A 27 Year Old's Interior Design Picks

As the youngest member of the Inform team (in my twenties), I entered the world of furniture design as a complete newcomer. When I first started here, the idea of acquainting myself with all of Inform's products, along with their myriad brands and designers, felt like an enormous task. Today, I feel much more at home and have truly enjoyed delving into the fascinating stories behind each piece. Yet, I know I've only scratched the surface—some of my colleagues have spent decades in this industry and still discover something new every day.

It's pretty safe to say that I have a fresh and perhaps naive perspective when it comes to interior design. This perspective often leads me to approach home purchases differently from my older colleagues, based on not only aesthetic taste, but differing values. Sure, price is a significant factor—most of us work within a budget, and I’m no exception. However, sometimes, a piece resonates so deeply that it makes you think, “This is so worth it,” despite the cost.

Let’s explore five products I view as worthwhile investments. As someone passionate about furniture and interior design, I hope this guide not only helps fellow young enthusiasts make the most of their budgets, but also sheds light on some of the incredible design pieces Inform has to offer.

Sleeper by Bensen

Let's kick this list off with an essential in any home: the sofa. 

My top pick for a sofa is the Sleeper by Bensen, designed by Niels Bendtsen. I’ve spotlighted this sofa from our collection at Inform because of its sleek, compact design, practicality, and surprisingly accessible price point. While $4,800 might seem steep, within Inform’s lineup, the Sleeper is one of our most budget-friendly options. Not to mention, with Bensen, you’re not just buying a stylish piece; you’re investing in exceptional craftsmanship and quality that far outshines what you'll find at fast furniture retailers like IKEA.

In short, the Sleeper is crafted to endure countless weekend gatherings and more family visits than you can comprehend.

Soft Table by Muuto

No home is truly complete without a dining table—the one constant in our daily lives, at least in mine, is mealtime.

For my dining table, I’ve chosen the Soft Table by Muuto, designed by Jens Fager. Its design is both simple and playful, promising to stay stylish despite ever-changing trends. Plus, it’s priced affordably, making it the perfect fusion of style, practicality, and value for those who want a touch of design without breaking the bank.

1006 Navy Chair by Emeco

In addition to a dining table, you’ll need seating—and what could be better than an American design classic originally crafted for gun boats?

The Navy Chair is my top choice for dining chairs, and for good reason. First off, it's badass. Second, it's practically indestructible. Designed during WWII for use on warships, it’s built to withstand salty ocean air—something I like to mimic with a splash of soy sauce—and even torpedo blasts. This chair is a true testament to durability, making it a smart investment that will endure through every home move. Plus, its industrial charm adds a striking contrast to other furniture styles in your home.

Haller Credenza C2A by USM

If you're like me and constrained by limited space, a central storage solution is essential for keeping all your cherished items organized.

Enter the USM Haller Credenza, designed by architect Fritz Haller and Paul Schaerer. This iconic piece offers more than just modern design; it’s a highly customizable modular system. As your storage needs evolve, you can effortlessly expand your Haller setup with additional modules. And with USM's renowned craftsmanship, this credenza isn't just practical—it's built to last. I can easily see myself passing down my finely aged USM products to my children one day, like a cherished family heirloom.

b.bulb by Ingo Maurer

Last but not least, a portable light is a fantastic way to meet your illumination needs without breaking the bank.

The b.bulb, designed by the Ingo Maurer Team, is a versatile gem that effortlessly transitions from the kitchen to the balcony to your work desk. This eliminates the need for multiple lamps and keeps lighting costs down. Beyond its practicality, the b.bulb brings a playful touch and a dash of charm to any space, making it a smart and FUN investment.