The Chaise Longue (or Lounge) or Long Chair as the word translates from the French is a chair shaped sofa or couch, a cross between the chair and the day bed, designed to allow the user to be either seated or recumbent. A Chaise is a stylish and glamorous way to rest or recline, a great place to relax, read or watch television.

The early Egyptians used something akin to a Chaise Longue, a piece of furniture that made no distinction between a bed for sleeping, or a place for lying in the day time. The Romans developed a day bed for reclining solely whilst eating. In fact, in one design or another, this type of chair/bed/sofa has existed in almost all cultures from Mesopotamia to South America, from China to France. In fact, the Chaise might have a French name, but its historical antecedents are truly cross-cultural.

It was during the reign of the French king Louis XVth that the Chaise Longue was born in modern form, as a piece of elegant 'must have' society furniture. No home was without the Chaise, whether it was used for internal or external use, it was a fashionable necessity and homes could have several, each intended for a different purpose, but all capable of showing off the splendour and taste of the owner. The traditional Chaise was generously upholstered and had wooden arms, whereas the contemporary Chaise, notably amended by Le Corbusier has no arms at all.

Today, there are important considerations to make when purchasing a Chaise. The first depends upon where you intend to use the Chaise in your home. Some people purchase them as stylish additional seating for their living area. These customers should choose a Chaise Longue's design, colour and material to suit the other furniture and surroundings in the room. Customers who need a Chaise Longue that can be used outside might need to consider buying one with weather resistant fabric, capable of withstanding the British summer.

Furthermore, you need to consider how it will be used in its new location. If you have a particular intended use, such as a reclining sun chair in a conservatory, a comfortable place to relax or just somewhere to sit and read the newspaper undisturbed, then selecting the type of cushions, arms and back support is essential to getting the greatest comfort from your Chaise. For instance, if you are buying a Chaise as a place to go for a daytime snooze, you should look for thick upholstery for comfort and a good angle of recline.

The precise design of frame and material should be an essential factor in your choice of Chaise.

Due to the unbelievable range, it is of great importance that you make these considerations before you purchase your new Chaise. Alternatively, speak to an expert.