile choice for contemporary spaces.
  • Comfort Factor: Medium. While visually crisp, the flat and firm surface may not provide as much cushioning as rounded options.
  • Best Pairing: Perfect with tailored upholstery like leather or tightly woven fabrics for a polished look.

Modern Scroll Arm

  • The Look: Also known as a scooped arm, the modern scroll arm style softens the sharpness of a track arm with its rounded edges and gentle swooping curve. It strikes a balance between modern simplicity and classic charm.
  • Comfort Factor: High. The curved design offers a cozy spot to rest your arms or lean against.
  • Best Pairing: Works beautifully with soft fabrics like velvet or chenille to enhance its inviting appeal.

Track Arm with Nails

  • The Look: A stylish twist on the classic track arm, this design adds nailhead trim for a decorative edge. The metallic accents elevate the sofa’s aesthetic, giving it a touch of sophistication and flair.
  • Comfort Factor: Medium. The clean lines remain firm but are enhanced by visual interest from the detailing.
  • Best Pairing: Ideal for transitional spaces where modern meets traditional, especially in neutral or rich-toned upholstery.

Modern English

  • The Look: A softer take on the track arm, this style features gently curved edges and sometimes slightly outward-sloping arms. It blends elegance with approachability, making it both stylish and functional.
  • Comfort Factor: High. Its lower height and softened edges make it perfect for lounging comfortably.
  • Best Pairing: Pairs well with deep-seated sofas in linen or cotton blends for a relaxed yet refined look.

Pleated Arm

  • The Look: The pleated arm reimagines the rolled sofa arm with gathered upholstery that creates a puckered or folded fabric effect. This design adds texture and visual interest to the sofa while maintaining a traditional feel.
  • Comfort Factor: High. The plush padding under the pleated fabric makes this style as comfortable as it is decorative.
  • Best Pairing: Complements oversized sectionals or sofas in luxurious fabrics like velvet or tweed for added dimension.

Ruched Arm

  • The Look: Starting with a traditional rolled panel arm, this style incorporates decorative ruching by trimming it with pleated fabric to create delicate ruffles or folds. The ruching can vary from subtle to bold, depending on the design.
  • Comfort Factor: High. The extra padding combined with decorative fabric detailing makes this arm both functional and stylish.
  • Best Pairing: Perfect for vintage-inspired or cottage interiors, especially when paired with floral patterns or pastel hues.

Pad Arm

  • The Look: Essentially a double rolled arm, this style layers a padded panel over another arm to create depth and dimension. It’s both practical and visually appealing, making it ideal for family-friendly spaces.
  • Comfort Factor: Very high. The additional padding ensures maximum comfort for lounging or napping.
  • Best Pairing: Looks great with textured fabrics like boucle or microfiber for added coziness and durability.

Key Arm

  • The Look: Inspired by geometric shapes, this sleek design features clean lines and squared edges that resemble the outline of a key. It’s one of the most modern and stylish sofa arm types available.
  • Comfort Factor: Medium. While visually striking, its angular shape prioritizes aesthetics over plushness.
  • Best Pairing: Perfect for contemporary interiors when paired with monochromatic upholstery or bold patterns for contrast.

Shelter Arm

  • The Look: True to its name, shelter arms curve gently outward from the back of the sofa in an embracing shape. This creates an inviting silhouette that feels cozy yet sophisticated.
  • Comfort Factor: Very high. The padded inward curve provides excellent support while creating an intimate seating experience.
  • Best Pairing: Works beautifully with tufted designs in luxurious fabrics like velvet or suede for an upscale look.

Saddle Arm

  • The Look: Reminiscent of horse saddles, this design features padding that wraps around the entire frame of the arm. Often appearing as a standalone piece attached to the sofa, saddle arms are both unique and functional.
  • Comfort Factor: Very high. Its plush padding makes it perfect for lounging in ultimate comfort.
  • Best Pairing: Ideal for casual, rustic, or western interiors when paired with soft fabrics in earthy tones or natural textures like linen blends.

If you enjoyed learning about these sofa arm styles, check out our Sofa Buying Guide series on our blog! Whether you’re drawn to modern track arms or cozy shelter arms, Furniture Row has something to suit every taste. Visit us today to find your perfect fit—and happy shopping!