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Thursday 20 December 2012

Dualit Architect Range


Dualit's architect range, of ergonomic kitchen electrical equipment, not only surpasses rival counterparts in the style stakes but it also excels in inventiveness too. With their reputation proceeding them, they have created the ultimate necessity in modern living, the Architect Kettle , the Architect Two Slot and Four Slot Toaster.

Pure geometric lines create a mathematically harmonious structure of polished stainless steel and the first of its kind - coloured interchangable panels. By being given the choice to personalise your kitchen accessories, a new level of ownership is created. Why not select a bright tone or a sophisticated hue for the sides of the toaster or the lid and base of the kettle - the choice is yours!

Check the progress of your toast via the 'Peek & Pop' function without stopping the toasting process, a sometimes annoying and time consuming task. Combined with the extra wide slots and bagel and bun warming facility, which only crisps the inside, and you're on to a winner!

Making boiling an art form, the super fast kettle, is equiped with powerful elements reaching boiling point in no time whilst radiating a cool blue light via the water-level indicator. To achieve that perfect cuppa, the internal spout filter prevents lime scale from entering the cup!

Tuesday 18 December 2012

Contemporary Art Prints


Easily seduced by bold graphic prints, we've introduced a collection of fresh and contemporary framed artwork which showcases the pick of today's most talented emerging artists. From the more traditional subtle line drawings of Jayoon Choi, to the eye-catching typographic work of Pop-Up Inc there's something for everyone. With many of us already making room on our walls to exhibit our favourite design, we're happy to unleash these beauties onto our website where we know they will be an instant hit!

A simple 23.3cm x 23.3cm tulip wood box frame enhances the artwork housed inside. On the reverse a metal hook is included for instant installation and a safe and level positioning. Each are creatively gift packaged in an attractive and handy screen printed pizza box with the artist's biography included inside - an imaginative and exciting way to start your art collection.

For those who admire humorous illustrations then comic artist Simone Lia's 'Hello Chicken' will make you smile along with Jess Wilson's 'Be Nice or Leave' - each are guaranteed to brighten up any wall space or room!

Wednesday 28 November 2012

Piana Folding Chair by David Chipperfield



Piana exudes ample amounts of style whilst still managing to be hugely functional, thanks to the tremendous talents of designer, David Chipperfield, for Alessi. Piana exhibits Chipperfield's modernist style and dedication to quality resulting in a folding chair that many have failed to successfully achieve - refined contemporary contours, rigour and precision. Available in a range of bright solid colours, Piana is made from polypropylene reinforced with fibreglass - making it 100% recyclable and suitable for outdoor use! A geometric masterpiece, the design is simplicity in its finest form - something at which Chipperfield excels.

Friday 16 November 2012

Christmas Redesigned!

With Christmas just around the corner we've a stack of new delights and designs in our stores and online to please even the most awkward of present recipients. Christmas is always a frantic but exciting time at Utility when lots of lovely new stuff comes into our warehouse and the HQ team get to ooh and agh over lots of gorgeous product ranges. All things owl related are proving popular in store but the Owl Contact Lens Case has proved a real hit online. The kitsch but cool snow globes have also been a hit as well as the large Trophy Deer Head. The "Trust Me...Mug" is a good all rounder as there are loads of worthy recipients but at Utility our philosophy is that design is for everyone, regardless of budget, meaning we really do have something for everyone. So come, take browse and have a mooch round all that's new online in our Gift Boutique.

Wednesday 31 October 2012

Lust after Lustre!


Lustre is a new series of pendant lights from Tom Dixon. A departure for the company, the range is hand made from stoneware by a small Dutch, family run company established over five generations. Each light has a unique look created during the manufacturing process whereby an iridescent glaze containing minerals and precious metals is used to dazzling effect. This attaches itself to the stoneware in a unique way to give an 'oil on water' effect. As each light is totally unique the colors achieved during the process range from a pale lime to a deep green. There are four shapes in the family - Lustre Round, Lustre Wedge, Lustre Flat and Lustre Square. They're each priced at £360 and are available to order now!

Wednesday 24 October 2012

Alessi Cutlery

Grocery giant Tesco - has teamed up with Alessi for a timed cutlery promotion. Customers collect vouchers (allocated at the till depending on your spend) which can then be redeemed against one of Alessi's cutlery rages - Nuovo Milano. With fantastic discounts to be had (and there are literally thousands of these vouchers on Ebay) Alessi have done this to raise awareness of their brand amongst the wider Tesco shopping public. The promotion is only on for a short time but we've added the Nuovo Milano Cutlery range to our online store for customers who require items after the promotion has finished. As well as all the other Alessi Cutlery ranges we've also added the fantastic value "Ovale"  design (pictured) by French design brothers Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec, a new addition for 2012 which has been given our thumbs up!

Monday 22 October 2012

NEW World Type Map


Following on from the hugely popular London Type Map and British Isles Type Map by a new design has arrived in stock! We think the World Type Map will be just as successful, if not bigger, with its vibrant inky blue background and iconic typographic detailing every glance reveals something new. Each country is constructed of town, city and place names creating a new visual experience. Made with exceptional care and attention each print is hand-pulled screen printed on 100% recycled off white 250gsm card in the UK. Sold unframed, they fit into standard size off the shelf frames allowing you to choose the frame of your choice.




Tuesday 16 October 2012

Tatou from Flos

This autumn sees the launch of a new range of lights from Flos by Spanish designer Patricia Urquiola. Tatou comes in two suspension versions (different sizes) as well as a table lamp and floor lamp. The inspiration behind the design is antique Japanese armour but the name 'Tatou' is actually French for Armadillo - the leather creature with a protective shell. Like its namesake Tatou gives the impression of having a protective coat but at the same time offers dynamism, lightness and flexibility for any lighting application. The 'shell' actually protects direct light to the eyes and produces a harmonic play on light and shadow through the perforated sections. This is made up of four identical elements which are all interwoven to form a unified dome shape which diffuses light both up and down. Each light is available in three colours - black, ochre grey and white. From £250.00 - fantastic value for Flos - they're available now.

Tuesday 2 October 2012

Special Eames RAR Rocking Chair - Winter Edition


Vitra have released a special Winter Edition of the much loved Eames RAR Rocking Chair designed by Charles and Ray Eames. Still displaying its classic and infamous silhouette, this time limited version presents the RAR Rocking Chair in a new light, combining refined and sophisticated finishes for an overall restrained and contemporary look. The organically shaped plastic seat is a dark earthy grey (RAL 7022) and rests upon a basic black (RAL 9004) power coated wire base. To finish dark stained maple ski feet complete the look - a welcomed alternative to its original counterparts. Overall its understated treatment acts to enhance what is much revered about this design masterpiece, its genius concoction of hard and soft lines, the contrast between natural and man-made materials and the forward thinking vision of Charles and Ray Eames. We can't think of a better way to spend this year's coldest and darkest days - gently rocking our winter blues away.

Thursday 27 September 2012

Practical and Multifunctional Furniture from Softline


The range of practical and multifunctional furniture from Softline demonstrate Scandinavian design at its best. Clean effortless lines result in a refined presence with each design responding to today's evolving lifestyles. This is particularly evident within the collection of innovative sofa beds - a great excuse to entertain guests and host social occasions acting not only as comfortable seating solutions but transforming into spacious single or double sleeping areas. Easily convertible, the minimalist and stylish contours conceal their alternative use providing the perfect solution to insufficient living space. Each model exhibits individual style, character and size ensuring there is something to suit every household, family and environment. For added practicality the integration of removable covers can be dry-cleaned and replaced if needed as well as new covers ordered if you decide to change the colour. Made in Denmark, they display exceptional craftsmanship and quality and can be selected from a range of fabrics and colours to suit.

NEW Alessi Chrismas Baubles

With Christmas just around the corner (yes, Autumn seems to have lasted just a day) this year Alessi have launched a range of Christmas Tree Baubles. Designed by Marcello Jori each is made from glass and is hand painted. Larger than your avarage bauble there are 10 in the range with the nativity being the theme. They include the Baby Jesus, Mary, Joseph, the Ox and Donkey, Angel, Shooting Star and the three kings Caspar, Melchior and Balthazar. They're available singly at £14.00 (beautifully gift boxed naturally) or a full set for £139.00. Guess what's adorning the Utility Christmas tree this year?

Tuesday 11 September 2012

Rustic & Durable Notebooks from Field Notes


We must confess we're fans of a handy and attractive notebook so when Field Notes arrived at Utility headquarters we succumbed to their rustic design with thoughts turning to the numerous things we could fill them with. The pocket sized Set of Three Memo Books cater for your every need, each are packed with 48 pages of either Plain, Graph or Ruled paper and if you can't choose, a Mixed Three - Pack is also available. Now you can be ready for all eventualities when inspiration, ideas or thoughts strike!

The larger spiral bound Steno Book, specifically designed for Stenography also known as 'Shorthand', contains 80 pages of Gregg ruled paper aiding journalists to transcribe the spoken word. Printed on the reverse of its Super Duty Chipboard cover is all sorts of useful information such as temperature conversions, how to survive a paper cut as well as an abbreviations guide - you'll never be caught out again. Why not complete the set with Field Notes Pen & Pencils.  So whether you're a writer, creative, student, scientist, mathematician or a list-maker, Field Notes has your back!

Thursday 30 August 2012

Stockholm - A New Range of Storage Solutions

Punt have released Stockholm, a collection of versatile storage solutions available in a range of elegant configurations. Crisp clean lines and precise styling define Stockholm's sophisticated charisma with designer Mario Ruiz striking the perfect balance between minimalism and exquisite detailing. Wood veneers and distinct finishes set this dresser / sideboard apart from its counterparts, noticeably evident through its unique deep shelving area lined in a gold or pale rose edging. Furthermore, Stockholm's graceful profile is elevated upon slender legs oven baked in epoxy paint in white, black, stone or dark brown. Constructed of E1 and MDF, Stockholm can be clad in natural oak or walnut, super-matt oak or walnut in addition to whitened, wenge stained or dark grey stained oak. A white and black option can also be selected. With 9 models available Stockholm truly caters for all needs and tastes.

Corniches - Spontaneous and Flexible Shelving

French design duo and brothers Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec have created informal and spontaneous shelving system called Corniches for Vitra. These free floating pebble like ledges are organic forms of usefulness which defy the norm and add an interesting dimension to any environment. Corniches provide impromptu storage areas perfect for storing small keepsakes or even acting as a handy storage surface in bedrooms, bathrooms or any living space! Available in three sizes; small, medium and large and in three colours, black, white and Japanese red they can be mixed and matched for a small collection or to create a large installation.

Original Leather Satchels In Stock!
















We're ecstatic to have found the manufacturer of original leather satchels right here in our home town of Liverpool. This small company has been making leather satchels since 1966 and uses artisan leather smiths, and members of the Guild of Master Craftsmen to create this classic range of beautiful satchels. Whilst there are other satchel companies around we were interested to learn that it was this Liverpool company who was approached by them to make their satchels and brand them as their own. In a wide range of colours & three sizes (small, medium and large) all satchels are in stock & qualify for FREE UK delivery!

Wednesday 15 August 2012

Bookman Lights for Cycle Fans

For all of us cycle fans it's great to see good design being applied to the humble bicycle light. Bookman Lights are an ingenious, discreet design which feature two lights (one white for the front and one red for the tail light) which are fastened to your handlebars and your seat post with an elasticated cord (so are easily removed). What makes these lights unique is that a) Both front and tail lights are the same size. b) Bright LEDs ensure you can see and be seen and feature three light modes. c) They come in a range of funky colours - bright green for the bold and black for the more discreet look with other colours in between. d)They're just £17.99 a pair. Needless to say all us Utility cyclists have bagged a pair!

Wednesday 8 August 2012

Foldable City Guides

For those who love travelling to distant lands or simply exploring areas of cities untouched by tourists then these charming foldable city maps, from Herb Lester, will take you on an unforgettable journey. With a collection spanning from Barcelona At Ease to Untamed London and Supertime Amsterdam, each offer a unique and tailored glimpse into a world only known by natives and locals or are simply forgotten. Pocket sized, these guides unfold to reveal their secrets of dimly-lit bars, beautifully kept parks and vintage markets. On the reverse a map pinpoints those listed helping you on your journey. What really gives these city maps their individual character, though, is the witty descriptions and customised illustrations by guest designers which help capture the essence of its subject - so lovely they are you won't want to crease them!


Crystal Lighting by Lee Broom


We've recently added a new lighting range to our collection from rising design star Lee Broom. The crystal lighting range by exhibits British design and craftsmanship at its very best. Made from lead crystal in Cumbria they display cut crystal patterns which produce an incredible spectacle once illuminated. An ornamental light fitting, Crystal Bulb, surpasses the need for an additional shade instead focusing on its decorative flair. Alone or in a cluster they create an enchanting light effect. To complement its superior form a gold silk flex and brushed brass ceiling rose can be purchased engraved with the Lee Broom crest. The Crystal Bulb's predecessors, Bell Decanter Light and Square Decanter Light are created from vintage decanters sourced from markets and vintage stores and as a result have their own character, shape and size, an ode to their timeless beauty. Available with a clear, frosted or gold finish they are a distinct and exclusive lighting solution.




Friday 3 August 2012

Knoll Marc Krusin Collection

The Marc Krusin collection from Knoll includes a range of seating solutions and side tables which celebrate clean linear lines of reserved beauty. Named after its designer, Marc Krusin, his sensitivity to graceful and modest form is visible through the Krusin Dining Chair and Krusin Lounge Chair. The low sheen woods, high gloss polished black lacquer and natural woven paper rush seat complements its refined silhouette which can also be chosen with an upholstered seat in a range of Kvadrat fabrics and Spinneybeck leathers. With or without arms, each display an inherent calmness whilst still retaining a contemporary appearance attained through subtle angular contours and bends. This is further visible with the Krusin Side Tables, of three functional sizes, and Krusin Coffee Table with the continuous lines of the base intersecting to create a defined foundation. The careful selection of marble tabletops and solid wood frames reinforces its expert construction. By maintaining a graceful visual silence throughout the collection, each sit comfortably with many different design styles.

Wednesday 25 July 2012

Carl Hansen Newest Releases



Carl Hansen have unveiled three new seating solutions, re-released from classic designs. The perfect balance between design and function is established with the MG501 Cuba Chair by Morten Gøttler who doesn't sacrifice clean Scandinavian lines for practicality. Light, comfortable and foldable it can be stored in the smallest of spaces with the taught woven webbing constructing a comfortable seat and backrest with minimal volume. Available in soaped, oiled, white oiled and black lacquered oak the webbing can be chosen from three natural colours.

The refined grandeur of the OW149 Colonial Chair, designed by Ole Wanscher, is instantly evident through its highly crafted solid wood frame of gentle gradients, precise horizontal lines and subtle finishing details. The prominent armrests promote its unique character - hinting at its stable and personable nature. Made for lounging, the upholstered seat and back cushion can be selected from a range of hues in Carl Hansen leathers Loke and Thor. The frame can be oiled oak, mahogany or walnut in addition to soaped or white oiled oak.

Wanscher looks to the past with his OW2000 Egyptian Stool which was inspired by the elegance of ancient Egyptian furniture and their need for sturdiness and strength. A saddle leather seat is suspended in-between two upturned wooden seat panels. Its organic form is strengthened through the beauty and depth of the wood.

Tuesday 17 July 2012

Arco Goes LED

It's 50 years since Flos launched the Arco Lamp by Achille Castiglioni and in celebration of this icon of 20th century design's half century Flos have introduced a new LED version for the eco-conscious consumer. Having perfected the LED this new version gives the same light quality as the original from an 18W light source, giving 50 0000 hours of illumination. That's a lot of light! It's also dimable for those intimate moments.

Friday 13 July 2012

New Kartell Fresh from Salone 2012

Newly unleashed from Kartell, the Comback Chair draws its inspiration from an English classic, the Windsor Chair, with designer Patricia Urquiola injecting a contemporary edge to create a new timeless classic. Characterised by a backrest of seven teeth - each are spread out to produce a unique pattern which upon their meeting construct a reinforced hexagonal rim. As a consequence slim shafts grace the back paneling of the seat - utilising both negative and positive space for a dynamic appeal. This single mould chair is available in three base options; four legs, sled and swivel base and in an array of colourways from classic black to neutral hazel to a vibrant orangey red making Comback ideal for a range of applications.

Expanding upon the Bloom lighting range, Ferruccio Laviani has introduced Big Bloom which includes all the beauty and mystic of the original Bloom Pendant Light and Elliptical Bloom Light. With a larger diameter of 80cm and available in four colours, it provides more scope for each of the single polycarbonate flowers to dazzle and sparkle upon its light.

Monday 2 July 2012

Magis Rocky Horse

Marc Newson  has reinvented an old childhood friend for Magis, breathing  new lease of life into a classic. Moulded from polyethylene Rocky fully represents the 21st century, delivering a traditional rocking movement sure to give hours of fun. Gone are the splinters and creaky wood to welcome a safe and friendly solid colour horse available in realistic hues of black, brown or white. Through a silhouette of well defined and realistic lines instantly recognisable features take form from the pointed ears to the long tail. With safety in mind a natural hemp rope is included as reigns and a saddle and stirrups are integrated into the composition of the body. The stirrups act as footrests, extending out for those in its saddle to rest comfortably. Rocky is sure to be a hit with design conscious adults and children alike!

Wednesday 27 June 2012

Summer Clearance Now On

Our Summer sale is now on and as well as all the usual seasonal discounts on our big brands such as VITRA, KARTELL, ARTEMIDE and CARL HANSEN this year we're having a warehouse clearance with big discounts on lots of brand new and box fresh designs which would normally NEVER be reduced, as well as ex display items. Check out what's in there at : WAREHOUSE CLEARANCE. Amazingly we sold 6 Tom Dixon Copper Balls at £90.00 from their RRP of £340.00 in less than 2 minutes!

Friday 15 June 2012

The Nanoblock Collection Grows

We are happy to welcome two new additions to our Nanoblock range, the blue opalin Budgerigar and the Electric Guitar in Black! Just like the rest of the collection, they are fun and realistic  representations of the real thing - and YOU get to build them! The miniature blocks allow intricate and complex compositions to be constructed that test even the most expert of builders. To aid you on your path (to become an master Nanoblock builder) there is no better place to start than with Budgerigar, which has over 80 Nanoblock pieces with a difficulty rating of 1, or the Electric Guitar in Black which contains over 160 pieces with a difficulty rating of 2.  Admire your creations once they are finished and graduate onto the next!

Friday 1 June 2012

New Collection from Foscarini

Foscarini have released a brand new collection of lighting solutions which exhibit new dimesnsions in sculptural forms. Each offer a spectrum of illumination possibilities from soft and diffused to intense and precise. This is particularly visible in the Magneto Desk and Floor Lamp, the diffuser and structure joined only by an electrical cable and magnetic force. Through the use of a spherical magnet, the diffuser can balance in a wide range of angles and positions - free to travel up and down the stem which is embossed with rounded impressions.  The Solar Floor Light was inspired by the subdued glow experienced during sunrise and sunset, the rounded shape enticing you to sit around its circumference - perfect for socialising. The atmospheric illuminations can be adjusted with a slight tilt and is available in indoor and outdoor options.

However the Birdie range, designed by Ludovica & Roberto Palomba, is where Foscarini have excelled through simple and organic forms to create a sophisticated collection of table, wall, ceiling and floor lights. Each are instantly recognisable via the classic shade and offshoot growing from the stem - beckoning a bird to perch upon it. The Birdie Ceiling Light is a contemporary chandelier (pictured), unlike any other ceiling light seen before and is available in a range of configurations ranging from one shade to three, six and nine for an awe-inspiring spectacle.

Thursday 24 May 2012

String Cell Shelving














  
Cell Shelving from Swedish Company String has been called 'the world's most beautiful shelving' and 'a pearl drape for books'. As with all good design the beauty of Cell lies in its simplicity. Strong white steel shelves are supported on tensile steel wires - cleverly spaced by steel ball-bearings which run like a string of pearls along the length of the wires. Cell comes in basic compositions which can be added to and extended as you desire but we think it's fine lines, unadulterated simplicity and slender profile make Cell an absolute winner and future design classic.

Tuesday 22 May 2012

Kartell's New Stool

Kartell have added a new addition to their "ghost" stable of furniture and accessories by Philippe Starck. Titled "One More, One More Please" this family of stools features the familiar silhouette of the Victoria Ghost Chair back mounted on a bar and counter height stool. This oval version is partnered with a square back version - similar to that seen on the La Marie Chair. In a new palette of colours - from the lighter lavender, yellow and sand, the range also comes in the original and classic Kartell black and white. Both stool heights come with a footrest and at great value at £208.00 this is sure to be a big hit with both the contract and domestic markets.

Thursday 17 May 2012

Utility featured within Grazia


We are awash with pride after Utility was featured as one of the '10 hot things to do in Liverpool' within Grazia's Local North West Special (14th May 2012). This is a brand new section highlighting the very best bits of UK and Ireland, asking people to recommend their favourite haunts within their home town or city. This wouldn't have been made possible without our good friend Aliki Marcou from Pushcka, who we must send a huge big thanks to, for nominating our Liverpool home store (60 Bold Street) as one of the places to go for our 'super-chic homeware'. Thank you! We can't forget her tip on our selection of funny birthday cards available at our Bold Street gift store. To exhibit our range of modern furniture, a rather wonderful picture was taken inside our showroom displaying our current installation of design gems. You can view a comprehensive breakdown here.




Wednesday 16 May 2012

Carl Hansen CH163 Sofa

Exciting things are afoot this Autumn from Carl Hansen with the re-launch of the CH163 Sofa. Designed by Hans J.Wegner the combination of upholstered cushions filled with down were an innovative feature when he designed his modern living room in 1965 - rendering a fairly stringent design less formal. The design is characterised by leg detail which has four straight sides at the base then 'fans' out towards the armrest, punctuated by a wooden plug which not only gives elegance but conceals a wooden screw which facilitates the work of the upholsterer. The frame's honesty is also highlighted throughout the design as this is exposed to the front and rear. This sofa family consists of the smaller CH162 (two seater) and the larger CH163, a three seater. In a range of timber oak finishes and fabrics and leathers the whole family will be available to order from June-September.

Friday 4 May 2012

Artemide Mega Tolomeo - Now in Black!

We've long been fans of the Mega Tolomeo Floor Lamp from Artemide but we're now even bigger fans following the official launch of this black version. In the same three lamp shade sizes as the original this new model has a black satin shade with a base and support stem/arm mechanism in a matt black powder coated finish. Sophisticated in so many ways.

Wednesday 2 May 2012

Vitra Repos and Grand Repos Now Available

Vitra Repos Lounge Chair
Following the launch of the Repos Lounge Chair at the 2011 Milan Furniture Fair Vitra have spent the last year developing the design and the 2012 Fair saw the official launch of the Repos Chair and Grand Repos Lounge Chair. Designed by Antonio Citterio this new development in relaxation introduces two distinctly different chairs but with the same underlying personality. Repos is neat and demure whilst Grand Repos, with it's 'Wingback' upper body, is the more masculine of the two. To complement the chairs Citterio has designed a series of Panchina (footstools) as well as an Ottoman for those 'put your feet up' moments. The entire Repos, Panchina and Ottoman family is available in a range of leathers as well as eleven 'Cosy' velvet fabrics. Whatever cover you choose is highlighted with contrast stitching. If the classic Eames Lounge Chair is not for you we think Repos makes a fantastic alternative.

Friday 20 April 2012

KARTELL - A trio of NEW releases!

Kartell have released three new products, all of which have seduced us with their highly contemporary and innovative designs. The Taj Table Lamp, designed by Ferruccio Laviani, is an arched beauty. This sculptural masterpiece focuses on elegant and refined forms - magnificent both off and on! Using intelligent LED technology it provides both optimum and minimal light making it highly energy efficient. Available in either transparent 'crystal', solid coloured black and white or a satin-finished plastic version - 'frozen', it craves attention and your admiration! The Invisible Side Table, designed by Tokujin Yoshioka, was inspired by Yoshioka's Japanese culture visible through sleek and simple lines. Suiting a multitude of environments, its unobtrusive vision works well both indoor and out - or even as a bench! In two transparent versions, crystal and smoke, as well as two solid versions, white and black, we think these will look great mixed and matched. Together with the Audrey Soft Dining Chair and Armchair, designed by Piero Lissoni, Kartell have unleashed a strong trio of creations! Audrey Soft belongs to a eclectic multifunctional family of chairs and this upholstered edition is available in a range of eclectic colours which act to accentuate the lean contours of the frame. Perfect in a range of environments, this versatile chair is also available in four different frame options, painted black, white or aluminum and polished aluminum meaning it can be fully tailored to suit. Available from May/June 2012, they're the perfect way to welcome the summer.

Thursday 12 April 2012

Ercol Originals

We've added Ercol Originals to our stable of brands. The collection, designed by Lucian Ercolani, is still manufactured in the UK at the Ercol factory in the Chilterns. Using European and North American hardwoods the Ercol Originals collections is a capsule of mid century designs including a series of dining chairs, tables and a Studio Couch. As well as being available in a natural wood finishes the collection also includes a series of coloured finishes for the more adventurous. All made to order we're proud to champion a hand made British furniture manufacturer and everything comes with FREE UK mainland delivery. Timeless in so many ways!

Thursday 5 April 2012

NEW Braun Sport Watches

We absolutely love the new Braun Sports Watches. There are five in the collection and each come with a bold 46mm case, stainless steel case and silicone strap. With classic Braun clarity they're available in five colours - black, light grey, dark grey and - for the more adventurous - blue and orange (pictured). They're just £99.00 and make a good all round watch for life on the go. They're also water resistant to 50m.

Wednesday 4 April 2012

Rosendahl Otto Songbirds

These Wooden Songbirds, designed by Kay Bojesen for Rosendahl, were never actually placed into production when first designed. Rediscovered in the Rosendahl archive they have now been produced in all their colourful glory. There are six designs available, each named after a member of the Bojesen family. A vibrant and colourful collection to liven up any space.

Wednesday 28 March 2012

Orla Kiely Range Expands

Spring seas the launch of new designs by Orla Kiely including a range of kitchen linens and storage tins. Items have just started to arrive in stock and those which are available now are on our webstore. Starting at just £13.00 for tea towels designs feature Orla Kiely's signature multi stem, linear stem and abacus patterns. The Cake Tin Set is our personal favourites (pictured). This five piece set is great value at £35.00 with different sized tins, each with an alternative design; a fantastic gift for anyone who enjoys home baking!

Tuesday 27 March 2012

A Revolutionary Desk Light

Flos have unleashed a revolutionary gadget - The D`E Desk Light. Its sleek frame operates as both a light source and USB stand for iPod, iPad and iPhone devices, the result is a fine invention. Philippe Starck offers a solution to the abundance of unattractive electrical wiring and the misfortune of misplaced devices which seems to dominate modern living. The integrated USB dock sits above the LED lamp accompanied by a vertical back plate for additional support. This generates the optimum conditions for easy operation of your device elevated at a favourable viewing height. The outcome is astounding - paving the way for future creations which integrate contemporary design with function. The chrome finish acts to enhance its sophisticated contours for a streamlined and balanced silhouette which does not infringe on its primary function, to provide sufficient light. The angled chrome-plated aluminum head includes an optical ON/OFF switch with Soft Touch technology adjusting light to two intensities from 100% down to 50% and 0%. The The D`E Desk Light is sure to capture the attention of technology enthusiasts!

Friday 9 March 2012

Kartell Masters Chair Offer - Limited Time Only

The Masters Chair, designed by Phillippe Stark for Kartell, has proved its universal popularity. It pays tribute to three of the great classics of the twentieth century; the Series 7 chair by Arne Jacobsen, DSR Eiffel chair by Charles Eames and the Tulip chair by Eero Saarinen. Each of their clearly defined silhouettes have been immortalised into a single chair of interweaving shapes, supported on a slender four leg base . The Masters Chair is now available in packs of FOUR at a discounted prices to buying four chairs individually and to celebrate we're also giving away a Kartell Tic & Tac Clock FREE with every four chairs purchased!! With a range of colours to choose from and FREE UK mainland delivery this is one fantastic offer!

Thursday 8 March 2012

Nanoblock - Hours of building fun!

Nanoblock first exploded onto the scene in Japan in 2008 and has since grown into a world-wide phenomenon. The micro-sized modelling block enables incredibly intricate three dimensional models to be created for hours of building fun - it's addictive! With a large array of collections on offer from wild and exotic animals to musical instruments and famous landmarks, there is something for everyone. Each have a separate difficulty ratings so you'll find it hard not to graduate from one to the next. Each pack contains between 70 - 800 Nanobricks which securely connect to its partner for complex compositions that will test your patience. From a Nanoblock Electric Guitar, African Elephant to the Space Center and Taj Mahal it really is hard to pick which one to start with. Instructions are included to help you on your creative journey. The end result is a magnificent model which you can admire for years to come and of course, show off your skill and coordination to friends and family!

Friday 24 February 2012

The Chic and Unique Eco-Friendly Stool

Every inch of this eco-friendly flat packed seating solution is brimming with style, from its handy carry case to the constructed outcome. Unpack it, fold it, slot it together and voilà - you have your very own sustainable piece of furniture which can be used as a stool, chair or table! Made from FSC-Certified corrugated cardboard it can hold up to 200 kilos of weight thanks to its ingenious design.

At an amazingly affordable price, it's hard to choose between Beachwood, Tree Trunk, Straw, Bellefleur and Coffee, all of which command instant attention. We predict these photo realistic beauties will be loved by all and, at such a fantastic price (£25.00) they make fantastic gifts too.

Wednesday 22 February 2012

New mugs ARRIVE into our collection!

We are celebrating the arrival of new mugs into our collection which we think will be massively popular. Inundated with so many great designs, it's easy to see how they make for terrific gifts. Take the Mummy Rules Mug - the pink crown and lettering are perfect for Mother's Day and the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. We also love the Biscuit Dunkability Mug which charts each biscuit's dunk rating - helping you to select the perfect one for that optimum dunk. An art form of immense skill it's important we don't have soggy broken bits spoiling our brew! Complete with funny quips, it will have you chuckling to yourself every time you read it.

If you like a comical mug, then The First Coffee, Stand Up & Stand Out and Finest Tea Mug will have you brooding over their insightful and amusing expressions - bold statement mugs for bold people. For those of you on the go, the Take Away Mug is the ideal solution, the double insulated body and silicone lid helps to keep contents hot or cold for longer and the tight fitting lid avoids any spills. Modelled on the disposable coffee cup, this is the stylish and environmentally friendly alternative for your favourite beverage. There's plenty more to see, so we suggest that you take a peak at what's new. Overwhelmed by the sheer choice it looks as though we will be using a different mug everyday!

Wednesday 15 February 2012

Hoptimist makes a return with Bimble & Bumble

Remember Hoptimist? May not mean much but these unforgettable spring loaded wobbling charcters will! Originally designed by Hans Gustav Ehrenreich in in 1969 the company wound up years ago. The design rights and tooling has now been rescued and these loveable characters are now being remade in Denmark. There are two designs : Bimble (the girl) and Bumble (the boy). Both come in various colours and two sizes. Children love them. Adults want them - as table desk or shelf adornments they never fail to bring a smile, inspire and instil optimism. Order now for delivery In March. Birdie, the spring loaded ceiling mounted birds are also being re-produced!

Monday 6 February 2012

SWEDESE Update Lamino For 2012

Swedese have updated the much loved Lamino Armchair & Footstool to include an extended range of fabric and frame options, the possibilities seem endless! We've fallen for Lamino even more which is now upholstered in either leather, sheepskin, tweed or Divina Melange in a comprehensive range of colours. Designed by Swedese founder Yngve Ekstrom in 1956, Lamino has sold all over the world and was voted the Twentieth Century's Best Swedish Design by Swedish interior design magazine Skona Hem. The refined timbre frame can be selected in either oiled oak or walnut and alternatively in ash with a 'lazur' finish in black or white which allows the grain of the wood to be seen through the colour. Lamino can be purchased together as an Armchair & Footstool set or separately as an Armchair or Footstool.