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With velvets and dralon materials well and truly having had their day, is it may now time to consider some extravagant or quirky alternative?

When shopping for a new sofa most of us consider differing styles and shapes of seating, along with fabrics such as cottons, dralon, velvet or leather. Yet, new breeds of designers are fashioning new ranges made from materials such as diamonds, Apple Mac computers, and even grass! If you consider yourself to be up-to-the-minute regarding creative interior design, consider a sofa made from some weird, unusual materials.

Some people seek to be really very different, and opt for sofas made from bizarre materials, such as grass. Although this material is definitely comfortable, visions of lying in the park on sunny, balmy days, picnics and a glass of Pimms, there is a downside. Firstly, there is only one colour available: green! Would a grass green colour fit in with your current decor? Secondly, a grass sofa would need regular watering, and even a weekly mow. With a view to this, it is perhaps only gardeners that may be tempted by a grass sofa.

If you are into technology and computers, how about a sofa made from Apple Macs? It would definitely add a certain cache to your living room and would be easy to clean with just a quick wipe over. The material wouldn’t be subject to the wear and tear of traditional materials, and it’s an environmentally-friendly way of recycling old computers! The major downside of this particular sofa is that (even with added throws and cushions) it isn’t very comfortable to sit on. The harsh edges would begin to dig into your knees or ladder your tights! In conclusion it may be slightly hazardous!

If you consider yourself to be an eco warrior, there are a range of eco sofas made from recyclable materials, such as sustainable hardwood or reclaimed cardboard and timber. Designs tend to be basic and uninspiring though, as sofas tend to have strengthening supports dividing the cushions, a look similar to that of a church pew. They are also expensive, at around £2000 upwards, but definitely worthwhile if to want to show off your ‘green’ credentials.

At the other end of the scale is the Diamond sofa. Made from mirrored aluminium with 160 embedded Swarovski crystals, the sofa inspires real luxury. The designers wished to show how an object can change its main function, becoming a work of art. For ultra-modern, space-age zones this luxurious item would look sensational! Nevertheless, this sofa is definitely not built for relaxing purposes.

With velvets and dralon materials well and truly having had their day, it may now be time to consider some extravagant or quirky alternatives.