Five Fascinating Furniture Facts

From the evolution of iconic designs, to the surprising history behind your favourite pieces, join JA Horne Starlight on a journey through the captivating stories woven into each piece in our extensive collection. Get ready to explore the origins that transform furniture from mere functional items into timeless works of art - where every piece has a story! From the surprising foundational designs of some popular choices, to the everlasting quality of unique furniture, we’ve got you covered within this fun journey through time, with five fascinating furniture facts.



What Goes Splat?

What goes ‘splat’ I hear you ask? Well the splat is actually the name of a vertical central element found on traditional chair backs, and a unique kind of chair has been named as such. Specific splat back chairs have a bit of a more formal feel to them than other more traditional chair types, including patterned backs carved into the wood or alternate material. The splat refers specifically to the vertical central component, and can be very simple or extremely decorative. Often incorporating the themes of different furniture periods, there are a variety of splat back chairs on the market - with English, French, Gothic, and Chinese details favoured by some.

Original Beds Weren’t Designed For Two!

When discussing beds, we all know the basics, with the classic bed representing a comfy cushioned spot to rest and stay warm through the night. Though this has remained much the same throughout history, the minor details of what constitutes a bed have changed quite a bit through the millennia, most notably being the number of sleepers a bed was designed to contain! Some of the first recognisable beds weren't exactly similar to the modern bedframe and mattress set-up, as these early designs utilised in Roman times were absolutely huge. Much larger than you can probably even imagine, beds from this era could be found measuring in at a whopping 18 feet by 12 feet long - holding as many as 65 people!

Egyptian Bean Bags

Though bean bag chairs are rapidly gaining popularity in our modern culture thanks in part to gaming and Netflix bingeing, according to some historians, bean bags were first invented long, long ago. Thought up originally by the ancient Egyptians sometime around 2000 BC, For thousands of years, they were originally used to play games and other recreational activities. The first bean bags were small, round and made of leather, filled with dried beans or pebbles, and tools of the trade for some of the world’s first jugglers. Only later were they upscaled and used as a comfy alternative to chairs.

An Unlikely Invention

Charles Darwin's groundbreaking and incredibly famous theory of evolution by natural selection is the foundation upon which modern theory is built - but did you know that his research spawned an invention that you may even be sat on as you read this very blog? The famed theory was outlined in Darwin's seminal work On the Origin of Species, published in 1859, right around the same time that Darwin (somewhat accidentally) came up with his design for the modern office chair. Tired of getting up from his seat of choice, he decided to alter his armchair by removing the existing legs, and replacing them with the wheeled legs from his bed. Genius!

The Armoire

Unsure of what an ‘armoire’ actually is? This piece of furniture has been altered in its present form, but was devised originally by the French in the 17th century. An alternative to the humble wardrobe, the memorable name comes from the Latin word ‘armorium’, which was reserved for a chest which stored battle armour. The earliest armoires date back to mediaeval times, when they were usually built of oak. Over time the look of these utilities changed, and new features such as drawers and doors were added. Though originally armoires were used to store personal belongings and treasures - because there were no built-in cupboards even in the homes of the wealthy.

If you’re looking for a provider of unique made-to-measure units and furniture essentials, we offer a range of traditional sliding wardrobes, bespoke tables and fitted furniture variations. JA Horne Starlight’s service includes the option to select internal fittings for your bedroom - and customise to your specifications. Find that perfect match today by calling our helpful team on 0114 250 0161.