There are many different ways to start collecting antiques. For some, a favourite designer can become a passion.

Country Seat, based at Huntercombe Manor Barn run by William and Sally Clegg and Harvey Ferry has built its reputation on researching designers. and, in recent years, the Country Seat name has become particularly associated with Whitefriars glass.

William Clegg, who does most of the research, revealed some of his favourite designers and professional secrets . . .

"I have a passion for most pieces designed by architects and professional designers, from Christopher Wren and Daniel Marot in the 17th century, to William Kent, Robert Adam and Richard Gillow in the 18th century," Willy said.

"From the 19th century I admire Christopher Dresser, Philip Webb of Whitefriars, Bruce Talbert, CR Ashbee and the Cotswold School and Frank Brangwyn (whose centenary is next year).

"In the 20th century my favourites are Eric Ravilious, the war artist who also worked for Wedgwood, Charles Eames ( post war furniture) Lucienne Day (1950s textiles) and, bringing it up-to-date, Norman Foster.

"We are well known for promoting Whitefriars. Their designers were Harry Powell, Barnaby Powell, William Wilson, Geoffrey Baxter who are, in my opinion, the best British 20th-century glass designers," he added.

"Apart from professional designers, I like some quirky and creative types like the Martin Brothers, the first British studio potters in the C19th and West Country makers Branham who came up with their own attractive beasts and luscious glazes."

Are there still affordable' designers to look out for?

"For furniture, I would recommend Ambrose Heal, Gordon Russell and Robert Heritage. A local favourite is William Birch, the manufactures based in High Wycombe, they designed chairs for Liberty's," said Willy.

"To mark our 35 years in business we are a holding a design@discount sale in June. We want to celebrate and share our good fortune at still being in business by offering pieces by well known designers at discounted prices.

"Pieces by many 20th century designers are very affordable. Robert Heritage designed for Archie Shine in the 1950s. His streamlined sideboard won awards at the Milan Trianalle and yet is priced at £975.

"There will be a pair of red plastic coffee tables by Joe Columbo reduced from £485 to £365 and lots of Whitefriars pieces are under £100. Examples by well known 19th century designers are more expensive, but still good value.

"For metalwork the most under-estimated talent is William Benson. He is famous for being the first to design elegant lighting fitments for electricity. We shall have a cabinet in the sale by George Walton, the Art Nouveau designer who worked with Mackintosh on the Glasgow tea-rooms.

"Like Benson, Philip Webb designed for Morris and Co. You can also still find pieces by Christopher Dresser at reasonable prices, perhaps because he was so prolific. "

What advice would you give to someone for whom money is no object?

"The same as to anyone else always buy the best you can afford. Select the finest examples in a particular range. Take advice from a respected authority on the designer you like. The advice can be free, but sometimes a fee of five to ten percent can be charged to help you search for items of interest.

How would you go about researching a designer whose work appeals to you?

"Start on the Internet. This should lead you to books on the subject. Look at any contemporary articles about the company or companies the designer worked for. Try to find original catalogues of the company. Visit museums and get an eye for good pieces.

"The V&A is particularly good for the decorative arts. Sometimes small museums hold exhibitions on less famous people and their work is usually less expensive until demand increases. You can find out about the location of shows in the Antiques Trade Gazette and other antiques magazines.

How and where do they suggest you search for pieces to buy?

"Look out for specialist dealers. For example, if I were interested in Archibald Knox, I would visit Heritage in Woodstock on a day when Liz or Les Hall Bakker were there. I would handle desirable pieces and talk with them.

"Most dealers are very happy to share their knowledge with you. We run a club for collectors of Whitefriars Glass. Once you have seen and handled pieces and know what you like, you should take the plunge and buy your first piece when you feel confident.

Design @discount sale previews at the Country Seat, Huntercombe (off the A4130) on Thursday, June 1 (10am-6 pm) and continues until June 18. For more details, call 01491 641349 or visit the website: www.thecountryseat.com