When The Local Project asked me to wax lyrical on sofas, I said yes—because choosing one is high-stakes. It’s the hearth, the haven, the scene of crimes (red wine, rogue crayons). I went for pieces that not only look good, but live well.

First, Bon by Jardan. No frills, no fuss. Just clean lines, a wink of retro, and Australian ease. Designed and made here, it’s thoughtful, quietly confident, and never trying too hard.

Then, Za:Za by Zanotta from Cult. Someone once called it “beanbags on a frame,” and honestly, that nailed it. Irreverent, yet refined, slouchy but sculpted. And when it’s done, it can be dismantled and recycled. Chic with a conscience.

Muir by Hannes Peer for SEM, via Moebel, is a quiet showstopper. Razor-think frame, perfect proportions, and no mass production. This is future-collectible territory.

Finally, Alpha by Pierre Paulin from Ralph Pucci. We’ve lived with it for almost a decade, and it still feels like the cool new kid. Originally designed for Pompidou’s Élysée Palace digs, it’s sculptural, storied, and rare—less than a hundred originals exist. But mostly, it’s a joy to sit in.

Picking favourites is unfair, but here we are: Alpha wins for value (yes, even at that price), Muir for refined ingenuity, Bon for everyday practicality, Za:Za for material satisfaction. Four sofas, four personalities, four keepers.

xxx ADC

1 & 2.

Alpha sofa by Pierre Paulin, Ralph Pucci