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Alessi has always been masterful in creating clever engaging designs that charm and inspire. Now, continuing their partnership with the National Palace Museum in Taiwan, Alessi has released the magical new OrienTales Collection. Inspired by the National Palace Museum's art collection, the OrienTales brings common household items a whimsical eastern flair. My favourite piece is the Banana Kid Sugar Bowl. Beautifully hand-decorated, this delightful bowl sparkles with character. Made from a lovely fine bone china, the Banana Kid is light and elegant while still fun and playful. The two piece set includes the laughing monkey face bowl, a sculptural grass spoon and overflowing charm. Available in both the US & UK, you can purchase the Alessi Banana Kid Sugar bowl for £20.00 from Alessi.co.uk or $40.00 from fitzsu.com.
Posted by Kate on July 1, 2008 12:04 AM
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Continuing Alessi's banana theme is the Banana Bros Salt & Pepper Set. These two cheeky fellows sail their way across your table in their bright banana boat. Made from a thermoplastic resin, the Banana Bros are each hand-decorated with broad smiling faces. With a separate cheeky little monkey for both your salt and pepper, they neatly nest back in their banana home. A part of the Alessi OrienTale Collection, the Banana Bros Salt & Pepper Set is available for £18.00 from Alessi.co.uk or $36.00 from fitzsu.com.
Posted by Kate on July 2, 2008 12:16 AM
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Add a splash of colour to your breakfast table with these delightful Goldfish Egg Cups from the Alessi OrienTales Collection. Standing up on flowing fins, these brightly coloured fish proudly present your morning eggs. Light and elegant, the Goldfish Egg Cups are made from a fine bone china and beautifully hand-decorated. A whimsical and playful start to your day, the Goldfish Egg Cups transform rushed meals into an exciting experience. Available in brilliant Violet (Red), Blue and Green, the Alessi OrienTales Goldfish Egg Cups are each £15.00 from Alessi.co.uk or $29.00 from fitzsu.com.
Alessi Goldfish Eggcup Violet - £15
(at Amazon.co.uk)
Alessi Goldfish Eggcup Violet - $29
Alessi Goldfish Eggcup Green - £15
Alessi Goldfish Eggcup Green - $29
Alessi Goldfish Eggcup Blue - £15
Alessi Goldfish Eggcup Blue - $29
Posted by Kate on July 3, 2008 12:09 AM
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The final piece we'll highlight of the Alessi OrienTales Collection is the Paradise Birds Salt and Pepper Set. Bright and exotic, these love birds will charm your friends and family. Rather than warbling a beautiful song these glamorous birds sprinkle salt and pepper over your meal. Made of a light thermoplastic resin, the sweeping birds create an engaging sculptural effect as they hang from the delicate branches of their tree. Calling out to be explored, people naturally want to hold and use these brilliant salt and pepper shakers. Distinctive and full of life, these endearing characters add a sparkle of magic to your table. A three piece set includes an orange and purple bird along with their elegant tree home. The Alessi OrienTales Paradise Birds Salt and Pepper Set is available for £25.00 from Alessi.co.uk or $53.00 from fitzsu.com.
Posted by Kate on July 4, 2008 12:08 AM
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Whether you are looking for a portable BBQ or simply for a compact smoker to add flavour to fresh meats, the new Cobb Barbecue Cooking System offers a revolutionary approach. Designed to work like a convection oven, just 8-10 charcoal briquettes are all that is needed to cook for three hours. The innovative design brings variety to your outdoor meals, grilling, baking, smoking, boiling, frying, warming and even cooking up crisp pizzas. The Cobb Grill's ingenious cooking surface allows excess fat to drain away while not dripping on the charcoals, ensuring the end of smokey flare-ups. And while inside temperatures may reach 500 degrees, the base is completely cool to touch making it safe for use on tabletops. A wonderful fuel efficient appliance, the light Cobb Grill weighs an astonishing 8.5 lbs but cooks for an impressive 4 to 6 people. The Cobb Barbecue Cooking System features a Xylan-coated non-stick surface and a stainless steel bowl and dome, making it dishwasher safe. A brilliant way to appreciate the outdoor and great food simultaneously, the Cobb Barbecue Cooking System is £89.99 from Lakeland.
Posted by Kate on July 7, 2008 12:14 AM
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Who says that kitchen knives need to be serious and boring? The Pure Komachi Knifes add bright colour for easy identification and an exciting vibrancy. These distinctive stainless-steel knives feature a coloured non-stick blade that runs right through the handle. The translucence grips reveal simple images of food, stamped through the tang of the blade. A great set for beginner chefs, the silhouette images remind the user what each knife is best used for. Available individually or as a set, the pink 16½cm chefs knife is for meat, the green 16½cm Santoku knife is for veg, the 11cm blue knife is for fish, while the bread knife is a warm golden colour. Available in the UK for £25.99 each from corvusweb.co.uk or $19.99 each from Amazon.com in the US.
Pure Komachi 16½cm Chefs Knife - £25.99
Pure Komachi 11cm Fish Knife - £25.99
Pure Komachi 16½cm Santoku Knife - £25.99
Pure Komachi 21cm Patented Scallop Edge Bread Knife - £31.99
Pure Komachi Four Piece Chefs Knife Set - £89.99
Pure Komachi 6½ in Chefs Knife - $19.99
Pure Komachi 4½ in Fish Knife - $19.99
Pure Komachi 6½ in Santoku Knife - $19.99
Pure Komachi 8in Patented Scallop Edge Bread Knife - $20.99
Pure Komachi Four Piece Chefs Knife Set - $79.99
Posted by Kate on July 8, 2008 12:23 AM
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Combining convenience and modern style, Royal VKB has created these fabulous Squeeze Bottles for your dinner table. Great for home-made sauces and dressings or simply upgrading your commercial bottles, the VKB Squeeze Bottles are both practical and sophisticated. Inspired by the squeeze bottles in American dinners, VKB brings a modern style to these kitsch icons. Featuring a stainless steel cap over a polyethylene bottle, they move effortlessly from from fridge to table. A great way to make even ketchup look glamorous, the Royal VKB Squeeze Bottle is £15 from FunktionAlley.
Posted by Kate on July 9, 2008 12:00 AM
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I love getting together with family and friends for parties and celebrations, but it isn't always easy to serve a large group of people. Traditionally people would turn to paper plates, but modern designers have created some clever solutions that are kinder for the environment. The new CaterPlate provides a light weight solution to all your party problems. No more juggling or dropping knives, each CaterPlate provides your guests with cutlery, a plate, two sauce trays and a safe place to hold your wine glass. While at first glance they look like one use items, each of the utensils can be reattached after use. A brilliant balance between disposable and reusable, you can wash the CaterPlate but you also don't need to worry if they get broken. A great addition to your summer barbeques, parties and picnics, the CaterPlate is available in black, clear or orange from Smarter Products.
Pack of 6 CaterPlates - £4.99
Pack of 10 CaterPlates - £7.59
Pack of 48 CaterPlates - £32.99
Continue reading "CaterPlate Disposable Plate Set" »
Posted by Kate on July 10, 2008 12:05 AM
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OK, I know it's extravagant and decadent, but there is still something romantic about the Emma Bridgewater Picnic Hamper. Distinctly British, this handmade willow basket opens to reveal an assortment of beautiful picnic treats. Perfect for romantic meals along a picturesque river or merely enjoying the warm summer sun, the Bridgewater Picnic Hamper brings luxury and charm to al fresco dining. Featuring lovely Emma Bridgewater plates and bowls, the creamware dishes are hand decorated with a sprinkling of pink & red hearts. Paired with the crystal cut champagne glasses and your table is set for romance. Each piece is held securely in the basket ensuring everything arrives safely at your destination. A brilliant gift for special anniversaries, the Picnic Hamper encourages you to seize the moment and create memories with that special someone. Available from John Lewis for £200, the Emma Bridgewater Hearts Picnic Hamper includes two plates, two cups, two crystal cut champagne glasses, two cutlery sets, an insulated wine cooler, a condiment set, two napkins, a tablecloth and the ever important waiter’s friend.
Posted by Kate on July 11, 2008 12:10 AM
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With so many stores now charging for carrier bags, it's tempting to look for a stylish alternative. These bright bags from Reisenthel offer a modern interpretation of traditional baskets. Designed by Katja Horst, the Carrybag features a light aluminium frame and a fabric basket made of a tear-proof polyester fabric that is even washable. However unlike it's wicker cousins, the Reisenthel Carrybag can fold flat for convenient storage. Simply remove the plastic side supports and the bag collapses neatly away. Perfect for groceries or merely carrying around bits and bobs, the Reisenthel Carrybag is available in kiwi green and red for £28 from FunktionAlley.
Continue reading "Reisenthel Carrybag" »
Posted by Kate on July 14, 2008 12:06 AM
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Lemon juice is the perfect compliment to many meals and even has health benefits, however fresh lemon slices don't always match your table style. The Tonfisk lemon squeezer offers you fresh lemon juice in a neat and sophisticated form. The ceramic bowl features a raised ridge on which to grind your lemon, while the high sides captures every drop and ensure that no erratic squirts attack your table and friends. The small spout allows you to neatly pour out your fresh juice, while keeping pips in the bowl. Such an elegant solution, you'll wonder why no one thought of it before. Designed by Susanna Hoikkala & Jenni Ojala, the Tonfisk Lemon Squeezer is £25 from FunktionAlley.
Posted by Kate on July 15, 2008 12:04 AM
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With all these lovely sunny days, it's the perfect time to make extra-special summer treats. These brightly coloured moulds combine cookies and soft ice cream to create a delicious snack for hot summer days. A brilliant way to serve ice cream outside, there's no need for bowls or spoons. Simply hand them out, the sweet cookie crusts stop the ice cream from melting in hot little hands. You'll still get ice cream everywhere, but your Ice Cream Sandwiches will be the highlight of summer. Easy to make, bake up some cookie dough and use the mould as a cookie cutter. Then fill with ice cream and use the plunger to pack it all together. It will even decorate the top for you with no extra effort. Available from Lakeland for £10.50, each Ice Cream Sandwich Mould Set includes three moulds in heart, 'squircle' and star shapes.
Posted by Kate on July 16, 2008 12:08 AM
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When the kitchen is the centre of your home, it's not just pans and gadgets that clutter up your counters. With bills and letters arriving everyday, they can easily pile up before you've had time to reply or file them. A simple letter rack like this Shaker one from 'Live Laugh Love' can help keep you organised and your counters clear. There are three quaint tin shelves that let you sort and separate your mail, and even two hooks on which to hang your keys. With a simple country charm, the Shaker Letter Holder is both decorative and practical. Available from Not on the High Street, the Wall Mounted Shaker Letter Holder is just £12.
Posted by Kate on July 17, 2008 12:05 AM
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Making the most of your cupboard space is always a challenge. In our house pan lids, baking trays and cooling trays are the worst offenders. They either take up loads of space when laid down or they clatter over when propped up. Simplehuman have come up with a handy organiser that keeps everything tidy and easy to access. Available in three widths, the organiser pulls out making even things at the back of your cupboard easy to reach. The 9-inch model features a removable slotted divider while the 14-inch model includes a storage caddy. Though simple additions these features help you efficiently organise your cupboard space. Easy to install with just four screws, the SimpleHuman Cabinet Organiser takes the frustration out of small spaces and hard to reach corners. Available online from SimpleHuman:
9" cabinet organiser - £34.99
14" cabinet organiser - £39.99
20" cabinet organiser - £44.99
Continue reading "Simplehuman Cabinet Organiser" »
Posted by Kate on July 18, 2008 12:15 AM
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A modern Salad Set that captures the magic of summer, the Eva Solo collection makes a sea-side splash at your dinner table. Bringing back childhood memories of sea-side sandcastles, the Eva Solo set features an oversized spoon and fork. With a striking resemblance to toy spade and fork, these nostalgic severs easily capture lettuce for your plate. The brilliant white bucket is a pristine backdrop for your lettuce and salad making it look bright and luscious. The large looping handle makes it perfect for alfresco dining when you may have lots to carry. Simple and sophisticated, the clean modern lines bring a fresh style to seasonal salads. Available from Amazon.co.uk:
Eva Solo Salad Bowl - £41.50
Eva Solo Stainless Steel Salad Set - £24.00
Posted by Kate on July 21, 2008 12:02 AM
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Add glamour to your next kaffeeklatsch with this simple stencil set from Kitchen Craft. A brilliant way to brighten someone's day, these stencils add a flourish to cappuccino and lattes. Simply hold over your coffee and then sprinkle with chocolate powder. When removed the stencil is removed, the warm brown pattern is revealed. Though unbelievably simple, the attention to detail will impress your guests and family. A great addition to a romantic breakfast in bed, a special birthday brew or a ladies lunch, the Kitchen Craft Shaker Stencils are just £2.99 from Amazon.co.uk.
Posted by Kate on July 22, 2008 12:03 AM
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There is something quite relaxing about sitting and eating a bowl of shelled nuts. The rhythmic action and pace of cracking each nut before you eat it bring a soothing repetition. However exploding shells and the sharp bite on your hands can spoil the effect. PEJ set out to solve this with a circular nutcracker that makes even tough shells easy to crack. The central lever turns to pin the nut against the sidewall, increasing pressure till it cracks. The black rubber edge helps keep the shards from escaping. Available in steel or aluminium the PEJ Nutcracker is available from Tableware-Plus.co.uk.
PEJ Aluminium Nutcracker - £28.99
PEJ Steel Nutcraker - £48.99
Posted by Kate on July 23, 2008 12:08 AM
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Sometimes even the simplest object can bring a smile and brighten your day. The Yummi Spread Knife makes a whimsical and charming start to early mornings. With a bold graphic style, the Yummi features an adorable squirrel at the handle end. With large rounded corners and a plump form, this cheery character instantly appeals. The brightly coloured knife has a broad blade ideal for spreading jams and nutbutters is specifically designed to reach into those awkward jar corners. Available in vivid Blue, Orange, Red, Pink & Green, the Yummi Spread Knife is £3.10 from MadeInDesign.co.uk.
Posted by Kate on July 24, 2008 12:00 AM
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With a touch of wartime glamour, these simple star cutters are a stylish addition to your kitchen arsenal. The set of five cookie cutters creates a variety of different sized star across your plate or table. Stars are such a simple shape yet promise both dreams and magic. The variation in size can transform even simple sugar cookies into a sophisticated display without any extra effort. The set comes with a lovely retro storage tin that just calls to be displayed. Black sweeping letters decorate the front of the cream enamel tin capturing that retro glamour. A great gift for cookie lovers or for your next housewarming, the Stream Line Star Cookie Cutters are £10 from John Lewis.
Posted by Kate on July 25, 2008 12:05 AM
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Perfect for parties, the Enza Dip Bowl Set offers a sophisticated way to serve several dips or condiments. The bright white bowls feature sharp clean lines and a modern graphic style, while the variation in the bowl's rim creates a subtle geometric pattern of offset squares. Displayed on a stainless steel tray, each porcelain bowl rests in it's own secure slot to create a unified design. Quick and easy to take to the table, the Enza Dip Bowl can be dressed up or down for anything from casual dinners to suave parties. An attractive addition to buffets, the Enza Dip Bowl Set by Blomus is £45 from Panik.
Posted by Kate on July 28, 2008 12:09 AM
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There is nothing quite like the frustration you feel when you can't get a jar open. There is a boiling irritation when you are defeated by a simple inanimate object, and asking others for help can just aggravate the situation. The Culinare One Touch Jar Opener offers a quick and easy solution. Ideal for those with arthritis, you simply align it over the jar and push the large blue button. No more wrestling with jam jars or fighting with bottles of pasta sauce, the electronic and hands-free jar opener can apply 25lbs of pressure to open even the most stubborn of lids. Effective on lids between 3cm and 10cm, the Culinare One Touch Jar Opener takes just two AA batteries. Available from Lakeland, the Culinare One Touch Jar Opener makes a great gift at £19.99.
Posted by Kate on July 29, 2008 12:00 AM
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It doesn't always take money and effort to dress-up your kitchen or laundry room, even if you don't have much space. From small flats to historic buildings, it can be difficult to squeeze in today's modern appliances. If you've got a washer, dryer or even a dishwasher stood out on it's own, you can now have it dressed to impress! These Fashionista Appliance Covers from So Home bring colour and style to plain white machines. Available in two fashionable prints, you can add a splash of polka dots or a sophisticated chartreuse Toile de Jouy to your kitchen. The front panel rolls up and ties out of the way when in use, but can be quickly dropped when company is expected. A brilliant way to quickly update your kitchen, the Fashionista Appliance Covers are available in both the standard 60cm width and a slim 53cm style. You can get the So Home! Fashonista Applicance cover for £19.00 from La Redoute.
Continue reading "Fashionista Appliance Cover" »
Posted by Kate on July 30, 2008 12:13 AM
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A beautiful accent for sophisticated summer dining, these Floral Vase Place Card Holders bring natural glamour to your table. The elegant glass globes hold delicate blossoms and buds below your your guests' name cards. Featuring a small hole, the globe supports the slim stems of small flowers. Though it only holds a small amount of water, it enough to keep your blooms bright and fresh. A brilliant decoration for dinner parties or even weddings, a set of eight Name Place Vases are £19.80 from Cox & Cox.
Posted by Kate on July 31, 2008 12:08 AM
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