Just because it’s an everyday item doesn’t mean it can’t look good – and as a case in point, check out this pop art dustpan.
It’s one of a series of designs for the humble dustpan at the Decorative Things website, but this Faces Multi design, along with the monochrome Faces Black & White version, is definitely the best.
Sadly there’s no matching brush to go with it. Available online, you can pick it up for $22 (around £11).
Find out more at the Decorative Things website
Yes, we’re back on the Lego – this time, in association with Paul Frank, they’ve created this Lego makeover case.
Yes, it’s got the novelty of a Lego man on the front – but there’s more – the Lego man has removable hairdos, so you can change his style when you get bored. Other than fit, it’s a fairly standard case, good for your pens, pencils, make-up or any small items.
Sized at 9 inches x 4.4 inches, you can pick one up for $26 (around £13)
Find out more at the Fred Flare website
I’ve just been browsing the ISAK site, which is packed with some great retro-styled designs of wallpaper, prints, cards and books – and some really smart kitchenware.
All are the work of designer and company founder Sandra Isaksson. And my favourites are these Blossom and Bill Plates, very much in the style of cartoons from the 60s/70s (only slightly more risque).
They are made from birch and finished off with a strong melamine coating – so they can actually be used for eating off. The only downside is that they’re not quite for sale yet, so you’ll have to keep checking back if you want one (or if you want a price).
Find out more at the ISAK website
We’re all for a spot of recycling – and if that’s got a vintage or retro edge, like these vintage silk destination cushions, then all the better.
They’re available from Re-found Objects, which has a range of great second-chance items. These cushions use vintage fabrics from holidays or events, with the range including London, Blackpool, Paris and the Queen’s Coronation.
Selling complete with a feather pad, they retail from £35.
Is Panton’s Geometri design the most famous textile design in the world? It’s certainly one of the most recognisable – and if you shell out for a Verner Panton Geometri rug, your friends and neighbours will know you’ve spent some serious cash.
The design was created by Panton for the Hotel Astoria in Trondheim, where it orignally covered the floor, walls and ceilings. This example, made under license by Vitra and from hand-tufted wool, isn’t going to cover that kind of area at 225cm x 225cm, but it is going to add a wow factor to your living room.
The one drawback is the price – £3626.
According to the blurb on the David Linley website, the St Moritz chair gets its name from the "sweeping lines of the ski tracks on the curving slopes". And it almost certainly gets a hefty dose of inspiration from classic design from the late 50s/early 60s.
This occasional chair has concave arms and seat, with support from a grey steel frame. And it’s comfortable – thanks to 288 individual micro springs, which should also help to keep the shape. There’s also polished brass detailing on the end of the walnut arms and on the feet to protect hard floor surfaces.
Available to order online, prices start at £1750.
Find out more at the David Linley website
