When The Local Project asked me to wax lyrical on sofas, I happily obliged because let’s be honest, choosing a sofa is high-stakes stuff. It’s the hearth, the haven, the scene of crimes (red wine, rogue crayons). So I went for pieces that don’t just look good, they live well too.

First cab off the rank: ‘Bon’ by Jardan. No frills, no fuss, just clean lines, a subtle retro nod, and that distinctly Australian ease. Designed and made locally, Bon champions everything we love in homegrown design: craftsmanship, restraint, and quiet confidence.

Then, the ‘Za:Za’ by Zanotta from Cult. Described once as “basically beanbags on a frame” it’s slouchy yet sculpted, irreverent yet refined. The Za:Za doesn’t take itself too seriously. And when its time is up, it can be fully dismantled and recycled. Smart, stylish, and circular.

Next, the ‘Muir’ by Hannes Peer for SEM, courtesy of Moebel. Razor-thin framing and exquisitely resolved proportions give it a sense of refinement. It’s for those who appreciate enduring quality and quiet distinction. Limited production ensures it’s never ubiquitous—future classic written all over it.

Last, but very much not least, the ‘Alpha’ sofa by Pierre Paulin, from Ralph Pucci. We’ve lived with it for almost a decade, and it still feels like the cool new kid at the party—effortless, sculptural, completely unfazed by passing trends. Originally designed for the Élysée Palace in the ‘70s, this piece comes with serious provenance. It’s rare (fewer than 100 of the original made) and deeply collectible. But more than an investment, it’s a joy to live with.

It’s near impossible to play favourites; they each shine in their own way. The Alpha takes the crown for legacy and longevity. Muir is peak refinement, Bon? Definitely the most practical—effortlessly stylish. And Za:Za? That oxblood frame and chevron upholstery? Delicious. Each piece earns its place for a different reason. I wouldn’t change a thing.