Margit Wittig’s colour-pop candlesticks
(Picture: Margit Wittig)As the cost-of-living crisis bites and people seek out new ways to cut expenses, the idea of splashing out on an investment piece of art or furniture can feel a stretch too far.
Often involving a high initial outlay, investment shopping involves steering clear of the mass-produced and flimsy and instead hunting down homeware by collectable makers, fabulous quality vintage pieces and work by up-and-coming designers.
An original will invariably cost more than an assembly-line copy but its value should hold, or even increase.
If you get bored of the piece you can sell it and buy a replacement – a win for sustainable shopping.
Here, 10 of London’s top designers share their tips on how to invest in your home.
1. Margit Wittig candlesticks
Recommended by: Natalie Tredgett
Why: “I look for artistic-led products, items that are made not manufactured,” said Natalie. “I like knowing who designed the pieces and learning a little more about their craft. It is supportive, meaningful and fun to collect.
Where and how much: From £110 from Margit Wittig. Her work is also being resold on 1stdibs.
2. Knoll ‘Tulip’ side table in marble by Eero Saarinen
Recommended by: Russell Whitehead, 2LG Studio
Why: “A design classic from the 1940s that fits into many styles of home,” said Russell. “They have already proven the test of time, standing up against more trend-led pieces.”
Where and how much? From £831 new or scour vintage sites like Vinterior for preloved versions.
3. A Gaetano Sciolari chandelier
Recommended by: Emilie Fournet
Why: Angelo Gaetano Sciolari was a mid-century Italian lighting designer, and Fournet feels that his brand of “timeless and classic” lighting will never go out of fashion.
“It can mix within different settings; lighting pieces like Sciolari lights can make a room and bring some personality to a space, she said.
Where, and how much? “I have previously bought a pair for a client, which were £2,000 from Vinterior,” says Emilie, “You can find similar on Pamono and 1stdibs from £1,000 depending on the model.”
4. Senufo stool, hand-carved in the Ivory Coast
Recommended by: Emily Potter, Daytrip Studio
Why: “Aged timber adds warmth and character to a room,” says Emily. “A small stool can be used in different ways, doubling up as a side table or plinth, so it can move around the home as life evolves.”
Where and how much: Stocked by Botanical Boys, £525, or pick up something second-hand from around £300.
5. A contemporary Windsor chair by Hope Springs
Recommended by: Bethan Southall, interior designer, Waldo Works
Why: “The Windsor chair is a classic shape which has stood the test of time,” says Southall. “These contemporary interpretations are relevant to our houses whilst still retaining the essential craft and forms of the originals.”
Where and how much: Chairs available from Hope Springs Chairs, priced at around £950.
6. Antique French armoire
Recommended by: Sarah Ward, co-founder of Ward & Co
Why: “A French Armoire is one of my favourite stand-out pieces of furniture and one that holds its value well,” says Sarah. “The fact that it is old gives it longevity and allows imagination.
“Most importantly, it’s not going to waste.”
Where and how much: Sarah bought her own French armoire from Lots Road Auctions. She recommends budgeting around £800 for the armoire itself with repairs on top – she had her armoire lined in silk.
7. Tom Dixon ‘Wingback’ armchair
Recommended by: Jordan Cluroe, 2LG Studio
Why: “A contemporary take on a very classic design,” says Jordan. “Smaller than its traditional counterpart, its footprint is perfect for modern living. Beautiful and comfortable.”
Where and how much? Prices start at £2,100 for a mini wingback.
8. Maison Bagues table lamp
Recommended by: Suzy Hoodless
Why: This French firm has been producing luxury lighting since 1840 and is still around today. Suzy recently picked up a table lamp from antique shop Tarquin Bilgen on Pimlico Road.
“It’s a wonderful lamp and I know it will hold its own forever,” she says. “As with everything we source it’s classic but with modernity. Glass and mirror, the base is the shape of a vase with flowers coming out of it.”
Where and how much: Suzy’s lamp cost around £2,000 and to find something similar you’re going to have to scour antique stores and websites; Etsy currently has vintage Maison Bagues lighting sale from around £300.
9. ‘Traces’ etchings by Margreth Hirschmiller-Reindhard
Recommended by: Ed O’Donnell, creative director of Angel O’Donnell
Why: “Artwork can often be a great investment,” says Ed. “A beautiful piece can enliven an interior, provoke thought and commentary, deliver on emotional satisfaction, and last a lifetime.
“Aquatint copper plate etching takes dozens of hours, often days, to perfect. Seldom-practised, labour-intensive techniques like this are inherently valuable. And in a world of increasingly digitised art, the value of such etchings can only go up.
Where and how much? £295 from C&B Curates.
10. Damchiya chest
Recommended by: Sarah Ellison, Frank and Faber
Why: When decorating the rooms at hip Somerset boutique hotel Number One Bruton Sarah went for a mix of vintage and antique pieces. “They have a character that simply isn’t possible when everything is brand new,” she says. Sarah selected an antique Damchiya – or dowry – chest for one room.
“They have a timeless quality and hold their value which means that they could be re-sold down the line, should tastes or requirements change,” she said.
Where and how much: Sarah’s chest came from 1stdibs and cost “under £4,000”. She also recommends the antique fairs at Kempton or Ardingly to source similar, or stalk eBay and Etsy.
