'Only Thomas Heatherwick would have thought of turning a rocking chair on its head like this. It’s so unexpected: it’s humorous, can be used indoors or out, and it’s affordable. He is an original thinker, with real breadth, from Routemaster buses to the Olympic cauldron. Spun is produced in limited-edition colours, which makes it even more collectible'
Nominated by Ruth Aram, director and co-owner, Aram Photograph: fullstopphotography.co.uk
'This lamp appears to float: I know how hard it is to create something so apparently simple, with no obvious fixtures and fittings. Brass is a timeless material – a lot of classic lighting features it – and long-lasting, too. But mostly this lamp feels quietly ground-breaking, in a way lots of 50s and 60s pieces were.'
Nominated by designer Bethan Gray Photograph: fullstopphotography.co.uk
'These fabrics, the first upholstery collection from these established designers, are to-die-for beautiful. The balance of colour and shade is in complete harmony, and they have about them something Bauhaus. They will have longevity in the same way Liberty prints do, because they can be recoloured and rescaled for ever.'
Nominated by Clare Johnston, head of textiles, Royal College of Art Photograph: fullstopphotography.co.uk
'Reassuringly heavy, it has a nice utilitarian feel, even though it’s beautifully designed. I like its old-fashioned function – knife-sharpening won’t die out – and it works: I have one at home. It won’t date because it’s not fashionable. And it will last: there are no fiddly parts to break down.'
Nominated by designer Russell Pinch Photograph: fullstopphotography.co.uk
'A functional office object that is, actually, an exquisite mini sculpture. The simple, pared-back shape is iconic, and the colours bring a desk to life. Designer Michael Sodeau is known for his clean, minimal style, which won’t date.'
Nominated by Deborah Spencer, Design Junction founder Photograph: fullstopphotography.co.uk
'Chunky, beautiful and cartoon-like, these are proper, old-fashioned wooden toys. There is so much children’s tat out there, but these are really considered and solid – classics already. And they’re too good to keep just for kids: they look as good on an adult’s shelf or desk.'
Nominated by curator Thorsten van Elten Photograph: fullstopphotography.co.uk
'Utterly purist in shape, this light isn’t trying to be smart or cutting edge; it’s so simple, there’s almost nothing to it, a great example of design not trying too hard. I love the little handle at the top for moving the angle of the light. Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby are consistently good – not for nothing are they big names. They’ll be around for a long time.'
Nominated by Corin Mellor, David Mellor Design Photograph: fullstopphotography.co.uk
'It immediately says Olympics, but Whiteread has subverted the rings by creating them from coffee mug stains. Olympics posters often become highly collectible; this one best sums up London 2012 – a bit punk, and reminds us how we did things differently.'
Nominated by designer Wayne Hemingway Photograph: fullstopphotography.co.uk
'The philosophy behind this chair – its use of otherwise waste wood – adds to its beauty. There’s a nice quality to the reclaimed material, the splashes of colour are refreshing and it’s a great, simple piece of design. Hein Eek’s work is of our time, but this is the direction we’re heading – and he got there first.'
Nominated by Sheridan Coakley, founder, SCP Photograph: fullstopphotography.co.uk
'Widely available, beautiful and smart, the Plumen is a game-changer for the archetypal lightbulb. It uses 80% less energy and lasts eight times longer than an incandescent bulb, achieving maximum economy of means. It won the museum’s Design of the Year in 2011 and has never looked back.'
Nominated by Deyan Sudjic, director, Design Museum
Do you agree with our panel? Have your say at theguardian.com/homes Photograph: fullstopphotography.co.uk
