Striking the sweet spot between the fresh and the classic, these stellar designs are icons for a reason: they redefined contemporary aesthetics when they launched, while still feeling timeless and relevant decades later. Much-aped, these impeccable and unimpeachable pieces, born in the 20th- and 21st-centuries, have stood the test of time to gain status as little short of design legend. We’ve gathered up a selection of modern classic interiors pieces, each a masterpiece of design that you can shop in the UK today.



The Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman by Herman Miller


Eames Lounge Chair And Ottoman

Few pieces are as instantly recognisable or as universally adored as the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman. Designed by Charles and Ray Eames in 1956, this chair is the epitome of mid-century modern design, blending luxurious comfort with sleek aesthetics. The moulded plywood and leather construction offers both durability and a sophisticated look that fits seamlessly into any modern interior. Buy it.


The Barcelona Chair by Knoll


Barcelona Chair Relax

Designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Lilly Reich for the 1929 International Exposition in Barcelona, the Barcelona Chair is a masterpiece of modernist design. Its stainless steel frame and leather upholstery exude elegance and simplicity, making it a favourite for both living rooms and stylish office spaces. It’s a piece that encapsulates the less is more ethos, yet still makes a bold statement. Buy it.


The Arco Lamp by Flos


Arco Led

The Arco Lamp, designed by Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni in 1962, is an icon of Italian design. The combination of a solid marble base and a gracefully curved stainless steel arm creates an arresting silhouette that adds both functionality and style to a room. Its design allows the lamp to provide overhead lighting without the need for ceiling suspension, making it a practical yet sculptural addition to modern interiors. Buy it.


The Egg Chair by Fritz Hansen


Egg Chair

Arne Jacobsen's Egg Chair, designed in 1958 for the SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen, remains one of the most enduring symbols of Scandinavian modernism. With its sculptural form and enveloping shape, the Egg Chair is as much about comfort as it is about design. Upholstered in a variety of fabrics and leathers, it serves as a striking focal point, whilst also providing a private, cocooning retreat. Buy it.


Noguchi Coffee Table by Vitra


Noguchi Coffee Table

Isamu Noguchi’s Coffee Table, designed in 1944, blends furniture with art. With its organic, sculptural base and freeform glass top, it’s a piece that effortlessly delivers fluidity and movement to a room – testament to the designer’s belief that ‘everything is sculpture.’ An essential piece for those who appreciate the intersection of art and function. Buy it.


The Tolomeo Desk Lamp by Artemide


Artemide Tolomeo Tavolo Desk Lamp

Designed by Michele De Lucchi and Giancarlo Fassina in 1987, the Tolomeo Desk Lamp has become a modern classic in lighting design. Its adjustable arm and head allow for precision in lighting, making it a functional choice for workspaces while its sleek, industrial design adds a touch of contemporary style. Whether on a desk or a bedside table, the Tolomeo is always practical and elegant. Buy it.


The Wishbone Chair by Carl Hansen & Søn


CH24 | Wishbone Chair

Designed by Hans J. Wegner in 1949, the Wishbone Chair is a timeless example of Danish craftsmanship. Its iconic Y-shaped back and handwoven paper cord seat make it instantly recognisable, while its lightweight and airy design make it a versatile addition to dining rooms and living spaces alike. Ticking the form and function boxes seamlessly, it captures, we think, the absolute best of Scandinavian design. Buy it.


The Togo Sofa by Ligne Roset


Togo

Designed by Michel Ducaroy in 1973, the Togo Sofa has become synonymous with relaxed, modern living. Its low-profile, ergonomic design and soft, quilted fabric make it the ultimate lounging piece, perfect for contemporary living rooms. The Togo’s distinctive shape and comfort-driven design have made it a beloved choice for those seeking both style and cosiness. Buy it.


The PH5 Pendant Lamp by Louis Poulsen


PH 5 Pendant Lamp - Monochrome

Poul Henningsen’s PH5 Pendant Lamp, designed in 1958, is a classic of Danish design. Known for its distinctive layered shades that soften and diffuse light, the PH5 provides a warm, ambient glow without glare. Available in a range of colours, it is perfect for dining rooms or kitchens, where it is always a timeless and elegant addition. Buy it.


The LC4 Chaise Longue by Cassina


4 Chaise Longue A Reglage Continu

Designed by Le Corbusier, Charlotte Perriand, and Pierre Jeanneret in 1928, the LC4 Chaise Longue is the ultimate expression of form following function. Its ergonomic design follows the natural contours of the body, offering unparalleled comfort. The sleek metal frame and leather upholstery make it a striking piece that fits seamlessly into modern interiors, while its timeless design ensures it remains relevant decades after its creation. Buy it.