If anyone can do the 70s well, it should be Habitat. After all, they’ve probably got all the old design books somewhere – and the rights to reproduce them. I’m not sure if this Bluff pendant light is an original design – but it certainly looks the part.
It’s made of aluminium, available in a vintage shade of grey and with a fantastic period look that would sit (or hang) well in any 70s-themed room.
You can pick one up now for £45.
You don’t see many novelty bins, but even if there a number to choose from, surely none could beat this Star Wars R2-D2 pedal bin.
It’s made by Japanese company Heart, but is being imported to various countries at the moment – including the UK. It stands 24 inches tall, has a foot lever that flips open R2’s head for your waste and a removable interior for ease of emptying.
Or you could ignore all that and just use it as an eye-catching piece of home decor. You can order one now, it’s priced at around £99.
Once upon a time, punk menaced the nation, vicars held protests outside of gigs and parents feared that their kids would spike their hair and buy bondage trousers. So, what does punk mean 30 years on? Novelty ducks.
The Quackers Punk Duck is a neat twist on the traditional rubber duck, with studded collar, silver mohican and slightly moody expression. Sadly, it doesn’t spit if you give it a squeeze.
Available online, you can pick one up for £5.99.
Find out more at the Totally Funky website
Bored of your shiny metallic Dualit toaster? There’s only one way to go – for the Daizey Pop Toaster from Chiasso.
Unless you want to do a re-wiring job (or you know better), this is possibly for US readers only. If that’s you, the Daizey toaster features auto-toasting, browning controls, removable crumb tray and a bun warmer.
And of course, the real reason you’re buying it – the retro-styled floral design. Available now, you can pick one up for $68 (around £35). And if you see it available in the UK or Europe, let us know.
So, where do you stand on Ralph Lauren? I’ve found myself becoming more attracted to the label of late, probably because of wardrobe dependables like these Ralph Lauren Harrington jackets.
The navy Newport Barracuda (to give it the correct name) has the double-button collar, button cuffs, shaped back and underarm vent, along with a leather zip tab and of course, the Ralph logo. The white Barracuda Jacket is made of a white cotton military twill, button colar, elasticated waist and cuff, shaped back and again, the RL logo.
A change from the more commonly-seen Barracuta Harrington and cheaper – these retail for £95.
Find out more at the Oi Polloi website
I love cakes, and there is nothing nicer than a spot of afternoon tea. But where to get your cakes from? Well if you are in London, and anywhere near Tottenham Court Road, then why not give Peyton and Byrne a try?
The Peyton and Byrne bakery is situated in entrance to the Heal’s building so you can combine cakes, and browsing for great home design. The design of the shop complete with retro brick tiled walls, and gorgeous displays of cakes, breads and savouries is enough to test the willpower of all but the most hardened dieter. The array of old fashioned victoria sponge cakes, bakewell tarts and even fig rolls will ensure that you don’t leave empty handed.
Make sure you take a look next time you are down there and you won’t be disappointed.
Find out more on the Peyton and Byrne website
