Furnishing an apartment can be costly, and the choices can be overwhelming—especially when you can’t find that perfect item from your vision board. Barnebys is here to help with inspiration and expert tips to help you furnish your space in a way that truly reflects your style.
First, consider your personal aesthetic—whether you lean towards modern minimalism or timeless vintage—and let your taste guide you as you explore Barnebys’ selection of contemporary pieces and historic antiques. Second, prioritise functionality by choosing pieces that not only enhance your space but also meet your everyday needs, such as modular sofas or multifunctional tables. Finally, set a realistic budget and focus on quality and provenance to ensure your furniture investment is both beautiful and sound.
Sofas
A sofa is the centrepiece of any living space, and iconic designs like the Togo Couch, Camaleonda Sofa by Mario Bellini, or leather Victorian-style sofa add style and comfort. These timeless pieces not only offer a place to relax but also become conversation starters in any room. With options spanning vintage to contemporary styles, Barnebys features an array of options.
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Chairs
Chairs are much more than just functional—they are works of art that define the character of a room. We all know how expensive can designer chairs get, especially if you multiply the price by eight. The good news is that buying chairs at auction allows you to discover masterpieces with exceptional design and quality, all at a bargain price. From the elegance of the Eames Lounge Chair and the Barcelona Chair by Mies van der Rohe to the iconic pieces like the Egg Chair by Arne Jacobsen, each design brings its own unique charm.
See also: 10 Ingenious Chairs: Design Classics of the 20th Century
Tables
A well-chosen dining table can serve as the heart of your space, blending functionality with design. Varying in all sizes, shapes and materials, choosing the right table is quite a challenge. Look for solid wood or stones like marble or granite to ensure good quality. Consider iconic pieces like the Noguchi Coffee Table, the Eileen Gray Table, or a sleek modern dining table, if this fits your style better.
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Lamps
No one knows it better than the Scandis that lighting sets the mood. In Scandinavian, it is common knowledge that each room should have 7 different sources of light to ensure the best atmosphere. Designer lamps can transform any room into a sanctuary. Make sure to invest in an impressive ceiling lamp, whether it is a vintage chandelier or a modern installation–this will elevate every room. Then move on to finding table lamps that reflect your style and place them in different corners of your space. We recommend keeping the light in warm, yellow tones instead of the cold ones to make the interior extra cozy. Iconic pieces such as the Arco Lamp by Flos, the Artichoke Lamp by Poul Henningsen, and the Artemide Table Lamp are some iconic options to consider.
See also: The Art of Lighting: 8 Unique Lamps
Storage and Consoles
When it comes to keeping your home both organised and stylish, storage furniture is your best friend. If selected carefully, a closet will do more than just hide clutter—it will elevate your space. Think of iconic designs like the Hans Wegner-inspired sideboard, or classic mid-century modern consoles. Invest in a piece that will either be the strong centrepiece of your interior, such as an antique mahogany bookcase, or the opposite: something that will seamlessly blend in with the rest of your furniture and will be almost invisible.
Art
Even if you feel like your interior is complete, you can always manipulate the feel of a room with art. For a white and beige interior, choose a contemporary painting with a lot of color that will add character to the room. For the more classical interior, maybe a marble sculpture or a landscape painting will be a better choice. Whatever it is, you can keep exchanging and rotating paintings, switching their place or even selling them and purchasing new ones every once in a while. Whatever you choose, Barnebys has your back when it comes to finding affordable art to your home.
See also: The 12 Most Expensive Paintings Ever Auctioned
Rugs
Rugs can add warmth, texture, and personality to any space. Whether you're drawn to the vintage Persian hand-knotted rug or the bold, modern designs of a contemporary piece, the right rug can define a room and set the tone for your entire interior. They not only provide comfort underfoot but can also accentuate a cozy nook. With a vast array of materials, colors, and patterns available, investing in a high-quality rug allows you to express your personal style while elevating the ambiance of your home.