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Summer sales: 10 best furniture deals

We've scoured the reductions on everything from sofas to stools and found the best bargains

Riya Patel
Friday 17 June 2016 18:17 BST

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Summer sales have begun! And there are bargains to be had not just in fashion, but furniture too. It’s a great time of year to get that coveted piece that’s so far evaded your budget. But with all sales, you may find yourself tempted by a few later-regrettable things too. To keep your cool as prices crash, we recommend focussing on timeless pieces that are well-made and in materials that last. Avoid the trendy – which can be done with cheaper, easily replaced accessories – and aim for key elements with lasting style.

1. Tailor corner sofa: £2,775 (was £4,595), Heal's

There’s a craft to the Tailor sofa, which like all Heals’ range is made in Britain. Feather-filled back cushions and seat cushions of foam and fibre combine for a comfortable sit. The generous proportions also make this corner sofa a luxurious piece to own. The final price depends on the upholstery fabric chosen, and delivery takes nine to 11 weeks.

Buy now

2. Donna Wilson Braid Kilim: £162 (was £540), SCP

A modern design meets the age-old technique of flat weaving. Donna Wilson’s take on traditional kilims comes in two colourways (papaya and emerald, both of which are on sale) and the weave style makes it both lightweight and hardwearing. The rug is made in India from 80 per cent New Zealand wool and 20 per cent cotton.

Buy now

3. Studio interlock coffee tables: £180 (was £230), Oliver Bonas

These interlocking tables can be used together as one long rectangle, or separately as side and coffee tables. The finish is glossy coloured enamel – in ivory and mint green – and the frame is black metal. The versatility of the design makes it a good buy and the tables are compact enough to make themselves useful in several rooms around the home.

Buy now

4. Eames DSW chair: £289 (was £340), The Conran Shop

This popular design icon doesn’t usually come discounted so the Conran Shop’s offer is a sound one. Especially a neutral version in maple wood and cream polypropylene such as this. This version of the classic design is taller than the original: it was recently updated to suit modern body dimensions. Delivery takes four to six weeks.

Buy now

5. Radius oak 6-drawer chest: £595 (was £795), Habitat

Made from solid oak and oak veneer, the Radius chest is robust but reasonably priced compared to the rest, especially at the sale price. The recessed handles and traditional use of bridle joint construction give it a timeless feel that would make a good investment for the bedroom or nursery. Delivery takes two weeks.

Buy now

6. Loft Desk: £149 (was £199), John Lewis

Although there's not a huge discount on this writing desk from John Lewis, the piece is well-priced to begin with and the reduction makes it extra appealing. The desk is solid spruce, has compartments for letters and paperwork, and a top that extends out. The grey finish gives it a contemporary feel, but its quiet style means that it can be endlessly updated with a lick of paint.

Buy now

7. Hammered stool: £59.99 (was £99.99), Zara

The classic egg-timer shaped stool is given an ethnic twist by Zara with a cover of hammered iron sheet. The textured surface adds interest to the bedroom where it could be used as a bedside table too. At half price, it’s a good opportunity to pick up something unusual that looks more like an antique than something picked up on the high street.

Buy now

8. Tom Dixon Gem vase: £25 (was £50), Tom Dixon

There's a hefty 50 per cent discount on this elegant vase from the popular British designer. Gem is made in sand-cast aluminium (hence the rough texture) and then finished in brass to give it its signature gleam. It’s a good smaller item to head for if you’re nervous about sales, or if your home is made up and you’re just looking for the buzz of a bargain.

Buy now

9. Maison coffee table: £49 (was £150), Next

The Maison table from Next is a modern design with an 80cm diameter round top and angled black metal legs. It suits a minimal interior but it’s subtle enough to fit in well with most schemes and be used around the house. Be quick though, as huge reductions like this make Next sale-goers some of the most hardcore around.

Buy now

10. Grid-tufted king size bed: £499.95 (was £899), West Elm

Tapered legs in a walnut finish and a low base give this bed a bit of a retro feel, which makes it more like a vintage find than a new purchase. The upholstery fabric is woven linen in a natural colour which goes with most decoration schemes. A tufted headboard gives the bed a luxurious touch. Home delivery and assembly is included.

Buy now

Verdict

The big-ticket items are where you can make the most of the sales, and if you’ve been planning to buy a new bed or sofa anyway then now is the time. West Elm’s bed with tufted headboard, and Heal’s corner sofa are both heavily discounted for a limited time, and there’s great craftsmanship to both, so you can relax in either knowing your money’s been spent well.

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