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When it comes to contemporary decoration, V&A creates brilliant sophisticated and timeless patterns. Inspired by the Victoria & Albert Museum collections, the V&A blends classical designs with modern style. The new Brocade Collection splashes black & white florals across a monochrome background accented in warm gold. Perfect for serving afternoon tea, the bone china collection includes a tiered cake plate for serving finger sandwiches or sweet treats, small side plates for each guest and dainty tea cups with saucers. There is even a 'Tea for One' set for when you just want to curl up with a cup of tea and a good book. A gorgeous service for a contemporary tea party, the V&A Brocade Collection is available from John Lewis.
Set of four V&A Brocade Side Plates - £20
V&A Brocade Tea for One - £22
V&A Brocade Tea Cup & Saucer - £28
V&A Brocade Cake Stand - £25
Posted by Kate on September 1, 2009 12:01 AM
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Recently it seems everyone is turning their hand to knitting, crochet and embroidery. If you want to join in this craft revival but lack the patience or time, Kitty and Polly have some trendy samplers for the kitchen. Available in two versions, these framed embroideries either encourage you to 'make tea not war' or ask you 'what would delia do?' Handmade in Scotland, the cross-stitch patterns are presented in gold vintage style frames emphasising the ironic rustic design. A splash of humour for the kitchen, the Kitchen Samplers are £22 from Kitty & Polly.
'make tea not war' kitchen sampler -£22
'what would delia do?' kitchen sampler - £22
Continue reading "Kitchen Samplers" »
Posted by Kate on September 2, 2009 12:00 AM
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Sleek and slim-lined, the Nagara Knife Block offers compact style for your kitchen. A dark wood panel of grooves runs across the blond curving block, giving the Nagara a modern decorative style. The sculpted stainless steel knives slide easily into the warm wood block. The satin-finished knives add contrast to the smooth rubberwood block. A contemporary collection that is dishwasher safe and with a five year guarantee, the collection includes:
- 20cm chefs knife
- 20cm bread knife
- 20cm carving knife
- 11cm utility knife
- 9cm paring knife
Available from Viners, the Nagara Five Piece Knife Block is £60.
Nagara Five Piece Knife Block - £50
Posted by Kate on September 3, 2009 12:05 AM
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Made here in England, Emma Bridewater's handmade pottery captures the quirky charm of modern Britain. The new Auricula collection brings the magic of summer gardens to your table, even when the winter turns cold. Decorated with a rhythmic pattern of Auricula blooms, Bridgewater recalls a vintage 60s style. The contrast of deep indigo flowers on cream stoneware creates a floral accent perfect for Scandinavian and rustic interiors. A busy blue pattern that compliments Bridgewater's popular floral mug range, the Auricula Collection is available online from Emma Bridgewater.
Auricula ½ Pint Mug - £15.95
Auricula 6 ½ Plate - £13.95
Auricula 10 ½ Plate - £18.95
Auricula Cereal Bowl - £15.95
Auricula ½ Pint Jug - £22.95
Auricula Tea Cup & Saucer - £24.95
Posted by Kate on September 4, 2009 12:01 AM
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For reasons I can't explain, we've had neighbour children knocking on our door and shouting 'Trick-or-Treat' all month. I keep telling them they are two months early, but it doesn't seem to have sunken in. The constant reminder has started me thinking about Halloween early this year. I love these new LED lanterns from Lakeland. Just 6cm tall, these tiny lanterns would make a brilliant centrepiece for your holiday table. Combined with a floral arrangement or some autumn gourds, these flickering lanterns offer a candle effect that's safe around children and pets. A cute addition to your Halloween celebrations, a set of two Pumpkin LED Lights are £3.29 from Lakeland.
Set of 2 Pumpkin LED Lights - £3.29
Posted by Kate on September 7, 2009 12:02 AM
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I instantly fell in love with the gorgeous watercolours of Emma Ball. Who can resist these cute and friendly farm faces. These picturesque biscuit tins feature adorable cows and pretty little chickens. Emma Ball graduated from Nottingham Trent University and finds her inspiration in the British country side. The Biscuit Caddy is perfect for sitting on rustic and transitional counters ensuring that those cathartic cookies are within reach, while the Emma Ball Cake Tins are available as a set of two just waiting for you to fill them with biscuits, sweets and cakes. An irresistible set of storage tins, the Emma Ball Farm Cake & Biscuit Tins are available from John Lewis.
Emma Ball Farm Biscuit Caddy - £12
Set of 2 Emma Ball Farm Cake Tins - £18
Posted by Kate on September 8, 2009 12:02 AM
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Posted by Kate on September 9, 2009 12:09 AM
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Sagaform are well known for creating contemporary kitchen products that offer new simple thought through solutions to today's kitchen challenges. They have achieved this again with the Sagaform Pasta Server. This multifunctional tool can measure out portions of spaghetti, stir and serve your pasta, and lets you add that final flourish of Parmesan to your culinary creation. Made from stainless steel, it even comes in a presentation box making it an ideal gift for your local Mafiosi! A sleek modern utensil, the Sagaform Pasta Server & Grater is £7.20 available from John Lewis.
Sagaform Pasta Server - £7.20
Posted by Kate on September 10, 2009 12:09 AM
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I love party serving dishes, but it can be difficult to dedicate space to items that only get used a few times a year. But Lakeland have found an ingenious solution in their 2-in-1 Cake Stand! The clear acrylic Cake Stand not only protects your baking masterpieces, but can also be flipped over and used as a serving platter for party snacks and dips. A brilliant lightweight serving platter, you'll use the 2-in-1 Cake Stand twice as often! A fantastic investment as we head into the party season, the 2-in-1 Cake Stand is £24.99 from Lakeland.
2-in-1 Cake Stand - £24.99
Posted by Kate on September 11, 2009 12:09 AM
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Good designs should work for people all across society. If you suffer from an illness or disability, you shouldn't need specialised products to live life when well designed items can work for everyone. The Terraillon Talking Scale is a prime example. Designed in association with the Royal National Institute for the Blind, this modern scale helps everyone in the kitchen. The electronic voice can announce your measurements in English, French or German and the controls feature large print and Braille markings. The 2L bowl can weigh up to 3Kg and is dishwasher safe on the top shelf. A contemporary design that encourages everyone to cook, the Terraillon Talking Scale is £35 from John Lewis.
Terraillon Talking Scale - £35
Posted by Kate on September 14, 2009 12:05 AM
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I've been eager to feature the new Kinderkitchen Collection since I saw their products in John Lewis a few weeks ago. The friendly tools help kids cook and bake successfully, building their confidence in the kitchen. These plastic cookie cutters features an easy grip handle and are safe even in little hands. Once the biscuits are baked, the Kinderkitchen Cookie & Cupcake Decorating Set lets the whole family join in the icing fun. The squeeze bottles are much easier to handle than the traditional icing bag. The short bottles are especially good for delicate designs and fine details. The set includes four icing bottles so you can use several colours at once, nine steel decorating nozzles, a frosting spatula and a recipe book. Brilliant tools for family baking, the Kinderkitchen Cookie Cutters and Decorating Set are available from John Lewis.
Set of 3 Kinderkitchen Cookie Cutters - £5.95
Kinderkitchen Cookie and Cupcake Decorating Set - £14.95
Posted by Kate on September 15, 2009 12:02 AM
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When it comes to measuring tools, Kinderkitchen have created two cute sets for little cooks. The first measuring spoon set features yellow coloured goldfish tied together with a blue silicone line, while the second is a brightly coloured set of mice cups that includes a small spatula to lock them all together. Both sets feature flat bottomed cups so they'll rest on the counter while you pour out your ingredients. Made from robust plastic these colourful spoons are perfect for budding chefs (while also making sure your favourite spoons don't go missing!) Available from John Lewis, the Kinderkitchen Measuring Cups make the kitchen a kid friendly place.
Kinderkitchen Goldfish Measuring Spoons - £2.95
Kinderkitchen Mice Measuring Cups - £7.95
Posted by Kate on September 16, 2009 12:05 AM
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Finally I thought I'd share a few of the new Kinderkitchen Utensils. Continuing the animal theme, these tools are designed to help children cook successfully. The first item pictured is the Bird's Eye Open Scoop. The silicone beak on this stirring spoon protects your non-stick pans and scrapes bowls clean, while the hole through the centre reduces the resistance so little arms don't get tired. The second photo is of the Crocodile Jaws Tongs. This cheeky grinning reptile has a narrow nose perfect for reaching in jars for pickles or picking up sausages. And finally we have the Cockatiel Whisk, which features a full plume of feathers for mixing eggs or desserts. The plastic beak also serves as a finger guard so it doesn't slide out of little hands. A cute collection of tools, the Kinderkitchen Utensils are all available from John Lewis.
Kinderkitchen Bird's Eye Open Scoop - £4.95
Kinderkitchen Crocodile Jaws Tongs - £4.95
Kinderkitchen Cockatiel Whisk - £6.95
Posted by Kate on September 17, 2009 12:07 AM
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One of the great things about writing a kitchen blog is that people make a point of telling you when they've discovered something new and interesting. My brother-in-law and his wife came back from holiday recently with tales of this intriguing tea maker. They'd stopped in a coffee shop with a few friends and when the IngenuiTEA arrived at their table they were all a bit baffled. It's easy to see why though, it doesn't resemble a teapot. Perfect for loose leaf teas, you add the leaves and hot water to the clear IngenuiTEA cup and allow them steep. When it's perfectly brewed you just lift the IngenuiTEA and stand it on top of your teacup. The rim of your teacup releases a valve in the base of the IngenuiTEA, pouring the tea into your cup. The mesh filter catches any escaping leaves, ensuring a perfectly clear and delicious cup of tea. Apparently the IngenuiTEA is easy to clean and dishwasher safe, you can even put it in the microwave; though I'm not sure you'd really want to. Brilliant for when you just want a cup or two, the 470ml (16 oz) IngenuiTEA is £12.50 from Brew.
IngenuiTEA - £12.50
Posted by Kate on September 18, 2009 12:06 AM
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I recently took a survey that described Emma Bridgewater's tableware as 'ironic rustic'. I wasn't convinced at the time, but I think it's a fabulous description for the Bridgewater AGA. The AGA's cream enamel finish is sprinkled with the iconic Bridgewater polka dots, bringing a fun and festive style to the kitchen. Part of a limited edition collection, the Polka Dot AGA was created to celebrate AGA Rangemaster's 300-year Anniversary. Emma Bridgewater has always been a firm fan of these traditional hardworking cookers, so it's been a partnership just waiting to happen. Manufactured in Shropshire, the AGA is a classic British design perfect for pairing with Emma Bridgewater's contemporary British designs. The AGA is even made from 70% recycled materials and 70% can be recycled in the future, which adds wonderful green credentials to their locally manufactured claims. I've not seen them listed online yet, but I'm sure if you contact your local AGA Store they'll be able to point you in the right direction!
Posted by Kate on September 21, 2009 12:00 AM
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If you were dismayed the Royal Mint took Britannia off the fifty pence piece, you can still keep this British heroine close to your heart. The Cool Britannia Dinnerware splashes British icons across pristine white dishes. Designed and manufactured in England, these contemporary dishes have a bold graphic style that brings an ironic contrast to the traditional wood cut illustrations. A celebration of British pride, the Cool Britannia Dinnerware is available from Heal's.
Cool Britannia Egg Cup - £5.00
Cool Britannia Union Jack Mug - £7.00
Cool Britannia Cereal Bowl - £4.50
Cool Britannia Side Plate - £5.00
Cool Britannia Dinner Plate - £7.50
Posted by Kate on September 22, 2009 12:05 AM
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This fifties style Kitchen Hanger is a brilliant way to keep those favourite tools and towels close at hand. Made from gleaming aluminium, this florid writing has a dynamic retro style. Featuring three chunky hooks that hang below, the Fifties Kitchen Hanger transforms empty wall space into valuable storage space. A practical decoration for busy kitchens, the Fifties Kitchen Hanger is £38.50 from Graham & Green.
Fifties Kitchen Hanger - £38.50
Posted by Kate on September 23, 2009 12:06 AM
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There is something very appealing in the hour-glass form of the Salter Add & Weigh Jug Scale. The gleaming metal jug is complemented by the matte black base creating a sophisticated style. The base features a rotating dial that allows you to measure multiple ingredients in the same bowl. When you are all done, the base fits neatly in the measuring jug ensuring it remains dust-free and tidy. A contemporary design with just a hint of nostalgia, the Salter Add & Weigh Jug Scale is £24.06 from Amazon UK. 
Salter Add & Weigh Jug Scale - £24.06
Posted by Kate on September 24, 2009 12:04 AM
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If you love the quality of Denby but find their patterns a bit plain, you're going to love the new Monsoon Home Collection! Well be featuring them all next week, but we'll thought we'd give you an early hint of what's to come. One of the UK's leading fashion brands, Monsoon adds exotic eastern glamour to Denby's alluring tableware. The gorgeous Lucille Teal spins a floral band of teal and silver around soft cream china for a seductive sophistication. Inspired by 1950s lace, the Lucille china turns it into a fresh feminine style you'll adore. You'll start throwing dinner parties just to use it! A brilliant partnership of iconic British brands, the Monsoon Home Lucille Teal Collection is available online from Denby.
Monsoon Home Lucille Teal Salad Plate - £7.00
Monsoon Home Lucille Teal Dinner Plate - £8.00
Monsoon Home Lucille Teal Soup Bowl - £8.00
Monsoon Home Lucille Teal Teacup & Saucer - £10.00
Monsoon Home Lucille Teal Teapot - £35
Monsoon Home Lucille Teal Serving Bowl - £35.00
Monsoon Home Lucille Teal Round Platter - £35.00
Posted by Kate on September 25, 2009 12:07 AM
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If you loved the Lucille Teal but wished for something even more elegant, the Monsoon Lucille Gold will have you swooning. Here the lace inspired pattern offers a delicate shimmering gold across the soft cream china. Fit for a queen, this gorgeous pattern exemplifies classic sophistication while retaining a contemporary style. A brilliant choice for formal dining, the Monsoon Home Lucille Gold is available online from Denby.
Monsoon Home Lucille Gold Salad Plate - £7.00
Monsoon Home Lucille Gold Dinner Plate - £8.00
Monsoon Home Lucille Gold Soup Bowl - £8.00
Monsoon Home Lucille Gold Teacup & Saucer - £10
Monsoon Home Lucille Gold Teapot - £35.00
Monsoon Home Lucille Gold Round Platter - £35
Monsoon Home Lucille Gold Serving Bowl - £35
Posted by Kate on September 28, 2009 12:02 AM
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If you have a flare for the exotic, the Monsoon Home Chrysanthemum offers a dynamic glamour. Inspired by a 19th century Japanese floral print, the Monsoon Chrysanthemum features dynamic floral sprays that spill from the edge of the dish. The charcoal pattern on the soft cream china creates a monochromatic design accented with small hints of gold. The Chrysanthemum side plates are available in charcoal or cream, allowing you to create a high contrast style and add variation to your table settings. A gorgeous pattern that captures an eastern elegance, the Monsoon Home Chrysanthemum is available online from Denby.
Monsoon Home Chrysanthemum Salad Plate in Charcoal - £7.00
Monsoon Home Chrysanthemum Salad Plate in Cream - £7.00
Monsoon Home Chrysanthemum Dinner Plate - £8.00
Monsoon Home Chrysanthemum Soup Bowl - £8.00
Monsoon Home Chrysanthemum Teacup & Saucer - £10.00
Monsoon Home Chrysanthemum Teapot - £35.00
Monsoon Home Chrysanthemum Serving Bowl - £35.00
Monsoon Home Chrysanthemum Round Platter - £35.00
Continue reading "Monsoon Home Chrysanthemum by Denby" »
Posted by Kate on September 29, 2009 12:02 AM
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The finally pattern in the new Monsoon Home collection is Veronica. A contemporary interpretation of traditional floral patterns, the Veronica collection is sprinkled with chains of pretty blue flowers. Featuring a calm palette of blue, charcoal and teal, the Veronica offers a sense of tranquillity to your dining room. Like the Monsoon Chrysanthemum the Veronica pattern offers two different side plates, one in the blue and the other in the standard cream, allowing you to create contrast and interest in your place settings. A serene modern pattern, the Monsoon Home Veronica Collection is available online from Denby.
Monsoon Home Veronica Cream Salad Plate - £7.00
Monsoon Home Veronica Blue Salad Plate - £7.00
Monsoon Home Veronica Dinner Plate - £8.00
Monsoon Home Veronica Soup Bowl - £8.00
Monsoon Home Veronica Teacup & Saucer - £10.00
Monsoon Home Veronica Teapot - £35.00
Monsoon Home Veronica Serving Bowl - £35.00
Monsoon Home Veronica Round Platter - £35.00
Posted by Kate on September 30, 2009 12:04 AM
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