We just finished shopping for a sectional and looked at the Bassett custom stuff. We ended up buying Smith Bros., but I don't know if they have a style you are looking for. I do remember that Henredon had a similar "custom" program like Bassett's -- pick the back/cushions, arms, fabric, legs/skirt, etc. Prices were similar to Bassett. Also look at Sherrill. My mom's had a Sherrill sofa for years and years and years that has held up really nicely and is made very well.

Heather, it's over a year since you posted your message, but I am in a quite similar situation as yours, also looking for a tight back, transitional/contemporary design. I've researched as many American-made sofa companies as possible, but only some are available for purchase here in TX. Rowe, Stickley, Alan White, Huntington House as well as Bassett and Ethan Allen are what we're mulling over. Today I ran across a 2 cushion, fitted back sofa on clearance on Bassett's website for a great price, but they no longer have them available to see on showroom floors. I'd like to hear what your experience was, whether you bought from Bassett or not, and if you found another mfr that was in a similar price range and good quality. I hope you found what you're looking for--it would give me hope!

If you're near a Crate & Barrel in Texas, you might want to check out the Cameron sofa, on sale through Oct. 16. Tight back, modern looking, made in NC. Like you, I'm sofa shopping so I can't report on quality. There are a few reviews online.

Thanks for that tip, mom270. We lost our C&B in Southlake early this year, and we're bummed. I actually managed to narrow down a couple styles w/ 2 cushion seating (less cushions to keep straight) that are Rowe and Craftmaster and quite similar. Will be posting in a new thread to try to get more recent good or bad reports on those 2 brands. Good luck with your search!

Thanks for the comments...I am looking at a design your own Bassett couch with sleeper capability. Has anyone ever tried their sleeper? Would it be ok for occasional use. I like a firm couch, but with the sleeper...Do the cushions hold up ok? Give me your thoughts. Thanking you in advance!

The thing with a sleeper is no matter what type of spring unit is used, it is not used when you are installing a sleeper mechanism. I am sure that Basset uses a plywood frame and a 5/4 hardwood frame would be better, but you will find that most manufacturers do use plywood frames.You might want to look at what type of mechanism they use, what cushions they use, do they have an option for example of a spring down cushion which would be good to use in a sleep sofa as when you sit on a sleep sofa you are essentially sitting on a folded up mattress which is a very firm surface. You might also want to look at their mattress and see if there are any options. Keep in mind that sleep sofas do not sit as well as sofas. However if you need a sleep sofa and you are happy with the fabric and the tailoring than I think Basset would be as good as most in the industry.