One of the biggest stories in the art world over the last two years hasn't strictly been about art; it's been about design. Auction house sales of such work have reached record levels. Such sales are just the headline figures in a dramatic rise in value and interest in contemporary and 20th century design. The art collectors who invest in contemporary art have decided that they want furniture that is just as rarefied, collectable and cuttingedge and is a fitting domestic accessory to their art. They are suddenly interested in design as object and investment.

Nick Compton, the features editor of Wallpaper*, gives his lowdown on where to buy the best design pieces.