Welcome to our first installment of “At Home With,” where we bring you an iconic new item each and every month. Whether it’s a Parsons desk or a Tulip chair (and everything in between), we hope you learn something about our favorite pieces.

This month’s subject? The Bergere chair, which you can see up close and personal on the pages of our November issue. Designer Mona Thompson outfitted her comfortably elegant living room with one. Doesn’t it look inviting sitting by that fireplace? (Full story here)

(photo by Nancy Nolan)

Bergere chairs are basically enclosed arm chairs that got their fashionable start in France, when lounging and comfort became key. Most notably, Marie Antoinette was fond of them in her country home, Petit Trianon, shown below. (Design Sponge featured a great post about these early styles.)

(photo via Apartment Therapy)

The style eventually found its rightful place in the White House in Washington D.C. as well.

(photos via The White House Museum)

We love how incredibly versatile it is. From edgy hot pink and zebra print…

(photo via Decor Pad)

to traditional soft blue and white… (bonus points for doubling the comfort factor with two bergeres and ottomans to match)

(photo via Apartment Therapy)

…to sophisticated chic.

(photo via Elle Decor)

(photo via Elle Decor)

Or simply wrap it in some striking blue upholstery to add a pop of color in your all-white foyer. This style, based on both style and comfort, is sure to be a welcome sight when you arrive home each day.

(photo via House Beautiful)

Tell us: What do you think of the Bergere? Not your style, or just right?

 

 

 

In case you missed them:

Holiday sparkles, for you and your home

What makes this room work: An efficient kitchen with architectural appeal