Step back into the seventies with The Original Slush Mugs. The only place I know that still has slushy machines is the cinema where they cost a fortune, but the Slush Mug turns your favourite drinks into a delicious icy treat for pennies. Just place the white core in your freezer overnight. Once it's frozen pop it back in the mug and pour in your favourite drink. Stir for about five minutes and you'll have that fantastic cold texture you love. Unfortunately it's the sugar in the drinks that makes it slush, so low-cal diet drinks won't work, but there are plenty of other options. Mix up your favourite juices, sodas, alcoholic cocktails or even coffee for your own retro revival. Perfect for hot summer days, The Orignial Slush Mug is £8.99 from Firebox.
I'm sure by now we've all seen the I'm Not a Paper Cup. It looks like those disposable take-away coffee cups, but is made from durable and reusable ceramic with a silicone lid. Kitchen Critic has never featured it because I was never convinced by its eco-credentials. Were you really going to take it into your local coffee shop for a refill? Were people going to start making their daily caffeine fix at home? It might be good for use in an office, but that was about it. However, I'm rather taken by the new version the Tea Lover's Eco Cup. Decorated with an eastern blossom design in the Victorian blue, it has a whisper of elegant china. Besides the original silicone lid, they've also added a band of silicone to protect your fingers, like those cardboard cup holders they have in Starbucks. A pretty way to enjoy your tea on the run, the Tea Lover's Eco Cup is £10.99 from IWOOT.
Good design is really timeless; ideas that seemed fresh and innovative 40 years ago can still engage and inspire us. The Smoke Glasses by Joe Colombo look like new contemporary designs, but they were created in 1964 (back when smoking was still cool). The short stem was designed to sit between your thumb and fore-finger so you could still hold a cigarette in the same hand. Hopefully that isn't a feature you'll need, but the sculptural form is still captivating. Dramatically designed water, wine and champagne glasses, the Smoke Glasses are available from The Home Online.
Good design isn't about the newest technology and materials, it's not about brand names designers; good design is something that speaks to you. Common everyday materials can be given a personality we instantly love. For me this Japanese Teacup is a perfect example. The handless cup has a gently curving form with a soft rippling finish. The expressive branches are created by cutting through the gorgeous blue glaze, creating a rich contrast between the raw clay and the glossy glaze. A simple and traditional design that speaks to us even now, the Japanese Teacup is a beautiful reflection of life. Available from the V&A Museum Shop, the Japanese Teacup with Lid is £15.
Inspired by the traditional Russian dolls, these cute nesting glasses take up hardly room at all. Featuring colourful babushka patterns, they bring a hint of that childhood curiosity. Like the story of the three bears, the set includes a 14 ounce daddy cup, a 10 ounce mummy cup and an 8 ounce baby cup. Made from a strong, dishwasher-safe borosilicate glass, they're a great choice for everyday use. Available from Play, the three-piece Babushkups set is £10.99
Now that we've passed solstice, summer has officially begun, and these Portmeirion Glasses by Sophie Conran are perfect for the season. Shaped like little bee hives, the Conran Glasses have a wonderful shape and texture. Apparently designed as a combination of Japanese serenity and English eccentricity, Sophie Conran creates dynamic forms that seem to flow. A brilliant collection suitable for both casual and formal dining, Conran Glasses are a versatile investment. Available online from John Lewis, the Sophie Conran Portmeirion Collection is a brilliant reflection of summer gardens.
While I normally prefer the practical, I love the wild shape of Leonardo's Eros Cups. The orbit like bowl reminds me of futuristic drawings from the 60s. Like it's been inspired by The Jetsons, the Eros Cup abounds with whimsical charm. I suspect they may be easier to drink from once you're already tipsy, but they'll add dramatic style to your next party. Available from Made in Design, the Leonardo Eros Cup is £29.50.
Last month as part of their birthday celebrations, Emma Bridgewater ran a bit of a photo competition. As Bridgewater fans we couldn't resist the chance to win one of their limited edition Silver Baby Mugs. So dressed up in my very best dress and carrying my Black Toast Gavy Boat we wandered down to our local park for a photo. Unfortunately we didn't win (especially after attracting the embarrassing attention of the local children in the park), but we did receive a £10 voucher for Emma Bridgewater. For the last two weeks it's been burning a hole in my pocket as I debated what I should spend it on. Should I get a personalised mug or a lovely plate? In the end I decided to put it towards something normally too expensive to buy: one of their gorgeous Glass Tumblers. We're lucky enough to own a set of their Small Wine Glasses, after finding them in an astonishing half price sale several years ago, but never expected to get anymore glassware. All the Emma Bridgewater Glassware features etched words, which match their iconic Black Toast tableware. A decadent treat courtesy of Emma Bridgewater, you can order the Glassware Tumbler for £19.95 from Emma Bridgewater's online store.
Whether you're celebrating that important anniversary or merely a World Cup win, we often use champagne to mark these special occasions. While once new and modern, the champagne flute has become a bit tired and common. Still the best for capturing that bubbly flavour, the tall thin glasses always feel precarious and ready to topple. But there is an alternative, the champagne saucer adds a bit of retro glamour and decadence to your parties. I expect to see many more of these appearing on shop shelves next season, but if you want to be ahead of the trend I've found two modern champagne saucers you can pick up now. The first is the sleek and swirling Linea Spirit by House of Fraser. Made from cut crystal the Spirit Champagne Saucer has the weight and sophistication perfect for those romantic occasions. The second is the tall and spindly Champagne Saucer by LSA. High on drama, these mouth-blown handmade glasses have long slender stems and wide shallow bowls. A contemporary interpretation of the classic Champagne Saucer, the LSA is a contrast of form and shape. A brilliant revival of a classic glass shape, the Champagne Saucer is a brilliant choice for your next big event.
Dad always claimed that hot drinks in summer helped keep you cool, but I was never convinced. I'd much prefer something refreshingly chilled. If you're the same, but can't live without tea, you'll love the Tea-Over-Ice Pitcher by Tea Forte. The hand blown pitcher is a gorgeous way to brewing iced tea. You steep the tea in the lidded upper pitcher before pouring it over the ice in the pitcher below. 24 oz of flash chilled iced tea is immediately ready to serve. The stacking jugs are made from a heat-resistant glass, and create a sculptural tableside presentation. For best results, they recommend using their specially designed Over-Ice Pyramid Infusers which balance the flavour perfectly for delicious quick chilled iced tea. Each box of Pyramid Infusers includes three of each of the following flavours:
In this hot summer weather, iced cocktails are a brilliant end to a long tiring day. To make these delicious treats at home though, you'll want a good quality blender. The KitchenAid Pitcher Blender is a gorgeous example. The powerful motor can easily crush ice, while the flying ice cubes won't crack the glass jug. The heavy die cast base gives the KitchenAid Blender extra stability and should keep it from shuffling across your counter. And when you've mixed up your favourite drinks, the jug has a generous pouring spout so you can blend-n-serve. Best of all the smooth control panel makes cleaning up a snap. Available in Black, Red, Blue and the online exclusive Pearl Metallic, the KitchenAid Pitcher Blender is £149 from John Lewis
It's been a while since we've seen a new Eco Kettle, so we were interested to see the M&S Energy Saving Cordless Kettle. We are pleased to see the new design gives you the power to decide exactly what you need. The kettle's base features a key pad that allows you to select the best temperature for the job: 60:70:80 or 90 degrees. It also has a keep warm function for those times when you know you'll need hot water again real soon. I also love the kettle's glass body, which gives it a sophisticated style. With a 1.7 litre capacity and a 360 degree rotating base, the M&S Energy Saving Kettle has all the features you'd expect from a modern appliance. Exclusive to M&S and with a two year guarantee, the M&S Eco-Kettle is £35.00.
Another Carafe by designer Arian Brekveld, the Royal VKB Carafe & Tumbler Set is brilliant choice for outside dining. Perfect for sharing a cool drink with a few friends, the carafe set includes four melamine tumblers which stack in the neck of the carafe. This saves you several trips back to the kitchen as you can carry everything in one hand. Made from stainless steel, the carafe features a double wall design that insulates your drinks, keeping them either hot or cold. A sleek minimalist design, the Royal VKB Carafe offers beauty through practical functionality. Available in an Anthracite finish with white tumblers, or a brushed steel finish with coloured tumblers, the Royal VKB Carafe & Tumbler set is £49.95 from 95% Dutch.
The Tree Glasses by designer Snowden Flood capture the austere beauty of winter forests. The solid black prints reveals bare branches and scraggly pines, which have a surprising charm. Bringing to mind walks through a snow covered wood, these glasses complement the reflective nature of a late evening drink. The heavy bottomed glasses are perfect for whisky or mulled wine. Celebrating the beauty all around us, a set of four Snowden Flood Tree Glasses is £39.95 from Snowden Flood's online store.
There is nothing better than sitting out in the warm sun with a relaxing afternoon brew. Rather than risk breaking your favourite Bridgewater mug on stone patios and paths, why not invest in a colourful alternative. Made from a robust melamine, these plain mug have the iconic Bridgewater form. Perfect when you're working in the garden or watching the kids play outside, the Emma Bridgewater Melamine Mugs are £6 each.
Just bring out the Sagaform Schnapps Carafe, and you'll have a quick way to get any party started! The single unit includes everything you need to serve Schnapps at its best. Made from hand-blown glass, the carafe, glasses and ice box all fit together like a grown-up puzzle. First fill the glass base with ice and the brightly coloured shot glasses, then the Schnapps Carafe stands on top. Chilling both your glasses and the liquid to the perfect temperature, the Sagaform Carafe lets you enjoy the drink's flavours. I love the depth created by the layers of glass, it instantly engages the user, inviting them to use and explore the Carafe's modern forms. A sophisticated addition to parties and gatherings, the Sagaform Schnapps Carafe is £17.95 from Pelican Pear.
For centuries Terracotta has been used to keep water cool. As the water evaporates, it collects in the pores of the terracotta; naturally cooling the container. Designer Arian Brekveld has reclaimed this traditional material to create a modern Water Carafe. The rich terracotta is paired with a smooth grey silicone base for a contemporary minimalist style. An eco friendly way to keep water cool, there's no need for power cords or batteries. A great choice for alfresco dining, the Royal VKB Self Cooling Terracotta Water Carafe is £17.40 from Made in Design.
With all this bright sunny weather, it's the perfect time to escape the office and eat your lunch on a lush square of grass; and the Cath Kidston Provence Rose Flask is perfect for the occasion. It's pretty pink blooms on a light blue background are cheerful complement for spring. Suitable for both hot and cold drinks, the Provence Rose Flask can be poured with a quick press of the button. The screw top cap also means you'll never lose the handy mug. Gorgeous retro style even when you are on the run, the Provence Rose Flask is £15 from Cath Kidston's online store.
While Kitchen Aid personifies 1930s design, Kenwood combines 1950s and 60s designs into retro glamour. The Kenwood KMix SKM031 Kettle has all the beauty of an old stove top kettle married with modern practicality. The 1.25L kettle features 2200W element for quick boiling. Though I'll warn you to watch your fingers if your sensitive to steam. There's a big round power button, a water level indicator, safety cord store and a soft grip handle. With a brilliant red finish this retro jewel adds character and charm to your kitchen. Available from John Lewis, the Kenwood KMix Kettle is £49.95.
If you decide to pick up one of the Magimix CitiZ Coffee Machines we featured yesterday, you'll need a way to keep all those pods organised. With 16 Nespresso flavours to choose from, the Brabantia Coffee Capsule Dispenser lets you keep your favourites close by and organised. The triangular shaped caddy features six columns which hold up to 30 Nespresso Capsules. Creating colourful lines of colour, the coffee capsules become jewels on the Brabantia's black and steel style. The centre of the Brabantia Dispenser features a removable container perfect for keeping teaspoons, collecting empty pods or even storing sugar. With the usual 10 year Brabantia Guarantee, the Coffee Capsule Dispenser is £28.60 from Amazon UK.
If you had to think of a city that personifies coffee, New York would be the obvious choice. For their new Limited Edition Coffee Maker, Magimix have combined the bright busy lights of Manhattan with the clean geometric lines of the M190 CitiZ. Designed to use Nespresso coffee capsules, the Magimix CitiZ offers delicious hassle-free coffee. Capturing the urban spirit in this illustration of an iconic yellow taxi cab and the New York skyline, the New York Edition Magimix Nespresso Coffee Maker is £165 from John Lewis.
These days wine comes in bottles of many shapes and sizes. From small single servings to unusually shaped bottles, you can find yourself with a collection of hard to store bottles. Rather than a series of small compartments, the Bamboo Barrel Wine Rack has a single opening that can accommodate whatever you have. The bottom row has notches for traditional sized bottles, but once this layer is filled you should be able to stack anything on top. With a clean simple form, and a soft organic shape, the wine rack offers modern minimalism without the cool impersonal air. Perfect for use during the holiday season, the Bamboo Barrel Wine Rack also folds flat when not in use. Designed by Luciano Lorenzatti, the Bamboo Barrel Wine Rack is £25.00 from Store.
Simple practical glasses with a touch of luxury, these Gold Bottomed Tumblers offer a distinctive alternative to traditional barware. The hand-painted bases create a pool of warmth at the bottom of each glass. Capturing a sense of modern masculinity, these simple glasses have an understated yet designer style. Perfect for a stag party or whiskey drinking, a Set of Four Tumblers with Hand-Painted Gold Bases are £18.50 from Pedlars.
The easiest way to stay hydrated and drink more water is to keep a bottle always on hand. So many bottles are tricky to clean, but the Aladdin Aveo offers practical convenience. The cylindrical bottle features a chunky cap and a wide easy-to-clean spout. Durable and dishwasher-safe, the bottle is made with Bisphenol-A free Eastman Tritan copolyester plastic and finished with a contemporary graphic. 100% leak proof, it's safe to toss in your bag or carry by the handy wrist strap. A great summer investment, the Aladdin Aveo Water Bottle is available in two sizes from John Lewis.
Recreating classic portrait as modern silhouettes, the Hanne Enemark glasses are perfect for fine art lovers. Featuring figures from Gainsborough and Reynolds portraits, these glasses celebrate 18th century English painters. Each of the featured paintings hangs in the Waddesdon Manor in Buckinghamshire. With a luxurious gold finish, these gorgeous glasses bring a sophisticated glamour to old world beauty. Each glass is sold separately so you can select from Reynold's Lady Jane Halliday or Captain St Leger or Gainsborough's Pink Boy or Lady Sheffield. Available online from the Waddesdon online shop, the Hanne Enemark Glass Tumblers are £20 each.
We all know that feeling. You're at a party having a great time, when you reach for your glass only to find several identical drinks have appeared when you weren't looking. Glass markers are a clever solution, but remembering which arbitrary coloured bead you were given can be difficult at the end of a long night. Vacu Vin have create a bright and colourful collection of figures that both encourage conversation and identify your glass. Each Glass Marker represents a unique character trait your guest may possess. Whether they are honest, cuddly, deep or curious, your guests are bound to remember which figure is theirs. They also make a great ice breaker, giving people something to talk about. Recommended to us by Belgian reader Joke Van Doorne, You can get the Vacu Vin Party People Glass Markers from Amazon UK for £4.
If only I had a kaffeeklatsch of espresso lovers to serve with this fantastic Espresso Cups Tray. I love the repetition of line and shape in this clever design. Each square porcelain cup stands on its own bamboo saucer, which slots into the larger bamboo tray. There are also small steel spoons which rest across the centre of each cup. Designed by Fellina Sok-Cham, the Espresso Cups and Tray is the winner of a student design contest. A brilliant modern design, the set can also be used to serve desserts or even appetisers! Available from The Design Museum Shop for £49.95, the Espresso Cups and Tray adds a minimalist designer glamour to your next gathering.
The fabulous @lipsticklori (Twitter) found the Tea Sub and I just had to share it with you. Reminiscent of the famous Beatles movie, this cheerful submarine dives to the bottom of your mug to brew your favourite tea. The nose of the silicone sub opens so you can fill it with loose tea, while the round pierced portals let water in to mix freely with the leaves. Suspended from a thin metal chain and hook, it's easy to rescue from the water when your tea is brewed. A quirky gift for tea lovers, the Yellow Tea Sub is £6.99 from Play.com.
It's been a few years now since the first eco-kettles hit the market. This means we can look forward to the new and improved designs of second generation products. The Breville Hot Cup VKJ318 makes huge improvements on the original. Like the original, the idea is that you only boil the water you need, thus saving energy. However the new design offers a variable dispense feature that allows you to measure out between 150-250mL of water, depending on what you need. Unlike some eco-kettles, the Hot Cup heats water up to 85°C just a few degrees less than traditional kettles. The Hot Cup also holds more water so you don't need to refill it as often and there is a detachable drip tray to keep your counters tidy. Reading reviews on Amazon, it's obvious that Breville have got something right when designing the Hot Cup. Perfect for small families that only make a couple of drinks at a time, the Breville Hot Cup is £58.77 from Amazon UK.
Bored of keeping your tea and coffee in plain canisters? Tom Dick & Harry offer quirky character in their plump round forms. While they may look identical, the gleam in their eye gives them away. There you'll find the letters that tells them apart. The head of each porcelain jar is designed so you can store a teaspoon inside with your coffee and sugar. Cute ghost-like characters to share your daily brew with, the set of three Tom Dick & Harry Storage Jars are £27.95 from Prezzybox.
The Shot Carver is definitely one of the oddest kitchen gadgets I've ever come across. Perfect for spontaneous drinking parties in an orchard, the Shot Carver means you'll never again be short of glasses. Like a corkscrew, the central steel blades of the Shot Carver cut a large cylinder into any firm fruit like pears, apples, melons, pineapple or even potatoes! The fresh fruit juices seep into your alcohol, giving your drink an extra fruity flavour. It's an unusual way to get your five-a-day, and the Shot Carver certainly offers an alternative to disposable cups or washing up! Dishwasher-safe and with an ergonomic handle, the Shot Carver is £9.99 from Firebox.
Simply pick up one of these Hula Tumbers and you'll be instantly charmed. The vivid colours and round ball shape are inherently pleasing. However I'll warn you, if you fill the glass and set it on the table you'll have a moment of panic. The Hula Tumbers rock and roll, threatening to spill your drink at any moment. An engaging design that will intrigue your guests, a set of four Hula Tumbers is £15 from Pedlars.
A few months back I saw some adorable heart shaped sugar cubes that perched on the edge of your teacup. They were certainly cute and chic, but they were also expensive. So I'm quite taken with these fabulous Cup Adorning Cookie Cutter Sets from 'Not on the High Street'. More versatile than sugar cubes, these clever cutters allow you to create tasty biscuits to match whatever drinks you are serving. Both the 'Christmas' and the 'Everyday' Sets include four small cutters of different shapes. The Christmas Set includes a Star, Christmas Tree, Santa Hat and Shooting Star, while the Everyday Set features Heart, Star, Clover and Flower shaped cutters. Perfect for serving with warm drinks this Bonfire Night or during the festive season. Available from Velvet Brown through NotontheHighStreet.com, each set of Cup Adorning Cookie Cutters is £14.
If you want to enjoy loose teas while on the move, the Tea Steeper may be perfect. While offering a large bowl for leaves to mix in, the Tea Steeper can also be collapsed and popped in your bag or desk drawer. Simply fill the compartment with your favourite loose teas and rest the outer ring of the Tea Steeper on the edge of your mug while it brews. Sturdy, robust and dishwasher-safe, the silicone Tea Steeper won't rust or tarnish either! A modern alternative to the old chain and ball, The Tea Steeper is £8.99 from Lakeland.
Perfect for when you get unexpected guests or after a rotten day at work, the Decantus Wine Aerator offers you all the flavour and aroma without all the waiting and bother of decanting. Technically the scientific principle used is the Bernoulli Effect, which pulls air into the Decantus and mixes it into the wine for the smoothest aeration available. Two internal tubes draw the air into the central spout, while a vertical planer prevents any whirlpooling so you get only small and tiny bubbles. The Decantus Wine aerator has been getting rave reviews in the press, and it's easy to make a side by side comparison so why not test it yourself! Ideal if you want just a single glass, this curvy contraption lets you appreciate it at its very best, the Decantus Wine Aerator is £39.99 from Firebox.
The clever Zero Japan Teapot was recommended by Christy, one of our readers, whose being buying them for all her friends and family. A must have for tea aficionados, the Zero Teapot brews tea perfectly every time. Available in several different shapes and over forty different colours, they all offer modern elegance with a touch of eastern style. Rather than fumbling around with strainers, the Zero Teapot features a stainless steel infusing basket that dangles your loose tea leaves in the water. After your tea has brewed, there is no fuss or bother, you can simply pour the tea straight into your cup. As you drink, the leaves are lifted out of the water ensuring the tea doesn't stew. If you'd rather use teabags in the first place, the infusing basket can be easy removed so it can be used like a standard teapot. The Zero Teapot even features a non-drip spout and a stainless steel lid that will never chip or crack! Perfectly designed and easy to clean, a selection of Zero Japan Teapots are available from John Lewis.
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.
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.
I don't know what your freezer looks like, but ours is full of all sorts and clearing a large level space for an ice cube tray is something of a challenge. The clever new Ice Orb offers a brilliant vertical solution that lets you make and store ice cubes at the same time! The ingenious design of the Ice Orb features two interlocking buckets. To make ice cubes you fill the clear bobble cup with water and then fit the blue cup inside as well. This forces the water into the bumps, to create half spherical ice cubes. When the ice is solid, you can either poor the ice cubes into the blue cup while you make more ice, or use the Ice Orb as a drinks chiller! Able to make 21 ice cubes at a time, the blue air tight bucket can store 51, ensuring you're never run short. You can even use it to serve ice cream and dips at parties while still keeping them cool. A versatile gadget that's a bit easier to squeeze in the freezer, the Ice Orb is £14.95 from Firebox.
Great for your next kaffeeklatsch, these new Chalkboard Mugs let you personalise your tea and coffees. Whether you note down each person's request or simply their names, the Chalkboard Mugs help your keep everything straight. Each white ceramic mug features a black square with rounded corners ready for your next message. Safe in both the dishwasher and microwave, these easy to label mugs bring a creative style to your coffee morning. Never again forget which cup is yours, a Set of Four Chalkboard Mugs are £14.99 from Rockett St George.
No matter how you like your tea Tovolo has a jewel like utensil for you. If you love loose leaf teas, but only want a single mug or cup, the Tovolo Tea Infuser is a colourful choice. To make your favourite brew you just fill the stainless steel infusing basket with tea leaves and then add the wand to your cup. In the basket the tea leaves mix freely with the water for a full delicious flavour. When you've reached the desired strength, simply remove the infuser wand and stand it in the handy drip tray. If loose leaves seem like too much fuss and bother, the Tea Squeezer may be more your style. The wide tong heads make it easy to capture your tea bag, while the pierced pattern allows you to squeeze the tea bag dry. Both utensils feature clear polycarbonate handles in a vibrant green colour. A stylish gift for any tea fan, the Tovolo Tea Infuser and Tea Squeezer are available from John Lewis.
The kettle and toaster are basic kitchen staples, and as such why shouldn't they be glamorous? Rather than a boring practical appliance, the Pantha Kettle and Toaster have a classic Art Deco inspiration. Pairing matte black with gleaming silver accents, the Pantha Collection captures a classic Hollywood glamour. With the handy 360 degree base and a concealed heating element that prevents limescale, the attractive Pantha kettle has all the modern features you'd demand. Similarly the Pantha Toaster features defrost and reheat functions, a removable crumb tray and 33mm slots to help prevent your toast burning. Fashionable modern appliances, the Pantha Kettle and Toaster are available from Marks & Spencer for £29.50 each.
I'm convinced that corks are just like socks, turn your back for a second and they disappear, never to be seen again (I suspect cats may be involved). Fred Worldwide has created an entertaining alternative for when those corks go missing. Made from food safe silicone, the Send Wine Bottle Stopper looks like the proverbial 'message in a bottle'. The rolled 'note' fits snugly in the bottle to keeping your wine fresh, while also reminding you to "Send Wine!" A whimsical addition to your drinks cabinet and a brilliant gift for those who wish they could hide away on a desert island, the Send Wine Bottle Stopper is £4.99 from LazyBoneUK.
Perfect for warm evenings in the garden with a bottle of wine, these attractive polycarbonate glasses aren’t afraid of the occasional tumble off the table. Made in New Zealand, the Strahl picnicware offers the sophistication of glassware without the risk. Safe in the microwave and dishwasher, they are a convenient and durable choice for alfresco dining. A brilliant addition to summer celebrations, the Strahl Polycarbonate Glassware is available from John Lewis.
Dan’s Auntie has several of these lovely glasses which I admired the last time we went around for a barbecue. The thick sturdy glasses feature a heavy sculpted base and a raised ring of pretty bees. The simple shape of the glass insects has an elegant charm perfect for summer evenings. Friendly and welcoming, these French Bee Glasses capture the magic of spring and the warmth of summer. A fabulous collection I’d love to have, the French Bee Glass collection is available from Re-foundObjects.com.
Rather than try to squeeze a wine rack into your kitchen, stylish designs like the Cactus Wine Rack compliment your dining and living rooms. Wine bottles are cradled by slim arms or balanced on the cactus spikes. The sculptural stainless steel frame is given a dramatic mirror finish that brings the wine rack a sophisticated style. Able to hold an impressive eight bottles, the Cactus Wine Rack is always ready for your next party. A glamorous presentation for small wine collections, the unique and modernCactus Wine Rack is £77.00 from APlaceForEverything.co.uk.
Much of London’s history can be seen in the names of her streets. All across the city are quirky and charming names you can’t help but love. From Sugar Quay to Chip Street, Street Speak have scoured the map for the cutest and most adorable locations. These iconic street signs are then featured on bright and cheerful bone china mugs. A fabulous gift for Londonphiles, these evocative mugs capture the delightful magic of the city’s vibrant history and culture. Available from the ‘Transport for London’ online store, each Street Speak Mug is £7.82.
After branching out into new materials, Emma Bridgewater has created some kid-friendly beakers you are sure to love. With a vintage inspired shape, these small glasses feature the same popular patterns found on her famous pottery. Perfect for cool drinks, these durable melamine glasses will survive many accidental knocks and spills. An affordable choice if you've been searching for matching glasses, these pretty beakers are available in Polka Dot, Black Toast & the Hearts patterns. Great for outdoor parties and celebrations, you can pick up these beakers for £4.00 each from Emma Bridgewater Online.
The best designs aim to enhance your experiences, by appealing to your senses. Beautiful pieces like the Normann Copenhagen Cognac Glasses offer glamorous style, reveal seductive colours and have a fascinating motion while enhancing the luxurious aroma and flavour of cognac. By engaging all your senses these modern glasses become irresistible. They take a simple evening drink and turn it into a multi-sensory experience. While the glasses spin and rock, all the while protecting the delicious amber fluid, you'll be appreciating the bouquet and flavours. A sophisticated and elegant design, a set of two Normann Copenhagen Cognac Glasses are £29.95 from The Handpicked Collection.
We’ve had beautiful weather the last week or so and everyone I know seems to be out in their gardens. Eating outside is a brilliant way to enjoy these warm sunny days, and the French Carafe and Glasses is ideal for serving cool drinks like traditional fresh lemon aid! The neck of the carafe mirrors the shape and detail of the familiar glasses, bringing a new style to familiar forms. This clever design also allows you to stack the glasses in the neck of the carafe so you can carry everything in one hand. Designed by Kaptein Roodnat, each boxed set includes one carafe and four glasses. Perfect for taking outdoors, the French Carafe and Glasses will save you a few trips back and forth from the kitchen. A bargain at £16.50, the French Carafe and Glasses are available from the Design Museum Online Store.
When people get nostalgic for the 80s, Space Invaders is often one of their favourites. Many childhood hours and coins were spent shooting at the ever marching lines of iconic pixel aliens. Fred has frozen these fond memories in time with the Ice Invader Tray. Featuring two different characters, the silicone Ice Invaders Tray makes twenty-four individual ice cubes perfect for your next party. Abounding with retro geek-chic these Ice Invaders will thrill your friends while invading your drinks. Available from Iwoot, the Ice Invaders Trays are £5.99 each.
If you listen to the news these days, there doesn’t seem to be much to celebrate. But Finn Stone disagrees, instead he’s created an ironic aluminium Bowler Hat that seems to mock our current situation. Once the daily attire for businessmen and bankers, the bowler hat now symbolises historic British reserve. Certainly not a cheap investment, the Bowler Hat Ice Bucket has a solid construction and features the Finn Stone Hallmark along the rim. Use as an eccentric fruit bowl or to serve up that special bubbly and shrug of the worries of the world. A fabulous modern and unique design that will be fashionable for years the Finn Stone Bowler Hat is £129 from Rockett St George.
Like the Skyline Tumblers, the City Line Cups capture the iconic sites of our favourite cities. With electric coloured lines London, Amsterdam, New York & Paris are brought to life. The white silhouettes of famous landmarks standout from the warm gray sky creating a distinctive graphic style. Just 80mm high, these small porcelain cups are both dishwasher and microwave safe. A contemporary design with cosmopolitan style, the City Line Cups are £25 from Rockett St George.
Hot drinks have had a cultural significance in countries across the world. From Japanese tea ceremonies to British High Tea, the ritual takes on a great importance. The Presso Coffee Maker aims to bring that sense of ritual to coffee in an environmentally friendly form. Made from eco-friendly and recyclable materials, the Presso uses your own strength rather than electric power. Just fill with espresso grounds and use your kettle to fill the top chamber. By lifting the arms the water filters though, and by pressing the arms down you create the pressure to brew delicious espressos, lattes and cappuccinos. A fairly small gadget that’s easy to move around the kitchen, the Presso Coffee Maker has an industrial glamour and eco-responsibility all for £59.95 from Ethical Superstore.
If traditional teapots just aren’t your cuppa, check out this modern masterpiece. Designed by William Harvey, this neo-cubist teapot has a dynamic urban style. The white bone china becomes a study of shadows created by the many faceted surfaces. Shattering your expectations, the Umbra Teapot complements sharp contemporary interiors. A dramatic designer centrepiece for your next kaffeeklatsch, the Shatter Teapot is and available from Umbra.com.
I'll admit that I've been waffling on this one for a few weeks; I can't decide if the idea is brilliant or pointless. The most common complaint with other eco-kettles is that they simply don't get hot enough to make tea. Rather than actually boil the water they just make it very hot, which is fine for coffee but spoils the taste of tea. Morphy Richards has solved this problem with an eco switch. This allows you to turn the eco function on and off. When turned on you use 24% less energy because the water is heated to just below boiling, and when you want a cup of tea you flip the switch for a full powered kettle. At least this does seem to bridge the problem. It lets you save energy when making coffee, hot chocolate and herbal teas, without making the kettle useless for tea. My question is in a nation of tea lovers how often will that eco switch be turned on? Certainly a well thought out product for modern living, the Morphy Richards Ecolectric Jug Kettle is definitely worth a gander! Available from Amazon UK, the Ecolectric Kettle is £36.89.
With all the snow and cold this last week, I’ve often wished I could just hide inside with a toasty hot drink rather than brave the elements. With the Cath Kidson Strawberry Teapot it’s like serving up the warm summer sun in a cup. The cute vintage inspired strawberries capture the cheerful optimism of long sunny days, while the delicious tea will thaw you from the inside out. Printed on a traditional white teapot, the Strawberry pattern mixes well with white china adding just a touch of fun and personality to your table. Available from John Lewis, the Strawberry Teapot is £19.50.
An extension of their Daniel Craig tea towel design, Emma Bridgewater have created a new saucy mug for your significant other. The Half Pint Mug declares "I Had a Really Nice Dream Last Night..." but the answer is only revealed as you sip your tea or coffee. Available with pink or blue lettering, you can even have a matching set of His & Hers Mugs. A perfect choice for those sick of hearts and flowers, the Nice Dream Mugs are available online from Emma Bridgewater.
Do you despise the office coffee machine or simply have no space in your kitchen? The Handpresso Wild is brilliant solution to both. A must have for caffeine junkies, the Handpresso offers a simple way to make espresso no matter where you are. There’s no need for batteries or electricity. Simply pump up the handle, add a bit of hot water from a thermos or kettle and in seconds you’ll have a delicious pick-me-up. Available on its own or in a sophisticated Outdoor Set, it’s perfect for business travellers tired of bland hotel coffee. The Handpresso Outdoor Set comes in a handy shoulder bag which includes a thermos, four unbreakable espresso cups, and space for napkins, coffee pods, sugar and spoons! Available from ‘I Want One of Those’, the Handpresso Wild with have espresso fanatics frothing!
If you’ve stocked up on wine for the holidays, the Wine Knot offers a fabulous display in which to store them. Made from two undulating rings of wood, the Wine Knot has a warmth and organic style missing from so many wine racks. The contrasting colours of birch and walnut give it a dramatic engaging presence. Designed to hold seven bottles of wine, the central compartment can also accommodate oversized bottles of champagne. Perfect for in the kitchen, dining or living room the Wine Knot is a brilliant contemporary storage solution. Available from Lifestyle Bazaar, the Wine Knot is £85.
If your Mum used to lecture you about playing ball in the house, the thought of popping open a bottle may fill you with dread. Rather than risk the cork flying around like a pin ball, Le Creuset has created the Screwpull Champagne Cork Catcher. The tower like opener traps the cork before it has chance to escape. Stop worrying about breaking your best glasses and enjoy ringing in the New Year with your friends and family. Available from John Lewis, the Le Creuset Screwpull Champagne Cork Catcher even offers a 10 year Guarantee.
If you plan on ringing in the New Year, the Laguiole Waiters Friend & Champagne Opener will help you pop open those bottles of bubbly. With everything you need to open all your festive tipples, the Laguiole Waiters Friend will keep the cheer flowing. Concealed within the lovely wooden handle are a corkscrew, bottle opener, foil cutter and champagne bottle opener. A staple of every party, the Laguiole Waiters Friend & Champagne Opener is just £9.99 from DeCuisine.co.uk.
Now these mugs show the style and sophistication you’d expect from the Pantone brand! While I’ve seen the solid Pantone mugs before, they don’t quite carry the excitement and vitality I hoped for. Now with the Pantone Stripes, at least you don’t have to struggle to choose a single colour! Available in five different palettes they each capture a different energy and personality. From the vibrant citrus and raspberry colours of the Pink Mug to the confident black, tans and blues of the Black Mug, these stripy mugs mix colours into dynamic and engaging patterns. A fabulous addition to the Pantone Universe the Typhoon Pantone Stripe Mugs are £7.83 each.
Well the decorations go up this weekend, so it’s time to turn on the Christmas carols and really get into the Christmas spirit! When fighting with the tree and untangling the Christmas lights, festive treats can help keep your inner Scrooge at bay. In this cold weather there’s nothing better than a warm glass of mulled wine (and a plate of mince pies)! Rather than buy all those expensive spices and try to assemble them yourself, Lakeland have found a set that does the prep work for you. The wooden whisk is filled with all the cinnamon, nutmeg and star anise you need to make 1.5 litres of delicious mulled wine. Bring the taste of Christmas home with the Lomer Wine Whisk; £5.99 from Lakeland.
Perfect for a casual tea break, these brightly coloured tea infusers bring a taste of cheer to afternoon tea. Made from heat resistant silicone, each fruit pops open ready to be filled with your favourite tea. Then all you need is a cup of hot water to twirl it in. These affordable tea infusers are a great way to introduce friends and family to delicious fruit teas. Ideal for keeping in your desk at work or adding to a tea-themed Christmas basket these Fruity Tea Infusers are just £2.95 from ShinyShack.
As the weather turns colder and the days get longer, you may start wishing you could jet off to some where interesting and exciting. Indulge these dreams with these artistic glasses that will inspire you while you relax with a cool after-work drink. The four small glasses are each etched with a familiar skyline from one of the worlds most fashionable cities. Designed by Nicci Green, views of London, New York, Paris & San Francisco are captured in a loose sketch style. A great addition to your drinks cabinet, the Citi Skyline Glasses are even made from recycled glass. Available online from the Design Museum Shop, a set of four Citi Skyline Glasses is £24.00.
This season we've seen a chic modern palette of aubergine and teal across many trendy homewares collections. In large prints and blocks of solid colour these vibrant tones create a contemporary sophistication. Marks & Spencer's have used these and other fabulous colours for these stylish wine glasses. Available in the traditional bowl shape and a modern conical design, these glasses offer a splash of sensual colour upon clear slender stems. Whether you want a matching set or a riot of colour across your table, these fashionable glasses will make a trendy table place setting. Rich colour in muted tones, the Marks & Spencer Wine Glasses are available in luxurious Amber, Smoke, Red, Soft Blue, Black and Berry Red.
Elegance can be hard to define. How does simplicity manage to inspire and enchant? What transforms a single line into sweeping sophistication? However it works, Jasper Conran has managed to capture this elusive magic in his Strata China and Aura Glassware. With perfectly balanced proportions and beautiful sweeping lines, Conran has created an alluring and captivating tableware collection. Produced by Wedgwood, Strata is made from fine bone china for a contemporary glamour. Handcrafted in Ireland by Waterford Crystal, the Aura Glassware reveals the fine beauty of crystal in its simple design. Available from John Lewis, the Jasper Conran Tableware defines and inspires modern elegance.
Everyone wants to get the best flavour out of their wine, but after a long tiring day at work you don't always have a few hours to wait while it breathes. However with these amazing new glasses from Eisch, your wine is ready in mere minutes! Raved about by wine connoisseurs, these glasses use a special formula glass that the improves the 'nose' of your wine transforms it in minutes. Rather than leave it sat in a decanter for a couple of hours, you can pour glasses straight from the bottle and enjoy them at their best flavour in minutes. Even if it's just a special offer bottle from Tesco, you may as well get the most out of your evening tipple. It even improves the taste of other spirits and fruit juices. A great way to savour and enjoy wine, even if life is busy and rushed, a set of two Breathable Wine Glasses are £24.99 from iwantoneofthose.com.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Since we finally found a toaster we liked, we decided to go with the matching kettle. We opted for the plain black rather than steel finish, as many steel appliances show finger prints so clearly. The Krups FLF2 Kettle features a concealed element and offers a 1.6L capacity. The screw-on lids has a unique design that locks in place and covers the spout until you are ready to pour, thus preventing any painful accidents. Instead you simply squeeze the trigger on the handle to easily fill your cup. It boils rapidly, and offers the standard cordless design, limescale filter, auto shut-off and boil dry protection you'd expect. With water gauges on each side and an illuminating on button, the Krups kettle is what it should be. Simple and intuitive. Available from John Lewis, the Krupps Kettle FLF2 is £44.95.
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.
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.
I love the simplicity of this clever idea. While I'll admit it's not often an issue in England, nothing will set kids screaming faster than an insect in their drinks. When the excitement of summer holidays, family barbecues and picnics mean drinks get put down and forgotten, the bug screens ensure your drink is still safe when you finally find it. Made from a re-usable foam, the bug screens simply clip under the ring pull while letting you drink through the perforations. Available as a pack of twelve, six covers are designed to fit pop cans while the other six will fit beer cans. A clever idea for summer events, a pack of Bug Screens is just £1.99 from Lakeland.
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.
Another new eco-design, the Lobo Plunger Filter Kettle offers another way to save money, energy and the environment. The Lobo Kettle features a plunger design that forces the water through a purifying filter before you boil it. The plunging action allows you to measure out just the water you need, ensuring you don't waste extra energy boiling water you won't use. Each press of the plunger releases 285ml of water into the boiling compartment. Purified water promises the best tasting drinks, all boiled quickly and efficiently in this sleek modern kettle. A brilliant addition to contemporary kitchens, the Lobo Plunger Filter Kettle offers responsible consumerism in a sharp technical style. You can find the Lobo Plunger Filter Kettle for £62.99 at Nigel's Eco Store.
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.
Featuring delightful Japanese characters, the Momiji Zakka Mugs bring wisdom and serenity to your morning respite. With a lovely shape and pale modern colours, the Momiji Zakka Mugs are a pleasure to use. Finally when you reach the bottom of your mug, you are greeted with a short message of wisdom.
The lavender Soul Mug says “Your soul is a good one, I know when it shines in your eyes.”
The pale green Flowers Mug says “Peace and love and cha cha cha.”
The beige Peaches Mug reads “Take it easy. Life is peaches.”
While the blue Laughing Mug declares “Sundays are my favorite day for dreaming, a big stretch and then some tea.”
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.
Delightful teacups that transport you through the looking glass, the Camouflage Teacup hides a special surprise. Each set comes with a silver saucer accented with a cute frog or elegant dragon fly, and a white ceramic teacup decorated with grass and lily pads. When placed on the saucer, the grasses and lily pads reflect in the silver saucer wrapping around the small creature. Ideal for quiet and relaxing mornings, the Camouflage Teacup offers an engaging design for reflective moments. Available for £12.50 each from Graham & Green, the Camouflage Teacup offers a bright splash of red, green and blue.
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.
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.
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.
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 Milk & Sugar Set is available for £46 from NotOnTheHighStreet.
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.
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
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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