Designer furniture is great because it can help you make a unique statement. Because it is designer, it is not mass-produced and so not everyone will have it. Also, it is usually quite striking in design so it should get noticed.

Whether you are after elegant and sophisticated or radical and fun, there's a designer out there with the look that you want.

Obviously the first thing you need to consider when shopping for designer furniture is price. Prices range from affordable to astronomical. Whilst you may like your home to look good, there's no point breaking the bank.

The next thing to consider is the function of the piece and how often it will be used. A chair you intend sitting on for hours on end will need to be far more comfy and sturdy than a chair that is meant mainly just for show. You may also need to consider if it is likely to suffer damage from children or pets.

If you are shopping for your home you should definitely buy something that you love. If you are simply making a purchase in the hope that it will be even more valuable in years to come you may be wrong - and you will still have to live with it. If you buy something you love you won't worry if it doesn't go up in price.

Consider whether you are planning to kit out a whole room with designer furniture or whether you would be happier with an accent piece. If you are having an accent piece, you may be able to spend a bit more on it. It will be the focal point of your room so choose it carefully.

If you want your designer furniture to be totally unique you will need to get it custom made. This will add an extra cost but it will mean that you get something perfect for your home and something that no-one else has. You can adjust sizes, fabrics, finishes, colours and accessories either from a selection at the designers or you could even supply your own.end of tenancy cleaning

If you are buying expensive furniture it pays to have it properly insured, unless of course money is of no concern to you.

You should also find out how to look after it properly. There's no point spending out good money on furniture if you are then not going to care for it properly.

When you have found a piece of furniture you like, make sure that it is the genuine designer article and not a cheap knock-off imported from somewhere like China. Imitations will be made from inferior materials and put together with much less skill, care and attention. If you are buying direct from the designer it is the safest way to ensure that you are getting the genuine article.