Recliners are very popular around the world. They have been developed into many different styles employing various fabrics and designs. Have you ever thought about the history of these chairs? They go back as far as ancient Egyptian times. When considering all the other seating options, you will see how the comfort of the reclining chair would be widely accepted.
When you think of a recliner, you probably have an image of sitting comfortably at home with your feet up and plenty of cushioning to help you relax. One of the main ideas for early recliners was to help people get their feet off the floor.
Some early-modern recliners used to be confined only to parlors and such. Nowadays, however, they can be found everywhere, not just inside homes and fancy parlors. For example, these recliners are in clinics and treatment centers, hospitals and a variety of other places due to their therapeutic nature.
While some critics are not ready to say that recliners actually have health benefits, consumers have a different opinion.
Relaxing in and of itself after a hard day's work rejuvenates you and gets you ready for the next day. Obviously, it's better to have a comfortable seat than one that is not comfortable and accommodating. However, the term "couch potato" is out there for a reason.
In this way, the benefits of recliners have much to do with the routine and motivation of a particular person. Recliners date back to ancient times as far as concept development is concerned.
The first modern recliner chairs were found in the 18th and 19th centuries. Of course, these chairs did not have motors as recliners do today. There were even recliners that stayed permanently in the reclined position.
As recliners evolved, models were then developed that were able to move into different positions. This happened in the late 19th century. A good example of this was the historical record of Napoleon III and his padded recliner. Still without modern motors, these recliners could be moved manually into whatever position you desire.The foot rest was also developed around this time.
In 1928, two men named Edwin Shoemaker and Edward Knabusch developed the innovative concept of the reclining motion.It happens
whenever a person leans back in the chair. This concept held on strong because it greatly improved the way people are able to relax.
There were others during this time developing different concepts, but these two gentlemen are attributed with this new design.
The 1950s suburban era ushered in a wave of recliner popularity. These chairs ended up finding their way into most homes throughout the country. The idea of it being a man's chair was a popular concept. This is because a man could put his feet up after working hard all day. Considering the popularity of the television and families getting together and relaxing in the evening together, recliners soared in popularity during this time.
Not only did the recliner become more popular in the 1950s, but understand that this move was due to the recliner being viewed as commonplace and made available to more consumers.
Prior to this time, the recliner was viewed more as a luxury within a home and not a common household furniture item. And, the health benefits concerning the use of a recliner were given attention during this era, which made them very popular as well.
The style of recliners and fabrics used have evolved along with the accepted styles of the times as well. When style trends changed for decor in general, recliners would follow. For instance, the recliners of the 1950s were large and generally overstuffed, while later in the 70s, people were trying to practice space saving techniques.
These recliners would end up in basements and garages, where men would have their "man caves." It was during this time that recliners were made in a more compact manner. Although, this doesn't mean the new ones were always found in the living rooms either.
Many new innovative options have been implemented when designing the modern recliners in today's world. There are massage chairs, chairs that provide warmth and heat, and even attached units providing multiple seats.
Chairs are equipped with electric motors providing electronic reclining options and much more. They often have drink holders, little drawers to keep things in, and the list goes on and on. Health and comfort are top priorities when it comes to modern design for recliners.
Pay attention to other seating options and how they have also evolved. Notable among them are those like the computer chairs copying certain design aspects from recliners.
Considering there are so many choices out there today, there is a recliner for everyone.
Think about what you expect out of a recliner for comfort first and any therapeutic needs that are on your mind. Next, you have to consider the type of decor in your home and the space that you have.
After doing these two things, you are set to find the recliner that you want.
Now, you can truly relax in your new recliner after a hard day’s work.
