Our top interior designers often get asked about the advantages of a luxury leather sofa, especially given their more elevated price tag. But while they may seem like a more expensive purchase, their durability, longevity and classic aesthetics eliminate the many unseen costs you could encounter should you decide to opt for a fabric sofa instead.

Here are our 5 top reasons why you should buy one.

1. Leather is a natural material that is durable and long-lasting

Real leather furniture is known for its durability and lasts, on average, between 15 and 20 years compared to fabric, which weighs in at around 5 years.

The most important factor in determining the lifespan of a leather sofa is its quality. Here’s the bottom line:

• Top-grain leather, which comes from the uppermost layer of the animal hide and is a superb upholstery choice, will endure for upwards of 25 years, making it one of the most popular choices amongst discerning designers in terms of longevity and affordability.
• Full-grain leather, also sourced from the top part of the hide, is defined by its natural markings, its beautiful ageing process and extraordinary durability. It is the most sought-after of all leathers, carries a hefty price tag, and often lasts long enough to become a treasured family heirloom.
• On a cautionary note, less expensive leather couches, particularly those made from split grain leather, bonded leather or suede are at the lower end of the scale and are likely to fall apart within a few years of purchase. This makes them a bad investment and one which the FCI London design team does not endorse.
• All reputable furniture stores pride themselves on the impeccable craftsmanship that they have on offer and will not sacrifice quality just for the sake of a lower price, so if it’s within your budget, make that investment. It will be worth it in the long run.

To find out more about the different types of leather available, read our article on how to tell the quality of a leather sofa.

2. Leather sofas are supremely comfortable

Leather has been used for hundreds of years in the décor industry and for good reason.

Known to be extremely comfortable, leather sofas are a wonderful option whether you’re furnishing your office, would like one for your patients to lie on or are refurbishing your home. They are also naturally warm to the touch, so curling up on them during winter months is a bonus.

Aside from the leather itself, here are the key characteristics that define a comfy luxury sofa:

• A quality frame: This is important because it characterises its overall shape, provides lumbar support and keeps everything in place during use.
• Plush cushioning: With a sturdy frame as a foundation, comfortable cushioning is used to create shape and volume. Choosing the right filling is significant and should provide some resistance when you apply your body weight.
• Good suspension: Combined with the cushioning, a good suspension will create the right balance between softness and resilience. Top manufacturers have managed the art of getting this subtle amalgamation right, giving you a strong spring or webbing system that will last you for years.

3. Leather sofas are easy to maintain

While wear and tear are unavoidable in any sofa, especially if you have children or animals, leather is surprisingly easy to maintain and naturally repels pet hair and dust mites making it an ideal option for those who suffer from allergies.

It is also far more resistant to stains than you might think, so keeping your leather sofa looking pristine is a breeze.

Follow these simple cleaning tips for maximum efficacy:

• Weekly dusting with an upholstery brush or vacuum cleaner is recommended.
• Wipe stains away gently with mild soap, warm water, and a microfiber cloth. Then buff the surface with a clean, dry one.
• If your leather furniture feels stiff or dry, use a commercial leather conditioner to restore suppleness.
• Keep it out of direct sunlight to avoid cracking or fading.

4. Leather sofas are timeless and stylish

While fabrics go in and out of style, a leather sofa will stay in vogue for decades. These are the pros of choosing a leather sofa:

• Because they are made from a luxurious natural material, they look great in both traditional and more modern living spaces.
• Leather sofas come in an array of different styles. So whether you’re looking for something traditional, minimalistic, rustic or contemporary, you’ll be able to find the perfect match for your choice of décor.
• Leather does not fade but instead develops a beautiful patina as it ages, making it look more and more refined as time goes by.
• Most high-end manufacturers supply leather furniture in a range of beautiful hues, giving you lots of leeway when it comes to finding something that complements your chosen colour palette.

5. Leather sofas are worth the price tag

Yes, the initial outlay of buying a leather sofa is high, but with so many fantastic advantages including longevity, durability, elegance and style, it is a future-proof option that is definitely worth the investment.

With proper care, unforeseen issues usually associated with fabrics are easily avoided, making leather sofas one of the most valuable assets in any household.

This is what to look out for when purchasing one:

• Always shop at a reputable furniture store where you will not be misled by deceptive or confusing information.
• Read the label. This will reveal the grain and quality of the sofa. And beware: If the words "man-made" or "made with animal products" appear, it is not real leather.
• Leather is textured, has natural flaws, and emits a very distinct odour. So if it looks smooth, and shiny or smells of plastic, don’t touch it.

In conclusion

When it comes to picking out the best furnishings for your home, leather sofas have some very specific advantages and will infuse your spaces with a touch of class for years to come.

At FCI London, we have a superb range on offer and are at the ready seven days a week to assist you with your choices in any way possible. Give one of our designers a call today or pop into our spectacular showroom for a guided tour. We can’t wait to turn your living rooms into something magnificent.