Sofa Workshop has plunged into administration, after last-ditch attempts to save the business failed.

The furniture retailer placed administrator Leonard Curtis on standby on January 8 and has been locked in talks to save the retailer since.

Neil Bennett, Michael Healy and Paul Reeves at Leonard Curtis have now been appointed as administrators.

“The original business model for Sofa Workshop was excellent,” said Bennett. “The product range is tightly focused with a mix of classic and modern styles which can readily be altered to suit individual customers' requirements, while the stores have been carefully positioned to take the best advantage of that particular market.

“However, in a housing market downturn such as we are suffering at the moment, people are not moving - and they don't seem to be refurnishing either.”

Founded in 1985, Sofa Workshop has 30 stores across the UK, with approximately 170 employees. In the year to May 31, it had a turnover of£30m.

Bennett added: “This is a good business, with an excellent reputation in a niche market. We have received several expressions of serious interest including an offer which is currently being evaluated.

“We are very hopeful of being able to conclude a sale in the next few days that will protect as many jobs as possible and of course fulfil all the outstanding customer orders