The 1978 High Back Sofa by King Living is a contemporary reimagining of a design icon, inspired by the brand’s original Award Sofa from the late 1970s. Combining heritage cues with modern modularity, the sofa delivers ergonomic comfort, flexible functionality, and timeless style, setting a new standard for adaptable, sustainable living.

At the centre of the 1978 High Back’s design intent is the ambition to honour a significant piece of King Living’s design legacy while responding to the demands of contemporary life. Drawing inspiration from the original Award Sofa—a product that helped define the brand’s early reputation—the new iteration brings updated materials, improved modularity, and enhanced comfort into the foreground.

The goal was not to replicate the past but to reinterpret it for today’s mobile, space-conscious and design-aware lifestyles. The result is a sofa that bridges eras—retaining the character and charm of the original while delivering solutions for modern-day living, sustainability, and user wellbeing.

With its upright backrest, layered cushioning and generous proportions, the 1978 High Back Sofa presents a strong visual identity that recalls the bold, structured silhouettes of the 1970s. Yet it tempers this retro influence with refined detailing, soft curves, and updated material textures that speak clearly to modern aesthetics.

The elevated backrest is both a visual and functional element, providing supportive comfort while reinforcing the sculptural presence of the sofa. Tailored upholstery and optional armrests create a refined finish, while the choice of premium, removable fabrics allows users to personalise the look to suit a wide range of interiors—from contemporary apartments to character-filled homes.

Built on a modular platform, the 1978 High Back has been designed for maximum adaptability. Available in multiple configurations—chaise, corner, armless, and ottoman modules—each component can be rearranged to suit different spaces and needs. This modularity makes the sofa ideal for changing life stages, home moves, or evolving room layouts.

Modules are lightweight and easy to manoeuvre, making the 1978 High Back particularly suited to renters, downsizers, and urban dwellers. Optional arm components can be added or removed as desired, while every cushion and panel is serviceable and replaceable. These features empower the user to refresh or transform their setup without the cost—or environmental impact—of replacing the entire sofa.

A standout feature is the flexible mesh backrest, which enhances comfort through breathability and ergonomic support. This innovation, new to the King Living range, provides superior postural alignment while maintaining the clean lines and structure of the design.

Comfort is central to the 1978 High Back’s appeal. Designed for prolonged use, the sofa features King Living’s proprietary Postureflex® seating system, which combines a resilient steel suspension base with premium foam cushioning. This layered construction offers enduring support, preserving both comfort and structure over time.

The high backrest cradles the user in upright support, making it ideal for reading, working, or relaxing. Unlike many low-profile lounges, the 1978 High Back is tailored to meet ergonomic needs, offering a more structured seating experience that suits users of all ages and physical needs.

Each module is built on the King Steel Frame, backed by a 25-year warranty—underscoring the product’s durability and King Living’s commitment to long-lasting design.

Sustainability is embedded into every aspect of the 1978 High Back’s design. From the modular, serviceable construction to the use of machine-washable, removable covers, the product helps support a circular design approach that reduces waste and extends lifespan.

Key materials—such as the recyclable steel frame and replaceable foam inserts—enable maintenance and upgrades without needing to dispose of the entire product. Compact packaging and non-woven wrap help reduce shipping volume and environmental impact, supporting more responsible logistics across global markets.

By encouraging repair, reconfiguration, and reuse, the 1978 High Back Sofa champions conscious consumption and helps users make more sustainable choices without sacrificing style or comfort.

The 1978 High Back Sofa reflects King Living’s design heritage and future focus. Designed and engineered entirely in-house at the Sydney-based studio, the sofa represents decades of craftsmanship, user research, and design evolution.

Category:FurnitureAward Year:2025Designers:Sebastian Clarke and David King, King Living Design Team, King Furniture Australia Pty. Ltd., Turrella, New South Wales, AustraliaManufacturer:King Furniture Australia Pty. Ltd., Turrella, New South Wales, Australia