Trends may be seasonal but some furniture lasts a lifetime. Mass-manufactured tables, chairs and cabinets are all well and good, but nothing quite compares to bespoke, well-made, investment interior design pieces. Here’s our pick of the investment pieces that will never go out of style:
Chesterfield Sofas
There’s a reason why the Chesterfield sofa has been popular for over 300 years. It is believed to be the brainchild of the 4th Earl of Chesterfield, Phillip Stanhope, who requested a sofa that would not wrinkle a gentleman’s clothing.
The end result was a sofa that boasted deep-buttoned leather upholstery, rolled arms and back of an equal height. The design has become something of a statement piece, working perfectly in everything from classical to modern and shabby-chic homes.
Thankfully, some furniture designers still craft Chesterfield sofas using traditional methods. For example, The Original Sofa Company’s creations boast hand-tied springs, horse tail cushioning and hand-tacked upholstery.
Grandfather Clocks

Image source: Dust Jacket
Grandfather clocks are another classic design, working perfectly in more traditional homes. Originally named ‘longcase clock’, they became known as grandfather clocks allegedly after American songwriter Henry Clay Work wrote a song named My Grandfather’s Clock. The popularity of the song triggered the change in name, which still remains popular today.
Modern makers of grandfather clocks are uncommon these days, causing antique designs to become incredibly sought after. If you are looking to buy one, check sites like eBay and Gumtree, or head to your local antiques store.
Antique Trunks

Image Source: Pinterest
In times gone by, trunks were vital items when travelling. Despite being heavy and often crafted from leather or wood, the items were popular for children heading to boarding school and longer trips away.
Fortunately for travellers, the trunks were later replaced by lighter, more practical suitcases. This has resulted in an influx of 18th, 19th and early 20th century trunks that need to be repurposed. Many have been transformed into a stylish and unique home storage solution or even coffee tables, breathing new life into this classic item.
Based in north-east England, The Original Sofa Co. Ltd is a well-established business specialising in making and refurbishing Chesterfield sofas and chairs. From your iconic wing back Queen Anne chairs, to a 12ft deep buttoned Chesterfield, there really is no shortage of options.
Disclaimer: This article was written in collaboration with The Original Sofa Company. Based in north-east England, The Original Sofa Co. Ltd is a well-established business specialising in making and refurbishing Chesterfield sofas and chairs. From your iconic wing back Queen Anne chairs, to a 12ft deep buttoned Chesterfield, there really is no shortage of options.
really enjoyed this article Karen – wow- that room with the grandfather clock, do you know where they got those cusions? They’re beautiful. Love your blog:-) Marie
Hi Marie, thanks for visiting. Unfortunately I don’t know where the cushions are from – they are fab though aren’t they. Karen
This is nice info at the end year. I like it ….This is very helpful for remodelling design for my home…
By the way, what is the best interior design trends in 2015 ?
The antique trunk really thrilled me. I have been gazing at it for over 10 minutes. Being an interior decorator based in Chennai, these items are looking alien and it mesmerizes me.