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Perfect for those that like to nurse a slow drink in the summer sun, these unusual cubes ensure your drink isn't watered down by melting ice. Mined in Sweden, these cubes are made from natural pollution-free stone. You just pop them in the freezer for an hour before use, and when finished give them a quick rinse before returning them to their leather pouch. A great gift for someone who has everything, the rough stone finish brings a captivating richness to quiet drinks and charms guests at cocktail parties. Bringing new meaning to “On the rocks”, a set of ten Nordic Rock Ice Cubes are £15.99 from Mocha.uk.com.
Posted by Kate on September 3, 2008 12:05 AM
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I'd love a set of these Harlequin Goblets to pair with my Grandmother's bone china. The beautiful soft colours are a brilliant way to bring subtle colour to white china patterns, while the sculpted stems compliment both vintage decoration and sharp modern designs. Available as a set of six, each glass features a different coloured bowl supported by a clear glass base. A great addition to parties, your guests will find it much easier to remember which glass is theirs. Fabulous colour that compliments both modern and vintage tableware, the Harlequin Goblets are £22.95 from Scotts of Stow. (Best viewed in Internet Explorer)
Posted by Kate on August 13, 2008 12:07 AM
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Batch cooking is a brilliant way to combine convenience and home cooked meals. On weekends or when you've extra time you can create double portions of delicious sauces and meals. Then, rather than cooking after a busy days work, you can simply defrost your own healthy dinners. Ice Cube Trays like this one from Mastrad are perfect for freezing sauces or purées in convenient sized portions. The Mastrad Ice Cube Tray features a soft silicone base under each pocket that releases the ice cube with a quick push, while the water-tight lid fits snuggly into the tray and is held in place by a silicone edge. Designed to be stacked, the trays nest together for a solid level base which prevents spills in your freezer. Proof that good design can improve even basic kitchen items, the Mastrad Easy-Pop Ice Cube Tray is £6.99 from Lakeland.
Continue reading "Mastrad Easy-Pop Ice Cube Tray" »
Posted by Kate on August 5, 2008 12:03 AM
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If you aren't a frequent coffee drinker, devoting money and counter space to a large machine just doesn't make sense. For a nice affordable alternative, a simple french press like these from Bodum might be the perfect solution. Featuring a clean and practical design, the Brazil French Press offers a polypropylene handle and base around a clear borosilicate glass beaker which is easy to clean. Perfect for those allergic or intolerant to instant coffee, you simply use a scoop of your favourite coarse ground coffee. Then fill the beaker with hot water and replace the lid, and wait for it to brew. When ready you just slowly press the plunger, pushing the grounds to the bottom. Available in three sizes, there is a Bodum Press suited to both small and big coffee drinkers. A great gadget for lovely home brewed coffee the Bodum Brazil is available from Amazon.co.uk.
0.35L Bodum Brazil Coffee Maker - £6.00
1L Bodum Brazil Coffee Maker - £14.97
1.5L Bodum Brazil Coffee Maker - £14.97
Posted by Kate on June 18, 2008 12:46 AM
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There's nothing better than gabbing over drinks and nibbles at a summer party, but it can often be a difficult balancing act of glasses and plates. But clever party glasses like these from FabStuff.net solve the problem simply and easily. The hand blown glasses feature a sturdy and stable design and then topped with light-earth coloured bowls. The stoneware bowls not only hold canapés or tapas, but also act as a lid for the glass, reducing the chance of accidental spills. A clever way to protect your home from messy accidents, your guests will love the convenience of these Party Glasses. Available from FabStuff.net, a boxed set of four Glasses and Bowls is an affordable £15 or $29.25 USD.
Posted by Kate on May 23, 2008 12:09 AM
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That final sprinkle of nutmeg, cinnamon and ginger is often what transforms a basic dish into something extraordinary. Unfortunately getting out a large box grater or fiddly spice grater can put you off these small touches. The Microplane Grate-N-Shake solves this by creating a handy unit that keeps everything easily together. Simply grate the spice against the patented surgical grade steel blades and the ground spice collects in the clear compartment. When finished you just turn the container over and the blade acts as a grill that gently sprinkles flavour across you drinks and desserts. The second black compartment features a sliding lid, ideal for storing unground spices. A clever complete unit, the Microplane Grate-N-Shake ensures fresh grated flavour is always at your finger tips. A great addition to your home coffee bar, the Microplane Grate-N-Shake is available for £9.95 from both Kitchenaria
and Amazon.co.uk.
Posted by Kate on April 28, 2008 12:07 AM
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I love the heavy solid beauty of the John Lewis Rustic Glassware, and it's even better when you can enjoy this sophisticated style while still being ecologically-responsible. Created in Spain, the Rustic Collection is made from urban recycled glass which produces the subtle green hue. Using technology that helps to conserve energy and materials, this is fashion that both your pocket and the planet can afford. The designs of the Rustic Collection feature sturdy stems and and lovely flowery bowls which add contrast to the sharp straight lines of the hi-balls and tumblers. A wonderful collection that adds character and warmth to your table, the John Lewis Rustic Glassware offers guilt free style and beauty.
Rustic Ice Lip Jug - £11
Box of 6 27cl Rustic Goblets - £25
Box of 6 47.5cl Rustic Goblets - £33
Box of 6 12.5cl Rustic Wine Glasses - £23
Box of 6 20cl Rustic Wine Glasses - £27
Box of 6 Rustic Tumblers - £12
Box of 6 Rustic Hi-Balls - £15
Posted by Kate on April 18, 2008 12:00 AM
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Sometimes you want nothing more than a cheeky smile, and who can resist a fun nostalgic romp like the Moomin Tumbler Set. Each of the glass tumblers features a different character from the popular children's television show. Moomintroll, Moominmamma, Snufkin and Little My are engraved on lovely curved tumblers. Ideal for when sharing drinks with friends, the Moomin Glasses will have everyone recalling fond childhood memories and capers. A great addition to social gatherings, the Moomin Tumber Set is available from Cooksparaphernalia for £19.95.
Posted by Kate on March 31, 2008 12:13 AM
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When looking at kettles these days you seem to have two choices, ugly plastic or bright and brash steel. While there are a few nice looking kettles many seem to have cheap plastic parts and bad reputations. It may be a bit early to see how well they last, but the 'All New Kettle' from Magimix might be worth the risk. With a tall cylindrical form, the electric kettle has a practical understated style. Kettles may appear to be a basic appliance, but Magimix has taken the time to design some wonderful details into their new kettle. You probably expect the concealed element for easy cleaning, a fast boil and removable filter, but the Magimix kettle also features an insulated double wall body and a magical pop open lid. Using the popular 360° cordless base design, in the Magimix kettle the cord winds neatly inside when not needed. Hopefully a bright new star in the tea kettle market, the Magimix All New Kettle is available in charcoal, red, cream and brushed steel for £67.99 from Amazon.co.uk.
Posted by Kate on February 1, 2008 12:09 AM
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Sometimes it's the simple things that make a difference. Designed by a busy father with a young daughter, the Topster Milk Carton Pourer ensures that your milk pours out neatly without glugs or splashes. The reusable Topster lids fit most plastic milk bottles and feature a spring-loaded pourer. The set includes two Topster Milk Carton Lids, one in blue and one in green, making them ideal for colour coding different types of milk. Quick and convenient, Topster lids are even dishwasher safe. A simple but handy gadget for your kitchen, the Topster Milk Carton Pourer Set is just £2.99 from Lakeland.
Posted by Kate on January 30, 2008 12:11 AM
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While we've seen similar gadgets for making single cups of tea, the Tea Tube by Leopold offers an elegantly simple way of using loose leaves for even large pots of tea. Made from a simple steel tube, the Tea Tube features a slanted opening that makes it easier to scoop up the loose tea leaves. The leaves then collect in the base, and a grid of small holes allows the water to flow through. An elegant solution that has no moving parts, the Tea Tube makes it quick and easy to use loose leaf tea without any mess or fuss. The Tea Tube is available in two sizes, the original Tea Tube for single cups or the Tea Tube XL for full pots of tea.
Tea Tube for Cup - £7.99
Tea Tube XL - £11.99
Continue reading "Tea Tube" »
Posted by Kate on November 27, 2007 12:10 AM
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Sure to impress next time you have friends around for drinks, Cool Jazz adds a clever touch to cocktails and drinks. The Cool Jazz silicone mould creates three different guitar shaped stirrers, for a fun and funky party accessory. Each guitar shaped ice cube is formed around the long plastic stirrer that forms the neck of the guitar. The silicone mould makes it easy to release the ice cube stirrers, meaning there's no need to bang them on the counter or to try and brute force them out. Dishwasher safe, the Cool Jazz Stirrers make evening drinks into a special event. A Fred Party design, the Cool Jazz Stirrers are £9.00 from Urban Outfitters or $7.49 from PerpetualKid.com.
Posted by Kate on September 13, 2007 12:05 AM
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Joining the trend for eco-friendly products Tefal have created a new and innovative kettle. Rather than the traditional pick up and pour style, the Tefal Quick Cup is a countertop appliance that requires no pouring. The Tefal Quick Cup provides both hot and cold filtered water instantly at the touch of a button. In just three seconds water is pulled through the Claris filter, heated and then dispensed. Each button press measures out a precise 220ml mug full of water or a custom desired amount. By heating up only the water you need the Tefal Quick Cup offers an impressive 65% energy savings. With a 1.5L capacity, the Tefal Quick Cup is dishwasher safe and easy to refill. Cool and hot water served straight into your mug, the Tefal offers convenience while still saving the planet. Available from the Ethical Superstore, the Tefal Quick Cup is £59.99.
Posted by Kate on August 16, 2007 12:12 AM
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Once people would try to see their future in the tea leaves left on the bottom of their tea cups, now French designers Atypyk bring you a modern version of this practice. A fabulous new coffee mug, the Fortune Teller is a plain white earthenware with a clever secret. Embossed in the bottom of each mug is a short hint of the future. As you drain the glass, the dregs cling to the surface and reveal your message. With a charm similar to the the classic Magic-8 Ball, these mugs offer a fantastic surprise for the unsuspecting guest. Available online from Atypyk the Fortune Teller is €9 (about £6 or $8) and can be shipped internationally.
Posted by Kate on July 25, 2007 12:14 AM
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This weekend has seen the newest release of one of Britian's most well loved authors, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. And with the release of the Harry Potter film last week, why not celebrate the occasion with some truly British Teapots. Inspired by uniquely British foods, these teapots combine classic packaging with our love of a proper cuppa. Handmade in Leyburn, North Yorkshire, the teapots are available in three style. There is the controversial Marmite teapot, you'll love it or hate it. Then there is the bright and cheerful Coleman's Mustard pot. And finally the classic styling of the Tate & Lyle Golden Syrup teapot. Each teapot is well proportioned and complements the original packaging design. Ideal for decoration or as a gift, these teapots captures the beauty of traditional British designs, and celebrates our passion for food. Available online from Pheasant the Tate & Lyle and Colman's Teapots are £54 while the Marmtea Teapot is £46.
Posted by Kate on July 23, 2007 12:12 AM
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Fine wines are one of life's luxuries, however they are delicate and begin to spoil soon after opening. Till now it has been difficult to appreciate these fine wines in moderation at their peak, but with the new Wine Preservation and Cooling System that same bottle of wine can be preserved for two to four weeks after uncorking. By injecting argon gas the Wine Preservation System removes the air from around the wine, thus preventing it from oxidizing. Argon is inert and unlike carbon dioxide or nitrogen it has no effect on colour or taste. The wine can be stored in the Wine Preservation and Cooling System, which maintains an even temperature or you can remove the bottle and immediately cork it before returning it to your wine cabinet. Commended by wine enthusiasts and aficionados, the Wine Preservation and Cooling System is available for £157.99 from DeCuisine.co.uk.
Posted by Kate on July 10, 2007 12:06 AM
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For a dramatic style perfect for parties, the LSA Jazz Glasses offer a sophisticated glamour. Each LSA Jazz Glass features a dynamic black pattern fused into the clear glass for a sculptural artistic effect. With four distinctive designs, the glasses make it easy to find your drink in a busy room or party. From solid dots, to tight swirls and gentle ringlets, the LSA Jazz Glasses capture an engaging energy and movement. Available as tumblers, wine glasses, cocktail glasses and champagne flutes they are ideal for serving your favourite cocktails and drinks. Made in Poland and delicate enough to be hand wash only, the LSA Jazz Glasses are available as sets of four from John Lewis.
Jazz Tumblers - £30
Jazz Wine Glasses - £35
Jazz Cocktail Glasses - £37
Jazz Champagne Flutes - £37
Posted by Kate on June 1, 2007 8:55 PM
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An intriguing new environmental design, the Eco Kettle saves you money, energy and time. Featuring an unusual two compartment design, the first holds a litre and a half of cool water. When you want to make tea, you push the button on top and release an exact measure into the second boiling chamber. By boiling only what you need, it's quicker and you save money and energy. With a convenient cordless design, steam control, boil-dry protection and a locking lid the Eco Kettle offers plenty of modern features in an environmentally friendly design. A sleek clever design that blends seamlessly into modern kitchens, the Eco Kettle makes saving the world a simple and everyday event. Available from Nigel's Eco Store for just £34.99.
Posted by Kate on May 26, 2007 12:32 AM
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These fabulous teacups offer vintage style in simple modern colours. The Tea's Me Set includes a miss matched selection of traditional shaped teacups that are united by rich saturated pastel colours. Each two-toned cup features contrasting colours, with an internal colour that matches the saucer. The Tea's Me Set captures a quirky vintage charm where each piece is individual and unique, yet the modern colour palette creates a retro tea set that compliments modern homes and furnishings. Wonderfully nostalgic, the Rosanna Tea's Me Set captures old character in a new trendy style. The set of four comes in a round box for £26.95 or $35.00
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Continue reading "Rosanna Tea's Me Set – Vintage Inspired Teacups" »
Posted by Kate on April 4, 2007 12:18 AM
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The fabulous Newton Milk and Sugar Set is a fluid and captivating design that dramatically suspends the sugar bowl above the milk jug. Inspired by Newton’s law of gravity, the Newton Milk and Sugar Set uses simple physics to create a service that moves and responds to the user. As you pour your cream the sugar bowl shifts and tilts keeping your sweetener safe. Both pieces easily separate for refilling and quick cleaning. Ingeniously simple, yet engaging the Newton Milk and Sugar Set makes even simple tea for two into a special occasion. Made by Tonfisk, the Newton sugar bowl is available for £34.95 from DesignMyWorld.
Continue reading "Newton Milk & Sugar Set by Tonfisk " »
Posted by Kate on March 5, 2007 12:06 AM
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As the weather turns cold, it seems this Valentines Day is going to be a snow covered one. While the restaurants are packed and over charging their captive audiences, perhaps it’s the year to curl up by the gas fire with a creamy hot chocolate or soy latte. To make the evening even more special, perhaps a personalised mug by Emma Bridgewater will bring a sparkle to someone’s eye. Handmade and decorated in England, Emma Bridgewater tableware has a lovely sheen and charming character. Part of her Polka Hearts range, the mug can be personalised with the name or message of your choice. The white pottery mug features a classic rimmed base. Decorated in a random pattern of red and pink hearts, Emma Bridgewater captures the essence and charm of modern England. The half-pint mug starts at £15 while the one-pint mug starts at £20, then its just £1 per letter. There's also a Blue Dad Mug for the fathers in your life.
Continue reading "Personalised Mug by Emma Bridgewater" »
Posted by Kate on February 9, 2007 12:49 AM
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Tea is not only an institution, but an art form. Though tea is sold in easy to use teabags, this convenience sacrifices the flavour of the drink. For optimal infusion loose leaves of tea need room to mix freely with the water. The Teastick conveniently combines tradition tea infusers with a spoon, to mix the leaves and water effectively. To use the Teastick you simply scoop up your loose-leaf in the spoon and then slide the perforated cover down. Pop it in your cup, and pour in the hot water. Swirling the Teastick mixes the leaves and water for a wonderful flavourful beverage. The hook is easy to hold, and keeps the Teastick from sliding into your cup. Elegant, tidy and simple the Teastick offer the convenience of teabags but the full flavour of proper tea. Available from wishingfish.com for $18, Amazon for $15.95 and Another Coffee for £11.95.
Posted by Kate on January 25, 2007 11:58 PM
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As snow is collecting outside so many homes this week, the ‘Life of the Snowman Sugar Dispenser’ gives us a hope of reprieve. Wonderfully whimsical, the Snowman sugar dispenser was designed by Maxim Vecovsky. A fabulous glass sculpture, the Snowman reveals the white sugar within. As the sugar level drops, the snowman appears to be melting away. Perfect for sweetening your warm winter drinks, the snowman offers a visual reminder of warm days ahead while bringing a smile to your face. An ideal item for the winter holidays, the ‘Life of the Snowman Sugar Dispenser’ brings the magic of childhood into your kitchen. Once available from the MoMA store, this charming character is now $53.00 from Generate.
Posted by Kate on January 24, 2007 12:09 AM
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The centre of every British home is its electric kettle. In our house we don’t even drink tea, but there it still stands a symbol of the British institution. I’ve always been mystified by its lack of status in the American home. Generally quicker than a stove top pan, the kettle is perfect for hot water on demand. We use ours for topping up pans that are in danger of boiling dry, mixing up stock cubes, even topping up the bath when the hot water has run out, as well as the ever popular tea our guests crave. Prestige have recently released a new electric kettle that brings a wonderful retro style to Britain’s favourite appliance. A simple domed form sings out with fabulous colour. The handle is a wonderful flattened tube that is easy to grip and hold. Bringing the vintage style into the modern age, Prestige have incorporated a subtle base which uses the modern central docking pin design. Amazingly simple, the pin design allows the kettle to be easy replaced from any angle, removing the old hassle of aligning the kettle on its base exactly. Prestige have also added a subtle water level indicator, which is extremely useful but doesn’t intrude on the sleek vintage style. Available in black, silver, almond, red, and the trendy duck egg blue, there is a colour for every kitchen. Perfect for bringing a sense of familiarity and friendly warmth to your kitchen the Prestige Deco kettle is just £52
July 2008 EDIT: A bit hard to find now, you can still get the Almond Prestige Deco Kettle for £45 from Heal's.
Posted by Dan on January 5, 2007 3:45 PM
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The Inka coffee press brings a sleek ethnic style to the traditional coffee press. The frame forms a stylised human figure that wraps around the glass container. The arching back creates an ergonomic handle. Finally the crowning knob forms the head which features blue crystal eyes and a vaguely alien stare. Transparent glass gives the Inka a fabulous depth and accents the smooth sculptural aspects of the figure. Perfect for those with a modern ethnic style the Inka Coffee Press is £42 from Amara.
Posted by Dan on December 11, 2006 11:19 PM
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