Last week, we laid out some synonymous terms commonly used by different individuals for the same piece of furniture that were all (even by interior design standards) still correct. This week we’re tackling something a little bigger: commonly confused furniture terms. Below we’ve listed some terms that represent totally different pieces of furniture, yet are (very frequently) mistakenly used interchangeably.
Furniture Lingo 101 begins NOW!
Counter Stool vs. Bar Stool
Counter Stool: a type of tall chair that ranges from 24-29 inches from the floor and is perfect for kitchen counters or tables that are about 34-39 inches high.
Bar Stool: a type of tall chair, often with a footrest to support the feet and is about 30-36 inches from the ground and is perfect for counters or bars that are 40-46 inches from the ground.
While these two pieces are extraordinarily identical in function, they differ in terms of height which makes it very important to know which you are specifically looking for. Otherwise you risk purchasing a piece that is quite literally unfit.
Ottoman vs. Hassock
Ottoman: a low upholstered seat, or footstool, without a back or arms that typically serves also as a box, with the seat hinged to form a lid
Hassock: a piece of furniture used as a footstool or low seat
While both are considered a type of ‘footstool’, hassocks are typically smaller than ottomans and round in shape (whereas ottomans are available in an array of shapes). In fact, since ottomans are made with wooden legs, hassocks are, perhaps, more closely related to poufs.
California King vs. Standard/Eastern King
California King: mattress that measures at 72 in × 84 in
Eastern King: mattress that measures at 76 in x by 80 in
Seeking the ultimate comfort is typically at the forefront of one’s mind when purchasing a new mattress, not correct mattress vernacular. However, it is pertinent to know that if you are shopping for a King mattress, you have options.
The biggest difference between the Standard (Eastern) King mattress and the California King is that the California King is more narrow and longer than a traditional King mattress. Be sure to be mindful of this while shopping especially if you already have an existing bed frame suited for one or the other!
Loveseat vs. Settee
Loveseat: a small sofa for two people, in the past designed in an S-shape so that the couple could face each other.
Setee: a long upholstered seat for more than one person, typically with a back and arms.
Both are small sofas; both are meant to seat more than one individual – so what’s the difference? Settees are usually a bit more of an elegant accent piece due to their upright posture. Loveseats, on the other hand, are made for comfort.
Fun Fact: Loveseats have been in production since the early 1800s. Contrary to popular belief, the piece was not intended to aid in courtship between two people, but rather to provide a seat that would accommodate the dresses worn by the ladies of the period.