So you want a Poly & Bark Napa sofa? That’s fair – it is a pretty sleek take on a mid-century classic, but style doesn’t come cheap. With that in mind, it’s helpful to run through some unbiased reviews and understand what you’re getting into.
In true Modern Dens fashion, you’ll find both the good, and the not so good, things that people had to say about this sofa.
Positive Reviews:
Feedback on the Napa is overwhelmingly positive, with u/enthdegree citing that,
“Of all [of the mid-century soft options out there] I think Poly and Bark seem to use the nicest leather!”
In a separate thread, u/theRZA001 gives a more tempered (but still positive) review of their fabric Poly and Bark Napa, remarking in this thread that,
“It’s nice for the price. It’s comfortable and good looking, the cushions do shed some feathers here and there, and the cushion seems like it’s slowly starting to sag after 4 months of use. It’s definitely not built to last, but I enjoy it!”
Lastly, in this review, u/dyelocin gives an incredibly in-depth review of their leather Napa, citing that:
“I got the sectional version of the Napa in cognac/tan leather. First impression out of the bos was that it was a little lighter in color than it looked on my computer screen (I expected this though, and was aware it would be unique and might vary from stock photos).”
They continue to praise the sofa’s construction saying,
“My girlfriend gasped at how soft [the leather] is!”
Regarding set-up, they outlined that:
“It was relatively easy to set up and only took a few minutes” and that once put together, it seemed like it would “be sturdy and stay together, unlike a lot of affordable sofas.”
u/dyelocin continues to describe the comfort of the couch saying,
“I have to say we are both impressed with how comfortable [the Napa] is! I have read a lot of complaints about similarly designed couches not being tallenough on your back to be comfortable, but I think the Napa is just right,” further describing the seat as “nice and deep,” and “definitely wide enough if that is a concern to you.”
Negative Reviews:
Despite what are generally very positive reviews, as it is with all things, your mileage may vary. Included below are some reviews that are less than positive regarding leather stains and the Napa’s propensity for attracting and showcasing scratches:
In the same thread where u/dyelocin effusively praises the Napa, they also offer a more tempered view on the leather saying,
“I didn’t notice on the website the tiny droplet stains on the leather in the zoomed in photo. My couch has a lot of those on the arms and the bottom trim.” Despite initially believing the unit to be damaged, they realized that these scruffs and tiny marks are to be expected and are said to “add character.” Ultimately, u/dyelocin decided that these slight blemishes are “not a deal breaker…as they are definitely going to occur over time as the leather is quite soft.”
This same sentiment regarding the softness of the leather and its propensity for scratching was also repeated in u/mrlazyboy’s review where they complained that,
“After about 90 days we’ve definitely had issues. First of all the leather is extremely supple which is great, but it also means that if you look at the couch the wrong way, it will get a scratch. Seriously, the leather was very scratched up within a few days.”
Despite this issue – which u/mrlazyboy characterized as something they could deal with, they faced an additional issue with the cushion support. Specifically:
“After 90 days, the seat cushions are caved in 1-2 inches. We’re currently working with them to figure out a solution.” It’s worth highlighting that this user followed up citing that Poly & Bark came through and agreed to send replacement cushions – which have “held up so far.” This user later remarked that despite facing a “rocky road to get there,” the Napa was “overall a good purchase and [they] enjoy it.”
Summary:
Although there are both positive and negative anecdotes surrounding Poly & Bark’s Napa Sofa, the reviews seem to be decisively positive. The sofa is praised for its style, construction, and dye, with a few complaints around the leather’s propensity for attracting and absorbing scratches.
Although distracting to some, it’s worth noting that this propensity for scratching is a direct result of the type of pure aniline leather used in the Napa’s construction (and from where it also derives its namesake – known as “Napa” leather). This type of leather is renowned for its softness and is considered warm to the touch, but is also known to be susceptible to staining, scratching, and fading over time.
Despite these issues, we believe that a more lived-in look and the development of a natural, warm patina paired with incredibly soft leather affords a sofa more character and comfort over time. Of course there are limits to the value of this “patina effect,” and if you have pets that are prone to scratching, this might not be the sofa for you.
In summary, considering its quality and price point ($1,899 for the sofa and $2,969 for the sectional), we’d recommend giving the Napa a spin – especially considering their generous 100-day home trial/return policy. Reddit user dyelocin characterizes this sentiment better than we can, saying:
Overall I know that $2500 is not cheap for a piece of furniture by any means.. but for the style and quality of this piece, the price point is great compared to similar options out there! I am so glad I took a chance and impulsively bought it! It is a HUGE upgrade for us as far as comfort goes. It’s so stylish and classic looking and yet almost a statement piece at the same time.
