When you think of “investment pieces” for your home, you probably think about pricey objects that take center stage in a room. Maybe an oversized dining table or a leather lounge chair? Perhaps even a piece of art. Something that costs a lot and we wouldn't want to part with. The trouble is, as we move through life and our homes change shape, size and style, those pieces don't always work anymore.

Which is why we see modular furniture as the smartest investment that you can buy. Why? They offer serious returns (to keep the investment analogy going). Especially when you live in a city, where space is at a premium, these cleverly designed pieces are engineered to be configured and reconfigured in a myriad of ways to suit the specific needs of your home. Why commit to a left- or right-hand sectional, when these modulars can be easily separated and swapped? Even if you stay in the same place, you can always break it down and reassemble it in a new way, offering a whole new vibe with zero dollars spent. Now that's smart investing.

What modular piece is right for you? It all depends on your needs. Do you like to spread out on a cozy couch? Consider a sofa with a chaise attachment. Are you the type that has a ton of books or other items to display? A quality modular shelving unit can house any collection while looking like a design object itself. There are a bevy of options on the market today, so we pulled the coolest pieces at the moment in a variety of price points to help get you started. But how you configure them is completely up to you.