A general method for the preparation of α-phenylselanyl enones is described. Phosphorus ylides react with these α-phenylselanyl enones in a 1, 4-addition, leading to cyclopropanes and/or dihydrofurans, depending on the substitution pattern. This unusual reactivity is due to the phenylselanyl moiety, hindering the carbonyl of the enone and making it less prone to 1, 2-additions or promoting conjugate addition by electronic effects.