Chrome, aluminium, stainless steel and other metallic accents have long been timeless favourites for lamps, cabinets and tables. This year, however, they reached a whole new level.

At the recent Milan Design Week, it was impossible to overlook the gleaming theme of shiny surfaces everywhere. We saw lustrous varnishes and reflective upholsteries that have added a gleam to the latest sofas and lounge chairs from the top designers.

From the Porto sofa by Project 213A, to the Mind Teaser lounge chair by MCM, to the Lucio armchair by Molteni&C, these glossy pieces are channelling futurism and a playful flair that makes them not only comfortable, but also radiant. Pair them with monochromic accessories, matt or wood. Keep the colour restrained to make sure nothing outshines your protagonist.