Sex Furniture, Catherine the Great, and Paris Brothels — The Erotic World of Interior Design

Photo by Kacper Motyka

When we think of interior design, our minds often jump to cozy living rooms, sleek kitchens, or luxurious bedrooms. But a lesser-known, provocative side of furniture design lies in its connection to sensuality and eroticism. From the legendary sex rooms of historical figures like Catherine the Great to modern erotic innovations like Kacper Motyka’s adaptable Chairie crafted for intimacy, this article explores how the design of our living spaces can be deeply intertwined with pleasure and desire.

A Legacy of Lust: Catherine the Great and Her Infamous Furniture

Catherine II of Russia, more famously known as Catherine the Great, is remembered for her long and prosperous reign (1762–1796) as one of the most powerful female rulers in European history. But alongside her political and cultural achievements, her legacy has long been entangled with scandalous stories of erotic escapades and sexually charged furniture designs.

Catherine’s Rumored Erotic Chambers

While much of her sexual reputation stems from speculation and propaganda used to discredit her rule, some rumors are too tantalizing to ignore. One of the most persistent myths about Catherine the Great involves her supposed erotic chambers within her Tsarskoye Selo palace, where she allegedly commissioned furniture designed for sexual encounters. These custom-made furnishings were said to be highly provocative, featuring explicit carvings and designs meant to stimulate the senses.

Though historical proof of these chambers remains scarce, their allure has made them a popular topic in modern culture. Were they real or a figment of historical exaggeration? Regardless, the mere thought of such rooms paints a picture of opulence, indulgence, and erotic exploration—characteristics often associated with her reign.

Did you know? Many historians argue that these tales of erotic furniture were deliberately spread by political rivals to undermine Catherine’s authority, portraying her as a woman ruled by lust rather than intellect. So while the existence of Catherine’s erotic chambers is debated, the stories surrounding them have become part of her enduring mythos. Whether fact or fiction, they add a layer of intrigue to her already fascinating life.

Pro Tip: If you want to dive deeper into Catherine’s life beyond the myths, the 2019 HBO miniseries Catherine the Great, starring Helen Mirren, offers a dramatic portrayal of her rule and personal life.

Erotic Furniture in Parisian Brothels: Edward VII’s Love Chair

Catherine wasn’t the only prominent figure associated with erotic furniture. Across Europe, another scandalous figure emerges—Edward VII of Britain. Known for his lavish lifestyle and indulgence in pleasure, Edward was a frequent visitor of Le Chabanais, a famous luxury brothel in Paris located near the Louvre.

The “Siege d'Amour” (Love Chair)

One of the most notorious pieces of furniture associated with Edward VII was his custom-designed siege d'amour (love chair), specifically crafted to accommodate his escapades with multiple partners. The chair was designed with a purpose—allowing Edward, who was overweight, to comfortably engage in sexual acts without exerting too much effort. The design of the chair symbolized the intersection of luxury, functionality, and lust, much like many of the erotic furnishings seen throughout history.

Le Chabanais itself was an iconic part of Paris’s underworld, featuring lavish rooms designed to fulfill various fantasies. The luxurious brothel became a cultural icon of eroticism, with its sensuous décor and custom furnishings tailored to its elite clientele.

Modern Interpretations: Erotic Furniture Today

Fast forward to modern times, and erotic furniture has transformed from extravagant, aristocratic indulgences into functional and accessible designs for everyday consumers. Today’s erotic furniture blends comfort, aesthetics, and practicality for enhancing intimate experiences.

1. Kacper Motyka’s Chairie: Modern Sex Furniture for Contemporary Living

In the modern era, erotic furniture is experiencing a renaissance with innovative, functional designs, and Kacper Motyka’s Chairie is at the forefront. Designed as part of his final-year project at Central Saint Martins in London, Chairie combines aesthetic appeal, versatility, and comfort to enhance sexual experiences.

Chairie features three cylindrical pillows mounted on electric actuators, allowing each cylinder to adjust its height and angle independently. This flexibility enables the furniture to transform into various configurations, from a simple chair or ottoman to a structure suited for a range of... well...

2. The Tantra Sofa: A Modern Icon

One of the most famous contemporary pieces of erotic furniture is the Tantra Sofa. Shaped like a chaise lounge, this sofa features graceful, curving lines that mimic the natural shape of the human body. Its ergonomic design provides support for various sexual positions while maintaining a sleek, stylish appearance that can blend seamlessly into modern interiors.

Why it’s popular:

• The curvature of the sofa allows for enhanced flexibility and comfort.
• Unlike overtly explicit furniture, the Tantra Sofa can double as a decorative piece, making it discreet and functional.

3. The LANWAN Sex Pillow

The LANWAN sex pillow is another staple in the world of modern intimate furniture. Designed to provide support and improve positioning during intimacy, it’s both practical and portable. Its angled design helps reduce strain, making it a popular choice for those seeking added comfort.

4. The Obedience Bench

For those interested in BDSM or role-play, the obedience bench has become a common addition to home interiors designed with kink in mind. With padded surfaces and adjustable restraints, this bench serves both functional and aesthetic purposes in creating a sensual, controlled environment.

Pro Tip: When incorporating erotic furniture into your home, opt for designs that strike a balance between functionality and discretion. Many modern pieces, like the Tantra Sofa, are subtle enough to fit into regular home décor.

Sex and Design: The Psychological Connection

Erotic furniture does more than just serve a functional purpose—it taps into the psychology of sensual environments and spatial design. Interior spaces designed for intimacy often prioritize:

• Mood lighting: Dim, warm lighting can create a romantic atmosphere.
• Soft textures: Velvet, silk, and leather are commonly used to stimulate the sense of touch.
• Color psychology: Red and deep jewel tones are frequently used in intimate spaces to evoke passion and desire.

Designing a room with sensuality in mind can heighten emotional and physical connection, blurring the line between aesthetic pleasure and physical pleasure.

How Eroticism in Furniture Has Influenced Pop Culture

The influence of erotic furniture isn’t limited to private bedrooms—it’s made its way into popular culture, from movies to art installations. Erotic designs have been featured in everything from luxury furniture expos to avant-garde design competitions. Additionally, the resurgence of interest in historical figures like Catherine the Great has sparked discussions around the evolution of sexuality and design in history.

FAQs About Erotic Furniture and Interior Design

1. What is erotic furniture?

   Erotic furniture is designed to enhance intimacy and sensual experiences. It often features ergonomic or provocative designs that support various activities related to intimacy.

2. Did Catherine the Great really have erotic furniture?

   While rumors of Catherine commissioning custom made erotic furniture exist, historians have debated their validity. The stories may have been exaggerated to tarnish her legacy.

3. What are some popular types of modern erotic furniture?

   The Tantra Sofa, LANWAN sex pillow, obedience bench, and various modular chairs designed for flexibility are popular in contemporary settings.

4. Where can I find intimate furniture for my home?

   Many online retailers, including specialty furniture stores and websites dedicated to intimate products, offer a variety of designs suited for different preferences.

5. How do I incorporate erotic furniture into my home without it being obvious?

   Opt for discreet designs like the Tantra Sofa or multi-functional furniture that blends into your overall décor. Choosing elegant fabrics and neutral colors can help the piece remain subtle.

6. Is erotic furniture only for intimate use?

   Not necessarily. Many modern pieces, like the Tantra Sofa, are designed to be multi-functional, serving as both decorative and practical furniture.

The Enduring Allure of Erotic Design

From the legendary chambers of Catherine the Great to the modern Tantra Sofa, erotic furniture has been a symbol of luxury, pleasure, and creativity throughout history. While its forms have evolved, its purpose remains the same: to create spaces that blend sensuality and comfort, allowing individuals to explore desire within the privacy of their homes.