Living Rooms
This Classic Sofa Will Never Go Out Of Style
Updated on January 4, 2023
Often spotted in iconic designer spaces, the English roll arm sofa — also known as the William Birch sofa — is well-loved for many reasons. With its sophisticated silhouette and ability to complement both traditional and modern spaces, the English roll arm has timeless appeal — and it’s practical, too. Nicknamed the English sleeper sofa, its deeper-than-average cushions make it the ideal spot for a catnap. Take a look through these inviting living rooms and you’ll find it hard not to notice the sofa steals the show, every single time.
Castors are commonly found on the turned legs of William Birch sofas. Here, brass castors bring vintage charm to this oatmeal-colored piece.
The deep seat and rich charcoal velvet of this English roll arm sofa is the perfect vehicle for vibrant pillows — and an afternoon nap.
The curvaceous lines of this dove grey English roll arm sofa softens the graphic elements in designer Cameron MacNeil’s living room.
Tour the rest of Cameron’s home on H&H TV.
Inspired by both Jenna Lyons’ and Alison Cayne’s Brooklyn brownstones, The Everygirl co-founder Alaina Kaczmarski knew she had to have an English roll arm sofa for her Chicago greystone — and we can see why. Just like her home’s incredible bones, this sofa is sure to stand the test of time.
Designer and H&H alum Suzanne Dimma chose an ivory English roll arm sofa with two seat cushions for her living room. The versatility of the piece ties together the room’s mix of vintage and modern.
In stylist Emily Henderson’s modern English Tudor living room, a William Birch sofa feels appropriate. “It’s the perfect combination of comfort and formality,” she says.
The sleek profile of this English roll arm sofa seems like a natural fit in this living room, bridging the heritage feel of the floral wallpaper with the modern, Scandi-style furniture.
Classic meets contemporary in this formal living room by Studio McGee. The blue velvet fabric really lets the English roll arm sofa shine.
In H&H interiors director Meg Crossley’s charming living room, a beige William Birch sofa and chairs create a cozy, inviting feel.
Tour the rest of this home on H&H TV.
Two William Birch sofas flank the fireplace in this grand living room, bringing symmetry to the space and offering the perfect spot for snuggling up during movie nights.
Designer to the stars Mark D. Sikes is known for his classic decorating style, so English roll arm sofas are often spotted in his designs. Here, symmetrical blue sofas with white piping bring a custom look to the space.
This creamy white English roll arm sofa has a tight back for a more contemporary profile. The feminine silhouette anchors the mismatched elements in this room.
In this grey tone-on-tone living room, the William Birch takes on a more masculine look. An oversized pillow emphasizes the piece’s low profile.