Sworders' flagship DESIGN auctions are held quarterly and feature distinct sections that span a wide range of movements from the mid-nineteenth century to the present day. From Art Nouveau to Post-Modernism, Arts & Crafts to studio ceramics, and Art Deco to mid-century Scandinavian and American furniture - there is something to appeal to every collector.
As one of the earliest advocates of standalone Design auctions, Sworders has established its Design department as a market leader. With estimates ranging from £100 to £100,000, these sales are a key fixture in the UK auction calendar, renowned for placing significant objects in both established and emerging collections around the world.
Past sale highlights include a piano designed by Charles Robert Ashbee for the Guild of Handicrafts which sold for £16,000; a Lucie Rie footed bowl for £25,000; a Pierre Jeanneret committee table for £28,000, an Eric Ravilious 'egg cup' for £2,200, a set of Marcel Breuer nesting tables for £9,500, and Barbara Hepworth's 'Two Rotating Forms II' selling for £250,000.
Be sure not to miss out on the latest news from the department by signing up for alerts here and by following the department on Instagram @swordersdesign
For further information on specific Design collecting areas, please follow the links below.
Want to know how much your items of Design may be worth? Fill out our easy to use form and a member of the team will be in touch with free advice shortly.
Our specialists hold regular valuation days. Please contact us for more information, or complete the online form to enquire about the valuation of your items.
Join us as we look back at some of the most notable highlights from our 2025 sales and celebrate another excellent year.
18 December 2025
We are pleased to offer a ceramic work by Pablo Picasso in our upcoming Design auction, taking place on Tuesday 27 January.
18 December 2025
We are proud to feature some excellent plywood furniture in our 27 January Design auction, by designers including Alvar Aalto, Gerald Summers and Saburo Inui.
11 December 2025