THE OBJECT

Confluences sofa

Confluences for Ligne Roset by Philippe Nigro is an intriguing sofa design offering two, three and four-seater options to satisfy a range of different ergonomic requirements. Nigro’s innovative, puzzle-like creation allows for multiple additions and configurations – made possible by the sophisticated production techniques the company (www.ligne-roset.co.uk) has developed over many years. It’s expensive – a four-seater, multicoloured piece will cost you £4,127 – but what price supreme comfort?

THE BARGAIN

Side effect

Love Your Home for Less aims to bridge the gap between high street and high end, offering a carefully chosen collection of homewares that are stylish yet affordable. It’s not bargain basement – all the items are sourced from independent designers – but it is good value. This Jacques folding side table, £39, has elegant lacquered legs and is available with four different French-style printed tops (020-7381 0031; www.loveyourhomeforless.com).

TRADE SECRET

In the picture

There’s a trend at the moment for artistically filling ornate frames with snapshots, ticket stubs and other such mementos to create an eclectic montage. Lovely idea, yes, but it relies somewhat on the purchase of said pricey frames

What’s the alternative? A Frame Collection wallcovering, digitally printed with an assortment of 12 unusual frames into which you can pin or paste your keepsakes.

The cost This example from Bloom Papers comes in three sizes – the smallest is 176cm x 260cm and costs £248 (www.bloompapers.com).

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