We got a good question from Mikey:
Hello AT,
I found a couch that I really like online from CB2. It's the "black jack" sectional. The problem is, how do I test it out? Without actually sitting on it? Is there anyone out there in Chicago that can go to the store and sit on it for me and give me their feedback?
Hi Mikey, deciding to buy something you haven't seen is always a risk. Lucky for you though, we just so happen to have our sister site in Chicago, home of CB2! We contacted AT:Chicago editor Janel, and asked her if she might be able to give us a first hand review when she got the chance. Over the weekend we got the scoop:
"Good news: It looks good, is very compact, and has a sort of cool 70s feel, thanks to its very geometric lines. The fact that it sits directly on the floor it doesnt have legs to raise it up - gives it a grounded look that seems sort of retro and different from many other styles these days.
Not so good news: It isnt the comfiest sofa in the store something about the extreme vertical angle of the back cushion in combo with the depth of the seat cushion forces you to sit up very straight. The foam doesnt have much give and the upholstery is very, very casual like a black twill or denim.
An alternative: Its a very different looking sectional, but we wanted some comparison, so we tried out the Annex. It was much more comfortable for starters by quite a bit. We think it may even be the same type of foam as the Black Jack, but the design of the sofa and cushions just made for a more relaxed sitting position. The upholstery was much more cozy and luxe its got some softness and texture. It comes in a dark grey called slate that we think would work wherever the black would with out being as flat. It also has a corner piece and armless chairs, like the Black Jack, so it could work in a similar way, but it doesnt have the ottoman option.
Id say if you have a very casual room and want something compact that has a unique, slightly retro modern look, then the Black Jack is a good find. If you are also hoping for lots of comfort, this may not be the sectional to go with. The Annex is priced a bit higher and is slightly more standard in its design, but has a much higher level of cozy and looks more high-end."
We hope this helps! Has anyone else had any experience with this sofa?
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i live here in chicago, i bought some flor tiles the other day that i have to return. when i return them, i will test out the sofa if they have it and let you know how it is. I am not crazy about CB2's quality on sofa's, but i work for DWR, so i guess i am biased. CB2 is more affordable i understand. That sectional is nice looking, Ill definetly hook you up. shoot me an email.
Mikey, I saw theCB2 black jack sofa and liked it too...and it's cool 70s feel. In fact it is derivative of the 70's sectional, that I think they call 'playpen'. I'd actually been looking for the original 70s version by Milo Baughman and came across the CB2 version. Haven't tried out the CB2 version, but I do now, in fact have the Milo Baughman sectional that I so craved. And I have to say, it resolves the comfort factor that Janet mentions by design of some really beautiful juicy cushions that Mr. Baughman designed. Baughman's version is slightly more compact but still completely luxurious, especially with the forementioned well crafted back cushions. The craft of the back cushions, the overall proportions (just ever so tweaked to be perfection), and attention to little details like the button/cross stitch detail in the seat cushion just all add up to ...(I'll say it again)...perfection!! I'd say, if you really want this kind of sectional, go for the Baughman vintage version, if you can find it. I think there is a fancier version on Ebay right now with gorgeous chrome sides...I'd get it, but I already have one!!
You guys are awesome!
Thank you all for your input. It looks like we all agree that the looks of the couch are spot on. From AT Janel's site visit the 'use' orfunction of the couch has a bit to be desired.
As I'm greedy, I'd like the best of both words!
Lindsey, I'd like to hear your opinion as well.
miloMad, High Five! My mouth is watering, the couch you've described sounds like exactly what I'm looking for... time to hit up google.
AT, thanks again for your help, I'll keep ya'll posted on what I find myself sitting on while surfing the internets and watching some boob tube.
Regarding the quality of CB2 sofas, we have CB2's Annex sectional and label says it's made by McCreary Modern. The construction is great and it's very comfortable. Also, the microfiber fabric in Doss Camel is awesome (looks like a fine cord).
My brother has a sectional very much in a similar style to this that he inherited from a roommate. It's amazingly comfortable, I mean, really comfortable...don't think you'll stay awake through any 3 hour movie on this one. The one caution that I would have is that his sections tended to inch apart on his hardwood floor. So, if you have hardwood, I'd reccommend putting a rubber lining on the bottom of the feet to prevent waking up from your movie on the floor.
All I can think of looking at this sofa is Dr. Pitt from Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams. They sell it in various configurations such as the CB2 shown.
miloMad...can you send a pic of your sofa?
Oh, helpful Chicagoans, I have the same problem as mikey--I like the look of the Lubi daybed in cb2's catalog, but I'm stuck here in Brooklyn. And Lindsey, you might be the perfect helpmate here, because to me the Lubi looks a lot like DWR's Twilight sleep sofa--without the bolster. Is Lubi comfy? Is the upholstery nice? Thanks so much for any help.